RDRRMC 1st Quarter Meeting – Members of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council  (RDRRMC) convene in a full council meeting, presided over by OCD 5 Dir. Raffy Alejandro and DILG 5 Dir. Blandino Maceda, held at Handyong Conference Hall, Camp Simeon Ola, Legazpi City. (Alex Cal/PIA)

Change of command today in Catanduanes

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 28 (PIA) -- BGen Ricardo R. Visaya, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army will lead the change of command ceremony at the Headquarters of the 83 Infantry Batallion (IB), Brgy. Lictin, San Andres, Catanduanes today, February 28, 2013.

Lt. Col. Rodolfo D. Batang, the outgoing Commanding Officer of 83IB will turnover his authority to Lt. Col. Bernardo R. Fortez, Jr.

Lt. Col. Fortez is from Camarines Norte. He was a graduate of PMA class of 1991 and was the Asst. Chief of staff for education and training at 9th infantry (spear) Division at Camp Angeles, Pili, Camsur before he assumes the Command of Commander, 83rd Infantry (achiever) Battalion.

A change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

During the change of command ceremony, Lt. Col. Batang will give his remarks/ relinquishment of command to be followed by the assumption of command by Lt. Col. Fortez.

BGen. Visaya will then lead the turnover of unit symbol. The passing of colors, standards, or ensigns from an outgoing commander to an incoming one ensures that the unit and its soldiers is never without official leadership, a continuation of trust, and also signifies an allegiance of soldiers to their unit's commander.

BGen. Visaya will render his message/ inspirational talk after Lt. Col. Fortez have delivered his remarks and introduced the presiding officer. (EAB-PIA5/Catanduanes)



State U Historical Society brings back rich past

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 28 (PIA) -- A three-day exhibit of artifacts, old coins, and other items used in the past were exhibited by the Catanduanes State University Historical Society at the Administration Building lobby from February 19-22.

Displayed for greater public appreciation were old coins, stones, old spoons and forks, Chinese porcelains, sandok made from bamboo, old lampshades, katipay, shells, old keys, bamboo flute, as well as old books and novena.

The event was mounted by the officers and members of Historical Society, a newly formed organization composed of students taking Philippine History course.

As a socio-cultural and civic organization, this Historical Society conducts projects, programs, and activities for the appreciation and deeper understanding of society and culture. It is likewise committed to the preservation of the rich history of the province.

Under the advisorship of Instructor Rey T. Soneja, the organization also participated in the "Layog Bagamanoc" 41st Foundation day celebration at Bagamanoc Rural Development High School on February 9-10. The event was conducted together with Kabataang Pangarap ni Rizal (Kapariz), Bandillo (a student-volunteer organization).

Twenty students from the said associations conducted gift giving and feeding programs. They also lent their services and expertise in the opening program and pre-Valentine’s event during the foundation celebration.

Moreover, the Historical Society also implemented the "Seminar on Philippine History: Past Revisited" at the Old Capitol Building, Virac, Catanduanes and served as facilitators in the extension training program at Magnesia del Norte, Virac. (EAB/GSRubio/PR and Information Services)

DepEd Cam Norte to hire 400 teachers for K-12 implementation

By Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 28 (PIA) –- More than 400 teachers will be hired this coming school year in connection with the implementation of the K to 12 program of the Department of Education (DepEd) here, according to the official of the department here.

Education Program supervisor Condrado Rempillo, during the “Talakayan sa PIA” of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) held here recently, said that the number of teachers was estimated during the early registration last January 26.

He said that aside from the number of teachers, they also identified the number of classrooms, books, chairs and other needs and these were included in the plan of DepEd.

Rempillo said that of the 30 divisions in the Bicol Region, Camarines Norte has plenty of plantilla positions for teachers.

The hiring of teachers will comply with the need of K-12 which started implementation this school year.

He explained that Philippines is the only country in the South East Asia with 10 basic education program and was left behind in the entire world.

The K-12 is a curriculum wherein there is mastery, competency, and skills to be developed until senior high school (SHS).

The program implementation in public schools started this school year where the Grade 1 entrants are the first batch to fully undergo the program, and the current first year Junior High School students or Grade 7 are the first to undergo the enhanced secondary education program.

To facilitate the transition from the existing 10-year basic education to 12 years, DepEd is also implementing the SHS and SHS Modeling wherein they have to choose whether core curriculum or career pathways.

Under the core curriculum are the six subjects, namely, Humanities, Languages -English and/or Filipino, Math, Philosophy, Science, and Social Sciences. Some General Education subjects are embedded in the SHS curriculum.

For career pathways each student in Senior High School can choose among five tracks: Business and Entrepreneurship; Humanities and Social Sciences; Science, Technology, and Engineering; Sports; and Technical-Vocational.

Meanwhile, Rempillo announced that they will strictly implement the "no collection policy" for graduation rites in public elementary and secondary schools under DepEd Order No. 9. (MAL/RBM-PIA5, Camarines Norte)

http://mediangbayan.ph/

Hatol ng Bayan (or, people’s verdict) is the coverage of the 2013 National and Local elections by government media organizations under Media ng Bayan and private companies such as Manila Bulletin, Air 21 and Informatics-Diliman.

The Media ng Bayan comprises the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Philippine Broadcasting Service - Radyo ng Bayan (PBS-DZRB), People's Television Network (PTV4), Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC13), and Philippines News Agency (PNA).

The Hatol ng Bayan 2013 coverage consists of two phases. Phase 1 will cover the campaign period from February 12 to May 11, while Phase 2 consists of news coverage during election eve, election day and the day after elections.

Government media coverage through Hatol ng Bayan will be neutral, objective and absolutely impartial. It will not side with any party, alliance or individual candidates.

Hatol ng Bayan (or, people’s verdict) is the coverage of the 2013 National and Local elections by government media organizations under Media ng Bayan and private companies such as Manila Bulletin, Air 21 and Informatics-Diliman.

TheMedia ng Bayan comprises the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Philippine Broadcasting Service - Radyo ng Bayan (PBS-DZRB), People's Television Network (PTV4), Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC13), and Philippines News Agency (PNA).

The Hatol ng Bayan 2013 coverage consists of two phases. Phase 1 will cover the campaign period from February 12 to May 11, while Phase 2 consists of news coverage during election eve, election day and the day after elections.

Government media coverage through Hatol ng Bayan will be neutral, objective and absolutely impartial. It will not side with any party, alliance or individual candidates.

- See more at: http://mediangbayan.ph/about-us#sthash.6DGnanTy.dpuf

Army unit facilitates release of captured sea turtle in Castilla

By Benilda A. Recebido

CASTILLA, Sorsogon Feb 27 (PIA) -- A sea turtle locally known as “pawikan” measuring 29 inches length and 27 inches width was caught by a fisherman and brought to the 903rd Brigade headquarters on Friday, February 22.

903rd Bde Spokesperson Capt. Mardjorie Paimela P. Panesa, said The turtle was brought to the headquarters by Eugene I. Gilliam, a Bantay-Dagat member, who also reported that it was seen captured by a certain, Welard Camata, a fisherman in the same town.

“Immediately, we reported the incident to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (Menro), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and Provincial ENRO-LGU, the primary agencies concerned for recovery and release of marine species as such. Our brigade assisted them in releasing the turtle at the seaport of Brgy. Poblacion, Castilla, Sorsogon,” said Capt. Panesa.

She also said that no BFAR tag was seen in the turtle, an indication that it was captured and released for the first time. However, since there was no available tag at that time, BFAR instead tied a plastic knot at the lower part of the turtle’s shell for marking purposes.

Colonel Joselito E. Kakilala, 903rd Brigade commander said, it was the first time he saw a pawikan caught since he was installed as brigade commander.

He reminded local residents, especially those residing in the coastal barangays of Castilla to immediately report and inform concerned agencies or report to the 903rd Brigade once they catch marine turtles.

He likewise appealed to the local folks not to capture, slaughter, nor eat such endangered species because there are penalties set for those who will be caught doing so. “As responsible citizens, we should be protectors of these marine species because nowadays, pawikans are rarely to be seen,” he added. (PA/BAR-PIA5, Sorsogon)


Compensation law gives true meaning to EDSA, says Bicolano legislator

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 27 (PIA) -- The signing of the reparation law, which will provide P10 billion in compensation to human rights victims of martial law, gives true meaning to the celebration of the 27th anniversary of the EDSA revolt, according to a Bicolano senator.

Sen. Francis Escudero, in an email to Philippine Information Agency (PIA) regional office in Bicol, said the law, aside from providing financial compensation, significantly provides recognition to Filipinos who suffered under the martial rule of then President Ferdinand Marcos.

Escudero, chairman of the Senate committee on justice and human rights, sponsored the measure, known as the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2012.

The signing of the law during the People Power revolt festivities was fitting since the events of 1986 that led to the ouster of Marcos and Cory Aquino’s ascendance to the presidency marked the beginning of the rendering of justice for martial law victims, Escudero noted.

“While it took all of 27 years for the state to finally recognize the atrocities it inflicted on Filipinos whose democratic rights were suppressed under Marcos, the compensation law seeks to give justice to victims of the dark days of oppression and hopefully give an assurance that it will not happen again,” Escudero said.

In the same email, Escudero said that under the law, the amount of compensation to be awarded to the victims is proportionate to the gravity of the offense inflicted on them through a point system that is a basic component of the law.

Victims who died or who disappeared are given 10 points, while those tortured and, or sexually abused gets from six to nine points, for instance.

Political detainees get from three to five points while those who can prove that their rights were violated under the Act are awarded from one to two points.

Escudero noted that the Marcos compensation law is unique since it is the first time that a state recognizes a previous administration’s abuse on its citizens through reparation and recognition.

He said the recognition given under the law provides victims of martial law who do not need financial compensation the rendering of justice from the state.

“The expanded coverage of the law includes not only monetary compensation but also non-monetary benefits such as social and psychological assistance on victims of atrocities through different concerned government agencies. Instead of merely calling it compensation bill, we now call it the reparation bill,” Escudero said.

The law also created a Human Rights Claim Board from where a victim of human rights violation during the Marcos regime is qualified to file a claim as stated in section 16 of the Act.

Also under the law all those involved in the class and direct action suit in Hawaii against Marcos and all victims recognized by the Bantayog Ng Mga Bayani Foundation were accorded the same conclusive presumption of being human rights victims defined under the law.

“Conclusive presumption means that any person who has secured or can secure a favorable judgment or award of damages from any court in the country arising from human-rights violation shall be considered conclusively as a victim without need of further proof,” Escudero said.

Those who will seek relief through the law for the first time may claim compensation under section 18 which states that “the Board may take judicial notice motu propio of individual persons who suffered human rights violations.”

The compensations will come from a P10-billion fund held in escrow, plus accrued interest, which was part of the amount transferred to the Philippine government by the Swiss Federal Supreme Court as part of the billions of pesos the Marcoses were suspected to have stashed
abroad. (MAL-PIA5/Office of Sen. Escudero)


Local univ Photo Society conducts photography workshop

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 27 (PIA) -- In celebration of the National Arts Month, the Catanduanes State University (CSU) Photo Society mounted “Muklat” photography workshop on February 20.

The lectures included Photography 101, Basic Camera Operations and Control, The Exposure Triangle, Photojournalism, and Introduction to Street Photography.

Muklat is a Catanduanes-Bicol word which means wide-opened eyes, or in a more broader context, as the workshop embodies, a fully awakened faculty of senses.

Bren Garette Z. Rivera, a BSEd student and CSU Photo Society Creative Director, steered the lecture-discussion together with the officers of the organization.

Rivera said the workshop’s “Timing opens a new door to creative and productive activities for our age group, especially with the present torrent of innovation in media.”

He added that the activity also serves as a springboard for their group to invite students to enhance and develop their artistic and aesthetic sensibilities, particularly in photography.

The CSU Photo Society aims to provide a responsive and supportive forum for students interested in photography. It also aspires to enable its members to express their artistic voice, participate in activities which will enhance their understanding and appreciation of the photographic medium, and allow an opportunity to exhibit, discuss, and critique their photographic work.

The officers of CSU Photo Society are Bren Garette Z. Rivera, BSEd-English III, Creative Director/Arts Committee Head; Jan Keith A. Abundo, BSEd-English, Managing Director/Outreach Director; Jerard Paul V. Tulod, BSCE II, Associate Managing Director/Academic Committee Head; Charis R. Solo, BSInfoTech I Secretary/Membership Committee Head; Jordan T. Ignacio, BSIT-DT I, Property Manager/Finance Committee Head; John Bryan C. Laguda, BSInfoTech IV, Socio-Cultural Committee Head; and Maria Concepcion Suarez-Vera, Adviser.

The CSU Statesman, the official tertiary student publication of the University co-sponsored the event. (MAL/EAB/GSRubio-CSU/PIA5)

PNR conducts test run on Naga-Legazpi route

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 27 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Railways (PNR) Mayon Limited has completed its test run plying the five-hour trip from this city en route to the Legazpi City and another 3-hour travel vice versa.

In a press conference prior to the test run, PNR spokesman Paul De Quiros said that PNR manager Jun Ragrario has instructed his team to fast track the rehabilitation efforts to realize the train’s Southbound trip this coming March.

“GM Ragrario really wants this route completed as soon as possible to serve as alternative route for commuters,” De Quiros stated.

The full operation of the train transportation would benefit regular commuters particularly those working in Legazpi City with the current condition of the Pawili Bridge in Bula, Camarines Sur which is now undergoing repair and rehabilitation.

The project is also pursuant to the government’s commitment for the total rehabilitation of the railways and provision of safe and convenient transportation alternative to the riding public.

PNR Camarines Sur spokesperson Armi Asur-Gagnon meanwhile said that the management is hopeful that the ordinary train trip will start its operation on the first week of March.

“The PNR management is really looking forward to the Legazpi-Naga train trips but we would like to reiterate our call for those living along the rail roads to strictly adhere to the three-meter distance. We have constantly reminded them about this for their own safety,” Gagnon added.

The ordinary three-coach train has a 240-sitting capacity and well-ventilated seats allotted for comfortable travel.

It also offers a cheaper fare of P82 and a minimum of one a half hour travel from this city to Legaspi City and vice versa. First trip schedule will be 5 a.m. from Naga station then 10:30 a.m. vice versa.

The second trip will leave at 2 p.m. from the Naga Station and will again leave Legaspi station at 5 p.m. (MAL/LSM-PIA5)



PDEA-5 dismantles drug den in Legazpi

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 27 -- Operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) provincial office here apprehended seven suspected illegal drug pushers and users that also led to the discovery and dismantling of a drug den in this city on February 12.

PDEA Albay team apprehended one suspect in a buy bust operation after he sold methamphetamine hydrochloride to a pseudo buyer from the agency in the vicinity of Bariada Road, Brgy Bitano, Legazpi City.

His runner, according to the agency's report, attempted to elude arrest by going to the suspect's residence, which was being utilized as a drug den. Operatives who ran after the suspect were able to catch him and arrest other personalities caught in the act of using shabu in the said address.

Operatives also seized from the alleged drug den one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu and several paraphernalia such as foil, scissor, tooter, and lighter.

PDEA Bicol regional director Archie A Grande lauded the efforts of PDEA Albay operatives in the discovery and dismantling of the first drug den in Bicol Region.

"Information shared by concerned citizens and confidential informants have become an essential part in the success of the Agency’s anti-drug operations. Bicolanos should become more vigilant in the war against drugs to protect their children’s future and safety,” he said.

Cases for violation of Section 5 (Sale) in relation to 26B (Conspiracy), Section 6 (Maintenance of a Drug Den), Section 7 (Visitor of a Drug Den) and Section 12 (Drug Paraphernalia) of Article II of Republic Act 9165 has been filed in court. (PDEA/MAL-PIA 5)

Fun Walk para sa mapayapang Halalan 2013 gaganapin sa Sorsogon

ni Bennie A. Recebido

LUNGSOD NG SORSOGON, Pebrero 26 (PIA) – Bilang suporta sa adhikaing magkaroon ng maayos at mapayapang halalan sa darating na Mayo 2013, isang aktibidad na tinaguriang “Walk for Life, Walk fro Love Year II – A Walk for an Honest, Orderly and Peaceful Elections” ang gaganapin sa lungsod ng Sorsogon sa Sabado, Marso 2, 2013.

Pangungunahan ang Fun Walk ng PBN Broadcasting Network, Inc. at ng PBN Foundation, Inc. sa pakikiisa at pakikipagtulungan nito sa Comelec Sorsogon, DepEd City Schools Division at Sorsogon Police Provincial Office.

Ayon kay Andy Espinar, Station Manager (SM) ng PBN-DZMS radio station Sorsogon, magtitipon-tipon ang mga lalahok sa Provincial Capitol Park alas singko ng umaga sa Sabado, at sabay-sabay na maglalakad patungong Sorsogon City Hall Grounds sa Brgy. Cabin-an, Sorsogon City.

Dagdag pa ni SM Espinar na maliban sa kanilang adhikaing pukawin ang kamalayan ng publiko na makiisa at suportahan ang pagkakaroon ng malinis, maayos at mapayapang halalan sa Mayo 2013, isa din itong hakbang upang matulungan ang mga kababayang nasalanta ng kalamidad sa Mindanao.

Lahat umano ng malilikom na halaga mula sa mga lalahok at mga sponsor nito ay gagamitin para sa rehabilistasyon ng mga nabiktima ng bagyong “Pablo” sa Compostela Valley.

Matatandaang ito ang pangalawang pagkakataong magsasagawa ang PBN ng Fun Walk kung saan noong nkaaraang taon ay nakapagbigay sila ng dalawang housing unit sa naapektuhang pamilya ng bagyong “Sendong”, maliban pa sa naipamahagi nilang relief goods at ngawang feeding activity sa Cagayan De Oro City.(MAL/BAR-PIA5/Sorsogon)

Local network initiates Run for Honest, Orderly and Peaceful elections

by Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- The People’s Broadcasting Network (PBN) Foundation, Inc. has spearheaded a fun walk dubbed “Walk for Life, Walk for Love" last Sunday, Feb. 24, here pursuing an honest, orderly and peaceful midterm elections this year.

PBN DZOK station manager Elmer Abad, also the current chairman of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters sa Pilipinas (KBP) Camarines Sur shapter, said that the move is the network’s advocacy in support for an honest, orderly and peaceful elections in the upcoming local and national polls in May this year.

The activity was in close collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Department of Education (DepEd), the Archdiocese of Caceres, Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army (PA) and other stakeholders.

“The involvement various governments, private sectors and organizations and the support of the media are of big help to strengthen the creation of awareness on a wider scope. We are particularly targeting the voters, the main players in shaping our future by guiding them to place the name of the right candidates in their ballots,” Abad added.

The fun walk was earlier held in Legazpi City on February 16 with more or less 8,000 runners who took part in the said activity. On February 23, it was DZMD’s turn, PBN sister station in Camarines Norte to spearhead the run and was able to gather more or less 2,000 fun walkers.  On the following day, PBN DZOK, PBN station here in Naga City led an approximate 5,000 partakers who walked from the Basilica Minore and traversed the Magsaysay and Panganiban area before converging at the Plaza Quezon.

COMELEC Camarines Sur Spokesman and Calabanga Election Officer Alex Marpuri who joined the activity acknowledged the network’s effort in ensuring that the upcoming elections is widely supported and  backed up by private sectors.

The HOPE activity will have its last leg on March 2 and will be spearheaded by DZMS, PBN’s station in Sorsogon.

Aside from the promotion of an orderly election, PBN Broadcasting Network, Inc. also endeavors to help the typhoon victims who were severely hit by Typhoon Pablo in Campostela Valley.

“ Proceeds of the activity will be used for the rehabilitation efforts for the victims of Typhoon Pablo and as the network’s gesture of support for our less fortunate brothers and sisters who were left homeless and lost their loved ones during the tragic catastrophe due to the devastation of Typhoon Pablo,” Abad said in an interview. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

Candidates' Forum papangunahan ng PPCRV sa Naga City

ni Danilo C. Abad

LUNGSOD NG NAGA, Pebrero 12 (PIA)--- Papangunahan ng Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting o PPCRV ang pagdaraos ng isang political forum sa lalawigan ng Camarines Sur para sa mga lokal na kandidato na tatakbo sa darating na halalan. 

Kaugnay nito ay hiningi naman ng PPCRV ang suporta ng ibat-ibang civic organizations dito  sa Lungsod ng Naga at pati na rin ng iba’t ibang sector dito sa lalawigan ng Camarines Sur  upang matiyak na magiging matagumpay ang naturang pagtitipon.

Ayon kay Fr. Louie Occiano, Chairman ng Caceres Commission on Communication (CCCOm),  sa kasalukuyan ay ginagawa pa ang ilang paghahanda ng PPCRV. Ito ay papamunuan ni Msgr. Nelsoin Tria, parish priest ng San Francisco Parish dito sa Lungsod. Imbitado sa forum ang mga ka-kandidato sa kargong Gobernador, Bise-Gobernador, mga Kinatawan o Congressmen, Alkalde at iba pang posisyon dito sa lalawigan.

Sinabi ni Occiano na magiging aktibo muli ang mga parokya ng Archdiocese of Caceres sa paghanap ng mga volunteer na magiging katuwang  ng PPCRV sa nasabing aktibidad  lalo na sa pagbabantay ng halalan sa buong rehiyon upang matiyak na magiging tahimik, mapayapa at matapat na eleksyon.

Nakatakdang simulan ang political forum pagkatapos ng Mahal na Araw ngayong Abril.

Ang Political Forum sa Lalawigan ng Camarines Sur at Lungsod ng Naga ay ginagawa tuwing magkakaroon ng halalan sa bansa.  Taon-taon itong pinapangunahan ng PPCRV katuwang ang iba pang organisasyon.

Matatandaan na malaki rin ang naging papel ng PPCRV noong May 2010 kung saan ginanap ang synchronized National and Local  Elections. Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon ay nagkaroon ng Automated Election System na naisakatuparan sa bansa. Halos daan-daang libo na PPCRV volunteers ang lumahok  sa voters’  education, poll watching, voters’ assistance at iba pang gawain sa pagdaraos ng botohan.

Layunin ng PPCRV na mabawasan ang katiwalian tuwing eleksyon at maturuan ang mga botante para sa 2013 eleksyon. (MAL/LSM/DCA-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

Search for the 2013 Best COPS on

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- The Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Rotary Club of New Manila East, PS Bank, and the PNP recently renewed their partnership for the 2013 Search for the Country’s Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS) by signing a memorandum of agreement.

In a press statement, Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto M. Sobrepeña said the Search for COPS is a social contract with the police establishment of the nation, adding that the recognition program is a salute to all the members of the PNP who respond daily to the call of protecting and serving the people.

The program also intends to continue honoring the best among the best in the Philippine National Police (PNP), and further strengthening the professionalism in the police force.

PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome expressed his full support to the competition as it enhances the efforts of the PNP to reform the institution as spelled out in the PNP Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and upholding the rule-of-law.

“This partnership finds more significance as we answer the challenge of raising the standards of police services through the continuing implementation of our PNP Transformation Agenda geared towards achieving a highly capable, effective and credible police force,” stated PDGen. Bartolome.

The COPS is a nationwide search that honors the career achievements of gallant police officers of the nation with minimum of seven years in service and actively mobilized, involved and organized the community to become fellow vanguards of peace and order.

The COPS awardees will receive P300,000 cash prize each, COPS Trophy, Metrobank Foundation Medallion and the PNP Medalya ng Katangi-tanging Gawa.

For inquiries, interested nominees and nominators, call 898-87-57 or visit www.cops.ph; www.mbfoundation.org.ph and www.pnp.gov.ph. (MAL/PIA-5)


PNP Catanduanes chief represents Phl in counter-terrorism program

By Edna A. Bagadiong

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- PSSupt. Eduardo G. Chavez, provincial director of the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office represented the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the second phase of Interpol Advance Capability Building Program on Counter-Terrorism for Asia from January 21 to February 1 at the Hyatt Hotel, Manila.

The program, sponsored by the French and Canadian embassies, seeks to foster the relationship between the National Control Bureaus (NCBs), Border Security/Customs, and Counter Terrorism experts on a regional basis.

It provided enhanced training, building capacity and operational connectivity among Asian counterparts, and identified key counter-terrorism issues and concerns across borders in order to address the growing terrorists’ threat in the Asia-Pacific region.

The training was attended by 26 participants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Chavez rendered a briefing on the country's threat situation.

He is also the PNP's representative during the first phase training in Bangkok, Thailand last June 2012.

According to Chavez, representing the country in the said activity was a great privilege.(MAL/EAB-PIA 5)


9 Jaycees fellows complete historic 25-K “Great Alay Lakad”


By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- Nine fellows of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) chapter here completed the charity ultra walk from this city up to Tabaco City with an entire stretch of 25 kilometers on Sunday, February 24.

Certified finishers of the event dubbed “Great Alay Lakad” included JCI president Yves Eli Yu, executive vice president Martin Reynoso, secretary general Pao Brondial, public information officer Jed Sallao, board of director members Geoffrey Pabilona Dy, Enrique L. Manly, Cecil Abarrientos, Isabel Reynoso and senator Charlie C. Chua, all of the local chapter here.

Yu said the Alay Lakad was one the historic feat not only for the JCI chapter here but also even among other similar charity walks of other organization in the entire country.

“I called the executive director of Alay Lakad Foundation and the organization is trying to verify if similar stretch of farther had been staged in its forty years of operations, initially officials of the foundation cannot remember any group walking that far,” Yu said.

“And, I hope this recent feat will eventually spark a new event for the Alay Lakad Foundation. They will have a board meeting within this week to further discuss this types of Ultra walks to create more hype to the foundation cause,” he added.

The recent 25-kilometer walk formed part of the JCI team building activities, also complementing initiatives to promote healthy lifestyle not only among its members but also to those who have actually witnessed and become aware of the feat.

JCI Tabaco City, meanwhile, also joined the “walkers” in the remaining 2-kilometer final stretch of the walk, and followed by a fellowship at the city business center,

“Later on we will make this into the “Great Mayon Walk”, Yu said, referring to an upcoming team building activity anew for the JCI chapter here.

JCI Legazpi, according to Yu, is all about the passion of living life and experiencing what one normally can’t as we seek ways to live out the monotony and regulars of life.

JCI members, also known as Jaycees, take on the challenges around them through local development initiatives, as responsible citizens in a globalized world complementing what governments can achieve in society. (MAL/PIA-5)

Sorsogon: Moving towards a rabies-free province

By Benilda A. Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- For the past two years, the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) has recorded a very significant decrease in rabies incidence in Sorsogon with barely five human and six canine cases as compared to the data way back in 1999 with about 39 cases.

This is good news for Sorsogon, however, it is irrefutable that rabies remains a serious public health problem in the country, as the Department of Health (DOH) says.

To put a halt to this, the provincial government of Sorsogon, through the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), forged partnership with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), a world leading organization working towards the global control of rabies.

“The provincial government, under the auspices of Gov. Raul R. Lee, is enormously determined to achieve a rabies-free Sorsogon and we want the communities here to have an improved educational awareness to prevent exposure to rabid dogs, and likewise, eliminate or control the source of infection in dog and human population,” said Dr. Enrique Espiritu, provincial veterinarian.

He said that through the Communities Against Rabies Exposure (CARE) Project of GARC, the coordination of surveillance, molecular epidemiology, dog population model control, veterinary and public health system protocols will be facilitated. Furthermore, the incidence of public health problems associated with dogs as vectors will significantly be reduced.

”At present, most of the human cases we have recorded here were not actually bitten by dogs in Sorsogon. But just the same, we need not to be lax, massive dog vaccination is still needed because it is cost effective and sustainable in controlling rabies rather than those other interventions aimed only at humans,” he stated.

He also added that more dogs are getting vaccinated in Sorsogon and they are hoping that eventually, the local government will be able to vaccinate 70 percent of the 52,121 dog population all throughout the province within the targeted time frame.

In an effort to further intensify the implementation of the Provincial Anti-Rabies Elimination Program, the provincial government tapped the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of the 541 barangays in Sorsogon as volunteer vaccinators.

“We found the SKs to be effective partners in the program implementation because aside from being vaccinators themselves, they can influence their peers and family members, and as our future leaders, it is good that at an early age, we are exposing them to the severity of this deadly infectious disease,” Dr. Espiritu said.

PVO record shows that 3,655 dogs have been vaccinated in Sorsogon City in just a span of less than three weeks since they oriented the SKs last January 28, 2013.

Dr. Espiritu also reported that some 100 rabisin vials were initially distributed to the towns of Irosin, Donsol, and Magallanes while distribution to other municipalities is ongoing. The PVO is also expecting accomplishment reports from the said municipalities a month after the vaccination.

Espiritu also mentioned that LGUs in the province have their respective anti-rabies ordinances and some of them were already amended. However, the local chief executives struggled with the implementation due to budget constraints.

Nevertheless, with the partnership now and the inspiration brought by the success story of the anti-rabies program in Bohol, both the provincial government and GARC are optimistic that the same success can be achieved in Sorsogon, targeting a sustainable rabies-free province by empowering communities to take responsibility as well as develop and share adequate mechanisms for sustainability.

Meanwhile, to strengthen the program, Governor Raul R. Lee issued an Executive Order (EO) Number 002 Series of 2013, which allows the ratification of the ordinances in Section 7 (Pet Owners’ Penalties) of the Republic Act 9482 or the Anti-Rabies Act of 2007 and created a task force to intensify the implementation of anti-rabies program in the province.

Likewise, the provincial government entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with GARC represented by its Coordinator for Asia, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Miranda, to achieve a rabies-free Sorsogon.

Local chief executives of Bulan, Prieto Diaz, Bulusan, and Barcelona immediately signified support to the said MOA which also provides for trainings to be conducted by the PVO for their respective youths.

The League of Municipal Mayors of the Philippines (LMP)-Sorsogon Chapter President and Barcelona Mayor Manuel Fortes, Jr. also encouraged its members to participate in the noble task and ensure compliance with the mandates of the governor’s directives.

“Moving towards a rabies-free Sorsogon, the CARE program also strengthens the Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign by coming up with tarpaulins, posters, and billboards installed in strategic places across the province. We have also produced and distributed flyers and leaflets translated into two versions, one for the Sorsoganons of the first district and another for the second district,” said GARC Communication Officer Dane Medina.

Medina further stated that aside from this, the program also educates the communities on how to stay safe around animals, danger signs to look for, what to do in case of a bite, and guidelines for good pet stewardship.

“But in the event that dog biting cannot be avoided, the bitten individual can manage bite incidence like washing the wound with soap under running water and consulting a doctor or seeking the nearest Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) Center in their locality,” she also added.

At present, Sorsogon has five Animal Bite Treatment Centers located in each Inter-Local Health Zones (ILHZ): Dr. Fernando Duran Sr. Memorial Hospital (Provincial Hospital) and City Health Office in Sorsogon City for JUCCASOM (Juban, Casiguran, Castilla, Sorsogon City and Magallanes); Irosin District Hospital for BIMS (Bulan, Irosin, Matnog and Sta. Magdalena); Gubat District Hospital for GUPRIBBAR (Gubat, Prieto Diaz, Bulusan and Barcelona); and in Donsol District Hospital for SOLAR (Donsol and Pilar). (MAL/BAR-PIA 5, Sorsogon)



Phivolcs, PPDRMC spearhead disaster management training

By Analiza S. Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- The Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) and local DRRMCs in cities and municipalities in Camarines Sur completed Friday the six-day training on disaster risk reduction with emphasis on utilization of Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System or REDAS.

Camarines Sur headed the training aimed at equipping provincial and municipal officers, particularly those directly involved in disaster risk reduction programs and technical know-how on mitigation of the impact of disaster in the community.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology or Phivolcs has also partnered with the provincial government in introducing new technologies and strategies to effectively deal with the catastrophic effect of any disaster, particularly the occurrence of an earthquake.

Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum graced the said activity and shared his thoughts on the importance of using REDAS in the early detection of earthquake.

The software, developed by Phivolcs in 20012 now forms part of the disaster tools of the local government units and serves as an instrument in mainstreaming risk reduction under the Hazard Mapping and Assessment for Effective Community-based Disaster Risk Management or READY project.

Ready is a collaborative initiative of the Philippines and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the government of Australia Australian Aid (AusAID).

Amy Gagalac of the Camarines Sur Environment Disaster Management and Emergency Response Office (Edmero) said that this new knowledge will equip emergency response teams with useful information that will minimize natural hazards, like earthquake.

“REDAS is an earthquake simulation tool which can calculate the strength of seismic hazards and the possible effects of an earthquake to the community and having an information on this would give us windows to prepare ourselves, the community and possibly save other valuable things our of harm’s way,” Gagalac said in an interview.

Camarines Sur Governor LRay Villafuerte pushed for the dissemination of REDAS in the province knowing fully well that most of the towns here are considered as hazard prone areas.

Aside from the introduction of REDAS, participants were also taught with various kinds of dangers brought by different kind of calamities like volcanic hazards, hydrometeorological hazard, earthquake hazard and the fundamentals of map reading and geo-positioning system or GPS. (MAL/LSM-PIA5, Camarines Sur)


Dad to his constituents: “The Future is Ours”

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- A participative-governance emphasizing the significance of people’s voice in important decisions summarizes the third State of the City Report that Naga City Mayor John Bongat delivered on Tuesday at the Naga City People’s Hall here.

Anchored in his H²ELP Your City Agenda, Bongat delivered his program-laden accomplishments before the jampacked crowd of entrepreneurs, businessmen, city hall officials, employees, professionals and representatives from various sectors.

Bongat’s H²ELP Your City Agenda is based on the significance of teamwork and participative governance. It was formally adopted as a city policy by members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod in November along with the approval of the 10-year Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) of the City.

In his speech, he said, “The future is not only us, but all of us,” referring to the community’s participation in running the affairs of the city and for charting the future of the city’s progress as one people and as a city.

Highlighted in the local executive's report were the local government’s significant efforts in pursuing significant development endeavors in the local economy, health and nutrition, housing and the urban poor, education, livelihood, employment and human development, peace and order, public safety, cleanliness and environment protection.

In the local economic front, the city was able to generate 15, 488 jobs, generated P3.87-billion worth of new investments from 2010 and continues to entice various businesses to explore and invest in Naga City. The report also says that under the city’s enterprise development, there was a significant 25-30 percent increase in the household income of beneficiaries coming from barangay-based industries.

The business sector through its representative Jeremie S.Lo, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Bicol Governor lauded the city government’s positive stance in terms of the confidence and support it continuously give to investors.

Under the health agenda, the city has implemented a P20-million upgrade of the Naga City Hospital in close coordination with the Department of Health (DOH) and the establishment of an infirmary in the upland barangays of Pacol-Carolina. The city has also instituted support on maternal and new born child health and nutrition initiatives pursuant to Executive Order 2010-024 in support of the Maternal Newborn Child Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) Program implementation.

Support to basic education was also beefed up with a P124-million allocation from the special education fund. It covered textbooks, graduation and recognition subsidies, academic and sports competition, and the training of locally funded teachers among others. The city also assumed local funding of 148 teachers and invested P12.5 million in 13 school infrastructure projects. The city also increased subsidy to SPED centers here.

The effort to revitalize the Naga River is now near its realization with the implementation of the P20-million river transport component of the P2.1 billion comprehensive package of the Naga River Revitalization project.

Bongat expressed his continued trust and confidence in his constituents towards a more progressive Naga City. (LSM-PIA 5, Camarines Sur)


AusAID assists in constructing classrooms, daycare centers for 4Ps children

By Jesseshan B. Marbella

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- A total of 83 classrooms and day-care centers will be constructed for the first semester of this year to address the needs of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program children in terms of improving their access to education.

Bicol regional director Arnel Garcia of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said that the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) will fund the construction of these additional classrooms in areas where Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) was previously implemented.

Garcia said DSWD-5 has signed Tuesday, Feb. 19, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the municipal government of Donsol in Sorsogon province, represented by Mayor Jerome F. Alcantara, for the official launch of the AusAID-funded program.

"Identified recipient-barangays with need of additional classrooms or daycare centers will receive the grant from AusAID through the community-driven development approach of the Kalahi-CIDSS," explained Garcia.

Kalahi-CIDSS is a community-driven development project wherein the community collectively gathers data on conditions existing in the community, analyze these conditions, and define appropriate development interventions to address identified needs. These are then validated through the conduct of barangay assemblies. It ensures community empowerment by giving the people authority and control over decisions and resources

Garcia furthered that AusAID-assisted projects for the construction of classrooms and day-care centers will be piloted in the municipalities of Donsol, Sorsogon; Claveria, Palanas and Cataingan, Masbate; Libon, Pioduran, Manito and Rapu-Rapu, Albay during the first semester with a total grant of P89,760,000.


Garcia explained that the convergence of these programs aims to enhance the department’s contribution in the achievement of a more sustainable and tangible impact on poverty reduction in the country. (MAL/JBM-PIA 5,ALbay/DSWD5)


Polangui named among 2012 National Agri-Pinoy Rice Achiever

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- The municipal government of Polangui was conferred "National Agri-Pinoy Rice Achiever” for 2012 recognizing the local government’s high-performance in rice production to help achieve rice self sufficiency by 2013.

Polangui Mayor Cherilie Mella Sampal said the feat of the local government in agriculture has entitled the municipality of P1 million cash award and P20,000 each for seven agricultural extension workers.

Sampal cited the Municipal Agricultural Services Office, led by municipal agriculturist Alfredo Mariscotes, Jr., for the exemplary achievement and efficient implementation of agricultural programs, particularly on rice sufficiency and agricultural development, as well as agricultural extension workers Leticia Quian, Jonel Llagas, Robeto Barra, Sholenor Bongapat, Corazon Ginete, and Amiel Osma.

Sampal continues to be optimistic with the achievement that, according to her, being at the front line in the implementation of the rice program local governments will continue to play an important role in the government’s goal to attain rice sufficiency by 2013, and surplus in succeeding years.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) under its Agri-pinoy rice program has led the 2012 Search for Rice Agri-Achievers.

The search, launched last year, is one strategy that envisions to achieve rice self sufficiency by 2013 and will be sustained until 2016 and beyond, honouring top rice-producing provinces, cities, towns, irrigators’ associations (IAs), Small Water Impounding Systems Association (SWISA) and outstanding Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs).

Municipalities, along with cities, were judged based on their incremental rice production volume and area harvested from 2011-2012, total funds allocated for rice production, number of LGU personnel deployed to rice production; LGU program on rice initiated/funded by the LGU; high quality seeds utilization of at least 50 percent.

For AEW the criteria include: production increment over 2011 production; production performance over 2012 target; number of cluster/farmers assisted (at least 30); trainings attended, FFS conducted, techno demo established and reports submitted.

The same program aims to encourage the full participation of LGUs, IAs, and AEWs involved in the production of rice; sustain awareness, support and commitment to the rice sufficiency program. The search will cover the 2011-2012 dry and wet season.

The rice achievers' award is also part of the campaign to promote the DA’s flagship Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP), a program that would ensure food sufficiency for Filipinos not only in rice, but also other food crops like corn, cassava as well as some fruits and vegetables in the future. (MAL/PIA-5)



NYC launches 2013 National Search for Best Youth Projects

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) --The National Youth Commission urges youth organizations in the Bicol region to join its 11th National Search for Ten Accomplished Youth Projects (TAYO 11) launched February 14 this year.

NYC commissioner Georgina Nava said TAYO stands for the efforts of youth organizations to express their love for the country through their passion and support for their chosen community and causes no matter how small or simple it may be.

“From efforts as simple as clean-up drives to as complicated as international events, the Filipino youth respond to varied issues in novel and astounding ways,” said Nava.

TAYO is the award given in recognition of exceptional achievements of youth organizations. It also encourages sharing and replication of noteworthy and unconventional projects and initiatives to solve basic problems in communities.

Since its start in 2002 almost a hundred youth organizations have been awarded and recognized.

The search is open to all youth organizations with projects implemented for their communities from June 2012 to present. For ongoing programs and projects completion must be done by June 2013.

For further queries interested organizations can email TAYO secretariat at tayo.secretariat@gmail.com or contact 09178988296. They can also check their websites at www.nyc.gov.ph and www.tayoawards.net or like their Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations fan page on Facebook. (MAL/SAA–PIA5/Albay)

IN ALBAY –The Albayanos continues to stand together to  preserve  the gains of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution this 27^th Year Anniversary of the bloodless Revolution. With this year’s theme “Pilipinas Natin: Abot-Tanaw Na!”  (Alex Cal/PIA)

Participating in the installation of  Hatol ng Bayan Tarpaulin at Peñaranda Park, Legazpi City are the  Philippine Information  Agency (PIA) Regional Office V, Radyo ng Bayan, Philippine News Agency (PNA), students, vendors and government partner’s agency.  Hatol ng Bayan the most credible and comprehensive coverage of the 2013 National and Local Elections. (Alex Cal/PIA)

LEGAZPI FISH PORT  - In line with the continuous development  of  Legazpi City another project have been bless  and turn-over yesterday  (Feb. 21, 2013) at  Brgy. Dap-Dap, Legazpi City. The Legazpi Fish Port  blessing, turn-over and ribbon cutting ceremonies was graced by  Hon. Al Francis Bichara, Congressman 2^nd District of Albay, Rev. Fr. Arjay Remindado, Hon. Carmen Geraldine Rosal, Legazpi City Mayor, AKB Congressman Alfredo Garbin, Jr., Former City Mayor Noel Rosal,  Dap-Dap Brgy. Captain Marites Barcelon, Vice Mayor Vitorio C. Roces and Former Vice-Governor James Calisin. The upper photos shows the Fish Port building. (Alex Cal/PIA)