DAR to boost coco vinegar and soy sauce production in Camarines Norte

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over various equipments for vinegar and soy sauce production to Daguit Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (DARBO) in Labo, Camarines Norte to boost the production and improve the quality of the said products.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Ross Olayres said the equipment include an Acetator Set composed of Jacketed Kettle 40 Litters Capacity including high pressure burner, 1 drum & a 2hp compressor.  Other equipment include digital PH meter, large plastic containers and blue carbon containers, 1 unit double burner gas stove with LPG cylinder tank, large casseroles, working table, hot-air gun, seals and caps costing about two hundred thousand pesos.

 “These equipments are given to the ARBOs because it has the potential and the capacity to expand their operations considering the demands for these products in the market, especially today when most consumers are becoming health-conscious,” Olayres said.

Olayres said the all-natural coco vinegar and soy sauce are among the DARBO’s products commended by the Asian Development BANK (ADB) Review Mission during its visit in Camarines Norte in 2014.

Target-setting and planning by the (DAR) and Department of TRADE & Industry (DTI) resulted in the need to enhance coco vinegar production, wherein its main raw materials –  the coco water – are in abundance in the province.

“The DAR finds  no reason for the  ARBO-recipient  to slacken off the production and halt  their micro enterprise venture considering further that even a sack of sugar and 30 liters  mother vinegar have been provided to the organization to instantly produce quality all-natural vinegar and soy sauce,” Olayres said.

Before the delivery of said equipments, the DAR in partnership with DTI conducted various technology trainings for the ARBs such as the recently held “Learning Expedition for Coco Vinegar and Coco Toyo” training.  The training taught ARB-vinegar producers the actual utilization of the acetator set, showed them the latest farming innovations for coconut, and equipped them with the know-how to produce various coconut by-products.

The ARBOs also undergone “Skills Upgrading and Exposure” training to backstop the initial production of coco vinegar and soy sauce, using the equipment provided by the office,  and to maximize the use of coconut to increase household income and generate JOBS for local residents.  MAL/PAMRS-DAR/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771422607621/dar-to-boost-coco-vinegar-and-soy-sauce-production-in-camarines-norte#sthash.j0lhVC8L.dpuf

BOSS boosts Naga City’s economic prowess

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Jan. 29 (PIA) ----  As its strong allies in pursuing a more vibrant economy, Mayor John G. Bongat sees to it that businessmen here are given justifiable leeway and ease to enjoy their respective commerce and proficiently practice their professional and corporate dealings with their clienteles.

As a consequence of this outlook, Bongat has enhanced the conduct of the city’s Business-One-Stop-Shop or BOSS. This endeavors to simplify business procedures and create a business-friendly process for the benefit of those in the business sector.

 Bongat acknowledges the strong support of this sector in the flourishing economic status that the city is currently enjoying, the reason behind the creation of Executive Order No. 2014-038. This year, BOSS has again earned praises from most of its clienteles, not only because of the efficient and courteous employees manning the lanes but also due to the flexible payments that gives consideration to some businessmen.

 Just recently, Bongat requested the Sangguniang Panlungsod to pass an ordinance extending the 1st Quarter due date for the payment of business taxes, fees and charges from January 20 to Friday, January 23, this year.  Surcharge and interest will apply if payment has been made after January 23.

 BOSS is expected to benefit more or less 7,000 business establishments this year.

The easy licensing scheme also uses the Enhanced Tax Revenue and Collection System or ETRACS. This is a web-base and has an LGU Taxation Application design for LGUs. One of its modules is the business permit and licensing module which features automated assessment of new or renewed business permit applications.

Clienteles also noted that the BOSS steps were reduced to three (3) steps as compared before.

City Analyst II (EDP) Anselmo B. Mano said that from several steps, now clients can already finish their transaction in a matter of 30 minutes to 2 hours or lesser if their papers are already complete.

 City Events, Protocol and Public Information Office Deputy Chief of Office Zayda Fe Rifareal stated that BOSS serves as an effective mechanism to fast track business renewals from small to big businesses. The scheme not only benefits the businessmen but the city as well for it means added revenue which in turn are being used to fund other LGUs programs and services. Improved services will also benefit the city’s constituents in return.

To ensure that information about this scheme is well-disseminated, a Joint Inspectorate Team was constituted under EO 2012-2016. The team is tasked to conduct a year-round inspection of business establishments and at the same time disseminate the information regarding the city’s business registration procedures including the processing of requirements and clearances.

Naga City started this program in 1997 and is now being emulated by other local government units in most parts of the country. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861422521312/boss-boosts-naga-city-s-economic-prowess#sthash.EZBb25JW.dpuf

Rare 15-foot megamouth shark found dead in Albay

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 29 (PIA) – Albay fisher folks found a dead 15-foot megamouth shark along the shores of barangay Marigondon, Pio Duran Albay yesterday morning.

Nonie Enolva, head of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Regional Emergency Stranding Response Team (BFAR-RESRT), said that it was found with wounds and missing tail at 6:00 am.

The cause of death has not been determined but it was believed to be either trapped in fishing net or had eaten poisonous organisms.

Evolva added that the megamouth shark is an extremely rare species of deepwater shark which eats planktons and jellyfish with its wide open mouth.

The shark will preserved to be displayed at the Albay Park and Wildlife through taxidermy.

 “We are planning to display or preserve it at the Albay Park and Wildlife through taxidermy. If ever, this will be the third time we will have this process in the Philippines,” said Enolva.

Taxidermy is the process of removing all organs of the specimen, soaking its skin in formalin and stuffing it for museum display.

Although edible, eating is discouraged.

 “This is edible but we discourage its eating by humans because it is deemed an endangered species,” said Enolva.

 “The species becomes poisonous because it can ingest metallic compounds that can be acquired by any person eating its meat,” added Enolva. (MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay/BFAR5)

Mass Offering in Albay for slain PNP-SAF

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 29 (PIA) -- Officials and employees of the provincial government of Albay, local and national government offices and partner agencies heed the call of Governor Joey Salceda to join the memorial service for killed member of PNP-SAF held yesterday morning at the Albay Cathedral  as collective offering and prayer for the fallen uniformed men in Mindanao.(SAA-PIA5/Albay/PGA)

Flags at half-mast in Albay in honor of killed PNP-SAF

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 27 (PIA) --   Albay governor Joey Salceda has ordered the hoisting of flag at half- mast across the province in honor of at least 43 members of the Philippine National Police – Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) killed in an encounter with muslim rebels in Mindanao Sunday.

 “Flags will be lifted half-mast all across the province of Albay to express the deep sorrow we share with the families who have been left behind by young heroes who lost their lives to serve and protect the nation,” Salceda said.

 He particularly enjoined all offices of provincial, national and local governments including schools in the province to raise their flags at half –mast for the rest of the weekdays.

 “This also serves as our moral outrage over this event while saluting the moral courage of our men in uniform,” the governor stressed.

 All provincial government heads of offices and staff are also urged to observe a moment of silent prayer just opening their office in the morning in honor of the fallen uniformed men and in solidarity and condolence to their families.

 The provincial capitol will likewise be draped in black.

 “The provincial capitol being the seat of the power of the people of Albay will be draped in black to articulate our solidarity with their moral courage and dedication to serve our fellowmen.” he furthered.

 A holy mass at Albay Cathedral will be offered tomorrow for the victims and their families.

 The PNP earlier reported that the killed SAF members in the remote town of Mamasapano Maguindanao are in search for Zulkifli Abdhir, an alleged Malaysian bomb maker for the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) group which staged the 2002 Bali bombings and other deadly attacks.

 Retrieval operations are currently conducted for other missing SAF members involved in the said encounter.(MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571422342744/flags-at-half-mast-in-albay-in-honor-of-killed-pnp-saf#sthash.3pbzzBoB.dpuf

Goiter Awareness Week Press Conference in Albay

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) holds today a press conference for this year’s celebration of Goiter Awareness Week hosted by the province of Albay as part of the health advocacy and interventions done in consonance with the government’s effort to enable the country to be free from iodine deficiency disorders. This year’s theme “Goiter Sugpuin, Isip Patalinuhin, Iodized Salt Gamitin” is geared towards assessment of pregnant and lactating women for the presence of goiter. In the panel are representatives of the local government of Albay, iodized salt manufacturers, DOH and Philippine Thyroid Association. (SAA/JBC-PIA5/Albay)

Flags at half-mast in Albay for killed PNP-SAF

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 27 (PIA) -- Albay governor Joey Salceda enjoins all offices of provincial, national and local government in the province to raise their flags at half mast for the rest of the weekdays in honor of fallen uniformed men in Mindanao and to observe a moment of silent prayer   in solidarity and condolence with their families. The provincial capitol will also be draped in black to articulate solidarity with their moral courage and dedication to serve our fellowmen. Police reports earlier said that at least 43 members of the Philippine National Police - Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) were killed Sunday in the remote town of Mamasapano Mindanao in an 11-hour firefight with muslim rebels while in search for Zulkifli bin Hir, an alleged bombmaker for the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) group which staged the 2002 Bali bombings and other deadly attacks. (Sally A. Altea - PIA5/Albay)

Gov’t to move 200 families from danger zones in Bicol

By SALLY ATENTO-ALTEA

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 26 (PIA) —The government is poised to move about 200 families from their shanties on hazardous areas in Camarines Sur for their own safety, a government spokesperson said Friday.

The plan is to save the informal settlers in Tinambac town from being sweeped away by floods and twisters, said Evelyn Jerusalem, the Department of Social Welfate and Development’s information officer for Bicol.

Jerusalem said the municipal government provided the land as its counterpart for the P14-million “core shelter” project, which is funded by the DSWD and supervised by the municipal engineering office.

The land has been inspected by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, she said.

Jerusalem said the relocation project mainly intended to provide decent and typhoon-resistant shelters to informal settlers who had been living in low-lying areas of Barangays Antipolo, Bulao, Balite, Bangi, Cagliliog, Magtang, Sugod, Bataan, Tierra Nevada, Olag Pegueño, Canayunan and Lupi.

She said core shelters are designed to withstand wind velocity of up to 180 kilometers per hour and magnitude-4 earthquake.

Jerusalem said each family received a check for P70,000 from DSWD core shelter assistance coordinator Maritess Quosmorio in simple ceremonies witnessed by Mayor Ruel Velarde and Vice Mayor Jun Barrion.

The beneficiaries have been organized and trained in canvassing, purchasing of construction materials and monitoring of the shelter construction, she added. PIA5-albay/dswd5

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571421914093/gov-t-to-move-200-families-from-danger-zones-in-bicol#sthash.kFZBffhQ.dpuf

Search on for 8th Bicol University president

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 26 (PIA): The Bicol University (BU) holds the public presentation and open forum of qualified candidates for the presidency of the university at the BU Amphitheater this morning to serve as an avenue for them to present their respective vision, mission and goals. The candidates are University of the Philippines (UP) College of Agriculture Dean Dr. Domingo Angeles, BU Vice-President (VP) for Administration Dr. Amelia Dorosan, BU VP for Academics Dr. Helen Llenares and BU Research and Development Center Director Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas. From these applicants, the BU Board of Regents will elect the 8th university president to serve for a term of four years from March 9, 2015 to March 8, 2019. (Sally A. Altea - PIA5/Albay)

Search on for outstanding women in Camarines Norte capital town

By Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 23 (PIA) — The municipal government has reactivated the annual search for 10 exemplary women in the town that will highlight Women’s Month in March.

Mayor Tito S. Sarion said the Outstanding Women in Daet are Daeteños who have proven their ability to lead, inspire and enable others, commitment in the organization, dedication and sustainability of advocacy, remarkable accomplishment that has major impacts towards a gender fair society, and remarkable accomplishment that has major impacts to Daeteño.

Sarion said the honorees will be chosen from various professions, namely, judicial service,  protective and security services, professional services, academe and education services, volunteerism, social and community services, philanthropic, culture and arts, math, science and technology, entrepreneurship; non-government organization and civic organization, media public information and journalism, government service and sports, and those with disability.

Honoring women in Daet focuses the spotlight on Daeteños whose  economic, social, cultural and humanitarian contributions to their communities are unique and significant, he added.

He said the awardees will be honored at a ceremony set for March in Daet.

Nomination forms can be obtained at the Daet Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

Entries should be submitted not later than Jan. 30, Friday.  PIA Camarines Norte

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871421118436/search-on-for-outstanding-women-in-camarines-norte-capital-town#sthash.3WXXbJb5.dpuf

DENR Camarines Sur PENRO cites significant milestones

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Jan. 22 (PIA) --- Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Atty. Arnel P. Rodriguez will be leaving the jurisdiction of manning the Camarines Sur resources to his new successor together with the significant accomplishments he has propagated during his almost 2 years of tenure as the Department’s Officer in Charge in the province of Camarines Sur.

Rodriguez will return at the DENR Regional Office in Legazpi and will assume his new post as Assistant Regional Director for Management Service pursuant to a Special Order (SO) issued by DENR USEC Demetrio Ignacio. Before serving as CamSur OIC-PENRO, he was assigned as the Head of DENR’s Legal Department in the Region.

During the FORUM@PIA spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) - Camarines Sur Provincial Office Wednesday, Rodriguez cited his numerous achievements. One of those was giving the department’s employees their benefits, particularly empowering them by strengthening the Collective Negotiations Agreement Incentives.

He also spoke about the issues of rotting charcoals and logs that were then left putrid at the DENR’s yard.  This, under his term was turned into useful chairs through the partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur under the project dubbed “Project Silya.”

“ During my tenure, we instituted a mechanism – because of the huge volume of transactions or activities in Camarines Sur, I instituted the “No-Contact Policy” – meaning, if one has to transact, there is no need to talk to the person taking action on your paper. One has to go to the Public Assistance Desk Officer and just wait at the lobby while the papers are being processed,” Rodriguez added.

Under Rodriguez’ jurisdiction as OIC-PENRO were the protected areas in Camarines Sur like the Caramoan National Park at Paniman, Caramoan; Mount Isarog Natural Park (MINP) located in Carolina, Naga City; Libmanan Cave Natural Park (LCNP) in Sigamot, Libmanan, Camarines Sur, Bicol Natural Park (BNP-Cam Sur side) in Napolidan, Lupi and the Lagonoy Natural Biotic Area located in Agosais, Lagonoy in Camarines Sur.

 The four Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs) in Sipocot, Goa and in the cities of Iriga and Naga were also given directives to particularly ensure the materialization of government’s environment initiatives like the National Greening Program (NGP).  Rodriguez said that in 2014, they were able to utilize 4,925 hectares of lot and planted it with 2,581,380 seedlings.

For the year 2015, PENRO is targeting 1,292,200 seedlings to be planted in a 3, 178 hectares expanse of land.  Under the Grassroot Participatory Budgeting (GPB), they are also looking into 170, 650 seedlings to be planted in a 714 hectares of available soil this year.

For year 2014, under their Land Disposition program, they were able to process and issue patents to 2,121 agricultural lands equivalent to 2381.8066 hectares and 1,432 residential lots.  The biggest number of processed documents was at CENRO Goa with 960 agricultural lands (1,344 has) and 330 residential lots.   In 2015, the challenge is to process 898 agricultural and 1,475 residential lands.

In as far as revenue generation is concerned Rodriguez thankfully noted that they were able to come up with an 847,345.71 collection and will hit a 580,000.00 for 2015.

For his concluding message, Rodriguez thanked the members of the tri-media for being their partner in information dissemination for the past years.  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421918762/denr-camarines-sur-penro-cites-significant-milestones-#sthash.yn2sTfZg.dpuf

PDAO takes part in celebrating National Autism Week

NAGA CITY, Jan. 22 (PIA) --- Special activities were lined up here before the end of the month in celebration of the 19th National Autism Week slated from January 25 to 31.

One of the organizations spearheading the activity is the Persons with Disability Office (PDAO) under the headship of its Officer-in-Charge Christopher Molin.   PDAO also serves as the City Government’s partner in enhancing the policies for Persons with Disability (PWDs), including the assurance that its initiatives will be realized.

PDAO was created by City Councilor Nathan Sergio, Chair of the Committee on Persons with Disabilities of the Sangguniang Panglungsod by virtue of City Ordinance No. 2010-039.

 “The city government through PDAO understands the importance of working with organizations in the autism community. We are much more than willing to extend any kind of help that the government can extend to help them uplift the life and condition of persons with autism”, Molin said in an interview.

On January 23, the Department of Education (DepEd) particularly faculty members handing children with autism will kick off  the celebration with a pre-opening program at the Naga Central II-SPED Center. A showcase of various artworks of students will be featured in their mini exhibit. Developmental games will also be conducted to strengthen camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst the participants.

 On Sunday, everyone is enjoined to join the Angel’s Walk sponsored by the Autism Society- Naga Chapter.  The walk will commence at the Plaza Rizal at around 6am and will wind up at SM City Naga.  This will be followed by a Community mass from 9 until 10 in the morning through the City Government of Naga under the auspices of Mayor John G. Bongat.

 Special Education (SPED) Schools from various parts of Bicol Region will also take part in the Get Up-AU program and will culminate through the Signing at the Commitment Wall, including the “Isang Bansa, Isang Pangako” Campaign which will specifically address the need of persons affected with autism to be understood.

Molin stated that the pledge intends to make people understand that autism is not a laughing matter and that people afflicted with it should be respected and understood in their own language.

 “People with autism have their own God-given talents, just like all of us. They should not be judged or laughed at just because they are special.  We should also continually challenge ourselves to communicate with them and make them feel that we all part of one community.”

Autism as defined is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s ability to express himself greatly affecting his verbal and non-verbal communication, oftentimes resulting to a compromised social interaction. There are approaches now being undertaken by various SPED schools to make children with autism see their own strengths and the gift within themselves.

The celebration’s culminating activity will be a tree planting program dubbed “Tanom Para sa Kaakian” at the outskirts of Panicuason, Naga City on February 1. Spearheading the activity is the Naga City SPED Center (NCSC) Faculty members, parents, Autism Society – Naga City Chapter, LGU Naga and other stakeholders. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421896911/pdao-takes-part-in-celebrating-national-autism-week#sthash.yxXbgQhO.dpuf

Ticao island showcases summer destinations for the whole family.

By Abby Grace Caratao

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 21 (PIA) -- Holiday season was just over and for sure people of all ages could not wait until their next holidays, summer vacations.

Some may be looking for possible places where they could spend their vacation this approaching summer. But of course, along with the preparation for their summer getaways is the consideration of money and budget. If you are looking for a place where you can relax and enjoy without spending too much, Ticao Island is the right place for you.

A “Triple treat” awaits you in the island of Ticao in Masbate. Three beautiful spots can be found in the island where you can have a wonderful vacation. First on the list is the Altamar resort, owned by the Altajeros family. Altamar resort is a perfect place for family bonding; it has white sand and crystal clear water where you can go swimming. The resort also offers fun-full activities like horseback riding, snorkeling, and island hopping and for those who don’t want to get a tan this summer, they can still enjoy by visiting the mini zoo in the said resort.

 Next is the San Miguel Island that is made attractive by its white sand and inviting crystal clear water, what makes the island more beautiful are the rock formations forming triangular shapes that look like the pyramids of Egypt. San Miguel Island can be found in the municipality of Monreal Masbate.

 Last but definitely not the least is the cool spring called Matang Tubig that was named after ice water because of its cool and clean water. Matang Tubig is located in the middle of a forest that takes a 15-minute ride from the island of San Jacinto. Matang Tubig is the most visited spot by the locals and the tourists.

 When it comes to the expenses, be assured that you will not be spending too much if you choose to visit Ticao Island. A bus fare from Legazpi City to Bulan, Sorsogon costs 150 pesos only and a boat ride from Bulan, Sorsogon to San Jacinto costs 120 pesos only. For the lodging, 200 pesos to 1500 pesos are the rate per night. So if you want to spend a cheap and wonderful vacation, Visit Ticao Island and have a Triple treat experience at a low prize. (MAL/AGCarataon-OJT-BU/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771421800269/ticao-island-showcases-summer-destinations-for-the-whole-family-#sthash.AacW2Bcp.dpuf

9,094 families evacuated on “Typhoon Amang” in Camarines Norte

By: Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 20  (PIA) – Some 9,094 families were evacuated from all the twelve (12) towns of this province due to “Typhoon Amang” as reported by the municipalities yesterday to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Antonio E. España said that Daet town recorded the highest number of families with 6,555 evacuated followed by Labo with 901 while Vinzons has 560.

Daet and Vinzons have coastal barangays while some of the barangays in Labo are prone to landslide. The town of Basud recorded the lowest families evacuated with only eight (8) while other municipalities recorded 20 to 227 families evacuated. On the other hand, one (1) casualty was reported in barangay Tawig in Paracale town due to landslides.

There were two (2) houses buried due to landslides in the town Jose Panganiban while the bridge in Kabuluan in Sta. Elena town is passable since Sunday night, the road affected by landslide in barangay Rizal also in Sta. Elena caused the area not passable until yesterday morning.

At 12:35 yesterday Jan. 19 all roads in this province are passable according to Provincial Information Officer Architect Elmer Cesar Zaleta of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

No classes in all levels yesterday, Jan. 19 as declared by Gov. Edgardo Tallado on Sunday.

The power supply has resumed starting 3:00 in the afternoon yesterday in some other areas of the province after the power off on Sunday morning due to the damage of the 650 KV line of the Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative.(MAL/RBM-PIA5/CamNorte).

CamSur PDRRMC continues to monitor flood-ridden barangays

PILI, Camarines Sur, Jan.19 (PIA) --- Camarines Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council  (PDRRMC) headed by Governor Miguel Villafuerte sent off order to the council’s officials to continue monitoring flooded and partially damaged barangays which until now is submerged under flood water.

As weather starts to normalize, flooded areas at Tamiawon, Garchitorena went down from 25 to 23 municipalities and from 114 barangays to 95 barangays.  Given the slim margin of this reduction in number, the Environment, Disaster Management and Emergency Response Office (EDMERO) headed by its Chief, Lucena Bermeo were advised to keep an eye to affected families and ensure that their needs are given proper attention.

Although the province was not overly ravaged by TS Amang , most of the low-lying barangays in the province were affected by the heavy rains that caused flooding.

In Garchitorena, Barangays II, IV and Pambuhan were greatly affected by the storm surge temporarily displacing 179 families equivalent to 871 individuals.

As of yesterday, there were 17, 091 families affected by the severe flooding with 5th District having the most number of affected population at 8,018 families. Topping the list is the town of Buhi with a total of 21 flooded barangays and has affected 3,391 families totaling to 15,577 individuals.   Mostly affected are barangays Tambo, Sta. Justina and Sagrada Familia.

The municipalities of Lupi, Milaor and  Bato were also not spared from the surge of floodwater.

EDMERO staff continuously monitors the community situations and sent advisory to all Chief Executives, MDRRMOs, Barangay Captains, BDRRMCs and PDRMMCs to send updated information for proper disposal of actions.

The Central Operation Center is also continuously being manned including the three (3) satellite Operation Centers, which include the OPCENS of Caramoan, Balatan and Ragay.  Teams were also dispatched to validate and check the status of flooding particularly in areas located in the hinterlands.

The provincial government has also prepared and distributed relief goods to families who took temporary shelters in various evacuation centers in Buhi, Ragay, Balatan and Camaligan.

Goods were also prepositioned at the municipalities of Caramoan, Garchitorena, and Lagonoy North Coastal.  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421658792/camsur-pdrrmc-continues-to-monitor-flood-ridden-barangays#sthash.iyEwtTPf.dpuf

Cam Sur Gov alerts LGUs, Barangay officials to secure constituents

PILI, Camarines Sur, Jan. 17 (PIA) ---  Under its zero-casualty policy, Camarines Sur Governor Miguel R. Villafuerte immediately alerted all the municipal mayors, Chairpersons of Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (MDRRMOs), Barangay Captains and Chairpersons of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (BDRRMOs) to ensure the safety of their constituents by ordering a pre-emptive evacuation particularly to those residing in vulnerable areas.

The issuance of the Memorandum was based on the latest bulletin issued by PAG-ASA yesterday that TS “Amang” has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and will cause heavy to intense rain in most part of the province.  This is also to anticipate that the downpour will flood low lying areas and will cause occurrence of landslide in the hinterlands.

The Governor’s order specifically states that all families living within the one kilometer strip of land along the coastal areas, those living along riverbanks and lakes and similar bodies of water, those residing in low lying areas and landslide prone areas and all families dwelling in houses made of light materials should be evacuated at once to safer grounds.

Non-compliance of the said order will fall on the disadvantage of the Chief Executives who will be charged with dereliction of duties as stipulated in Section 9 of Republic Act (RA) 10121 otherwise known as Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.

 As early as Thursday, the Provincial Government already conducted a meeting involving all the Department heads to take all the necessary preparedness measures including the provision of all technical and logistical requirements to ensure that emergency situations will be immediately acted upon.

On Friday, an emergency meeting with various government agencies was again called up by PDRRMO to finalize contingency plans. Among the preparedness measures undertaken by the province was the activation of 7 satellite operation centers stationed in the District Hospitals of Ragay, Libmanan and  San Jose, Hospitals in Garchitorena, Caramoan, Siruma and Buhi.

To ensure that there will be food supplies accessible to those who will evacuate, Villafuerte also ordered the preposition of relief goods in the vulnerable coastal towns of Siruma, Garchitorena, Caramoan, San Jose, , Balatan, Ragay and Del Gallego.

This has also placed all the MDRRMC and BDRRMC in red alert status, including all Chief of Hospitals who were directed to provide additional workforce in their respective hospitals to man their Health Emergency Units. Public address systems were sent to coastal municipalities and other high risk areas to warn the constituents of the impending danger of “Amang”.

Based on PDRRMC Situation Report No. 02 issued by PDRRMC under the auspices of EDMERO Chief Lucena Bermeo, as of 2pm today, a low rainfall gauge of 0-5mm was recorded for the past 12 hours. This covers the Eastern Seaboard constituting the Garchitorena and Caramoan areas.

The bad weather has also rendered a total of 43 passengers – 28 in Pasacao port and 15 in Tamban Port in Tinambac, stranded and unable to ply the route going to San Pablo, Burias and Garchitorena.

Currently, PDRRMO is continuously monitoring the status of the weather, keeping MDRRMOs and BDRRMOs updated with the latest weather bulletin for dissemination. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421503049/cam-sur-gov-alerts-lgus-barangay-officials-to-secure-constituents-#sthash.57MY3OEZ.dpuf

Pope’s visit inspires youth leaders in Albay

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 15 (PIA) – The province of Albay may not have been included in the itinerary for the visit of His holiness Pope Francis in the country but young people in the province, particularly youth leaders, are just as excited and inspired as the rest of the Filipino people.

Adelaine Bautista, Bicol University Student Council president, said the pope’s visit is an inspiration to be humble and compassionate in time for the declaration of 2015 as the Year of the Poor by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

 “The papal visit gives everyone inspiration to be humble, compassionate and to reach out to other people especially this year that it is the year of the poor. I think Pope Francis is a living example of blessedness. Despite of his holiness, he is always humble, keeping his feet on the ground, inspiring people and reaching out to the needy,” Bautista said.

College Student Council (CSC) President Menlyn Bautista said the coming of the pope is an inspiration to uplift the Filipino spirit particularly those still grieving from the loss of their loved ones during typhoon Yolanda.

 “The upcoming visit of Pope Francis is very timely because amidst the political, economic and environmental issues in the Philippines, the coming of the Pope Francis uplifts Filipino spirit especially those who were badly damaged by supertyphoon Yolanda. So the presence of the pope is big help for those who have lost their loved ones or their families,” Menlyn said.

 “And of course the papal visit is a symbolic event in the country because we, Filipinos, as somehow united by the coming of the pope,” she added.

Ana Theresa Valles, editor-in-chief of a school based publication, considers the visit as a big blessing for the Filipinos especially for the youth to show their faith as millions of people are united especially if more youth will take part in living their faith.

Moreover, she reminded her fellow youth to focus not only on the pope but his message and teachings as well.

“We should all remember that the pope is not God but an instrument God has sent ot guide the people. Thus we should focus more on the message and teachings the pope will bring and not on the pope only,” Valles stressed.

Sports advocate and Mr. State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) 2014 Leonard Mateos noted that the visit is a big help for the youth to be aware of the importance of humility and unity as shown by the pope.

“When I heard that the pope will visit the Philippines, I felt so happy. However when I saw how people prepared for the visit and how it unites people from all parts of the country, I realized that I should not only be happy  but also be thankful because we are all blessed by this event,” he said.

The Pope is set to arrive in the country this afternoon at around 5:45 at the Villamor Air Base.

 He will be meeting with the youth in the country on January 18 at the University of Sto Tomas (UST).

CBCP executive secretary earlier said that the meeting is open to all young people. Although tickets have been issued to some 24,000 pre-selected youth representatives all over the country, those without tickets can proceed to the quadrangle.

Also part of the pope’s itinerary are meeting with families at the Mall of Asia (MOA) arena on January 16, lunch with the poor and survivors of calamities in Palo Leyte on January 17 and concluding mass at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park on January 18 at 3:30 pm before he departs for Rome the following day.(SAA/AGCaratao-PIA5/Albay)

   

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571421308451/pope-s-visit-inspires-youth-leaders-in-albay#sthash.QAvnHueG.dpuf

DepEd to start early registration and enrollment activity

NAGA CITY, Jan. 15 (PIA)---  The Department of Education (DepEd) here, pursuant to Memorandum Order No. 13 series of 2015 officially announced January 24, Saturday as the start of a one-day early registration and enrolment activity for all kinder, transferees and incoming Grade 1 pupils.

This early enlistment campaign endeavors to check on the number of pre –school children who will be entering their preparatory years. The data will give the schools ample time to prioritize their pupil’s needs based on their numbers. The early registration scheme also aims to check on the available resources of the school to specifically address the needs of the pre-schoolers.

It basically aims to address the lack of classrooms, chairs, learning and instructional

Ang Early Registration / Enrollment sa Enero 24 ay para sa maagang paghahanda ng ahensiya simula ngayong buwan na Enero lalo na sa mga problema tungkol sa kakulangan ng mga classrooms, upuan, learning materials, at iba pang mga suliranin sa pagbukas ng klase sa susunod na school year. (dabad,PIA-V/Camarines Sur)

Naga City DepEd School Division Superintendent Emma I. Cornejo conveyed the aforesaid education memo to all Assistant School Division Superintendents, Division Supervisors and Coordinators, Public School District Supervisors, Public Elementary and Public Secondary Heads for their guidance and to ensure wider and earlier dissemination of information to the parents.

The said activity is also on offshoot of the K to 12 Basic Education Program of DepEd which started in 2011.  It aims “to achieve the government’s vision of universal participation and completion of basic education of all Filipino children” by encouraging and made kinder a pre-requisite for a pupil to enter elementary.  

Last week, DepEd already initiated the start of school-parents’ conference and assembly in all public schools in Naga to ensure that the said program is understood and well-circulated.

Cornejo said that aside from the said assemblies, they will also visit schools and conduct a massive information dissemination campaign to alert the adjoining barangays about the early enrollment campaign.

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) will spearhead the enlistment for out-of-school-youths.

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421303572/deped-to-start-early-registration-and-enrollment-activity#sthash.H5QGK3G1.dpuf

Abcede urges campus writers to join in early registration campaign of DepEd

DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 15 (2014) – Bicol director Ramon Fiel Abcede of Department of Education (DepEd) has urged campus writers toactively take part in the school campaign of early registration this month.

During the opening of the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) on Jan. 12 at the Agro Sports Center, Abcede said that the program aims to bring more children in school noting that in 2012, of the 1,623,095  school going-age learners in Bicol Region, only 1,217,489 were in school; leaving 405, 606 or 24.98 percent of the school-age population out of school.

The regional director stated campus journalists should have their share and help in our campaign to bring back to class those out of school young populace.

He said that students may help attract learners especially those are out of school youth to go back to school next calendar year.  We have to find all these children because they have the significant part of the communities, he said.

Abcede said that this is the kind of reality that a campus writer can be involve in and  help make out of school children understand that completion of basic education are significant milestone that will pave a way to their better future.

He said that if these children who came from less financial families the more to encourage them to go back to school because education will free them from poverty.

Earlier  he said that students may not realize now but their involvement in campus journalism will significantly impact on what he will become in the near future.

We hope that teachers and advisers who are entrusted to the task to train and develop students potential do not just only focus on the enhancement of their skills but also giving priority in equipping them values that will help them grow and advance to better individuals, he said.

He also cited that the Bicol region is on the final stages in the preparation of the Senior High School and constructing resources to cater to the needs of the learners who will enter in school year 2016-2017.

We are working closely to the various stakeholders and with the local government units in the provinces, cities and towns in Bicol to ensure all our system will be ready to embrace this reforms made by the DepEd in our curriculum, he said.

The RSPC competitions were held in Daet Elementary School for the elementary and Moreno Integrated School for the secondary level both in Daet town on Jan. 13-14.

 The contests include Science and Health Writing, Copyreading and Headline Writing, Editorial Writing, Photo Journalism, Scriptwriting and Radio Broadcasting, Collaborative Publishing, Uploading of Pictures and Captioning, Sports Writing, News Writing, Feature Writing and Editorial Cartooning.

The DepEd also held its 4th Bicol Regional Patiribayan Festival in Filipino and English for Secondary level on Jan. 13 at the Agro Sports Center, provincial capitol here. (MAL/RBM-PIA5/CamNorte)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871421227606/abcede-urges-campus-writers-to-join-in-early-registration-campaign-of-deped#sthash.OJY0mBGU.dpuf

Archdiocese of Caceres sends off delegates during Pope’s visit

NAGA CITY, Jan. 13 (PIA) --- Around 30 priests and 200 seminarians, religious and lay from the Archdiocese of Caceres are expected to attend the mass of His Holiness, Pope Francis at the Manila Cathedral and Quirino Grandstand on January 16 to 18.

Aside from church and religious representatives, organized youth delegates from the province of Camarines Sur and this city are also prepping up to be a part of the huge crowd that will see Pope Francis at the UST grounds.

This, as the entire world awaits the historic apostolic visit of the highest head of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.  This will also be the first leg of Pope Francis’ Asian trip after meeting the people of the island nation of Sri Lanka.

Pope Francis is set to deliver his message of “mercy and compassion” to all the Filipinos particularly to the ravaged populace of Leyte who suffered the wrath of Typhoon Yolanda.  President Benigno Aquino III is set to welcome him at the Malacanang Palace before setting off to his designated route.

In line with this, Fr. Louie Occiano, Executive Director of the Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCoM) enjoined everyone to participate in the said gathering by asking them to also pray for the safe visit of the Pope here in our country.  Occiano will be among the fortunate priests who will join the group for the Papal visit.

“We all know that not everyone will have this rare chance to personally see the Pope given the tight security measures and the physical distance, yet it should not hamper us from joining the entire Christendom in welcoming him in prayers.”

The Archdiocese of Caceres through its Archbishop, Most Rev. Rolando Octavus Tria Tirona, O.C.D., D.D., also invites everyone to be in solidarity with the church in the Philippines to welcome His Holiness, Pope Francis and to unite in prayers for his safe and successful visit.

 The Archbishop also conveyed the message of Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) General Secretariat for all priests to be in unison in pealing all bells simultaneously on January 15 at 5:45pm to signal the arrival of the Holy Father. The gesture will be a symbolic act of welcome to the Holy Father as a way of calling on the people who will be unable to see him personally.

Archbishop Tirona will lead all the faithfuls in a special gathering on January 15 at the Metropolitan Cathedral grounds to welcome and pray for Pope Francis who will be arriving on the same day in Manila.

All the parishes, schools as well as religious institutions are enjoined to attend the said celebration.  The assembly will start at 4:00 pm.

The song numbers and animations that will feature the theme song of the Pope's visit will be spearheaded by members of the Caceres Youth Ministry. There will also be a concelebrated mass with the priests, the youth and students, religious and lay faithful in Caceres.  Catechesis and audio visual presentations will also highlight the celebration.

The said gathering will also serve as a send- off event to all the delegates of the Archdiocese of Caceres who will join thousands of Pope’s well-wishers in Metro Manila.

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421126019/archdiocese-of-caceres-sends-off-delegates-during-pope-s-visit#sthash.aDosVwWq.dpuf

Bicol RTSPC winners all set for the Luzonwide Campus Journ competition in Cagayan

NAGA CITY, Jan.12 (PIA)--- With barely few weeks to go, winners of the 15th Region V Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC) who competed last week at the University of Saint Anthony (USANT), Iriga City are now prepping up for the upcoming 14th Luzonwide Higher Education Press Conference slated next month.

The national competition which will be spearheaded by the Luzonwide Tertiary Press Advisers (ALTPA) is scheduled from February 5 to 7 at the Pulsar Hotel, Capitol Hills, Caggay, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.  The said academic exercise is in consonance with the provisions stipulated in Republic Act (RA) 7722 otherwise known as the Higher Education Act of 1994.

The activity endeavors to enhance the participant’s sense of social responsibility, specifically the significant role of the youth in empowering themselves through the promotion of responsible journalism inside their respective colleges and universities.

Leading this year’s contenders is the University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP) which was bestowed with an accolade as the Over-All Champion.  UNEP was joined by the following schools as top 5 over-all highest pointers:  2nd – Bicol University (BU), 3rd- Camarines Norte State College (CNSC), 4th- USANT, and 5th – Divine World College of Legazpi (DWCL), Naga College Foundation (NCF) and Catanduanes State University (CSU).

UNEP Frontliner Khevin Gambal, together with Naga Collegian’s Carlo Mariano from NCF topped their challengers by being adjudged as Over-All Highest Pointers under the Individual category. Paolo Gerero of Sublime Torch (Mabini College) and Shienna Lynn Karla Madayag of the Naga Collegian (NCF)  placed 2nd and 3rd- Ralph Orense of Aquinian Herald from Aquinas University.

Under the Group Category – Magazine Entry, CSU’s “The CSU Statesman was adjudicated for its Best News and Sports Page; Mariner’s Collegian (MPCF-Legazpi) with Best Editorial Page, Best Column/Opinion Page, Best Page Design and Best Cover Design; Divine World College of Legazpi’s The Channel with Best Feature and Best Literary Page; and Partido State University’s Radiance with the Best DevCom Page.

 Mariner’s Collegian was cited as the Campus Paper of the Year under the Magazine Category.

Still under the Group Category-Tabloid Entry, BU’s Bicol Universitarian swept the Best News Page, Best Editorial, Best Column/Opinion and Best Feature Page Award, Best Page Design and the Best Campus of the Year Award. The Collegian of BISCAST-Naga got the Best Literary Page, Best DevCom Page for USI Façade and Best Sports Page for the Democrat of University of Nueva Caceres (UNC).

The Channel of DWCL received the Best Campus Paper of the Year under the Newsletter Entry (Group Category).  The Sublime Torch of Mabini Colleges of Daet was able to snatch the Best News Page and Best Editorial Page under the same category while The Channel grabbed the Best Column/Opinion Page, Best Feature Page, Best DevCom Page and Best Sports Page.  The Artificer of Sorsogon State Colleges got the Literary Page and Best Page Design Award.

An Burabod of DWCL under the Literary Folio got the Best Cover Design, Best Concept and Best Literary Page; The Anchor of MPCF-Legazpi won the Best Page Design while Alinawnaw of PSU-Goa received the Best Visual Arts Page.

The Campus of the Year Award: Literary Folio was given to An Burabod of the Divine World College of Legazpi.

Most of the members of the aforementioned school papers also won the individual category and will be representing their respective schools in the upcoming Luzonwide competition. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861421046487/bicol-rtspc-winners-all-set-for-the-luzonwide-campus-journ-competition-in-cagayan#sthash.0BP1Lw6Z.dpuf

PIA-Camarines Sur Provincial Head Keynotes 15th Region V Tertiary Schools Press Conference

IRIGA CITY, Jan. 9 (PIA) --- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) - Camarines Sur Provincial Head Ana-Liza S. Macatangay was invited to keynote this year’s Opening Ceremony of the 15th Region V Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC), January 8 at the University of Saint Anthony (USANT), here.

The occasion which was slated from January 7 to 10, was jointly sponsored by the Bicol Association of Tertiary Schools Publication Advisers (BATSPA), Inc and Bicol Association of Student Campus Writers (BASCAW) in close coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The Conference has chosen “Redefining Social Awareness through Journalistic Sensitivity” as this year’s theme.

This year’s RTSPC was participated in by more or less 300 campus writers and publication advisers from more than 40 Higher Education Institutions in the Bicol Region.

Macatangay in her keynote address emphasized the great transformation in the fields of media and communication and the significant role of the young generation in serving as catalysts of change.

“Journalistic sensitivity would mean being responsible and following the moral impulse of doing what is right and just and not jut doing what is convenient.  The true essence of communication, as what the mission of PIA states, is providing the people with adequate information to help them make better decisions and for them to identify opportunities that could improve their quality of life.”

On Day 2, January 9, Macatangay will also serve as Judge and Lecturer for Opinion Writing and DevCom Writing both in English and Filipino.

This year’s host school, USANT under the auspices of Dr. Santiago D. Ortega Jr., the university President, thanked the organizers for choosing their place as venue of this year’s regional press conference and said that this is a positive recognition of the school’s commitment in the upliftment of the moral, social, and intellectual pursuits of young Bicolano students, more so in the field of campus journalism.

USANT Vice President for Academic Affairs and Graduate School Dean Dr. Domingo R. Ortega Jr. called the campus journalists as harbingers of responsible journalism. As such, he reminded the partakers that they are not only doing it for themselves but also for the younger generations to follow.

This year’s RTSPC winners will represent Bicol Region in the upcoming 14th Luzonwide Higher Education Press Conference of Luzonwide Tertiary Press Advisers (ALTPA) slated this February 5 to 7 at the Pulsar Hotel, Capitol Hills, Caggay, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. (LSM, JMadrid, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861420879506/pia-camarines-sur-provincial-head-keynotes-15th-region-v-tertiary-schools-press-conference#sthash.LxdCuyzd.dpuf

PNP Bicol to send 1500 cops for papal visit in Tacloban

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 8 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police Regional Office 5 will deploy some 1,500 personnel to augment the security force for the papal visit in Tacloban City on January 17 to meet the survivors of supertyphoon Yolanda.

PNP Bicol Chief Supt. Victor Deona said that the three-battalion Bicol police contingent is part of the PNP Special task Force “Papal Visit 2015” organized to ensure the safety and security of The Pope’s state visit and apostolic journey in the country slated on January 15-19, 2015.

 Deona said the Bicol contingent composed of senior police officers will be led by Senior Supt. Romulo Esteban, assistant regional director for operations.

Furthermore, PNP Bicol is also preparing to assist devotees and pilgrims going to Tacloban and will pass through the region.

This include Motorist Assistance Centers (MAC) in police stations along the Maharlika Highway -- from Tabogon, Daet, Camarines Norte, to Matnog, Sorsogon.

Deona said he has instructed Sr. Supt. Bernie Banac, PNP Sorsogon provincial director, to re-implement controlled points in Sorsogon City, Irosin, Juban, Casiguran and Matnog to avoid long lines of vehicles via the Matnog Port and ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and motorists.

In Albay, Governor Joey Salceda has ordered the suspension of classes at all levels and work at the provincial capitol on January 16 to give Albayanos the opportunity to have a glimpse of Pope Francis during his visit to the country.

He also requested the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units to temporarily suspend work on this day to clear the route from the province to Metro Manila.

The visit of His Holiness Pope Francis will include activities in different venues in Metro Manila and Leyte. The Pope’s entourage is composed of 30 Vatican officials and 85 Vatican accredited media practitioners.

On January 16, the Pope will have his courtesy visit at the Malacañang Palace, holy mass with the bishops, priests, and religious men and women at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Manila and meeting with families at the Mall of Asia arena.

He will also be meeting with the youth at the sports field of the University of Sto. Tomas and will celebrate the holy mass at Rizal Park in Manila on January 18. (MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571420709381/pnp-bicol-to-send-1500-cops-for-papal-visit-in-tacloban#sthash.zBACIJMz.dpuf

Firecracker related injuries decrease in Camarines Norte – DOH

DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 7 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded a decreased of firecracker related injuries in Camarines Norte during the Christmas holidays .

DOH HEPO designate head Marie Ann B. Rivera said that 13 cases were recorded from December 21, 2014 to January 5 this year as compared to 18 cases of the same period in 2013.

She said that Daet town has posted six cases; Basud, Mercedes, and Vinzons has two cases each and Jose Panganiban with one.

 Rivera cited that most of the cases were caused by piccolo with nine injuries while kwitis, fountain, five star and watusi with one case each.

 She also said that most of the diagnoses were blast burn and were sent home after the treatment. There was no mortality and tetanus case due to firecracker incident, she said.

 Earlier to this the DOH along with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) has intensified their campaign against firecrackers through their program Aksiyon Paputok Injury Reduction (APIR) with the theme “Mahalaga ang Buhay Iwasan ang Paputok”, she said.

 The provincial DOH team has distributed information materials regarding the APIR campaign along with the health tips among local government units of the 12 municipalities of this province and radio plugs to six (6) radio stations here. (MAL/RBM-PIA5/CamNorte)

DepEd to conduct Principals Academy for second batch

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Jan. 7 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) division office here will spearhead an institutional program initiative for principals in the province starting January 10, 2015 at DepEd, Catanduanes.

Dubbed as “Principals Academy”, the activity will be implemented to provide school leaders with the required level of necessary competency amidst changes in the educational environment, institutional strategies and policies and organizational directions.

DepEd Division Schools Superintendent Jose L. Doncillo said the activitiy is anchored on the Leadership Excellence towards Accelerating Performance (LEAP) -- a flagship program of the Division which is anchored on the strategic objective of the division on improving school governance capability of school leaders towards building excellent schools.

The program shall run for 8-modules facilitated by the Division in partnership with the Provincial Government of Catanduanes and other external stakeholders.

 A total of fifty (50) participants composed of Principals, Head Teachers and Teachers-in-Charge who have been selected from both levels shall compose the second batch.

 The Batch 1 of the activity was held on August 15, 2014 at the ARDCI Function Hall, Virac town.

 According to Doncillo, aside from being a professional development program for school heads in the Division, the activity will also enhance the quality of service being offered by the department to its clientle, particularly the students. (EAB/ PIA Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841420639601/deped-to-conduct-principals-academy-for-second-batch#sthash.WWFsBmdc.dpuf

LGU Pili comes up with another Techno-breakthrough

PILI, Camarines Sur, Jan. 6 (PIA) --- Allowing the power of transparency and the work of technology to take its course while realizing its vision for a more progressive Pili, Mayor Alexis San Luis recently inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and Philippine Payments and Clearing Systems (PhilPaCS) for the full automation of its operations with online payment capability.

The Capital town of Pili will be the first Local Government Unit in the country that will be using the said technology – a great leap in local governance using the latest breakthrough in technology.

In an interview, San Luis divulged the benefits that the automation will bring to the LGU, particularly to its constituents.

“We are looking forward into enhancing the lives of our people and making things easier and convenient to everyone.  This will enable the LGU to be competitive, transparent, more efficient in its operations and servicing of its citizens and attuned to the call of the ASEAN Economic integration.”

San Luis said that every department is connected to a server through the Executive or the automated local government suite where all the transactions will be posted in real time and can be accessed by him anytime, anywhere. This will give him up-to-date information regarding the LGU’s dealings even if he’s out of town attending other official concerns.

The online payment capability feature of the automation will make payment schemes more convenient by using its online features. Residents of Pili who have migrated to other countries but still maintain their properties in this town, can now pay their taxes without the hassle of going through the process of bank transfers or similar paying scheme.  Booking of tickets and similar transactions can already be done without the annoyance of queuing in airline’s offices.

South Luzon Lending Group First Vice-President Daisy Macalino and Southeast Luzon Branches Group Assistant Vice-President Marilou Villlafranca who were both present during the MOA signing in Manila last December 17 lauded San Luis’ vision of enhancing its services and vowed to assist and provide the bank’s products and services to the LGU as its partner.

“The agreement will not just provide transparency of the LGU’s projects but also the utilization of funds, flow of inventory and even approval tracking.  The automated system of the LGU is accessible via internet online and has a cross-platform capability where citizens can view the flow of processes of their municipality using their available gadget – desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and even mobile phones,” San Luis added.

It will also be advantageous on the part of the LGU since it can easily log on to the website, have their documents filed, taxes and fees assessed, and obligations paid without leaving the comforts of their home or office. Payments can be done using accredited banks and directly deposited to the LGU LandBank account.

The system also provides the efficiency of a fully-integrated system where each completed transaction is directly logged to the municipality’s treasury and logged in the accounting records in real time.

The town’s constituents can view the latest municipal resolutions since they are also published online.  The documents can also be tracked for approval purposes.

San Luis capped the good news by saying that the possibilities of more efficiencies and technology advancement for the municipality are limited only by the innovation in the minds of its implementers and users.    (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861420536569/lgu-pili-comes-up-with-another-techno-breakthrough#sthash.E3ILIwMp.dpuf

DOH posts decrease in firecracker injuries in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Jan 5 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) has posted a decrease in firecracker-related injuries in the Bicol region before and after the yuletide revelry compared with figures in the previous year.

DOH Bicol medical officer Evy R. Sarmiento revealed that 87 cases across the region were posted from December 21 to January 4 this year compared with 93 cases on the same period in 2013.

 Moreover, injuries recorded in the provinces of Albay and Masbate increased to 43 and 15 cases respectively.

 In 2013, Masbate has not recorded any injuries while Albay had 41.

The figures dropped in the rest of the provinces with Camarines Sur from 22 to 10, Catanduanes from 2 to zero, Camarines Norte from 16 to 14 and Sorsogon from 20 to 7.

Two cases from Sorsogon were treated and managed at Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTTH).

Sarmiento noted that of the 87 cases, 42 of which are children with ages 7 – 12 and 19 are teens from 13 to 20 years old. 82 cases involve males.

Piccolo is still the leading cause of injuries with 62 cases followed by kwitis, 5-star and other firecrackers including bombshell, bawang and watusi.

Sarmiento added that the body parts most injured are the hands, eyes, legs and feet and the maxillary area of the face.

Stray bullet incidents have not been recorded so far in the region.(MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571420444199/doh-posts-decrease-in-firecracker-injuries-in-bicol#sthash.sFlDxsOA.dpuf

Camarines Sur Energy Press Corps officials to serve as channel of information

NAGA CITY, Jan. 5 (PIA) --- Starting off the year with a bang, newly sworn in officers of the Camarines Sur Energy Press Corps has lined up several activities for the year 2015 including the conduct of an information caravan to various districts in Camarines Sur to help raise the awareness of the communities regarding energy- related endeavors.

During the Induction and Oath taking of the Press Corps’ officers before the year ended, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Regional Communications Division Head Nelson S. Bautista challenged the media officers, including its members to serve as an accurate channel of information particularly to members of the community residing in the outer skirts of the province.

 “In NGCP, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our friends from the media in information dissemination.  At the end of the day, accurate information and important energy-related news will still need the proper vehicle and channel to reach its audience.  I personally believe that a seamless, healthy and professional relationship between the source of information and the heralds make for a strong formula in arming the general public with knowledge.”

Officers and members of the Camarines Sur Energy Press Corps are entitled to have an easy access to information and will be given the opportunity to learn and understand more about NGCP and the power and energy industries through sponsored trainings and facility tours.

 Aside from the information caravan, the group is also planning to engage members of the media in a Power 101 confab to equip them with the proper use of the technical words related to energy and aid them during reporting. The media allies will also serve as NGPC’s partners in its advocacy to mitigate if not totally stop the rampant stealing of tower parts that might result to insurmountable dangers to perpetrators. The result might also be detrimental to the host community.

The Camarines Sur Press Corp was among the seven (7) energy Press Corps in the entire country created by NGCP to serve as their partners in actively disseminating their programs, particularly to the energy users and its host communities.

Among those created were Cagayan-Kalinga Press Corps for North Luzon, Nueva Ecija-Aurora Energy Press Corps for Central Luzon, Leyte-Samar Energy Press Corps for Eastern Visayas, Antique Energy Press Corps for Western Visayas, Cagayan De Oro Energy Press Corps for Northern Mindanao and Saranggani-General Santos Energy Press Corps for Southern Mindanao.

The Camarines Sur Energy Press Corp created for South Luzon endeavors to establish a cohesive body of media practitioners that will embody the sentiments and aspirations of its members.  It is also expected to extend its support and assistance to the information and advocacy programs of private and public institution and agencies and establish common and unified communication plan through a workable system of information exchanges between energy industry players such as NGCP and the local media, among others.

The Press Corps is composed of the following officers: President – Ana Liza S. Macatangay of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Camarines Sur ; Vice-President (VP) for Television – Kate Delovieres of ABS-CBN Regional Network Group; VP for Radio- Melvin Machado of Radyo5; VP for Print- Juan Escandor Jr. of Philippine Daily Inquirer and Bicol Mail; Secretary – Rina Imperial of Manila Bulletin/ Bicol Mail; Treasurer- Ruel Saldico of DZRH/ Manila Bulletin; Auditor – Ric Arnedo of FBN DZGE and Ruben Babar Sr. – Business Manager. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861420437231/camarines-sur-energy-press-corps-officials-to-serve-as-channel-of-information-camarines-sur-energy-press-corps-officials-to-serve-as-channel-of-information-camarines-sur-energy-press-corps-officials-to-serve-as-channel-of-information#sthash.hUE9vPmf.dpuf

LTO’S STRUT campaign continues to promote road safety among the youth

NAGA CITY, Jan.5 (PIA) --- Winning wider adherence to promote road safety, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Regional Office proved that it can engage the youth sector in its advocacy to start among themselves responsible road usage and exercise of proper highway conduct.

 The Students Today, Road Users Tomorrow (STRUT) School Campus Road Safety Caravan which kicked off October 11 and ended its first phase on December 11, has already visited forty-two (42) schools all over the Bicol Region.  It was attended by more or less 32, 200 students who were just too eager to listen to lectures and discussions conducted by LTO officials.

 The LTO STRUT Team has visited 4 schools in Catanduanes, 6 in Camarines Sur, 13 in Naga City, 4 in Masbate, 6 in Albay, 2 in Legazpi City and 7 in Camarines Norte.  LTO has thought of a strategy where it can effectively engage the youth in its campaign by especially designing a competition suited for their genre.

 The Bicol “Selfie” Challenge and the Bicol Youth Shoutout, a photo competition and a video contest respectively, were among the contests where youth can participate using the social media. The duration of the competition started on September 24 last year and will wrapped up on January 10 this year. Another contest, the Speak Up for Road Safety Campus Journalism Award which started October 10 will end on April 2015.

 STRUT officials will accept articles that appeared on printed or online edition of campus publications between October 1, 2014 and March 5, 2015.

 An initiative of LTO Regional Office No. 5 through its Regional Director Atty. Noreen San Luis-Lutey, the campaign envisions to promote amongst the young road users some relevant information regarding but not limited to the use of seatbelt, use of standard motorcycle helmet, the drive against “colorum” vehicles, and drive against drunk-driving.

 San Andres Vocational School in the island province of Catanduanes was the first school visited by the STRUT team with 1,000 participants.  The last school visited before the year ended was Oas Community College in Albay with 650 attendees.

Interested participants can still join the LTO’s campaign by first liking their Facebook page, Instagram and the Twitter Account of BIGGS, Incorporated as their corporate partner in this endeavor.

Qualified entries will receive a message from the STRUT officials through Facebook and will be asked for some details regarding their entry.  The contest is available in five categories: Solo- the individual selfie, Duo- a selfie involving two individuals, Group- a selfie shot involving five or more individuals, Epic- the Ultimate Selfie involving at least 50 individuals and the Special Non-Student Category.

 The onset of 2015 will give the LTO Regional Office time to prepare for the resumption of their school campus road safety caravan in the remaining schools in the region.

Aside from the STRUT campaign, LTO Regional Office also highlighted its performance when it comes to revenue collection coming from law enforcement operations. LTO is happy to note that they had a 19.80 percent increase in revenue collection from Php 12,947,145.45  last 2013 to Php15,510,755.73 this 2014.  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861420447175/lto-s-strut-campaign-continues-to-promote-road-safety-among-the-youth#sthash.Bz8273JT.dpuf