Catanduanes governor conferred AFP award

BY EDNA A. BAGADIONG

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 28, (PIA)—As a testament to the strong partnership between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the provincial government of this island, Governor Araceli Wong recently received the award the armed forces can give to its civilian allies who have rendered extraordinary support to its “Bayanihan Program.”

In ceremonies marking the 28th Foundation Anniversary of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command, the AFP conferred on Wong the AFP Bayanihan Award.

The award was presented at Camp Guillermo in Lucena City last Feb. 6.

In a message encrypted in the trophy, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said that the official was among the civilian partners of AFP who uplifted and supported the spirit and vision of AFP.

In presenting the award, the AFP cited Wong’s implementation of low cost but high-impact projects in Catanduanes.

Such projects, the AFP said, directly address poverty, unemployment and injustice, thus, they were “a great help to end insurgency problems in the province.”

Also cited were her advocacies for protection and rehabilitation of the environment, youth development, empowerment of indigenous people and her efforts to improve response capabilities of the province during disasters.

On the other hand, Wong expressed her gratitude to AFP, saying the Bayanihan Award is one of the most important and significant recognitions that she received during her term as governor of the province. (EAB/ PIA Catanduanes)

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TourismO Ateneo spearheads another leg of tourism and economic Forum

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 27 (PIA) --- With the provinces of Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte   tourist spots’ rising popularity as great get-away destinations, their dominions are likely to get more share of traveler’s arrival in the upcoming years, especially with the realization of an envisioned upgraded airport.

This was the essence of the Airport Forum spearheaded by TourismO Ateneo, the student body of Tourism majors of the Ateneo De Naga University under the Department of Allied Business Courses of the College of Business and ACCOUNTANCY, together with Tourismo Para sa Cam Sur Movement spearheaded by its President, Gabriel Fortunato V. Eufracio.

In his discourse, Eufracio highlighted the need for an upgraded airport, putting prominence on the priorities of tourists whenever they pick a place or a destination to visit.

“An upgraded airport will attract more tourists under their accessibility option.  A great number of tourists would translate to greater economic and tourism growth to the Camarines provinces and will bring in massive livelihood opportunities to the locale.”  

Anchored on the key message of economic development, the forum also endeavors to highlight the need for a safe and comfortable flight to every traveler. It also aims to engage more and more active stakeholders to strongly support programs and initiatives that would push for the realization of upgraded airport facilities.

Kristine Lizardo, ADENU Tourism Class Adviser underscored the need for an aggressive advocacy effort to raise the awareness of the community on the importance of a value-added and modern airport.  Lizardo believes that the much- coveted improvement will be realized by strengthening the LGUs initiative and by embarking on a tripartite partnership among the public and private sector and the academe.

“This is also in accordance with the objective of the University to be outcome-based in its teaching methodology – today is the application and the practice of this outcome-based practice. This was prepared by the students. The airport is a big project, not only it will affect the tourism and business but it’s also a big infrastructure project that needs to address the issues,” Lizardo added.



On the information leaflet distributed during the forum, few facts about the current situation of the airport were cited.  First, the Naga Airport has only a 1.4m runway, short of the minimum requirement of a 2.1km stretch.  Second, in this current condition, the said airport can only accommodate smaller turbo-propeller planes.  The present airport is still considered as a “visual” runway since it doesn’t have an instrument-based landing procedure.  For this reason, the airport is not capable of handling early morning, late afternoon and night flights.



Lastly, the fact also remains that airfares to Naga City are considerably more expensive than other cities, which according to the organizers is severely constricting to the local economy.



Naga City Planning Development Officer Wilfredo Prilles, Jr shared that the city is approaching the planning process multi-sectorally, in order that everyone in the province will benefit.  He said that after the Holy Week, they will consult with around 17 sub-sectors and look at the issues which the process needs to bridge.



Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) Air Transport Planning Division Chief Engineer Raphael S. Lavidez also said that DOTC have also considered the Naga Airport development as a main key project to support the growing economy of Naga City and Camarines Sur in terms of TRADE and tourism industry.



“With respect to the Naga Airport, the DOTC has decided to conduct this full study recognizing the potential and historical growth being REGISTERED in terms of passenger movement.  We have also been working with our counterpart department in terms of tourism and this Region is part of the national tourism development program that needs to be marketed and be provided with the infrastructure to serve the demand of tourism as well as trade in the Region.”



DOTC is an organization mandated by law to pursue the development of the country’s national transportation system.  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)


- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861425031439/tourismo-ateneo-spearheads-another-leg-of-tourism-and-economic-forum#sthash.u7tsPPXr.dpuf

Chinese tourists coming in droves to Legazpi

BY SALLY A. ATENTO

 LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 27 (PIA) –This “city of fun and adventure” welcomed 60 tourists from China, the first wave of Chinese choosing Legazpi as their holiday destination.

The beaming tourists from the prosperous Guangdong Province in China were warmly greeted by City Mayor Noel E. Rosal at the Legazpi Airport last Friday.

The other prominent members of Rosal’s welcoming party included Regional Director Maria Ong-Ravanilla of the Department of Tourism and businessman Elizaldy Co, owner of the posh Misibis Bay Resort in the nearby Cagraray Island.

Rosal said the 60 were just the first of a series of mass arrivals of tourists from China this year that were arranged by the city government and Misibis Bay management.

The Chinese visitors love to see the picture perfect that is Mayon Volcano, the beauty of Lignon Hill View Deck and the relaxing ambiance of the city’s boulevard, he said.

Their preferred resorts include the world-class Misibis Bay Resort, which is famous for its luxurios recreation facilities, lush sceneries in its environs and the strategic view of the majestic Mayon Volcano.

The mayor said the number of Chinese tourists in Legazpi reached 1,000 during last year’s Ibalong Festival.

Direct flights from Xiamen City in Fujan Province in China to Legazpi during the festival period made their travel virtually hassle-free.

According to Visa Global Travel Intentions Study 2013, a Chinese tourist spends an average of $3,824 (roughly P165,000) per trip.

A Boston-based consulting company estimates that on average, there will be 25 million first-time Chinese international tourists every year for the next 10 years.

A total of 579,470 foreign and domestic tourists arrived in Legazpi last year with local government on track to reach its target of 700,000 arrivals this year, the city’s tourism office said.

The record arrivals in 2014 landed the city in the No. 14 spot in the DOT’s best tourist destinations in the country.

This year, Legazpi aims to make it to the coveted list of DOT’s top 10 best holiday destinations in the country.

Rosal said his administration has stepped up in selling Legazpi to key sources of tourist arrivals.

The conventions, seminars and other similar corporate gatherings that the city has hosted would greatly help in achieving its target of visitor arrivals, he said.

Twenty three conventions, including the APEC workshop on rebuilding resilient infrastructure in July and the APEC senior disaster management officials forum in September, have been booked in Legazpi so far, he added.

“This number of big gatherings is expected to increase until the yearend because we are always encouraging and inviting various giant organizations from Metro Manila and other parts of the country to hold their occasions in Legazpi, he said. .(SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571424852914/chinese-tourists-coming-in-droves-to-legazpi#sthash.5EqyK2bJ.dpuf

Sorsogon’s Forum on Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy yields positive result

By: Bennie A. Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, February 27 (PIA) --- The challenge to actively enjoin and embolden everyone to join the government’s campaign in combatting the ill effects of Climate Change is now starting to reap positive result.

This was bolstered by the challenge made by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) during the one-day Stakeholder’s Forum on Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy (People’s Day) held February 17, here.

Twenty-seven (27) multi-sectoral representatives composed of the local chief executives, environment and natural resources officers, local leaders, church, youth, academe, media, agri-fishery workers, transport, business, and other sectors of the society took an active participation during the said forum.

Imam Alibasa M. Labuan of the Muslim Mosque in Sorsogon City, as an offshoot of the said forum, immediately issued an announcement to the “Kapatiran” dwelling within the city’s Muslim community to take an active part in the solid waste MANAGEMENT program.

In a text message to PIA-Sorsogon Provincial Office, Labuan said they were grateful for the opportunity given to them by DENR and PIA and of the learning they got from the said forum.

“Aside from the letter which we will distribute to every member of the community, we will also hold a meeting to explain to them carefully how they can become an active partner in the advocacy on climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Meanwhile, officers and the adviser of the Youth Debaters Union of Sorsogon City started conceptualizing an Inter-School Debater’s Congress highlighting environmental awareness including change in behavior in their proposition. “We are thinking of holding the Inter-school Debater’s Congress this March in partnership with PIA,” said Mr. Honesto Troi Borromeo III, Chairman, Sorsogon City Debate Union.

The forum aims to strengthen public awareness regarding climate change concerns including the government’s environmental agenda, popularize and strengthen adaptation and mitigation measures in response to climate change, inspire and motivate active cooperation and participation, facilitate partnerships with and mobilize action from public and private communities.

Topics discussed include Lands Administration and MANAGEMENT for Economic Development and how to guarantee land tenure to the local populace discussed by DENR V Asst. Regional Director Al Arolfo; Bio-Diversity Protection through Empowered Citizenry for the Sustainable Use and Enjoyment of Present and Future Generations by Wildlife Section Chief Myrna G. Baylon; National Greening Program (NGP) and other Related Environmental Laws by Forester Marlene Francia of NGP Office; and Solid Waste Management by Ms. Eden Calleja of the Environmental Management Bureau.

Resilient Species vis-à-vis Development of Protocols to Perfect Local Technologies re Shift from the Use of Exotic Species to Indigenous or Native Species was also discussed by Forester Alicia Bernadas, Chief of Ecosystem Research and Development Services; and Sustainable Mineral Resources Development for Economic Growth and Countryside Development by Engineer Astor A. Rejuso of Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau. Discussants were all from the DENR Regional Office V.

The occasion was also graced by DENR V Regional Director Engr. Gilbert C. Gonzales and PIA Regional Office V Officer-In-Charge Aida Alcazar-Naz who underscored in their messages behavioral change as a significant and effective strategy in addressing the issue on climate change. (LSM, BARecebido, PIA-5/Sorsogon)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/801424972587/sorsogon-s-forum-on-climate-change-adaptation-advocacy-yields-positive-result#sthash.No80kuMW.dpuf

DOH: Catanduanes is disease-free

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 26, (PIA)- This island province is disease-free, the Department of Health (DOH) said last week.

The DOH conferred the Disease-Free Zone Award on Catanduanes to recognize its efforts in eliminating filariasis and also to challenge the province to maintain the status.

The award was personally received by Governor Araceli Wong and Provincial Health Officer Hazel Palmes in ceremonies last Feb. 20 at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia.

According to Palmes, filariasis had been previously eliminated in Catanduanes.

To maintain that status, Palmes said the Provincial Health Office remains on alert for possible recurrence of the disease.

Filariasis, a parasitic infection that leads to a disfiguring disease called elephantiasis, was endemic in Catanduanes.

To wipe out the disease, a mass drug administration campaign was launched in the province in 2006.

Palmes also disclosed that with the significant drop in the cases of rabies in the island, Catanduanes will likely be declared as “rabies-free zone” this year or next year.

Wong lauded the health workers for their efforts that culminated in the province’s admirable status.

DOH launched the Disease-Free Zone initiatives in 2007. (EAB/ PIA Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841424961569/doh-catanduanes-is-disease-free-#sthash.xwcBHbwt.dpuf

Phil Air Force holds recruitment of new soldier, officer in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 25 (PIA) – Bicolanos aspiring to be a soldier or officer of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) finally has the chance to make their dream come true as the PAF sets the examination for candidate soldiers and officers in the region on March 7, 2015 at the Bicol University College of Engineering in this city.

PAF Civil Military Operation Officer 1Lt Richard Michale Dilag said the PAF is currently conducting a recruitment campaign in the region through the Tactical Operations Group 5 in connection with the PAF candidate soldier and officer examinations.

 Interested male or female applicants must be natural born citizen of the republic of the Philippines, single, never been married and has no legal obligation to support a child or children, with a height of at least 152.4 (5’0”) physically and mentally fit for training and with good moral character.

 Aspiring PAF officer candidates should be a baccalaureate degree holder and 21-29 years of age upon admission while candidate soldiers should have at least 72 college units and 18-23 years old at the time of enlistment.

During the exam, applicants must bring fully accomplished application form, photocopy of transcript of records and birth certificate and two pieces 2x2 picture with white background.

Applicants are advised to bring the original copies of the said requirements for further verification.

They are required to be in white t-shirt, maong pants and rubber shoes.

Dilag likewise advised all applicants to bring one black and blue ballpen and pencil with eraser and to be at the examination area before 7:00 AM.

While on training, candidate soldiers receive P14, 295 as allowance and P20,494 after graduation. He will be designated as airman.

Officer candidate on the other hand receives P30, 455 as allowance while on training as P2LT and P35, 785 as 2Lt.

For more inquiries, personally visit TOG 5 Office at Bogtong Legazpi City, near Ligñon Hill or call 09175307102/09985381124 or inquire through their Facebook account at togfivelegazpi or the official PAF website at www.paf.mil.ph. (MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571424763236/phil-air-force-holds-recruitment-of-new-soldier-officer-in-bicol#sthash.pTHBn67m.dpuf

Women’s club undergoes reorganization ahead of Women’s Month

BY ROSALITA B. MANLANGIT

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 25 (PIA) – To mark the upcoming women’s month with the formation of a more united front to achieve equality and development, the Municipal Council of Women of Daet (MCWD) underwent reorganization last week.

The event allowed the council members to elect a new set of officers.

Lawyer Lourdes Clarissa Donatilla Cu of the Junior Chamber International is the new president, Malyn Naing of Soroptomist is the vice president, while SPO1 Rosalinda Tenso of Philippine National Police is the secretary.

Maria Andrea Apuya of Rural Health Unit will serve as the treasurer while Rosalita Manlangit of the Philippine Information Agency takes the role of public information officer.

The outgoing president, Myrna Deligero of CNTV, will serve as the ex-officio member.

With the reorganization, the MCWD was expected to be more active as partner of the municipal government in policy-making to achieve gender equality and development in Daet.

The MCWD adopted the various activities lined up by the municipal government in observance of the women’s month in March.

Rosa Mia L. King, chair of the committee on women and children in the municipal council of Daet, said the proposed activities include bloodletting drive where some women will shed blood for the Red Cross, screening of the outstanding women of Daet and the consequent awarding rites to honor 10 of them, women’s congress, livelihood trainings for workers in entertainment pubs and hanging of streamers.

Women’s Month is a longer version of International Women's Day, a holiday commemorated world wide to honor working women and women’s struggle everywhere.

According to the World Economic Forum, the Philippines ranks 5 out of 136 countries with the narrowest gender gap or the least gender disparity. (RBM-PIA5/Camarines Norte)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871424677281/women-s-club-undergoes-reorganization-ahead-of-women-s-month#sthash.XdVVBsPG.dpuf

Red Cross lauds police exec for his ‘Dugo Mo, Regalo Mo’

BY EDNA A. BAGADIONG

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 24, (PIA)- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) here has commended the top policeman in this island-province for supporting the agency’s blood donation campaign in the island.

Just recently, PNP Provincial Director Adelio Benjamin Castillo marked his birthday last Feb. 14 with a bloodletting drive that collected a total of 28 bags of blood.

Instead of arranging candles, wine and scrumptious food in tables, Castillo set up blood donation center at the multi-purpose hall of the PNP provincial headquarters in cooperation  with the PRC, the mlitary and the Bureau of Fire Protection .

Billed as “Dugo Mo, Regalo Mo,” the bloodletting drew volunteers from the Philippine Army’s 83rd Infantry Battalion, Virac Fire Station, Catanduanes Police Provincial office, the Police Public Safety Company and the 11 municipal police stations. Twelve policemen, six soldiers, and two firemen shed blood.

Instead of gifting the celebrant with cash or precious items, guests were requested to donate blood or cash to defray the blood processing fee of P1,500 per bag.

As of this writing, cash donations totaled P23,500, according to PRC chapter here.

Red Cross chapter administrator Reymund Reginaldo described Castillo’s initiative as “remarkable,” saying “it would be very helpful to indigent patients” at the Eastern Bicol Medical Center and other local hospitals.

Castillo, who himself shed blood for the donation drive, thanked the guests for their kindness and participation in the activity. (EAB/PIA Catanduanes/CT)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841424777508/red-cross-lauds-police-exec-for-his-dugo-mo-regalo-mo-#sthash.PBVJpWnj.dpuf

LGU Naga institutionalizes Annual Conservation Week

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA) --- By virtue of Executive Order No. 2015-007, Mayor John G. Bongat formally declared the observance of the Annual Energy Conservation Week in this city come March 1 to 7 and every year thereafter.

This landmark decision is consistent with the local government unit’s desire to promote alternative energy conservation sources and encourage or mobilize the people of Naga towards better understanding of the importance of energy conservation. This will also give the stakeholders a voice in sharing other initiatives in support of this noble endeavor.

“This is part of the inclusive management of the LGU, putting higher stake in the engagement of the members of the community in the various program of the local government by being active stakeholders. We have created a multi-sectoral group that will dynamically act up on various concerns entered into by CASURECO II. This is also a way of empowering our people,” Bongat stated.

Lined up for the week’s celebration is the Advocacy Walk which will start at 4:00 in the afternoon at the Plaza Quezon.  This is slated on Monday, March 2 and will be shortly followed by a short program. Slated on Wednesday, March 4, is the Stakeholder’s forum entitled “Innovations for Consumer Empowerment in the Electric Industry amidst dwindling supply: Challenges and Prospects.” The event will be held at the Avenue PLAZA HOTEL and will start at 1pm.

Members of the newly created Barangay Power Brigade (BPB) will have an orientation- seminar on the last day of the week and will be immediately followed by the Ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, induction of BPB and the event’s culminating activity.

The Executive Order further rallies for the promotion of renewable or alternative energy sources like waste-to-energy power generation, the use of solar energy, mini-hydro and the likes. It aims to open the minds of the citizenry to a new shift in energy conservation such as turning from the conventional incandescent light bulbs to LED lights.

The annual Energy Conservation week will only be one of the many initiatives that the city will launch through the City of Naga Power Commission (CNPC).

Last year, Bongat, together with the Sangguniang Panlungsod, crafted the CNPC, making Naga as the first LGU to create the first ever Power Commission throughout the country. NCPC is mandated to assist the electric cooperatives, particularly delegated to recommend pertinent and relevant measures pursuant to the provisions of EPIRA Law.

A Technical Working Group (TWG) was created to ensure the efficient planning and implementation of activities related to the Energy Conservation week. This will be headed by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) as Chairman. The members are comprised of the CNPC-TWG Head, Naga City People’s Council, Naga City Barangay Affairs Office, Amateur Community Emergency Services, Inc., Public Safety Office, representative from CASURECO II, Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) and the Lingkod Barangay Office (LBO).  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861424678322/lgu-naga-institutionalizes-annual-conservation-week#sthash.7gx47ueb.dpuf

Army's South Luzon command cites DOLE, partners

LEGAZP CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office in Bicol was cited by the Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command as one of the latter's partners among non uniformed personnel and agencies in pursuit of peace and development in the countryside in Southern Luzon area.

 DOLE Bicol regional director Nathaniel V. Lacambra was also one of the seven civilian awardees while the 15 other awardees came from the military.

The citations were conferred to several partners of the Army command in time for the 28th Founding Anniversary celebration of the AFP SOLCOM with the theme “SOLCOM: 28 Taong Tapat na Serbisyo at Kaagapay ng Sambayanan Tungo sa Kapayapaan, Kaunlaran at Kasagaan sa Katimugang Luzon.”

The awarding ceremony was held last February 12, 2015 at the AFP SOLCOM Headquarters in Camp Guillermo Nakar, Lucena City graced by Army chief Lt. Gen. Hernando DCA Iriberri.

 “This is a very good surprise! We are not expecting this knowing that there are very few civilians who are given an award by the AFP. This is for the men and women of DOLE Bicol,” Lacambra said.

“I believe that this is the first time that DOLE Bicol has received an award from the AFP. It’s heartwarming really.” RD Lacambra added.

For the past two years, DOLE Bicol has supported the AFP and PNP in their campaign against local insurgency through various livelihood programs. amounting to more than P3 million provided to beneficiary-barangays chosen by both AFP and PNP in their Balikatan program.

“We cannot fight insurgency only by taking military action. History has proven this already. We want to help build our nation by providing the services of DOLE to hard to reach and areas that are identified as insurgency affected. It is in this way that we can show the constituents of those areas that the government is concerned for the welfare of all people. This is why we have given the AFP and the PNP a priority in our livelihood programs,” Lacambra explained.

It can be recalled that one of the beneficiaries of DOLE-AFP-PNP Bicol livelihood program, BongSean Be Foods and Stuff of Mrs. Lourdes Bas-Gados, was featured by the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) e-kwento magazine sometime last year after being successful in her chosen livelihood.

”Even without the award, we at DOLE Bicol, will still continue to support this humble undertaking with the AFP and PNP as we have already seen positive results of this program.” Lacambra said.  (MAL/RPE-DOLE5/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771424658584/army-s-south-luzon-command-cites-dole-partners#sthash.VNc3HgJf.dpuf

CSC launches Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees

By: Jam Madrid

NAGA CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) --- “Bicolanos on top, let’s make it Happen!”  This is the title of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Regional Office 5’s Forum as it aims to put the spotlight on Bicolano public servants once again.

The Honor Awards program is an undertaking of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) that recognizes government officials and employees who have displayed outstanding work performance.  The conferment of honor awards aims to motivate or inspire government employees to improve the quality of their performance and instill deeper involvement in public service.

CSC Camarines Sur Director Jocelyn L. Marifosque stated that this year they are targeting to bring in more awardees from Bicol.

“In 2014, there were 46 nominees and there was one (1) from Camarines Sur who made it to the semi-finals.  This year we hope to bring not just nominees but we are also aiming for the Award.  We at the CSC strongly believe that we can make it happen once again.  We can make the top spot again this year”, Marifosque added.

During the launching held January 30, four (4) former Dangal ng Bayan awardees from Camarines Sur were invited to serve as an inspiration : Naga City Councilor Hon. David Nathan Sergio, Naga CityAdministrator Florencio M. Mongoso, Jr. in 1999, Midwife Wenifreda V. Soto of LGU Nabua in 2008, and CSC Pagasa Awardee Teacher Lyn Z. Padillo of DepEd Naga City in 2013.  The guests shared their experiences and excellent work performances and contributions in government that led them to being nominated for the program.

  “We in the public service should be reminded that it is not about position, regardless if you are a janitor or a manager, the lesson is that you can positively contribute to the overall—the elements should be complete.  It is really about action not position.  It is not who you are, it is what you do”,  Mongoso said during the dialogue with the participants.

Sergio on the other hand said that, "there were so many challenges and difficulties, but if the mission and objective is clear and know what your deliverables are, one should stand up for what is right".

The three (3) award categories at stake this year are the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or the Dangal ng Bayan Award, and the CSC Pagasa Award.

The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is conferred to an individual or group of individuals for exceptional or extraordinary contributions that had nationwide impact.  The Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or the Dangal ng Bayan Award is conferred to an individual for performance of an extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the basis of his/her observance of the eight norms of behavior or the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees”.  The CSC Pagasa Award is given to an individual or group of individuals for outstanding contributions resulting from an idea or performance that directly benefit more than one department of the government.

Marifosque encourages fellow state workers to join the Search.  “We are asking for your nomination for these people to be officially be part of the search. Now is the time for the Bicolano servants to be recognized and serve as an inspiration to all and to the Filipinos because the 2015 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees is now open”, she said in closing.

Deadline for submission of nominations for all award categories can be sent to any CSC Provincial/Field or Regional Office on or before March 31, 2015. (LSMacatangay, JMadrid, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861424402054/csc-launches-search-for-outstanding-public-officials-and-employees#sthash.3J5gIL3L.dpuf

GSIS Conducts Re-orientation Meeting With AAOs, Finance Officers, ERF Handlers

By:  Rolia B. Lotivio

LEGAZPI CITY, February 19 (PIA) – The Electronic Billing and Collection System (eBCS) was re-introduced by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) during a re-orientation/meeting with Agency Authorized Officers (AAOs) and FINANCE Officers/ Electronic Remittance File (ERF) Handlers last February 12, 2015 at the Albay Astrodome.

Membership MANAGER Armena N. Salvanera of GSIS Luzon Operations Office welcomed 298 participants from the different government agencies within the Province of Albay.

The eBCS is a web-based system that enables remitting agencies to download electronic billing file (EBF) and facilitate upload of electronic remittance file (ERF) monthly.  Upon upload of the ERF, the file will be validated for errors.  Remitting agencies are required to download the Summary of Totals (SOT) prior to remittance payment either through bank, online payment, or through GSIS over-the-counter.  Upon payment, the remittances are automatically posted on each member's ACCOUNT.

Other updates and reminders were also discussed during the meeting.

Salvanera reiterated the roles and responsibilities of AAOs, FINANCE Officers and ERF Handlers as stressed out on the commitment forms submitted by agencies.

AAOs are officers designated by agencies through the AAO Electronic Online System form.  There are two AAOs per agency, one primary and one alternate.  They are authorized to provide data to the GSIS membership coordinators.  Primary AAOs are authorized to confirm loan applications of members.  Hence, AAOs must ensure that the net take home pay of loan applicants is above P3,000 as required by law.  Alternate AAOs are authorized to confirm loan applications in the absence of Primary AAOs only.

Salvanera also announced that Primary AAOs and ERF Handlers are automatically covered with personal accident insurance of up to P500,000, medical reimbursement of P50,000 and death benefit of  P10,000.

AAOs and ERF Handlers were also reminded that it is important to update members data using ARA forms A-E to ensure fast and accurate processing of benefits.

Meantime, GSIS Legazpi Branch Manager Joel R. Defeo reminded the AAOs and FINANCE Officer/ERF Handlers of the impending resumption of loan payments covered by the six-month loan moratorium on March 2015.

The Province of Albay was covered by the moratorium implemented by GSIS for members affected by Typhoon Glenda.  The moratorium which runs from September 2014 until February 2015 enabled the affected members to use the deferred loan payments for house repairs and other urgent needs.   (AAN/RBLotivio-PIA 5)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/761424852531/gsis-conducts-re-orientation-meeting-with-aaos-finance-officers-erf-handlers#sthash.5UTqWDZW.dpuf

DSWD Bicol holds budget consultation meeting with CSOs

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 18 (PIA) – Fifteen civil society organizations (CSO’s) all over the Bicol region participated in the Regional Consultation on Agency Budget Preparation conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) last week at the Fiesta Ballroom here.

DSWD Bicol regional director Arnel Garcia said the activity pursued government’s commitments to integrate citizen’s participation in the budget process as a means of enhancing transparency and accountability in the allocation of public funds.

It likewise aims to establish formal agreement with prospective civil society organizations and other stakeholders in the preparation and submission of the annual budget proposal.

About 24 CSOs in the region are currently in close partnership with the DSWD in the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program along with 12 licensed and registered Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWADAS).

Garcia furthered that the involvement of CSOs in the implementation of social protection program is in response to the directive of President Benigno Aquino III to step up public – private partnership in fulfilling his platform of good governance and poverty reduction.(MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay/DSWD5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571424240861/dswd-bicol-holds-budget-consultation-meeting-with-csos#sthash.xuZLBaOC.dpuf

Legazpi City road repairs to boost citywide development

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 18 (PIA) -- Widening and rehabilitation of all bridges in the main roads of this city will sustain citywide development and bring the city in the path of progress.

Legazpi City Mayor Noel E. Rosal stressed in his message during the inauguration of the widened Sagumayon road bridge Friday last week that such programs are part of boosting the infrastructure development agenda of his administration, which intends to facilitate the transport of goods and service to sustain the ongoing developments in the city.

The former two-lane Sagumayon Bridge, now widened to a four-lane road, is located along J.P Rizal Street beside the regional office of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

With the widened road bridge, transfer of goods and services to and from the province of Albay is seen to be made faster and easier and transportation be more comfortable to the riding public.

“The improvement of the structure of this bridge will serve as an open gate to facilitate the transport of goods and services to and from the third district of the Province of Albay,” Rosal said.

He said the bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the city and that its rehabilitation is very timely, considering the fact that it has suffered already heavy damages during typhoons that brought heavy flows of flood water.

He noted that the rehabilitation project is another welcome addition to the many land marks established by the city administration that will bring a multiplier effects to the Legazpeños and the community.

“This will serve as an instrument of uniting the people and open a new horizon for progress, peace, education, business and employment,” the city chief stressed.

Legazpi City, added Rosal, is the home of national government offices as well as the center of transportation, education and commercial establishments making the city the busiest place in the province of Albay.

The expanded bridge is also expected to decongest the vehicular traffic situation and ensure efficient and comfortable flow of traffic for the riding public.

The four lane road has a total length of 24 meters, width of 11.72 meters and 80-meter approach.

The national government, through the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2014, allotted P19 million for the bridge widening with Congressmen Francis Bichara adding P5 million for the project.

 The project started on March 24, 2014 and was completed on December 15 of that same year under the supervision of the Albay 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO).

Aside from the Sagumayon road bridge, the Albay 2nd DEO also has an ongoing rehabilitation of the existing two-lane Yawa Bridge, which will be expanded into four lanes to ease traffic along the area.

The bridge, located near the Aquinas University of Legazpi and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office in barangay Rawis where the national and regional offices are located, connects Legazpi City to the third district of Albay.

The project has a total funding of P140 million included in the General Appropriations Act of 2014 with initial amount of P50 million already released by the national government to the DPWH Bicol regional office.

The widened Yawa Bridge will have a total length of 140 meters and width of 14.4 meters, with a 16.4-meter approach. (MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571424159639/legazpi-city-road-repairs-to-boost-citywide-development#sthash.cvkyEkFi.dpuf

Legazpi City mulls incentives to attract tourism, investments

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) -- Members of the Vision Aligned Circle (VAC 7) have drafted the proposed Legazpi City Tourism Investment Incentive Ordinance aimed at sustaining the robust tourist arrivals and improve investors’ confidence in this city.

VAC7 chairperson Asuncion Calleja, also coordinator of the city government's Business Permits and Licenses Division, said the proposed ordinance was forwarded to Mayor Noel Rosal for final review and suggestions.

The same, according to Calleja, was also earlier submitted to Councilor Alan Ranola, chair of the Committee on Trade, Industry and Investment, and Councilor Chito Baldo, chair of the Committee on Tourism to subject the provisions for committee hearing and fine-tuning.

The proposed legislation, she said, intend to help improve the city’s revenue collection and sustain its economic growth.

"It can also help generate more jobs for the city’s constituents, increase the value of local products, promote a sustainable tourism industry, much as strengthen the private-public partnership scheme between the Legazpi City administration and the private sector," she added.

Based on the draft ordinance, all newly registered enterprises will be exempted from business taxes for a period of two years while their owners will also be exempted from basic realty taxes on property improvements, buildings and machineries.

Calleja said the Business Permits and Licensing Division will also give assistance in identifying business locations and in securing local permits and licenses for investors who want to engage in business in this city.

“But if the investors will violate the provision of the proposed ordinance, it shall be a ground for cancellation or revocation of the business registration and the withdrawal of all incentives given to the business,” she stressed.  (MAL/EPS-CGLegazpi/PIA5/Albay)

Other News
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771424155144/legazpi-city-mulls-incentives-to-attract-tourism-investments#sthash.aeLuuCr9.dpuf

Pili highlights Arts Month celebration with cultural activities

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur, Feb. 17 (PIA) --- Highlighting its local culture and arts, this municipality spearheaded a festive line up of cultural events as it joins the entire country in celebrating the 24th National Arts Month celebration this month.

One of the event’s highlights is the 5th Pintakasi kan Literaturang Bikolnon  held yesterday with the theme “Taralets, Bagets, Magbasa Kita, Magsurat Kita.” At the helm of this are Bicol’s finest and award-winning writers and book authors Lorna Billanes and Carlos Arejola, Pili’s proud daughter and son respectively.

A contemporary Bikol writer, Arejola has earned for himself the 2006 Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for his work entitled “Ang Mundo ay Iisa”.  He is also the ExeCon Officer of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. He is known as a prolific writer and continues to aggressively share his passion for writing and reading.

Bicol writer, poet and cultural advocate Victor Dennis Nierva was also invited to join the team of essayists.

Arejola stated that they coined this activity as a festival to celebrate the written word.  This is corresponding to the line-up of Pintakasi event which includes the simultaneous holding of activities like book fair, poetry reading, and free creative workshops on poetry, fiction and drama.

Choose Pili Arts Month 2015 celebration being spearheaded by the local government of Pili through the headship of Mayor Alexis San Luis commenced February 6. The formal opening was marked by a motorcade christened as “Aldaw kan mga Parasurat kan Kabikolan”. Partakers paraded around the main thoroughfares of the town proper.  In full support of this endeavor is the local cultural heritage advocacy group Pili: Banwaan Ko, Padangat ko, Kintab Artists Group, Department of Education (DepEd) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

 On February 24, Kintab Pili Artists Group will spearhead the Interactive Mural Painting. This will be a collaboration of various artists’ work of art celebrating Pili’s landmarks, monuments and heritage sites. The day after is the scheduled Kintab Art Worskhop which intends to highlights the town’s heritage.

Invited to grace the day’s session are Harold Gomez of Kintab Pili Artist Group, Athletic Artist Claireyenne Malanyaon, Animation Teacher Angelo Perida, Art  Association of the Philippines’ President Fidel Sarmiento and Art Association of the Philippines Director Ral Arrogante.  Gomez will give his inputs on acrylic painting, Malanyaon on Art Talk, Perida on Basic Animation, Sarmiento on Pastel Drawing while Arrogante is set to conduct a workshop on mobiles and basic structure.

The month long cultural event will be capped by the Choose Pili Cultural Show.  This will be highlighted by a performance by the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) Center for Culture and the Arts and the encore performance by the Pili Teacher’s Ensemble and Pili Youth Performing Arts Group.

 The aforementioned activities are pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 683 declaring the month of February every year as the National Arts Month (NAM).

 The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), through Memorandum Circular No. 2015-04 explicitly states that their objective this year is to promote the local culture and the arts scene through a festive showcase at the local levels.  It aims to feature the seven art categories which include theatre, dance, music, visual arts, architecture, literature, media arts and film. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861424137227/pili-highlights-arts-month-celebration-with-cultural-activities#sthash.beu2KW2R.dpuf

DAR provides potable water facility in Guinobatan

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) --Residents in the agrarian reform community of Singungtan, Guinobatan, Albay heaved a sigh of relief after the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turned over a potable water supply systems.

The project, implemented under the Community-managed Potable Water Supply Sanitation and Hygiene (CPWASH), is a collaborative effort of DAR, Philippine Center for Water and Sanitation (PCWS) and the Local Government Unit of Guinobatan to provide safe drinking water, and promote proper hygiene especially in areas with high incidence of water-borne diseases.

In a simple turnover ceremony, one unit of rain-water collector, two units of biogas digester, and six units of iron-removal filter were formally turned over to the barangay.

DAR Bicol regional director Luis Bueno, Jr. said that prior to the potable water project of DAR, farming families in Sinungtan used to fetch water from deep wells and other sources that were suspected of being contaminated with disease carrying organisms.

 “Some sources [of water] reportedly were found to have high levels of toxins which cause acute and chronic illnesses,” said Bueno.

During the turn over, certificates of training were also awarded to five local masons who were trained in the construction of the potable water facilities.  Graduates of said training are referred to as CPWASH Para-Engineers and they are authorized to offer CPWASH construction services in their area. (MAL/PAMRS-DAR/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771424142012/dar-provides-potable-water-facility-in-guinobatan#sthash.lIQJuLJr.dpuf

Religious relics find its home at the Museo Diocesano De Libmanan

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

LIBMANAN, Camarines Sur, Feb. 17 (PIA)--- Century-old relics, artifacts and images are secured and carefully nestled at this town’s Museo Diocesano De Libmanan inside the Archdiocese’s compound here.  These were traces of history and a rich collection of vestiges that will remind Bicolanos of how they were molded by their faith hundreds of years back.

The museum opened only last year but has already collected numerous relics from its 24 parishes ranging from hundred- year old church bells, communion plates, candle holders, crucifix, prayer booklets, religious statues and sculptures, and other religious items used during prehistoric mass.

Church bells are significant parcel of mankind’s religious history. Before the advent of modern communication, small communities, especially in far-flung areas and provincial outskirts, have considered church bells as the common way to call the community together for basically all purposes.  The ringing of these bells is also a sign for worshippers to attend the mass.

The old silver tabernacle of St. James the Great Parish Church is also enshrined at the museum. The tabernacle which dates back to 16th century never tarnished despite the passage of time and still is capable of a high polish.  The said relic is made of silver, smelted from lead ore.

Also found inside the edifice is the baptismal font believed to have existed centuries ago.  Rev. Fr. Roland Soliver, Parochial Vicar of the Archdiocese of Libmanan stated that this is one of the museum’s best collections so far since it is believed that this is where the first Filipino Archbishop was baptized.

“This baptismal font is special for the people of Libmanan since this is where our first Bicolano bishop, Archbishop Santiago Caragnan Sancho, D.D who hails from Barangay San Vicente of this town, was christened. His story tells of a famous religious figure. He was appointed Bishop of Nueva Segovia in 1927. This made him the first Archbishop of Nueva Segovia in 1951.”

Libmanan Mayor Marilyn Jimenez said in an interview that these historical artifacts, like the religious items and old edifices are now the focus of their restoration effort.

“Our Tourism Council, Headed by our Executive Assistant, Ruel “Bibby” Jimenez, together with our Tourism Officer Roderick Fabor are now in the process of documenting these old structures. They are tasked to collate data of heritage sites and come up with a comprehensive proposal to be submitted to the National Center for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) for possible assistance”, Jimenez added.

Bibby, who is also the current Municipal Programs and Events Section Chief of this town is aggressively pushing for the establishment of Handiong Expedition River Cruise, a  project that will boost the town’s tourism through their historic Handiong River. This includes the development of the river banks, zipline, cable car, and a floating restaurant, among others.

The municipality of Libmanan with its vast area encompassing 75 barangays, is considered as the largest town in the province of Camarines Sur. Until now, it still serves as a mirror of a rich cultural heritage.   (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861424168207/religious-relics-find-its-home-at-the-museo-diocesano-de-libmanan#sthash.85sPVHmU.dpuf

Regional population executive board pushes for establishment of teen centers in schools, LGUs

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb.16 (PIA) – With the uptrend in the incidence of teenage pregnancies, the Regional Population Executive Board (RPEB) is seeking the support of the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in establishing teen centers in schools and local government units (LGUs) in the region.

 “A teen center will provide privacy and non-threatening environment for teenagers in distress particularly those who are having unplanned pregnancies,” Commission on Population (PopCom) Bicol regional director Magdalena Abellera told the RPEB members during their conference last week.

Trained peer counselors will man the teen centers since teenagers usually seek their peers rather than parents or persons in authority when they are in trouble, Abellera added.

 RPEB chairperson and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) V officer in charge Aida Alcazar-Naz called on partner agencies particularly the DepEd and DILG for their support to the proposal through resolutions to be submitted to the said agencies for the opening of teen centers in their areas.

DepEd program supervisor for Curriculum Learning Material Division Sheldon Olea affirmed the proposal with the forthcoming implementation of the Senior High School (SHS) program starting in school year 2016 to 2017. “Teen centers must be immediately established on whichever school is ready,” Olea said.

Abellera meanwhile revealed the minimum requirements for an ideal teen center which should have a well-ventilated one meter by one meter space for counseling, two meter by two meter space for indoor group interaction like indoor games, film showing, training, space for information, education and communication materials, electric fans, clerical tables, monoblock chairs, board games, office supplies, cleaning equipments, computer and printer, trained peer educators, licensed counselor and a regular officer who will supervise the operations of the center.

“PopCom allots funds for the establishment of teen centers with counterpart from partner agencies,” Abellera said.

Department of Health (DoH) Bicol regional director Gloria Balboa also assured funding support for the establishment of teen centers in schools and LGUs together with technical support from their agency.

“Adolescent health is one of our priorities with the rise in the number of teenage pregnancies not only in Bicol but nationwide,” Balboa said. She also committed to provide training for peer counselors and called for proposals in relation to the development of teen centers.

 “DOH will also launch teen clinics to cater to pregnant teenagers who are afraid to go to hospitals,” Balboa revealed. Addressing the issue on teenage pregnancy will have a comprehensive approach with teen centers and clinics in place, Balboa added.

 There is an urgent need to address teenage pregnancy due to its impact to health, economy and society, Abellera added. (MAL/JJP-PIA5)

"Kalinga kay Inay Project" serves 681 pregnant and lactating women in Camarines Norte

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 16 (PIA) – The Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies: “Kalinga kay Inay Project” on its second community health fair served some 681 pregnant and lactating women in Daet and Labo recently.

Three organizations, including CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), the Microcredit Summit Campaign, and Freedom from Hunger came together to help the country achieve its Millennium Development Goal (MDG) on maternal health through the “Kalinga kay Inay Project”.

This project will reach more than 600,000 women microfinance clients by the end of 2015 by leveraging the reach of the microfinance sector to deliver vital health education and services to very poor women and their families.

CARD MRI deputy director for Corporate Communications Cleofe  Montemayor- Figuracion said that beneficiaries composed of 647 pregnant women and 34 lactating women came from their microfinance clients and partner microfinance institutions as well as non-client members in said towns.

Nine OB-Gyns, one pediatrician, nine nurse deployment project volunteers as well as nurses from CARD MRI and twelve barangay health workers provided their free services to the beneficiaries.

She said that Khristine Mae Olaguera, administrative officer of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation(PhilHealth) of Daet also participated in the two-day health fair by providing an orientation, updating clients account and giving non-member clients an opportunity to register especially pregnant women.

On the other hand the TULAY sa Pag-unlad, Inc. (TSPI), one of the partner microfinance institutions also joined the community health fair.

A non-member client, Charlyn Sacatento said that she enjoyed the program in their area, which was made especially for pregnant women like her. She hopes that the program will continue. She also said that she is planning to join a microfinance institution.

Earlier to this during the press conference, Antonio Tejada, CARD Microfinance and Health Protection Unit Manager that the project was launched on October 17 last year in San Pablo City, Laguna and had its two day kick off community health fair in Palawan for 236 pregnant women and 908 lactating women. They will be conducting the same activity in Samar and Mindanao he said.

Tejada said that the project is a public private partnership in the locality where the national agencies and the local government units concerned collaborates for the program.

Dra. Grethel Vasquez, OB Gyne said that majority of deaths of pregnant women is hypertension and it is proper for the mothers to know their condition in order to monitor their blood pressure at the rural health units in their area to avoid maternal problem.

Cassie Chandler, manager for microfinance and health protection, Freedom From Hunger on the other hand said they are working together to reach MDG targets on maternal health care through health education and community outreach program. “If everyone works together there will have a positive impact”, he said.

The CARD MRI is a group of mutually reinforcing institutions with a common goal of alleviating poverty in the Philippines and improving the quality of lives of the socially-and-economically challenged women and families towards nation building.

Based in San Pablo City in Laguna in the Philippines, with 1,554 offices located all over the country and with liaison offices in Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Laos, and Myanmar, CARD MRI has 2.75 million members and clients as of November 2014 throughout the country, continuously providing them holistic and integrated financial and social services that help uplift their lives and eventually transform them into responsible citizens for their community and their environment. (MAL/RBM-PIA5/CamNorte)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871424050528/-kalinga-kay-inay-project-serves-681-pregnant-and-lactating-women-in-camarines-norte#sthash.KJUW8yvs.dpuf

DENR, PIA Sorsogon to hold forum on Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy

SORSOGON CITY, Feb 16 (PIA) – To strengthen partnership and mobilize action from the various stakeholder’s of the local community, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Sorsogon will hold a one-day Stakeholders' Forum on Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy (People’s Day) on February 17, 2015 at the Villa Isabel, this city.

Around 100 participants composed of the local chief executives, environment and natural resources officers, local leaders, church, youth, academe, media, agri-fishery workers, transport, business, and representative of other sectors of the society are expected to participate.

The forum aims to strengthen public awareness to climate change concerns and to government’s environmental agenda, popularize and strengthen adaptation and mitigation measures in response to climate change, inspire and motivate active cooperation and participation (prescribed behaviors and efforts), and facilitate partnerships with public and private communities.

Likewise, the DENR in its bid to bring its agency closer to the people, technical personnel from the Land Management Section, Forest Management Section, Protected Area and Wildlife Section, Environmental Management Section, Mines Section, and National Greening Program will be around to assist the people in their queries and the services they would want to avail during the day.

Various topics will be discussed by the heads of the various divisions of the DENR Regional Office V such Lands Administration and Management for Economic Development and to guarantee land tenure to the local populace; Bio-Diversity Protection through Empowered Citizenry for the Sustainable Use and Enjoyment of Present and Future Generations; National Greening Program and other Related Environmental Laws; Solid Waste Management; and Resilient Species vis-à-vis Development of Protocols to Perfect Local Technologies re Shift from the Use of Exotic Species to Indigenous or Native Species Sustainable Mineral Resources Development for Economic Growth and Countryside Development.

PIA Director General, Jose Mari Oquinena is expected to grace the stakehoders' forum.

It can be recalled that the DENR and PIA officially launched last year a campaign in Climate Change Adaptation Advocacy under the theme: “Nagbabago na ang Panahon. Panahon na para Magbago”. (MAL/BAR-PIA5/Sorsogon)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/801424046989/denr-pia-sorsogon-to-hold-forum-on-climate-change-adaptation-advocacy#sthash.BKoXIF61.dpuf

“TATAK TESDA” Video Making Contest Winners prep up for national competition

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur, Feb.13 (PIA) ---  Out of its sheer desire to get rid of the stigma attached to the technical-vocational courses as “second rate” choices, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Camarines Sur Provincial Office launched this morning the “TATAK TESDA Video Making Contest Year2”,  formally opening it with the announcement of Provincial winners who will compete for the national championship.

 TESDA-Camarines Sur Provincial Director Ruth E. Dayawen said the said endeavor also wishes to share the success stories of tech-voc graduates who made their own marks after passing the competencies and are now living a successful life out of their chosen career paths.

 “We want to showcase the lives of successful tech-voc graduates to encourage other members of the community to look at these courses with pride.  We are also challenging the tech-voc schools to help us in this endeavor by assisting the students in terms of their employability. They can do referrals to help their students land a job after graduation,” Dayawen stated.

The “TATAK TESDA Video Making Contest Year2” has two (2) categories, the school and the individual entries.

Jurors have to look at the story line or on how tech-voc has changed the person’s life and the impact of his success to his own community.  The entry should also exemplify what a TATAK TESDA is- meaning, a highly skilled worker who has pride in the dignity of his work and as an effective role model.

Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS)-Ragay won the School Category through the entry of Alvin Calinao, a graduate of HOTEL AND Restaurant Management (HRM) in 2011 and is now making waves as head of a prestigious La Crème company in Doha, Qatar.

Calinao’s life as depicted in the video entry showed his persistence to achieve a good life by mastering his craft.  He was able to grab competencies in Housekeeping, Tour-guiding, travel services, bread and pastry production, commercial cooking, Food and Beverage Services, bartending and Front Office Services and used all of them to slowly rise from being an employee to being head of the company where he works now.

Calinao now enjoys being the company’s Cake decorator, head baker and supervisor all at the same time.  His story is one that tells of a tale of perseverance, commitment and dedication – all great values that are worth emulating.

Under the individual category, declared winners were 1st and 2nd placers Jomar Dela Pena Sabeniano and Jerome Asa Olayres, both graduates of Global IT.  Third placer Rouel Vargas Abad finished his Automotive Servicing (Auto Technology) in 2008 and is currently working in Perth, Western Australia as fitter mechanic under the Caterpillar Company. He shares that his family is now enjoying a good life out of his big earnings abroad.

Sabeniano and Olayres are both working in the country. Sabeniano is enjoying his perks as Instructor at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) and as technical support employee in the municipality of Pili while Olayres serves as a Computer Technician at Global IT in Iriga City.

Their lives emulate a successful journey from a seemingly hopeless condition to a meaningful future. The winners are now preparing for a tough competition ahead and hope that their stories will inspire a lot of souls to venture on the same paths that they have taken and create their own success stories. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)


- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861423820676/-tatak-tesda-video-making-contest-winners-prep-up-for-national-competition#sthash.STiwQhzt.dpuf

25th Hawaii Trade Mission to the Philippines visits Daet and Labo

By: Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 13 (PIA) – The towns of Daet and Labo were visited by the 25th Hawaii Trade Mission of the Filipino Chamber of Hawaii (FCCH) yesterday. The visit was headed by Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui of the State of Hawaii along with Honolulu Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin.

The mission was an offshoot of the visit of Daet Mayor Tito Sarte Sarion in Honolulu Hawaii last year.  Sarion believes that the visit will eventually bring better economic opportunities for the said municipalities.

In appreciation of Tsutsui’s visit, a resolution was made adopting him as honorary son of Daet. Resolution No. 07-2015 was read and turned over to him during a simple ceremony here. It was passed by the Sanguniang Bayan prior to the official’s visit which stated that Daet will promote Hawaii in the Philippines as an investment and the municipality as a tourist destination.  Sarion believes that it will encourage trade and economic activities across the Pacific Region.

The resolution also put emphasis on Tsutsui’s desire to establish long relationship with the Philippines, particularly the municipality of Daet to strengthen business opportunities with Hawaii.

Tsutsui said that he is speechless for the warm welcome of Daeteños and looks forward to a wonderful relationship with them for the upcoming years.

He said that relationship is more than business opportunities but it’s all about what’s inside in each one of us or what they call “Aloha” spirit which is to share and help one another.

“This relationship will our foundation as we move forward. I will invite Mayor Bernard Carvallo Jr. of the County of Kauai of State of Hawaii to go to Daet for the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the establishment of a sisterhood relationship for both the country”, he added.

Tsuitsui stated that with him in this endeavor is the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, a number of Filipino-Americans who are very successful in Hawaii who have joined the trade mission to look for an opportunity like renewable energy, resources, import and export of products and similar prospects.

Sarion on the other hand said that he was very happy that the town was part of their trade mission to the country.

 “I am proud and honored to adopt Lt. Governor Tsutsui as honorary son of the Daet”. This MOA for sisterhood was initially tackled in Manila and the formal signing will be made soon, Sarion cited.

After the visit here, a tour followed where the group went to the town of Labo. Town Mayor Joseph Ascutia hosted a luncheon meeting cum forum on tourism and investment promotion. Ascutia also showed to the team the cacao and coconut farm in Barangay Masalong, pineapple decorticating plant and queen pineapple production of Labo Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Barangay Malasugui,  Paradiso Verde Organic Farm and Resort,  and the Cadig Cave and Malatap Falls.

FCCH President Paul Gaerlan Alimbuyao, Vice President and Manager of First Hawaiian Bank said that this year’s mission theme is “Strengthening business links with the Philippines.”

More than 34 business executives were here in the country from February 7 until 17 for the 25th Trade Mission of the FCCH. Along with Daet and Labo in Camarines Norte, FCCH also visited Manila for the business conference with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and to follow Cebu and Palawan. (LSM, RBM-PIA5/Camarines Norte)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871423807362/25th-hawaii-trade-mission-to-the-philippines-visits-daet-and-labo#sthash.iOZCZoSs.dpuf

DAR raises the value of Albay fresh milk

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is pushing the dairy farmers in Albay to raise the quality of fresh milk to international standard, saying that producing better products means generating greater income.

Senior Agrarian Reform Program Officer (SARPO) Celso L. Olitin said the DAR picked the dairy farmers of the Albay Dairy Cooperative (ADC) to develop its fresh milk products under the Up-Valuing of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) Product Project of the department.

Oletin said the project is in coordination with the National Dairy Authority (NDA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Provincial Government of Albay (PGA).

“These three agencies offered to provide the necessary trainings and knowledge transfer to address ADC’s needs on the production, processing, and marketing of their fresh milk products,” Olitin said.  He added that the project would undergo product development through product label design and branding.

“Most members of ADC are engaged in dairy farming. With the increasing demand of milk products here, this project will help our farmers improve their products and increase their income,” sail Olitin.

At the project orientation held recently, Emmeline De la Cruz of NDA stressed that the keys to the success of value-adding are careful business planning, adherence to legal and technical regulations to be able to market high quality reasonably priced products.

“Availability of the product in convenient locations that are accessible to consumers and delivery of products to consumers to meet the demand will help ADC sustain its business enterprise,” De la Cruz said.

Salvador C. Garchitorena, NDA regional coordinator for Bicol, stressed the importance of good hygienic practices in the production of clean and quality fresh milk.

“Clean milk should be low in bacterial count, has a pleasant creamy smell and color, has no obnoxious odor, no dirt extraneous matter, and no residues of antibiotics and pesticides,” Garchitorena explained to the coop members during the project orientation.  (MAL/DAR-PAMRS/PIA5)

TESDA Bicol readies instructors for K to 12 senior high school implementation

LEGAZPI CITY, February 12 (PIA) – With the forthcoming implementation of the Senior High School (SHS) program by 2016, the top official of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) regional office here assured that close coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) Bicol regional office is underway to comply with the requirements under the K to 12 program.

“Around 200 DepEd personnel are already undergoing training with us to prepare them in teaching technical and vocational subjects for senior high school,” TESDA Bicol regional director Conrado Bares revealed in a press conference held in this city last week.

In an earlier interview conducted by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Bicol during its radio program “Aramon Ta Daw (Let Us Know),” DepEd Bicol Education Program supervisor Cecile Ferro disclosed that technical and vocational courses will be among the four major specializations to be offered for grades 11 and 12 under the K to 12 program.

“The students will choose from the four major thrusts, namely academic, technical and vocational, arts and design, and sports,” Ferro said.

Ferro also revealed that some high schools will be selected to become centers based on the four major thrusts. “A senior high school as a center, will only offer one out of the four thrusts,” Ferro added.

The DepEd official told the PIA that their agency is now in the process of determining and qualifying some leading secondary schools in the region that manifest interest and capability in offering the said four courses.

“Our task is to train and accredit instructors who will teach technical and vocational courses, DepEd will be responsible for identifying the high schools that will be accredited as technical and vocational centers,” Bares said.

The TESDA official also assures their agency’s full support to the K to 12 program. “We will be providing technical assistance for the implementation of the senior high school program,” Bares added.

Earlier, DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro has already issued a memorandum specifying the guidelines on the preparation for the national implementation of the SHS program in non-DepEd schools for the school year 2016-2017 and onwards.

According to Luistro, schools, individuals, corporations, foundations or organizations may signify their intention to offer SHS under the three categories specified by DepEd.

Under category A are private schools which have been granted recognition by DepEd to offer secondary education or granted at least level II accreditation by any of the accrediting agencies under the Federation of Accrediting Agencies in the Philippines (FAAP), the memorandum states.

Under category B meanwhile are non-DepEd schools which have been issued a permit or government recognition by TESDA to offer any training course and/or the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to offer any higher education program.

Other individuals, corporations, foundations or organizations duly recognized by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are under category C based on the DepEd directive.

Meanwhile, the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) recently passed a resolution "Expressing support for the upcoming implementation of the Senior High School (SHS) Program under the K-12 Basic Education Curriculum in 2016."

The resolution supports the upcoming implementation of the Senior High School program by entering into partnership with The Asia Foundation  to "champion the establishment of coalitions that support SHS initiatives;" identify 10 cities that will form the national coalition of SHS-supportive cities that “are willing to allocate local budget to support SHS implementation".

Each member of the coalition will undergo training and mentorship on SHS planning and budgeting, and will be assisted “in establishing local multi-stakeholder task forces for SHS implementation and in tapping national government allocation for SHS facilities.”

This initiative is supported by the Coalitions for Change (CfC) Program in Basic Education funded by the Australian Embassy - The Asia Foundation Partnership in the Philippines.

In Bicol, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ligao City is the very first LGU that expressed support to the SHS program by committing to provide transport vehicles of senior high school students from their residences to the center schools, Ferro told PIA-Bicol.

RA 10533 or the Expanded Basic Education Act of May 2013 revolutionizes current basic education offered in the Philippines by making kindergarten compulsory and adding two years of high school with field specializations in academics, technical-vocational, arts or sports. (MAL/JJP-PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2591423707076/tesda-bicol-readies-instructors-for-k-to-12-senior-high-school-implementation#sthash.YCy8nqqd.dpuf

Mindanao conflict resolution needed to attain economic growth: Goldberg

By Mar S. Arguilles

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 12 (PIA) --- The Mamasapano incident in Mindanao should be resolved at the soonest possible time as this might discourage3 future foreign investment in the country, a top official of the United States Embassy in Manila said.

US Ambassador Philip Goldberg said at a recently held Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) regional media forum at the US Embassy on February 3 and 4 disclosed that the situation in Mindanao is a concern that should be addressed with urgency as this would affect the confidence of foreign business who desires to invest in the Philippines.

The incident between the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in a remote village in Mamasapano town on January 25 this year had left 44 PNP SAF dead would reflect a bad picture specially as the Philippines is playing host at the APEC meeting on November.

 Asked on what would be the economic implication of the Mindanao incident, Goldberg said “I support the move of the government to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law, this will bring peace and development to the area.” Although the peace and development is a complicated process because this situation is like a “chicken and egg” assumption “which comes first peace or development,” Goldberg said.

Goldberg said since the APEC meeting would serve as forum where leaders of 21 countries would meet and pass council resolutions that would of improved trade and investments among member nations of which the Philippine is a member.

He pointed that the APEC would ber a venue in which APEC leaders would come together to promote economic growth among member nation where one of its gains are inclusions of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) these are “key drivers” to strengthen economic growth.

At the regional media forum the US Ambassador cited the Philippine as among the Asian nation that has fostered an impressive and sustained economic growth rate attaining a 6.9% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the 4th Quarter of 2014.

FDI data indicate that the Philippines had receive at least $9.6 Billion in investment due to the improved economic standing of the country. FDIs inflows to the Philippine increased from $1.07 billion in 2010 to $3.66 billion in 2013. For the first three quarters of 2014, foreign direct investment inflows increased further to $4.88 billion. Foreign Investments came in the form of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Small and Medium Enterprise (SMES). The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas can confirm to this FDI data, the report said.

James McCarthy, US Embassy Commercial Attache told 20 media participants from across the country that aside from the FDIs US trade in the Philippines increased by $8 billion in 2014 with 13 trade mission held while importation posted a $9 billion.

Gloria Steele country director of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) told media participants that the Philippine has improved its economic performance by addressing the binding constraints to growth, these include: weak governance (corruption, inefficient judicial system, poor regulatory quality; constrained public finance, inadequate infrastructure and weak human resources.

Steele said among the gains that the Philippine achieved were: the real GDP growth has averaged 7% per year from 2011-2013. The Philippines’ World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness ranking increased by 28 places from 2011 to 2013. The Philippines advanced 35 places in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index. In 2013 the Philippine ranked 94th next to Malaysia (54th) among 177 countries that engage in combating corruption, Thailand (102nd), Indonesia (114th) and Vietnam (116th).

In November 2011, the Philippines and the US government signed an agreement to undertake a new Partnership for Growth (PFG) to address the binding constraints to economic growth and development in the Philippines. The PFG is a “whole-of-government” effort to unlock the growth potential of partner countries to become the next generation of emerging markets. The Philippine is one of just four countries selected to join the PFG aimed to promote and improved trade, investment and private sector growth. The PFG also aims to strengthen rule of law and anti-corruption measures, improving fiscal performance and promoting human capacity development by way of improving education, health and expanding public infrastructure.

Steele at the forum told participants of the gains of the PFG, where in since 2011 the Philippines implemented major policy and institutional changes including strengthening its anti-corruption efforts. As a result, it has achieved remarkable improvements in its economy by way of posting a real GDP growth rate of an averaged 7.0% per year from 2011-2013, USAID report reveal.

Although the PFG is only about 2.5 years old, some early accomplishment were recognize such as policy and institutional compliance to regional and international trade agreements with the ASEAN Economic Community and the WTO Trade Facilitation agreement. The Philippines also has enhanced global competiveness by formulating road map for 15 high-growth industries and facilitating credit to Small and Medium Enterprises in growth hubs.

According to the World Economic Forum the global competitiveness index of the Philippines rankings showed that from 2010 the country ranked 85 and it stepped up to 52nd rank in 2014. As for doing business organization study showed that the Philippines ranking improved form 144th rank in 2009 it went up to 95th ranking in 2014. The country has also improved its infra development by expanding public infra budget currently it has allocated 3.5% of GDP and targeting a 5% of GDP in 2016.  (MAL/MSA/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771423728600/mindanao-conflict-resolution-needed-to-attain-economic-growth-goldberg#sthash.F2QlqaEJ.dpuf

DTI installs Timbangan ng Bayan in Bicol public markets

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 12 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has installed some 196 public weighing scales or ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ in public markets all over the region.

 Jocelyn Berango, DTI Bicol information officer, said the Timbangan ng Bayan project is in line with the department’s mandate of safeguarding the welfare of consumers by ensuring that they get their money’s worth.

As such, the DTI encourages consumers to validate or double check the weight accuracy of their purchased goods, like fish, meat, rice, and other goods through the weighing scales installed in all public markets.

“This is one way of deterring unscrupulous business / stall owners in public markets from tampering their weighing scales,” Berango said.

She furthered that local government units (LGUs) also support the department in this endeavor as part of their task to regulate and enforce practices relative to weights and measures.

 For complaints and concerns on such issues, consumers can report to their LGUs or call DTI at 480-5720 or visit their office at 3F Capitol Annex Bldg., Legazpi City. (MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571423726588/dti-installs-timbangan-ng-bayan-in-bicol-public-markets#sthash.ye2WJwxV.dpuf

CSC Albay sets mobile processing of applications for Prof, Sub-prof Exam on March 4-5

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 11 (PIA) – The Civil Service Commission Albay Field Office (CSC-AFO) will be holding mobile processing of application for the Career Service Examination Paper and Pencil Test (CSE-PPT) for professional and sub-professional levels in Polangui and Tabaco City.

CSC Bicol information officer Lynbee Niebla said that two teams from CSC-AFO will simultaneously hold office on March 4-5, 2015 at Polangui Municipal Hall and Tabaco City Hall to accept and process applications for the CSE-PPT.

“Applicants from the towns of Polangui, Libon, Oas and Ligao City will be served at Polangui Municipal Hall while those from Tabaco City, Tiwi, Malinao and Malilipot will be served at Tabaco City Hall on the said dates,” Niebla said.

The CSE-PPT exam for both professional and sub-professional levels is slated on May 3, 2015.

Niebla noted that first-come, first-served policy shall be observed.

Applicants are advised to bring four pieces passport size pictures with full and handwritten nametag following this format: First name, Middle Initial, Last Name and Extension Name with signature of the applicant over printed name.

“Picture shall be in standard close-up shot from shoulder level and up, colored and in white background,” Niebla said.

Other requirements are photocopy of valid identification card with birth date and completely filled-out application form available at any CSC field office or downloadable at www.csc.gov.ph.

Student applicants can attach a copy of their birth certificate if their IDs has no birth date.

Examination fee remains at P500.00.(MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571423637861/csc-albay-sets-mobile-processing-of-applications-for-prof-sub-prof-exam-on-march-4-5-#sthash.xGNLsX3e.dpuf

Baao folks now enjoy clean, potable water

By:Ana-Liza S.Macatangay

BAAO, Camarines Sur, Feb. 11 (PIA)--- Barangays Caranday, Sta.Teresita and Del Pilar, all of Baao, Camarines Sur  can now enjoy safe and potable water after being cited as recipients of a water project jointly  sponsored by the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) and Coca-Cola Foundation Philippine Inc. (CFFI).

Dubbed "Agos Tubig sa Barrio", the project endeavors to serve far-flung communities with nil access to potable water. Waterless barangays in the remote outskirts of the country remain part of the tasks left unfinished for the past years.  The government though, as part of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme, encourages other partners to take part in resolving this issue.

PRRM Area Manager and Field Project Coordinator Dante Bismonte stated that the undertaking is part of PRRM's community-based projects and empowering programs which pursues to uplift the condition of the locale most specifically their health condition. Along with this, PRRM also implements Water Sanitation (WATSAN) called Tubig sa Baryo Project.

"Aside from providing waterless communities with access to safe and potable water, we also want to   educate the youth and the members of the community on the importance of conserving water resources. This is also to improve the sanitation of the place and make people aware of the importance of clean water to their health,” Bismonte said in an interview.

Helping out in the said endeavor is Coca Cola Company, implementing it as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) through their foundation, the CCFPI.  The foundation is supporting communities especially those in the far flung areas to have an access to potable water.

It was in 2011 when the foundation started its “Agos” Program and since then has been in aid of communities that are in dire need of safe and potable water.  This is also part of the company’s way of giving back the amount of water that they have utilized in the production of their merchandise. “Agos” is a tagalog word which means flow.

PRRM, on their part, forge the said cooperation only last August 2014.  

The agreement was also supported by the local government unit of Baao under the headship of its Chief Executive Melquiades Gaite.  Present during the occasion is PRRM President Isagani Serrano, CCFI President Cecile L. Alcantara, Liga President Hon. Benjamin Blanquera and 5th District Representative Salvio Fortuno.

The Punong Barangays of the barangay recipients were also around to deliver their message of acceptance.

The said endeavor is also in support of the government’s health program which aims to contribute to the attainment of the goal of providing potable water to the entire country. This is also defined under the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 Millennium Development Goals (MDG), and the Philippine Water Supply Sector Roadmap and the Philippine Sustainable Sanitation Roadmap.

Dubbed as Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig Para sa Lahat or SALINTUBIG Program, it also aims to reduce incidence of water-borne and sanitation related diseases and develop a sustainable water supply to all waterless communities. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861423645341/baao-folks-now-enjoy-clean-potable-water#sthash.9VB5gy7P.dpuf

DTI sets up 196 ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ to public markets

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional office here has installed 196 ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ to  all public markets in the cities and municipalities across the Bicol region.

DTI Bicol regional director Jocelyn L.B. Blanco said the agency has set up the "Timbangan ng Bayan" to safeguard the welfare of the consumers by ensuring that they get their money’s worth for the goods they paid for in public markets.

"The measure complements the initiatives of local government units (LGUs) which are tasked to regulate and enforce practices relative to weights and measures through regular calibration of all weighing scales in the public markets and other sites utilizing the same," she said.

DTI encourages consumers to validate or double check the accuracy of the weight of their purchased goods, like fish, meat, rice, and other goods, especially now that there is a ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’ in all public markets.

"This is one way of deterring unscrupulous business  or stall owners in public markets from tampering their weighing scales," she added.

Some local governments in Bicol have also installed Price Watch Board for basic commodities at the public markets

DTI has also advised if consumers encounter any abuse or unscrupulous practice among business establishments, they can call the office 4805720 or visit us in our office, 3F Capitol Annex Bldg. in Old Albay District here.  (MAL/BMBerango-DTI5/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771423631704/dti-sets-up-196-timbangan-ng-bayan-to-public-markets#sthash.VwwnhyQy.dpuf

PIA-DENR to hold Stakeholder’s Forum on Climate Change

By: Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 9 (PIA)---  As part of its strategic scheme to drumbeat the need for a much bigger stakeholder’s participation in the battle against the ill-effects of climate change, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Camarines Sur Provincial and Bicol Regional Office in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will spearhead the Provincial Stakeholders’ Forum on Climate Change Adaptation tomorrow, February 10 at the New Crown HOTEL, here.

The said endeavor is part of the joint project of DENR and PIA through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to push for the effective and wider implementation of the advocacy campaign for climate change nationwide.

 The program aims to take out the public’s apathy concerning climate change campaign and rouse their conscience to take an active part in taking good care of our surroundings.  It also intends to popularize and strengthen adaptation and mitigation measures in response to the current changes in the earth’s environs.

Both government agencies also endeavor to motivate the people to actively participate in the programs of the government and forge partnership with private and public communities.

Resource Speakers from DENR were invited to grace the forum and share their knowledge on various issues related to climate change. DENR Environment MANAGEMENT Bureau (EMB) Solid Waste Management Section Officer-in-Charge Engr. Nanette Tidon will talk on the importance of proper solid waste disposal as part of the government’s program on Solid Waste Management.

Forester Armando A. Omolida, PENRO Camarines Sur Forest MANAGEMENT Section Chief was also tasked to deliver his insights on the National Greening Program (NGP) of the Government.  NGP is coined as a massive forest rehabilitation program of the national government pursuant to Executive Order No. 26 issued on Feb. 24, 2011 by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

The program targets 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares nationwide within a period of six years starting in 2011 until 2016, when Aquino’s term ends.

Aside from being an effective reforestation initiative, the NGP is also a climate change mitigation strategy as it aims to boost the forest covers in various parts of the country to absorb carbon dioxide, which is considered as a major pollutant.

DENR V Senior Ecosystem MANAGEMENT Specialist and Wildlife Unit Chief Myrna G. Baylon will speak on Biodiversity Protection thru empowered Citizenry for Sustainable Use and enjoyment of the future generations while Forester Joseph P. Gueriba, Deputy Program Coordinator of the Bicol River Basin Program will discuss the Integrated Ecosystems MANAGEMENT of Bicol River Basin.


Invited partakers are local government unit Chief Executives, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers, students, and members of the academe and mass media.   PIA V OIC Regional Director Aida Alcazar-Naz will give her opening address to the participants.   (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861423472826/pia-denr-to-hold-stakeholder-s-forum-on-climate-change#sthash.1w5TXZN4.dpuf

PIA CamSur Chief attends ICCS Confab in Singapore

By: Jam Madrid

NAGA CITY, Feb. 9 (PIA) --- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) - Camarines Sur Provincial Head Ana-Liza S. Macatangay is fortunate to be one of the panelists in the recently concluded EdukCircle International Convention on Communication Arts, Journalism and Psychology held at the Nanyang Executive Center, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore from February 2 to 5.

This is the second time that Macatangay was invited to attend the said international confab, the first one was in 2011 where she served as a reactor. This year, the EdukCircle International Center for Communication Studies (ICCS) requested her presence as one of the panelists together with other distinguished members of the academe and communication gurus.

She was tasked to listen and share her thoughts on the lecture of Prof. Andrew Duffy, Associate Professor, Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University on How Journalism can use Social Media  and on BBC News Anchor Rico Hizon’s discussion on Blogging and Social Media.

Macatangay was joined by other panelists in the person of Dr. Doris F. Bayugo, Dean, CAS, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Calamba and Dr. Darwin C. Magpili of  De La Salle, Lipa Batangas.

With the theme “Psychology, Journalism and Education in a Digital Era”, the EdukCircle ICCS aims to provide a venue for students, educators and those involve in information dissemination to further their knowledge on the current state of the mass media.  This is also for the advancement and essential evaluation of communication practices in the fields of social science.

“The EdukCircle” Managing Director Alexander M. Baltazar stated that this year’s confab came with a twist as more inputs and lectures on psychology were incorporated in the program.  Baltazar believes that it is also essential to note that while broadcasters and communication students are immersed on the academic arena, there is also a need to look at the mindset of communicators and their audience.

Aside from Hizon and Duffy, also invited to share their expertise as resource persons were Dr. Albert Liau, Associate Professor, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University who gave his lecture on Cyber Psychology, Dr. Aoife Mcloughlin, Lecturer of Psychology at           James Cook University who shared her insights on the Effectiveness of Digital Technologies and Blended Learning in Higher Education and a lecture on Positive Psychology given by Dr. Foo Koong Hean, Lecturer in Psychology also from James Cook University.

The confab also served as a venue for other researchers to present their papers. Some of the presenters were Dr. Marie Lee Anne P. Castro, Adviser, Mass Communication Society at St. Louis University Baguio who presented her work on Communications Students and Module Assessment in Broadcast Journalism, Dr. Galahad Randall S. Unciano, Coordinator, Gender and Development Pangasinan State University, Urdaneta who focused his research on Motivational Orientation of Autonomous Learners and Dr. Teresa Q. Amarille, Section head, Human Sciences Emilio Aguinaldo College, Cavite who discussed the Assessment of Gudrais Therapy Toward Reducing Stress.   (JMadrid, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861423470412/pia-camsur-chief-attends-iccs-confab-in-singapore#sthash.gRaRnNty.dpuf

NAPOLCOM assures immediate release of benefits to families of SAF men in Mamasapano incident

The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) assured the immediate release of benefits to the families of the 44 members of the elite Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) who were killed during an encounter with suspected members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015.

This was announced by DILG Secretary and NAPOLCOM Chairman Mar Roxas as the DILG and NAPOLCOM jointly expressed their condolences to their families of these valiant police officers who sacrificed their lives while in the performance of their duty.

Roxas said that the NAPOLCOM shall facilitate the grant of death benefits to the families of the slain police officers which include the gratuity equivalent to one year salary, monthly pension for five years equivalent to 80 per cent of the decedent’s basic monthly pay, and burial expenses equivalent to three months basic salary.

The families of the 44 slain SAF members shall likewise receive additional benefit in the form of scholarship grant for the education of their children from elementary to college.

 “As we have always done in the past, we assure the families of the slain SAF men that they shall receive said benefits the soonest possible time,” Roxas said.

Meanwhile, NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman Eduardo U. Escueta said that the Commission shall also grant medical and hospitalization benefits to the other SAF members who were wounded during the Mamasapano incident.

Escueta explained that members of the PNP and their beneficiaries are expressly granted certain welfare benefits under the provisions of Republic Act No. 6963 entitled “An Act Granting Special Financial Assistance and Benefits to the Family or Beneficiary of any Police or Military Personnel or Fireman Killed or Permanently Incapacitated while in the Performance of his Duty or By Reason of His Office or Position and for Other Purposes.”

“These benefits are administered by the NAPOLCOM pursuant to the provisions of Sections 73 and 76 of Republic Act No. 6975 or the PNP Law,” Escueta said.    (Public Information Division, National Police Commission/NAPOLCOM Region V)