CSU grad, 4th place in Midwifery licensure exam

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Nov. 23 (PIA) - Ma. Luz Vitalicio-Obin of Catanduanes State University landed 4th  (90.05%) in the November 2014 Midwifery Licensure Examination.

Luz considers her success as an early birthday gift. She will turn 19 this November 25. "Thanks, Lord, bongga ang birthday gift mo ha.Love you." she quipped in her Facebook account.

Luz is fourth in a brood of eight of Adelfo and Luzviminda Obin of Rizal, Viga Catanduanes. She finished her basic education at Rizal Elementary School and Viga Rural Development High School. Last March 2014, she earned her Midwifery course diploma at CSU.

The CSU CHS School of Midwifery garnered a 100% passing rate for first takers and 93% overall passing rate in this year's edition of MLE examination.

Obin is now the 17th MLE topnotcher of CSU School of Midwfery.

The previous MLE topnotchers from CSC/CSU were: 2nd placers - Jellie Jane R. Vargas - 2013; Kathleen Shiela B. Ramirez - 2010; Erica B. Obogne - 2009; and Maria Rosario T. Rodriguez - 2006;

4th placers - Lila Ann T. Alonzo - 2013; Erlinda Frondozo - Tabor - 1990; and Kristel Mae V. Cervantes - 2007; 6th Placer - Chique S. Santos - 2007; 7th Placers - Nirvana Josabel G. Ortiz - 2011 Roselyn O. Abines - 2010; Jonna Mae A. Quintal - 2009; and Marilyn Idanan-Lucero - 1979.

8th placer - Jacqueline P. Laroya - 2008; 9th Placer - Agnes F. Trinidad - 2007 10th Placers - Cheyserr Kate R. Villegas - 2010, and Janessa M. Medrana - 2007.

Obin's feat will be added in the newly-inaugurated CSU the Wall of Topnotchers.

Recently, three graduates of CSU were also among the topnotchers of the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last August 17, 2014.(MAL/EAB/GSR-CSU-PRIS/PIA5

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841416742859/csu-grad-4th-place-in-midwifery-licensure-exam#sthash.20tg4PHu.dpuf

DAR to implement P10M worth of agrarian reform projects in Albay towns

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will soon implement various agrarian projects worth P10-million in the province of Albay after the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released the allocated budget under the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting (GPB).

Albay Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Office chief Romulo Britanico said the projects include the construction of the 100 linear meter Spillway in Bgy Aurora-White Deer, Jovellar, the 1.5-kilometer Marayag-San Isidro farm-to-market road in Libon, and the 35 linear meter concrete footbridge in Sitio Lagsingan, Rapu-Rapu.

Britanico said that the GPB also calls for the development of coco-cased processing and farming system in Guinobatan town.

Britanico said the project would benefit 10,400 farmers, of which 527 are agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Preparatory activities for these projects are now being undertaken by the DAR Albay with the help of concerned Municipal Mayors.

Guinobatan Mayor Ann Gemma Ongjoco expressed her gratitude to the DAR for helping them boost the economic lives of Albayanons.

For his part, Mayor Ronald Galecia of Rapu-Rapu said he is looking forward for bigger projects through DAR to sustain the development the government has initiated in their community.

The GPB, previously called Bottoms-Up Planning and Budgeting (BUB), was adopted as a strategy  to identify various programs and projects that address the development needs of poorest cities and municipalities in the country.  (MAL/PAMRS-DAR/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771416275468/dar-to-implement-p10m-worth-of-agrarian-reform-projects-in-albay-towns#sthash.2L9r7gEF.dpuf

Naga hosts 1st Regional PWD Summit

NAGA CITY, Nov.17 (PIA) --- A disability-inclusive development geared towards making the lives of persons with disability (PWDs) easier, capped the 2-day 1st Regional PWD Summit held at Eurotel here over the weekend.

With focus on inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), partakers representing various PWD and Older person organizations were given lectures and added insights on the various laws regarding their rights, specifically practical strategy in implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

This is also contained in the Incheon Strategy to “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific, particularly citing Goal 7 which focuses on DRRM. It was anchored on the premise that PWDs belong to those vulnerable groups with a higher risk of being injured and neglected during the occurrence of natural calamities and similar catastrophes.

Pursuant to this, agencies with related work on DRRM were invited to share their programs for DRRM. Naga City DRRM officer Ernesto Elcamel was one of the invited discussants during the plenary session with the PWDs and older persons. The discussion is geared towards the attainment of the core values of the Incheon Strategy which aims to have availability of disability-inclusive disaster reduction plans for the said sector.

City Mayor John Bongat during his brief but significant interaction with the group expressed his full support to the idea of working together to solidify the Region V PWD Federation and vowed to pursue mechanisms that will ensure the implementation of programs and services for the PWDs.

“The city government of Naga has its full support and backing to all the programs for the PWDs. We have the PDAO office that will cater to their needs and we are slowly renovating our facilities inside the city hall for greater ease and comfort of our PWDs and older persons. Rest assured that the city will continue with this efforts until we become compliant of the accessibility law for this sector,” Bongat stated.

National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Technical Cooperation Division Chief Nelia R. De Jesus, lauded the city’s untiring effort in pushing for laws and programs that will lift the PWD and Older persons sector as one of priorities.

“Naga is the first LGU to hold the first federation election and we are happy that they already have an organized PWD sector here and are really pushing for the compliance of the laws for our PWDs and older persons. Naga has already reached milestones when it comes to initiatives concerning this sector and this has inspired and motivated the federation to pursue other programs that will lift their way of life towards a better society.”  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861416194592/naga-hosts-1st-regional-pwd-summit#sthash.yEJvwipA.dpuf

CamSur LGUs, schools, communities join simultaneous earthquake drill

PILI, Camarines Sur, Nov.17 (PIA) --- Local governments officials and employees, academe and other sectors of the community in Camarines Sur took part in the recently concluded Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on Friday last week putting into test the measures and validate the efficiency of warning dissemination and the effectiveness of the response of the community in times of earthquake and similar disasters.

Bicol director Bernardo Alejandro IV of office of Office of Civil Defense (OCD), also chair of the Bicol Regional DIsaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), stated that this preparation also served as the government’s response to combat the possibilities of earthquake with the recent movement of West Valley Fault and Manila trench.

He added that the conduct of earthquake drills will strengthen the preparedness of the community.

In Camarines Sur, the Pili Municipal Police Station, led by Fire C/Insp. Benjamin B. Spaña, led the drill USI Campus, in Barangay San  Agustin, Pili, Camarines Sur participated in by personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philipines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Pili Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC).

Army units under the 9th Infantry (SPEAR) Division in the Bicol Region also positively responded to the call by joining the simultaneous earthquake drill in line with the AFP’s commitment to effectively and immediately respond to emergencies, disasters and calamities.

In a report of the 9th ID, Major General Yerson Depayso stated that the Disaster Rescue and Response Units of 9ID, are always ready to respond to any call of emergencies.

"They Army personnel are trained for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) Operations and were in fact part of the first group to respond to our fellowmen after Super Typhoon Yolanda ravaged the entire country, particularly the Samar area," he said.

In Goa, Camarines Sur, Bureau of Fire (BFP) oa headquarters spearheded the “Oplan Pagyanig” enjoining the students of Partido State University (PSU)-Goa Campus, Partido College and employees of other establishments to partake in the drill. A fire safety seminar was also conducted to enhance the know-how of the students on what to do when earthquake strikes.

A Barangay Disaster Response Seminar held at Barangay Salog of Goa was also spearheaded by BFP-Goa Station and participated by local barangay officials, tanods and volunteers.


0The government emphasizes the need for disaster preparedness to reduce the community’s vulnerability to disaster and direct them into making alternative plans to decrease the impact and ill-effects of disaster.  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861416210825/camsur-lgus-schools-communities-join-simultaneous-earthquake-drill#sthash.Tk4dgQUD.dpuf

Naga City councilor pushes initiatives to make the right real for PWDs

NAGA CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA) -- Councilor David Casper Nathan Sergio of this city has assured the sector of persons with disabilities (PWDs) with the support of the legislative body and the city government here by pursing legislative and administrative measures that will ensure protection or rights and welfare of the sector.

Sergio, chair of the Committee on Persons with Disabilities in Sangguniang Panglungsod, earlier authored a legislative measure and latter passed by the body creating the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in Naga City by virtue of City Ordinance No. 2010-039.

The ordinance is in consonace with the provisions of Republic Act No. 10070 or an “Act establishing an institutional mechanism to ensure implementation of programs and services for persons with disabilities in every province, city and municipality, amending Republic Act No. 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.”

Christopher Molin currently heads the PDAO.

“We will develop policies and additional initiatives that will ensure disability-inclusive and enabling environment for PWDs to fully exercise their rights as mandated.  We will strengthen the PDAO and we are hopeful that there will be concrete actions concerning benefits, like scholarships and livelihood opportunities for this sector. We have laws but we need to put more attention to it to realize its worth to the PWDs,” Sergio added.

Sergio also stated that the city government, under the headship of Mayor John Bongat, is already spearheading changes in the structures and buildings inside the city hall. This, he said is a positive move that signals the full realization and compliance of BP 344 or the National Building Code of the Philippines otherwise known as an “An Act to Enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by Requiring Certain Buildings, Institutions, Establishments and Public Utilities to Install Facilities and Other devices”.

Sergio was a 26th Apolinario Mabini awardee and received the honor as Disabled Filipino of the Year for his exemplary contribution in uplifting the lives of his fellowmen despite his disability.

Aside from hearing lectures and discussions related to Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) during the 1st Regional PWD Summit, the participants took the opportunity to elect their Regional PWD Federation officers.

Elected President for the Regional PWD Federation is Engr. Jovencio B. Claveria (Naga City), Professor Rex Bernardo from Daet, Camarines Norte as Vice President and Ferdinand Arche from Naga City as Secretary.

Other set of officers include:  Concepcion Mea Samson from Camarines Sur as Assistant Secretary; Celinia Tayoyo from Ligao City as Treasurer; Alex Almazan from Camarines Norte as Auditor and Clemente Nava from Sorsogon as PIO.

The new set of officers will carry forward the development of a Region 5 PWD Federation to network to multi-sectoral groups.

These efforts are pursuant to the pronouncement made by President Benigno Aquino III, declaring the period 2013-2022 as the Philippine Decade of “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in support of the 3rd Asian and Pacific Decade of Persons with Disabiliities. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861416203206/naga-city-councilor-pushes-initiatives-to-make-the-right-real-for-pwds#sthash.6qpIopKH.dpuf

Veggie farmers earn, nourish day care centers

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA) -- An agrarian reform beneficiaries organization (ARBO) in Ocampo, Camarines Sur has found vegetable farming self-satisfying as it provides its members their “daily bread” and pre-school children in their villages their daily nutritional needs.

Juliet Parlero, chairperson of the May-Ogob Agrarian Reform Cooperative (MOARC), said the program, dubbed: “Gulay para sa Lusog at Siglang Batang Day Care Center,” is a welcome development for it provides farmer-members steady market outlets for their harvests and a sense of pride for helping develop the villages’ future generation healthy.

“We have steady income out of regular sales of our vegetables and, at the same time, help nourish our kids by providing them with fresh and organically produced vegetables,” Parlero said.

Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes said the program, a joint undertaking of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (PAHP), seeks to uplift the quality of life in the community and make pre-school children at day care centers well-nourished.

The DAR chief said the new set up shows the importance of collaboration between and among concerned government agencies and the civil society in an overall objective of helping every community attain a vibrant economy and ensuring a healthy and energetic village people.

Under the program, the existing ARBO in the barangay supplies the daily vegetable needs of day care centers in the same barangay. The number of day-care center in each village depends on the number of population. In barangay May-Ogob, an averaged barangay, there are three day-care centers, with at least 35 pupils each.

De los Reyes said under this arrangement the farmer-beneficiaries are motivated to work harder in their vegetable farms on a year-round basis and produce more because they have ready market outlets for their harvests, and the school children are assured of fresh and organically produced vegetables, which are good for their health.

DSWD nutritionist-dietician Richel Arellano-dela Cruz said the project is an offshoot of a previous undertaking when the government used to provide a kilo of rice for each public pre-school and elementary pupil.

“This time we make sure that the project would be result-oriented by having it directly enjoyed by its intended beneficiaries – the pre-school children,” Arellano-dela Cruz said.

She said the daily food budget for each pupil is P13 and is broken down as follows: P3 for rice and P10 for viand (ulam) or cuisine. Pre-school children attend classes at day care center five days a week or 120 days a year.

Harawan Day Care Center worker Elinor Mangubat said the program is very encouraging as her wards have become more active and started enjoying school activities, much unlike before when they appeared less cooperative and less attentive.  (MAL/DAR Release/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771415948701/veggie-farmers-earn-nourish-day-care-centers#sthash.5Er1XQj1.dpuf

Albay tops production of sand and gravel, Camarines Norte in sales in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA) -- For calendar year 2013, the Albay province recorded the highest production of sand and gravel, according to  the Bicol Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) regional office here.

MGB Bicol director Theodore Rommel Pestano reported that Albay produced a total of 180, 150 cubic meters of sand and gravel, followed by Catanduanes – 149,245.50 cu.m., Camarines Norte – 145,256.20 cu.m., Masbate – 22,792 cu.m., Sorsogon – 6,734.50 cu.m., and Camarines Sur – 5,515 cu.m. for a combined production of 509,693.20 cu.m.

He added that production value for each of the six provinces amounted to: Camarines Norte – P14, 289,698.25, Albay at P8,080,132.00, Catanduanes – P3,994,545.00, Masbate – P2,248,425.00, Camarines Sur – P526,360.00, and Sorsogon – P299,380.00.

The combined total production value was Php 29,438,540.25.

On the other hand, Pestano furthered, total sales realized from the combined production was placed at P54,068,464.50.

Camarines Norte recorded top earnings amounting to P19,052,931.00; followed by Catanduanes with P16,374,075.00; Albay with P11,117,228.50: Masbate  with P6,588,450.00; Camarines Sur with P636,600.00; and Sorsogon with P299,180.00. (MAL/LDV-MGB5/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771416277357/albay-tops-production-of-sand-and-gravel-camarines-norte-in-sales-in-bicol#sthash.U6M5uUZ6.dpuf

7th Bicol Organic Agriculture Congress underscores welfare of farming families

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov 14 (PIA) – The Department of Agriculture (DA) led the 7th Bicol Organic Agriculture Congress held on November 6-7 at the Ibalong Recreation Center (ICR) here with the theme “Promoting the Well-being of Farming Families through Organic Agriculture.”

DA Bicol information officer Emily Bordado said the theme is aligned with the United Nation declaration of 2014 as International Year of Family Farming which aims to recognize the farm families’ contribution in feeding the earth and caring for the environment.

The Congress was staged in partnership with the City Government of Legazpi, Provincial Government of Albay, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), Pecuaria Development Cooperative Inc., (PDCI), Social Action Center and other private sector partners who are supporting the organic agriculture efforts in the region.

Bordado said over 600 organic agriculture farmers, practitioners, advocates and supporters participated in the said gathering   held annually to serve as an avenue for sharing of new ideas, experiences and good practices among organic agriculture practitioners, program implementers and adaptors.

“It also served as a venue for disseminating information, policy and program updates, directions and thrusts on organic agriculture in consonance with the implementation of the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010,” she added.

Among the topics discussed during the congress are Ang Kahalagahang Pangnutrisyon ng mga Organikong Gulay by Ms. Marilyn C. Valeza, National Nutrition Council and Kadyos: An Organic Food Option by Ms. Fe B. Perlas and Ms. Melani Y. Abalayan of CBSUA.

Marketing and Livelihood Opportunities for Organic Agriculture by Pacita Juan and Regina Francisco, ECHOSI Foundation; Organic Rice Value Chain by Mr. Crispin B. Cabal, Jr., Pecuaria Development Cooperative, Inc.; Organic Agriculture Registration and Certification Process by BAFS representative were also included.

The guest of honor and keynote speaker during the opening program was Maria Estrella A. Penunia, Asia Pacific Region Ambassador for International Year of Farming Families 2014 and secretary general of the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development.

Also present were Mayor Noel Rosal of Legazpi City; Caroline M. Ubalde, program director of Organic Agriculture-based Social Enterprise Project; Dr. Georgina J. Bordado, president, CBSUA; Fr. Granwell Pitapit, director of Caritas of the Diocese of Libmanan; Fr. Ian Trillanes, NGO sector representative of the National Organic Agriculture Board and Dr. Elena b. de los Santos.

Along with them are Regional Technical Director for Operations and Extensions of the DA who represented Director Abelardo R. Bragas; Adelina A. Losa, DA Regional Organic Agriculture focal person; Dr. Albert Jo of Rapha Valley Place of WELLNESS, and Miller Bicaldo, manager of PDCI, the only certified producer of organic rice in the Bicol Region.

The Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 (Republic Act 10068), signed on April 6 2010, is a state policy to promote, propagate and further develop the practice of organic farming in the Philippines.

The policy is expected to increase farm productivity; reduce environmental degradation and prevent the depletion of natural resources; further protect the health of farmers, consumers and the general public; and help cut expenses on imported farm inputs.

The new law establishes a comprehensive national agricultural program which will promote organic-farming methods through farmers’ and consumers’ education, and the extension of assistance to local government units, peoples’ organizations, nongovernment organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders.(MAL/SAA/EBB-DA5/PIA5)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571415949299/7th-bicol-organic-agriculture-congress-underscores-welfare-of-farming-families-#sthash.CfRYqF4E.dpuf

DPWH expands operation of hotline 165-02

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) -- Operation of a mechanism for good governance and anti-corruption program of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the central office has expanded to include the 16 regional offices in the country.

DPWH Bicol regional director Melvin B. Navarro said the agency's 24/7 CALL CENTER Hotline 165-02 is now connected with regional offices nationwide.

Calls or complaints are directly routed to these regional offices, including Bicol, for prompt action.

Navarro said that DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson stressed the need to promptly address every public issue concerning the department by having it directed to appropriate field units of the agency.

“We want to hear peoples’ point-of-view on DPWH programs and projects, and policies and activities as we are prepared to listen and learn from one another," Navarro recalling SIngsod said.

Operationally managed by DPWH Stakeholders Relations Service, the CALL CENTER under outsourced contract with Pilipinas Teleserve facilitates DPWH feedback communication with its stakeholders and directly provides support to Secretary Singson’s right quality reform program.

DPWH public engagement thru Hotline Number 165-02, monitored and analyzed public opinion and issues serve as basis in the formulation of guidelines and policy improvements and/or issuances.

Other than the 24/7 CALL CENTER Hotline 165-02, the policy of transparency in the Department via citizens feedback platform includes feedback e-mail in the DPWH website www.dpwh.gov.ph, TXT 2920 short messaging system, walk-in, letter referrals, social media (facebook and twitter), and media (print and broadcast) monitoring system.   (MAL/DPWH5/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771415866592/dpwh-expands-operation-of-hotline-165-02#sthash.hwRi5ukU.dpuf

Catanduanes town vies for DSWD’s National Gawad Listahanan

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 12 (PIA) -- The municipal government of Pandan, Catanduanes will compete in the national level for the first ever Gawad Listahanan of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) after it was adjudged the best LGU to comply with the data sharing agreement.

Pandan was chosen among other local governments in Bicol for complying with to the data sharing agreement with the DSWD and registering most number of beneficiaries for their locally-funded programs based on the database of poor households of Listahanan.

Mayor Joseph Al Randie Wong said that use of Listahanan as the database for the implementation of various programs, projects and activities is to provide social protection program accurately and correctly for a comprehensive, complete, substantial, and honest public service. Listahanan is indeed very useful to local government units.

The Gawad Listahanan aims to acknowledge the Local Government Units (LGU) for providing services and assistance to the Listahanan-identified poor families. It also aims to promote the convergence of all social protection stakeholders on the identified poor to effectively address the different aspects of poverty.

Other municipalities who submitted their entries were Presentacion, Camarines Sur and Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Listahanan is an information MANAGEMENT SYSTEM that aims to establish a database of poor households that will become beneficiaries of social protection programs.


Data Utilization

Pandan used Listahanan for the implementation various programs such as Aid to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) which provides burial, medical, transportation, food and educational assistance. They allocated P1 million for this purpose giving priority to the Listahanan identified poor of the DSWD.

The local government has also introduced Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to address and cater the needs of the inhabitants through the provision of skills training through the provision of skills training on Soft Broom Making, Dressmaking, Hairdressing and Cosmetology courses for Out-of-School youth and In-School youth.

Aside from SLP, supplemental feeding was also implemented. Almost 90% of the served 676 children ages 3-4 years old were given supplemental feeding daily for 120 days. This is a DSWD funded program where LGU’s counterpart is the manpower of 27 day care workers.

The supplemental feeding program has raised the awareness, attention and involvement of parents. These parents availed the Parents Effectiveness Program which is a venture for them to become effective and responsible parents.

The Municipal Social Welfare & Development Office also gave importance to cater the provision of elderly and persons with disabilities. There are 99 indigent senior citizen 77 years old and above benefited from the Social Pension program.

The Provincial Government of Catanduanes has also extended 100 wood canes to persons with disabilities which will greatly help in their mobility.  

The climate change brings numerous untold stories to the populace. The local government of Pandan initiated disaster preparedness trainings for disaster prone areas where most of its affected households are included in Listahanan.



Selection & Awarding

The GAWAD Listahanan Committee of the National PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE (NPMO) shall screen and review all entries in accordance to the award guidelines.

The national awarding shall be conferred on the DSWD anniversary in January next year.

Winner for each category will receive a PLAQUE and a cash incentive of at least P50,000  which will be provided based on a project proposal that will promote Listahanan. (MAL/CRBarrameda-DSWD5/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771415779977/catanduanes-town-vies-for-dswd-s-national-gawad-listahanan#sthash.rGCzOMSE.dpuf

PhilHealth's Ready, TSeKap, Go! fun run all set

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 11 (PIA) -- The Philippine HEALTH INSURANCE Corporation (PhilHealth) officially launched its second Nationwide Simultaneous Run set on February 15, 2015 in 13 regions all over the country.

PhilHealth Bicol regional vice president Orlando D. Iñigo Jr. sadi the running event is among the major activities that PhilHealth is organizing, as it marks its 20th year with the theme “Ensuring Universal Coverage for All Filipinos.”

Dubbed "PhilHealth:Ready, TSeKaP, Go,"  the event intends to drumbeat PhilHealth’s contribution to the  Kalusugang Pangkalahatan agenda of the Aquino administration, and  increase public awareness on the  health care benefits and services that it provides to its members.

The launch commenced with a tree planting and growing activity in all 13 regions as a symbol of PhilHealth’s commitment for the preservation of the environment. It also marks the official countdown to 100 days to the February 15 Run.

The running event, which will take place in the cities of Quezon, Baguio, Dagupan, Tuguegarao, Olongapo, Lucena, Lipa, Naga, Iloilo, Cebu, Tacloban, Davao and  Koronadal, shall carry the theme of the primary care benefit package or ‘TSeKaP’ to instill among target participants, particularly those belonging to the vulnerable sectors of society,  the importance of prevention as against costly hospitalization.  

The running event is open to all Filipinos and even to non-Filipinos who are in good health condition. They can register in any of the categories, namely, 3K, 5K, 10K, or 20K. Runners may download the registration forms from run2015.philhealth.gov.ph, submit the forms to and pay their registration fees at the PhilHealth regional and local HEALTH INSURANCE offices corresponding to their preferred run site.

Those who wish  to join the Quezon City and Iloilo City editions may register online through run2015.philhealth.gov.ph.

Iñigo stressed the PhilHealth Run 2015 shall also be a venue for PhilHealth to showcase its selflessness as an organization, instill generosity, and  welcome opportunity to share resources for the improvement of the plight of others.

"PhilHealth will celebrate its 20th anniversary in February, we want to have a declaration saying  that Universal Health Care (UHC) is  no longer a dream, but  is now a reality for all Filipinos,’  he added.

The  first time that PhilHealth organized a nationwide, simultaneous run was in February 2013 which was participated in by 90,000 professional and amateur runners nationwide.

“This time, we are expecting at least 60,000 runners from the 13 sites nationwide,” the PhilHealth Bicol chief furthered.

Proceeds from registration fees and sponsorships will benefit at least 13 local institutions primarily catering to the vulnerable sectors of society.

UHC advocates and interested runners may log on to run2015.philhealth.gov.ph for more details. (MAL/PUA-Philhelath5/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771415928620/philhealth-s-ready-tsekap-go-fun-run-all-set#sthash.3Qn7tiTW.dpuf

Bicolanos await launching of Magellan Book

NAGA CITY, Nov. 11 (PIA) ---  The first comprehensive detailing the life and expedition of Ferdinand Magellan will soon be out in the market following the completion of the extensive research made by Bicol’s very own son, Historian and Professor Danilo Madrid Gerona Ph.D.

The project presentation on the book of Magellan was initiated by Councilor Nathan Sergio of this city, as a way to promote the project and solicit support in realizing the completion of the said endeavor. Sergio believes that this comprehensive book will create an impact not just in our country but also in the international community.

“I am proud to have initiated this project that drumbeats the launching of the first comprehensive book on Magellan in the world, authored no less by a Filipino historian who is Bicol's pride. The book would impact Philippine history,” Sergio shared.

During the project presentation, the attendees have unearthed significant facts that were not unraveled or discussed before.  One of these was the thought that Lapu-Lapu was not a young warrior during that time as depicted in most books but an old chieftain who was probably in his 60’s then. Most of Magellan’s men and crew, as what Gerona shared, were killed by Jumabon while survivors were sold as slaves to Chinese traders.

In his book that is expected to come out in March 2015, Gerona wants to debunk the myth that we already know Magellan based on the earlier readings that we have.  To materialize it, , he will be using primary documents in writing the book.

“I would like to address what actually happened to the Philippines in line with Magellan’s expedition since this is a primordial episode for us as Filipinos.  The fact remains that for 500 years some important facts were ignored in our books.”

Professor Gerona is a well-known Bicol Historian who holds an MA in Philosophy at the Ateneo De Manila University and PhD in Philippine Studies: History at the University of the Philippines. As a renowned Bikol historian, he has been invited in international conferences.  He made his extensive researches in Spain and in most part of the European countries.

He has also delivered various lectures and seminars regarding Bicol Culture and History. He authored several books like From Epic to History: A Brief Introduction to Bikol History and Naga” The Birth and Rebirth of a City.”

Sergio believes that Gerona’s expertise will give not just Bicolanos, but Filipinos as well with the factual glimpse of Magellan’s voyage in the Philippines. He has sought the help of his friends in the media, writers, representatives from the academe, business sector and local government units to solicit support for the making of the said book on Magellan, which he says will be the first comprehensive book about him in the whole world.

Magellan is a Portuguese explorer who organized the Spanish expedition to the East Indies that resulted in the first circumnavigation of the Earth.

The launching of the said book on March 2015 will coincide with the 450th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines which will be held in Cebu City.  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861415767499/bicolanos-await-launching-of-magellan-book#sthash.Cn5NUEwE.dpuf

Naga City hosts Batang Pinoy Luzon Qualifying Leg

NAGA CITY, Nov.10 (PIA) ---  For four consecutive days, this city will be home to thousands of athletes and coaches who will vie for the Batang Pinoy National finals come December in Bacolod City.

The sports event which will officially start on November 11 until November 15 will showcase competitions in various athletic categories like swimming, arnis, wushu, badminton, basketball, baseball, billiard, judo and karatedo, among others.   Participating athletes are expected to showcase their best to qualify in the upcoming national competition.

The City of Naga under the auspices of Mayor John Bongat has assured the visiting players, DepEd officials and other attendees and visitors that the city is ready to welcome all of them, citing among others the readiness of the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the Naga City Police Office and Public Safety Office (PSO) to provide security and safety to all of the attendees.

Competitors for the swimming competition will measure their speed and stamina in the 1500 meter Freestyle for Boys age 15 years old below and an 800-meter Freestyle for Girls in the same age category. The competition will be held at the Metro Naga Sports Complex, Barangay Pacol, Naga City.

Cheerleading fanatics will have to wait on November 14 and 15 for the cheerleading competition which will be held at the event center of SM City Naga.

Other venues for the remaining sports events will be at the Metro Naga Sports Complex for archery and athletics, Camarines Sur National High School for  arnis, Naga City Gymnasium for the badminton competition, Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum for the Basketball 3 on 3 and dancesport, Bichara Complex for Billiard, Plaza Quezon for the Boxing competition, ALS Pilot Center for Chess, Universidad de Sta. Isabel for futsal and at LCC Mall for judo and karatedo.

Lawn tennis is slated to be played at the City Civic Center, Table Tennis and Volley Ball at the University of Nueva Caceres, Weighlifting  at STI College and Wrestling  at the Naga Central School 1.

The Batang Pinoy sports competition is part of the national program for sports development which endeavors to address the need for an all-inclusive program for grassroots sports particularly catering to the countryside. It also aims to serve as venue for value formation of the youth while incorporating sports and play.

The conduct of Batang Pinoy 2014 is pursuant to Executive Order No.44, also dubbed as the Philippine Youth Games-Batang Pinoy. This is being spearheaded by the Philippine Sports Commission in partnership with DILG, DepED and other local  government units (LGUs).

Aside from developing the physical side of the athletes, the organizers of these sports events also see the opportunity to use the activity as a value-arena where partakers can see the significance and importance of patriotism, camaraderie, sportsmanship, self-discipline, fair play that would make them better individuals in the near future.

Winners for the Naga Luzon Qualifying leg will compete in the Batang Pinoy National Finals in Bacolod City from December 9 to 13, 2014.  (AAN/LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861415597100/naga-city-hosts-batang-pinoy-luzon-qualifying-leg#sthash.INT5VnIZ.dpuf

3 CSU grads among LET’s topnotchers

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Nov. 10 (PIA) - Three cum laude graduates of the Catanduanes State University (CSU) were among the top 10 list of successful examinees in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last August 17, 2014.

Sharamae Velasco Tuibeo, 20, was in 5th place in the LET exam for Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) graduates with a rating of 88.40 percent. A valedictorian of Begonia Elementary School and 10th honor at Viga Rural Development High School, she is the daughter of Francisco Tuibeo and the former Susan Velasco of Begonia, Viga town.

LET Secondary 8th placer Ena Marie Magallanes Sarmiento, 19, with a rating of 88.40 percent, is the daughter of Edgar Sarmiento and Evangeline Magallanes-Sarmiento of San Isidro Village, Virac. A first honorable mention graduate of Gogon Elementary School and Catanduanes National High School, she was a cum laude graduate of CSU with a degree in Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Biological Science.

Adeleine Valencia Rubio, 21, placed ninth with a rating of 87.60 percent among LET-BEEd passers. The daughter of Adelmo Rubio Sr. and Marjel Valencia-Rubio of Sabangan, Caramoran, graduated valedictorian in both elementary and high school. Prior to her graduation last April, Adeleine was College EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP Assistance and Rewards (CESAR) Program scholar before earning a slot in the Commission on Higher Education’s Student Financial Assistance Program (StuFAP).

Meanwhile, 165 other graduates of the CSU College of Education successfully hurdled the board examinations.

The full list of passers is as follows:

Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd): Jesille Franz S. Abelinde, Jasteen S. Adille, Kliff Kevin B. Alberto, Francis B. Alferez, Errul Jay S. Araojo, Jayson S. Araojo, Marites C. Arcilla, Melanie E. Arcilla, Rose Marie R. Asuncion, Marianne D. Bacatan, Christine Joy R. Bernal, Ma. Carla T. Bernal, Mary Claire T. Bernal, Roshelle T. Bernal, Sarah Jane T. Bernal, Diane April T. Bodota, Mariel S. Bonifacio;

Ana Marie C. Borja, Fatima S. Brequillo, Erika Mae A. Brioso, Minnela B. Brizo, Richelle V. Capistrano, Jhesryl L. Chavez, Michelle M. Chavez, Joshiela T. Cipriano, Cherry Joy T. Clavo, Roda L. Clopino, Leizel N. Colis, Rizalyn R. Conche, Rhenalyn B. Creo, Daisy Mae B. Dayawa, Donna Mae R. De Jesus, Melanie L. De Quiros, Angela Osita C. Del Barrio, Charmaine Mae O. Eusebio, Dyan Kareen R. Fernandez, Jinky L. Ferrer, Clarice Beatriz Galang, Vhego Mea O. Geromo, Mary France T. Gianan;

Kimberly T. Gonzales, Lara Angelika M. Gonzales, Joy T. Gorgonio, Margie V. Guerrero, Mary Joy D. Herrero, Jovert L. Ibardaloza, Ma. Helen Y. Icamen, Emy Jane B. Idanan, Janine A. Isorena, Jessel I. Magdaraog, Ma. Lizette T. Magistrado, Joanah Imee T. Magtagñob, Sharlene B. Manibale, Leizel T. Manlangit, Norilyn L. Manlangit, Aileen B. Masagca, Jalene L. Masagca, John Paul T. Mendoza, Ian Dexter Miraran, Marie Joy P. Mulleda, Emily S. Omanad, Eleanor S. Pabia, Mary Ann I. Pacis;

Klarissa O. Panti, Joebelyn B. Patagan, Shery Ann V. Peña, Jomar B. Priol, Maribel B. Rafael, Adeleine V. Rubio, Bryan C. Rubio, Gracielle Ann A. Rubio, Jennifer I. Sabeniano,  Concepcion DQ. Sapico, Hazel V. Sarmiento, Nelsie G. Sarmiento, Veronica T. Sarmiento, Rolly M. Socito Jr., Remy S. Sodela,

Chanda L. Soliveres, Judy S. Soneja; Emma T. Sumulat; Nenalyn DR. Superal; Regeline C. Surbano, Joe-Ann T. Tabios, Julie Ann A. Tablada, Karla S. Tanael, Sharmean T. Taoc, Kristine T. Tapia,

Reynan P. Tapia, Janarelle T. Tatel, Cherry Jay T. Tayas, Paul Xavier T. Tejerero, Rey Mark T. Tenerife, Bernard T. Tenito, Aljay T. Terrazola, Derle O. Teves, Michael Allan L. Teves, Jamella Gay A. Toledana, Shaden T. Torrazo, Rose Ann T. Torrente, Jose C. Torrestre I, Myrnelly G. Torririt, Jenessa T. Torzar, Virgie S. Tresvalles, Edeliza T. Tribiana, Lily Aileen I. Trinidad, Anabel F. Tuazon,  Joanna Marie C. Tuboro, Cherry Ann A. Tud, Sharamae V. Tuibeo, Emelyn T. Valenzuela, Mary Joy T. Vargas, Nikki T. Vargas, Ma. Hazel C. Velasco, Ella Mae C. Verano, Via Carmela S. Villafuerte, Jinky Jane B. Yusores, and, Floricel P. Zafe.

Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) – Biological Science: Mary Ann L. Arnesto, Dennis Day R. Brusola, Danellen P. Guerrero, Melody U. Ogena, John Sherwin V. Santelices, Ena Marie M. Sarmiento, Deo Benedick R. Tabios, Kathlene Joy C. Tuplano, and, Ronald Z. Yusores.

BSEd – English: Roselyn P. Abaquita, Ma. Louise J. Araojo, Vanessa Padayao, Christine May P. Petajen, Louie A. Sicio, Kia S. Soneja, Daisy Rose T. Tabinas, and, John Ely B. Templonuevo

BSEd-Filipino: Roy G. Caballero, Renalyn O. Clopino, Liezelgen S. Godez, Shiela May C. Manibale, Pinky T. Talion, Reina O. Tatad, Ma. Teresa P. Teope, and, Mark Joseph R. Verano

BSEd-Mathematics: Christopher M. Avila, Marican M. Candeluna, Jhezela T. Gonzales, John Carlo T. Lucero, Rafael F. Manlangit, Ginalyn A. Petajen, Anniela R. Sualibio, Marcelo V. Teves Jr., and, Eric L. Villamartin.

BSEd-MAPEH: Donn Carlos B. Bagadiong, Marilou R. Bonion, Shadel D. Eustaquio, Judy Mae T. Osorio, Princess Jackie L. Soledad, Majhig Monika Trixia Dela Rosa Tabirara, Mark Joyces M. Tapel, and, Anne Mary Celine T. Tumala.

Bachelor Of Technical Teacher Education (BTTE)-Electronics Technology: Erecson A. Agupitan, John Robert De Claro De Mesa, Rod Ryan T. De Mesa, John Philip S. Tabuzo, and, Cyr Lorence V. Valeza.

BTTE-Food Service Management: Joan C. Alvarez, Diana Rose S. Lizaso, and, Eunice P. Tayson.

According to PRC, a total of 25,301 elementary teachers out of 70,786 examinees (35.74%) and 26,767 secondary teachers out of 77,803 examinees (34.40%) successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) given last August 17, 2014. (AAN/EAB/PIA Catanduanes/FG/CT)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841415631247/3-csu-grads-among-let-s-topnotchers#sthash.U8jPvZ34.dpuf

Camarinenses, Naguenos relive spirit of Bayanihan

NAGA CITY, Nov.8 (PIA) --- If there is one good thing that superyyphoon Yolanda left after ravaging most parts of the country it was reliving the spirit of bayanihan amongst the Camarinenses and Naguenos.

Bayanihan, a Filipino tradition that generally refers to an act of helping one another became an instantaneous response from the province of Camarines Sur and city government of Naga after realizing the massive destruction that super typhoon Yolanda brought to the Visayas, particular in Basey, Samar.

After ensuring that its own constituents were properly taken cared of, Camarines Sur Governor Miguel “Migz” Villafuerte immediately directed a group of Medical team to be a part of a Humanitarian mission in Samar, including a team from the Camarines Sur Environment Disaster Management and Emergency Response Office (EDMERO) headed by Luzena “Chie” Bermeo.

The medical team was headed by Dr. Dennis Reforma with Manuel Jornales Jr., as the over-all team leader.  A satellite hospital was built at Basey Auditorium at Basey, Samar where a total of 10, 395 patients from the 47 barangays of Basey and 22 barangays from Marabut were treated and given medical attention.

Out of the almost 10,000 patients served, 2,452 were provided with surgical assistance. Most of the patients also received pre natal consultation, new born care, post - partum care, free medicines, normal spontaneous delivery management and health education.

Despite the difficulties in cramming through the dark surroundings with the absence of electricity and lack of potable water to drink, the team successfully managed to cater to the needs of the survivors before wrapping up their stay in Samar.

Pili Mayor Alexis San Luis also shared his learning on the devastation wrought by Yolanda.

“Typhoon Yolanda has taught us a great deal of lesson especially on the level of preparedness when it comes to disaster. We should rethink on how we respond to scenarios. Zero-casualty should be the top most priority but resource allocation remains to be the greatest challenge.”

In Naga City, Mayor John Bongat also directed the City Social Welfare Department, Public Safety Office and Naga City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office to assist traveling survivors travelling out of their typhoon-ravaged area and traversing the Naga area towards the greater Manila area. Bongat personally sees to it that survivors will be given immediate assistance upon arrival at the city area.

An assistance center was put up at the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum where refugees can have their temporary stop-over to rest and sleep. Free bath, free rest, free foods and medical services were given to travelling refugees.

The tragedy also gave various local government Chief Executives a realization of the greater need to strengthen their local disaster management plans in response to the changing needs brought by climate change.

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA), specifically the Regional Office and its provincial offices, including Camarines Sur InfoCenter, is aggressively working on a massive information drive in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to raise the awareness of the people on the ill-effects of climate change and how we can combat it for a better and disaster-resilient community. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861415434157/camarinenses-naguenos-relive-spirit-of-bayanihan#sthash.EeJANXWV.dpuf

DENR Bicol gears for three environmental celebrations in November

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bicol through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) V has set several activities for three environmental celebrations this month.

These are the National Clean Air Month, the National Environmental Awareness Month and the National Climate Change Consciousness Week.

“The three events are celebrated this month all geared towards the protection of the environment at the same time, awareness raising campaigns to elevate environmental consciousness among Bicolanos,” said DENR Bicol Regional Director Gilbert Gonzales.

Gonzales said the EMB regional office has lined up several activities for the month-long celebrations, with the theme, "Environmental Sustainability: Moving into Greater Actions," focusing on small actions that translate into positive impacts when done collectively.

On November 12, an Operators Forum on fuel conservation and efficiency in road transport will be held in partnership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation FRANCHISING and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to apprise key players in the transport industry on Philippine Clean Air Act or RA 8749 among other laws implemented for mobile sources.

It also aims to promote the need to curb exhaust pollutants from on-road motor vehicles by maintaining them in good working condition.

On November 12-14, the Air Quality Management Section of the EMB and the LTO will be conducting an anti-smoke belching campaign in major thoroughfares of the region to complement the campaign of lessening air pollution from mobile sources.

DENR will also spearhead an Interfaith Conference on Climate Change on November 14 at the Ateneo de Naga University to involve local religious leaders in climate change adaptation and mitigation initiative being promoted by the agency.

The DENR Dalaw Turo program, an innovative educational tool for teaching and promoting environmental messages on nature conservation, will likewise be conducted on the second week of November in the six provinces of the region.

On November 19-25 the EMB will be staging a regionwide environmental symposium to mainstream the department’s thrust in environmental protection and management.

 The annual bike for clean air will be on November 22 dubbed as “Pidal para sa gabos: Para sa Malinig na Paros Part III.” It is in line with the Clean Air Month which through the years has been making a huge following among bikers and environmental volunteers.

To cap the month-long celebration, the Bureau will hold a climate change exhibit at Central Plaza Mall, in Daet, Camarines Norte to provide a glimpse of the current state of the global climate, the impact of climate change in the Philippines and the everyday actions that everyone can take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.(MAL/SAA/DENR/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571415260390/denr-bicol-gears-for-three-environmental-celebrations-in-november#sthash.b7vAFPWg.dpuf

City of Smiles ends Children’s Month with remarkable milestones

NAGA CITY, Nov. 6 (PIA) ---   Anchored on its vision of a “city whose children are happy because they feel secured and loved”, this local government under the auspices Mayor John G. Bongat successfully implemented programs that hyped their advocacies concerning children’s welfare and safety.

This eventually stirred the attention of the neighboring towns, making the City of Smiles as Lakbay-Aral Destination particularly when it comes to emulating the city’s best practices and programs especially concerning the promotion of health and protection of the most vulnerable sector of the government- the children.

In his State of the City report,  Bongat lauded the members of the  Sangguniang Panlungsod for coming up with an ordinance that allowed children representation at the Naga City Council for the Welfare and Protection of Children (NCCWPC).  Executive Order 2014-014-B was also issued purposely to further expand the membership of NCCWPC, incorporating thereto the Early Childhood Care and Development Coordinating Committee or ECCDCC.

Authored by Councilor Elmer S. Baldemoro, Ordinance No. 2014-068 institutionalizes the expanded Naga City Council for the Welfare and Protection of Children (NCCWPC), established by City Mayor John G. Bongat through Executive Order No. 2014-003. In line with this, a Children’s Affairs Office was created and will serve as secretariat of the NCCWPC.

Under the city’s health and nutrition interventions, health delivery services were integrated in every barangays.  Standards/ accreditation scheme for barangay health and nutrition centers were established. A new infirmary on Carolina was erected to serve uptown barangays and neighboring sitios for a prompt and immediate health response to its constituents.

To realize the maximum impact of its health and nutrition development program, the city established 15 barangay birthing facilities and a 24/7 City Health office – City College of Naga Birthing facility.

This resulted to the prioritization of the barangays on health and nutrition, lessening the strain on the city government resources without sacrificing prompt and quality health services.  This scheme also puts in place an accessible birthing facilities and services to the less privileged sector of the community.

Under its security battlecry for children, the city government also expanded its program on immunization.  The city has also made substantial progress in addressing malnutrition, particularly among the pre-schoolers.  Around 9 out of 10 recipients have attained normal nutritional status as compared three decades ago.

For its remarkable health and nutrition interventions, Naga City was voted as Most Inspiring Innovation in E-government and Participatory innovations during the Policy Innovation Festival in Singapore in August 2014.  Also in the bag are the Salud Bikolnon Awards and the Hall of Fame Maintenance award for Nutrition.

This year, Naga City was given a 90 percent rating by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in their 2014 child-friendly local governance audit. The same rating was given to the extent of the city’s mainstreaming of children’s concerns specifically their rights for survival, development, protection and participation in the core development agenda of local governments.

Last year, they also received PhilHealth accreditation in its main health facilities or rural health unit for the Maternal Care services and Primary Care.

The city of Naga is now home to 74 Educare centers and is continuously expanding the city-level school for early education and development.  (MAL/LSM-PIAV/CamSur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861415286894/city-of-smiles-ends-children-s-month-with-remarkable-milestones#sthash.59HoloIU.dpuf

Mayon evacuees sent home this week, alert level 3 remains hoisted

LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 5 (PIA) -- Families displaced by the  the recent unrest of Mayon Volcano were sent home this week following significant decrease of abnormal activities of volcano in the past days, yet residents living within the 6-kilometer danger zone (PDZ) will have to stay in evacuation center.

Albay Gov. Joey Salceda issued the directive during the joint conference of the officials of Bicol Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Albay Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council Tuesday this week.

The directive was issued following consultation with the The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) revealing that Mayon monitoring showed significant decrease in the volcano’s abnormal activities along with the hazard review and vulnerability update on population at risk.

"The regional and provinical DRR authorities had also made consultation with chief executives of towns and cities located around Mayon volcano with affected residents and similarly agreed on the decision to do so," Salceda Said.

Phivolcs resident volcanologist Eduardo Laguerta meanwhile said although there is a lull or significant decrease of the volcano's abnormal activities, the possibility of a dangerous eruption is still imminent thus Alert Level 3 remains.

This prompted the provincial governments, using the new markers identifying the 6-km radius permanent danger zone of Mayon Volcano, to allow only 33 barangays to returned home from the more than 40 barangays dispalced by the threats of Mayon's unrest.

Evacuees who were sent home included from the villages of Oson, San Isidro, Buhian in Tabaco City; San Roque and Canaway in Malilipot; Lidong, Fidel Surtida, Sta. Misericordia, San Fernando and San Isidro in Sto. Domingo; Budiao, Alcala, Miisi, Salvacion, Matnog and Banadero in Daraga; Cabangan, Quirangay, Salugan, Sua and Tumpa in Camalig; Maninila, Muladbucad Grande, Lumadbucad Pequeno, Tandarora, Masarawag, Dona Tomasa and Maipon in Guinobatan town and Tambo, Nabonton and Amtic in Ligao City.

Some 4,191 families or 17,549 people are to remain at the evacuation center residing from the villages of Magapo, Comon, Buang, Mariro and Nagsipit in Tabaco City, Calbayog in Malilipot, non-relocated resident of Miisi in Daraga, Anoling (non-relocated population only), Cabangan Purok 6, Quirangay Purok 4-7, Sua Purok 67 in Camalig, upper Muladbucad Grande in Guinobatan and Baligang in Ligao City.

Laguerta furthered that Phivolcs cannot upgrade or downgrade Mayon’s current alert level 3 status, adding that the institute may issue a special advisory or pre-Alert Level 4 Advisory anytime if the activities of the volcano goes bad to worse, in which case immediate re-evacuation will be ordered.

Albay PDRRMC chief Cedric Daep said that the provincial government of Albay, along with Team Albay comprised of Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Department of Health, the Department of Education and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, other NGOs and POs are always ready for any such eventuality

"Though the evacuees are sent home, excluding those ordered to stay, all facilities in the designated evacuation centers will stay, tents and temporary learning spaces will not be removed, Army trucks and rescue vehicles will still be on stand-by for any emergencies, including the giving of interventions," he stressed.

Bicol regional director Raffy Alejandro of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on the other hand stated, “Nothing will change in our strategies. The national government’s commitment and assistance will not be affected. Everything stays.”

Once the concerned local government units submit the list of those identified families in the 6-km PDZ, the Council will meet immediately for the approval of the measure to issue formal order of strategic decampment, according to Alejandro.  (MAL/PIO-PGAlbay/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771415147498/mayon-evacuees-sent-home-this-week-alert-level-3-remains-hoisted#sthash.LWyCaOfO.dpuf

Puraran surfer among winners in 2014 surfing tilt

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Nov. 4 (PIA) -- A local surfer from Puraran, Baras, Catanduanes was declared champion in one of the categories during the 2014 Catandungan Festival Surfing Competition.

Ken Tanael, of Puraran, grabbed first place in the Grommet division, with Daisy Valdez of La Union dominating the Wahine Open and John Mark Tokong of Siargao, Surigao del Norte as champion in the Open division.

According to Mrs. Carmel B. Garcia, Provincial Tourism Officer, Tanael’s win is very important adding that Puraran is not only the best place for surfing but the place for best surfers as well.

A total of 47 surfers from Sorsogon, Baler, La Union, Siargao, Camarines Norte and Catanduanes joined the contest sponsored by the municipality of Baras through Mayor Rodel Abichuela, the provincial government, Department of Tourism and private companies.

The surfing tilt started on October 8, 2014 at Puraran, Baras and concluded on October 11, 2014 as part of Catandungan Festival 2014. (MAL/EAB-PIA5/Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841415112908/puraran-surfer-among-winners-in-2014-surfing-tilt#sthash.pueRNPEg.dpuf

DENR, PIA lead Climate Change Adaptation Forum in Catanduanes

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Nov. 3 (PIA) -- The Philippine Information AGency (PIA) provincial office here, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Bicol, spearheaded a Forum on Climate Change Adaptation on October 29, 2014 held at the provincial capitol dome here.

The one-day activity dubbed as “Stakeholders’ Forum on Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy” focused on the slogan “Nagbabago na ang Panahon, Panahon na para Magbago,” pertaining to people’s behaviour towards the issue on climate change.

The forum was part of DENR-PIA National Campaign to effectively communicate Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Measures to all people, particularly the most vulnerable so they can better safeguard their lives and properties in these times.

Specifically, it aims to raise the awareness of participants on how climate change affect the lives of the community; and to encourage participants to adapt measures on matters relating to climate change as it its taking place at present;

During the opening program, Dr. Joaquin Ed Guerrero, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of DENR Catanduanes thanked the participants for their support in the activity which according to him is very timely and significant.

Hon. Giovanni A. Balmadrid, Chairman, SP Committee on Environment was also present during the opening. In his message, he cited the importance of such activities in raising public awareness on Climate Change.

Also present were Bato town Mayor Juan Rodulfo, Dr. Magno Conag Jr., and Mr. Rudy Rojas representing Governor Araceli B. Wong and Congressman Cesar V. Sarmiento respectively.

Speakers during the activity were Dr. Hazel A. Palmes, Provincial Health Officer I (Implication of Climate Change on Human Health); Mrs. Myrna G. Baylon, Sr. Ecosystem Management Specialist/PAWCZMS-DENR V (Biodiversity Protection through Empowered Citizenry for Sustainable Use and Enjoyment of Future Generations);

Engr. Guillermo A. Molina, Jr., OIC, Mines Safety Environment & Social Devt. Division, Mines and Geosciences Bureau, DENR V (Sustainable Mineral Resources Development for Economic Growth and Countryside Community Development); Mrs. Marilyn Francia, In-Charge, NGP, Forest Management Services, DENR V (National Greening Program);

Engr. Jan Michael Borja, Environment and Management Bureau, DENR V (Solid Waste Management); and Mr. Oscar Bitarra of DENR Catanduanes (Land Administration and Management for Economic Development and to Guarantee Land Tenure to the Populace).

A total of 110 participants representing officials, farmers, fishermen, businessmen, media, local government employees, women, indigenous groups, transport groups, senior citizens, activist groups, business support groups, youth groups, academe, professional organizations, health professionals/workers, labor groups, vendors, consumers, NGOs, advocacy groups, religious groups, and DENR attended the forum.(MAL/EAB-PIA5/Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841414817153/denr-pia-lead-climate-change-adaptation-forum-in-catanduanes#sthash.avHbN1If.dpuf