PSA wraps up celebration of Civil Registration Month

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY. Feb. 29 (PIA) -- After a month-long implementation of various activities in the province, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Camarines Sur Statistics Office chief Clemente S. Manaog thanked everyone who supported their endeavors to make the celebration of Civil Registration Month a success.

Under the theme: “Makiisa..Makisali sa Dekadang CRVS,” PSA Camarines Sur provincial office conducted significant events simultaneous with activities conducted nationwide to raise the populace’s awareness on the importance on putting on records their vital events and civil status.

In keeping with the CRVS Decade aim of "getting every Juan and Juana in the picture", PSA CamSur conducted mobile registration activities even in far flung barangays to ensure that no one is left behind. They also hanged streamers, conducted free issuance of civil registry documents, attended mass weddings, symposiums and spearheaded similar information education campaign.

Several competitions like poster making contest and civil registration quiz   were also conducted to popularize the occasion’s importance and raise awareness among the partakers.

Updating of one’s status which form part of the civil registration process will help the recipient to have an easy access in availing basic services in government agencies and other offices.

Some of the information being documented during registration includes the person’s birth, marriage, death and his civil status. It aims to acknowledge his right to be recognized as citizen of a state or honoring his juridical or legal personality

Manaog specified that the celebration is being done every February of every year pursuant to Proclamation No. 682 issued in 1991.

“February of every year is declared Civil Registration Month to remind the citizenry of their duty to register acts and events concerning status of persons, and enhance nationwide awareness and appreciation of the legal administrative and statistical values of civil registry documents.”

Proclamation 682 was affirmed by former President Corazon C. Aquino on the 28th of January 1991.

The said act is also in support of the Civil Registry law which necessitates the continuous and obligatory recording of births, marriages, and events concerning the status of Filipinos.  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861456709811/psa-wraps-up-celebration-of-civil-registration-month#sthash.TSdDBJVe.dpuf

Plan International launches “Gawad Gabay”

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 26 (PIA) --- Plan International Philippines, in its continuous effort to promote positive discipline among children, will launch on Monday, February 29,  the search for model homes, schools and communities that are promoting positive and non-violent discipline to children. The event will take place at the Naga City People’s Hall, City Hall compound, here.

The historic event, dubbed “Gawad Gabay” which stands for “Galing sa pag alalay ng mga bata para sa MAgandang BuhaY”  aims to document the best practices and advocacies being implemented at home, in school and in the communities by various stakeholders and showcase its positive impact on the lives of its target recipients- the children.

Invited partakers include parents, teachers, civil society organizations (CSOs) members, children and youth association heads, local government units (LGUs) and individuals who are practicing and promoting discipline in children without causing them harm.

The search is part of the Collective Action to Promote Non-Violent and Protective Society for Children Project and is being supported by the European Union. Plan International also forged a partnership with the Philippine Legislator’s Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) and Lihok Pilipina Foundation (LPF) in promoting the said campaign.

Adan Kristoffer Monterde, Plan International Project Officer said that the initiative of pushing on with the search is to  generate public awareness among the various stakeholders, especially those who have a direct interaction with children regarding their right to be protected against any violent form of discipline.

The search will cover the following areas:  Quezon City ; Naga City and the town of Pili in Camarines Sur; Lagawe and Lamut, Ifugao; Talisay and Cebu Cities; Alabel, Saranggani Province and Llorente and Maydolong in Eastern Samar.

Plan International Inc. Project Manager on Positive Discipline Project Jayson Lozano will brief the participants regarding the search’s rationale and the award’s objective.  The Gawad Gabay award logo will be explained by Child Rights Network Convenor Jun Almocera.  The awards mechanics and criteria will be delivered by City Social Welfare Officer Evangeline Manalo.

Other dignitaries who are expected to grace the occasion include Department of Education Undersecretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs, USEC Alberto Muyot, European Union Delegation Program Officer Eidhr Margarito Raynera and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Regional Office V Regional Director Arnel Garcia. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)    



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861456449305/plan-international-launches-gawad-gabay-#sthash.6vUyHgWQ.dpuf

“Save lives in less time”- APAD

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 24 (PIA) --- Taking the tip-off from the Yolanda experience, the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management (A-PAD) Philippines identified and gathered various stakeholders in a Luzonwide confab held Friday, at the Naga Regent Hotel here to enhance and harmonize existing knowledge, skills, linkages, resources and strategies for an effective and immediate disaster response.

Citizens’ Disaster Response Center (CDRC) deputy executive director Carlos Padolina in his welcome remarks during the event gave the scenario of how typhoon “Yolanda” devastated the country and how the community was able to develop resiliency through the unified efforts and collaboration of various organizations in the country.

“In CDRC, we have a motto of – “helping people help themselves”, while in APAD – they have “we can save lives in less time”. So, we can join hands together to achieve community resiliency.  At present, both private and public sectors support communities to achieve disaster resilience.  The challenge is how to enhance their current undertakings,” Padolina added.

A-PAD Luzon coordinator Maricris A. Binas also highlighted the importance of enhancing the preparedness of each community to elevate their resiliency to a much higher level, stating that time is always of the essence before, during and after a disastrous event.

Each invited sectors were also ably represented by their respective resource persons coming from the government, academe, business and civil society organizations.

One of the distinguished resource speakers, Dr. Jeanette R. Rodriguez, Angeles University Foundation Center for Christian Formation Director, shared how they accepted the mission of strengthening the commitment of all Association of Catholic Universities in the Philippines (ACUP) to incorporate in their strategic agenda the challenge posed by Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudatu Si,  a papal letter that speaks of environmental stewardship.

Rodriguez said that in line with the encyclical note, they have created structures and policies supportive to the call of pursuing environment education inside the university. One of which is integration of Ecological Conversion in their curriculum and implementation of conservation program in the campus.

 “We replaced 3,164 ordinary 40-w fluorescent lamps into 32w Panasonic electronic ballast type lamps, installation of electronic e-card switches with an electricity savings of P3,328,169 and the installation of light and motion switches for lightings in all restrooms which gave the university a savings of P333,995.36.”

The said best practice as showcased by Rodriguez will be part of the over- all output that will be included in the list of recommendations and resolutions by A-PAD among its stakeholders.

The recently concluded Luzon-wide conference is a prelude to the launching of the A-PAD National Platform in the Philippines this March. (LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861456301535/-save-lives-in-less-time---apad#sthash.06vjrr6H.dpuf

Catanduanes guv assures assistance to senior citizens

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 23, (PIA) - Catanduanes Governor Araceli B. Wong has assured that the provincial government will never waver in promoting and protecting the rights of senior citizens.

Wong said in a meeting with the senior citizens held recently, the provincial government has initiated moves to ensure that Republic Act 9994 or otherwise known as Expanded Senior Citizen is implemented which stipulates that 1% of the internal revenue Allotment (IRA) for the annual budget of the province will be allocated for use of the elderly or senior citizens.

In 2015, during the 1st Senior Citizens Congress, the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO) distributed seven wheelchairs and hygiene kits to the elderly who attended the congress.

She added that RA 9994 which provides free laboratory tests, medicines and other benefits as well as projects geared for the care of the elderly is now being implemented in the eleven (11) municipalities or the province. The 1% of the total IRA of the province reached not less than P6 million for 2016.

Meanwhile, senior citizens has laid a proposal to Gov. Wong that the allotted budget shall be intended to the conduct of medical missions in every municipality to be spearheaded by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) for an evaluation of their overall health.

The Provincial Social Welfare (PSWDO) will then facilitate the medical assistance based on the prescription of laboratory requests issued by the attending physicians. This could range from disbursement of free-medicine worth P500 to free blood chemistry, eye glasses and metallic cane.

The same law mandated Barangay Senior Citizens Associations registered with the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) to fund their proposed plans and activities for the year, appropriating therein atleast 1% of their total annual barangay budget.

The allocated budget shall be in the form of duly approved programs, projects and activities that shall meet the basic needs of and be beneficial to the senior citizens. (MAL/EAB/PIA5/Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841456291676/catanduanes-guv-assures-assistance-to-senior-citizens#sthash.rwflujN5.dpuf

BJMP Bicol braces for 1,200 resident-inmate voters in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 23 (PIA) – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Bicol regional office has reviewed and updated the contingency plans and other security measures to ensure smooth and orderly voting of qualified inmates in the region this coming May 2016 election.

BJMP Bicol director jail senior superintendent Ignacio Sarabia-Panti said at least 1,200 qualified resident-inmates are expected to participate in the coming national and local elections.

The qualified inmate voters were allowed to register, transfer or renew their voter’s registration data later part last year as representatives of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) conducted mobile voter’s registration in various jail facilities in the region.

Of the total 1,200 qualified inmate-voters, 260 are from Albay, 143 from Camarines Norte, 465 Camarines Sur, 90 Catanduanes, 128 Masbate and 118 from Sorsogon.

Panti said this number comprises 42% of the total 3,071 resident inmates in the region. Majority of them are still classified as detention inmates, a condition that qualifies them to vote primarily due to the dictum of “presumption of innocence until proven otherwise.”  Thus they are still allowed to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

Convicted inmates on the other hand are barred from exercising their right to suffrage.

Moreover, the BJMP chief stressed the need for the inmate to secure court orders as the basic fundamental requirement for going of the facility. The inmate will then be escorted to the designated polling precinct on Election Day.

To avoid the occurrence of unwanted incidents and to ensure smooth, orderly and peaceful voting process, all provincial jail administrators especially the wardens were already directed to review, update and revise contingency plans, implementation plans and other similar security measures.

The bureau chief has also directed the concerned jail officials to explore other possibilities such as coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for force augmentation and support during the crucial period. It can also avert any unwarranted situations that might compromise the security of the public, resident –inmates and the sanctity of the political exercise.

He further reminded concerned jail officials of the existing campaign policy inside jail facilities urging them to give the same opportunity to interested parties and candidates, irrespective of political affiliations, within the allowed visiting hours and with jail rules and regulations respected and followed at all times.(MAL/SAA/BJMP5/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571456214499/bjmp-bicol-braces-for-1-200-resident-inmate-voters-in-bicol#sthash.HY8v4tJT.dpuf

57 complete orientation on DOLE - Government Internship Program in Catanduanes

Virac, Catanduanes, Feb. 23, (PIA) – A total of 57 reciepients has completed the orientation on the Government Internship Program (GIP) of the  Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial office here held at SP session Hall last February 19, 2016.

DOLE Catanduanes provincial director Russell Ulysses Nieves said that one of the objectives of the program is to provide young workers, particularly the poor, indigent and young workers, an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and skills in the field of public service.

He added that the program has the ultimate objective of attracting the best of the brightest who wants to pursue a career in government service, particularly in the fields and disciplines related to labor and employment and to fast track the implementation and monitoring of DOLE programs and projects related to employment facilitation and social protection.

“All of which directly contributes to the goal of inclusive growth through massive employment generation and substantial poverty reduction,” said Nieves.

Under the program, beneficiaries shall include those areas wherein the following programs are implemented:

National Household Targeting System (NHTS); Local Government participating in the Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB); Child Labor-Free Barangay Program; National Skills Registry Program.

Priority areas for intervention as identified by the joint Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster.

Beneficiaries of DOLE-GIP shall perform the following duties and functions: Profiling of child laborers in the barangay; encoding of registration in the Skills Registry system; assisting public school personnel and staff; assisting LGU, public hospitals personnel and performing duties assigned by the government agencies-program partner.

The 57 GIP beneficiaries of the province of Catanduanes will be deployed to the 11 LGUs and partner agencies like DTI, TESDA, DOLE and DOST.

The Internship Agreement shall be for a minimum of six (6) months computed from the date that the intern reported for work of assignment. (MAL/EAB-PIA5/Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841456288555/57-complete-orientation-on-dole---government-internship-program-in-catanduanes#sthash.5B2r9hxY.dpuf

Naga City opens applications for City Youth Official program

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb.23 (PIA) --- The city government here, in its continuous pursuit to engage the youth in various governance aspects and introduce them to the many facets of leadership, has opened application for all bona fide youth to be part of the newest batch of City Youth Officials 2016.

The invitation for the posts in the City Youth Officials and literally allowing them to have a hands-on experience in managing the city affairs either as an elective local official or as department head, stemmed from the inspiration left by the late SILG Jesse M. Robredo when he was still holding the reign of governance as city mayor.

Reaping the good fruits as a result of the said initiative, City Councilor Ray-An Cydrick G. Rentoy sponsored Ordinance No. 2012-035 otherwise known as Naga City Youth Code, complementing an earlier regulation, Ordinance No. 2007-008, an ordinance institutionalizing the Naga City Youth Officials program.

The City Youth Officials once selected are expected to attend the regular session and will be allowed to participate in the policy-making process. They can also sponsor legislations which can contribute to the promotion of various programs concerning the environment, economic agenda, education, promotion of social welfare and related goals.

The city hall will serve as the city youth official’s training ground and is expected to promote positive youth leadership amongst them and develop them in becoming role models for others to emulate.

Interested applicants should be between 15 to 24 years old and should carry with them a certificate of good moral character attested by their school heads or barangay captain.  He or she must submit a duly accomplished bio-data with the latest 2x2 picture. Candidates must not have been a previous Naga City Youth Official.

They must be able to attend to the official functions during regular office hours.

The applicants must also present their Voter’s ID, SK or regular Voter’s ID.  For ages 15-17 years old, they must secure a certification from the Commission on Elections of their parent’s voter’s registration.

Application forms are available at Barangay Halls, at the Principal’s office for Secondary student aspirants and at the Student Affairs Office for the Tertiary level. Deadline of submission of entries is on March 10 until 5:00pm only.

For additional inquiries, applicants may contact telephone number (054)473-2051. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861456211238/naga-city-opens-applications-for-city-youth-official-program#sthash.IrDaKTvc.dpuf

BMC promotes Cardio Month with a three-pronged approach

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb.22 (PIA) ---  The Bicol Medical Center (BMC) based here has launched hte “Heart Month Celebration 2016” which kicked off with a series of advocacy activities meant to promote healthy lifestyle amongst members of the community, Friday here.

With Preventive Cardio Program in the forefront, BMC also introduced the simultaneous conduct of Dental Health-Healthy Lifestyle and Waste Management Program in its desire to introduce to the community a holistic approach towards the attainment of a well-rounded mind and body

Dr. John Leo Guazon, this year’s Chairman of BMC’s Heart Months Celebration and currently heads the Cardio Program of BMC, emphasized the importance of creating awareness on the risk factors that causes heart diseases like hypertension, citing its lifetime risk to the patient if not treated early.

During the press conference held at the BMC last Friday, Dra. Maribel Gutierrez. Philippine Heart Association- Bicol chapter vice president, reiterated that one of their campaigns is to increase the awareness of the public regarding the risk factors for developing cardiac problems.

“In our survey, morbidity and mortality is high among patients suffering from heart problems.  It is alarming that even patient in their 20’s can suffer from heart attack that’s why we are very aggressive in our campaign when it comes to the management of heart concerns,” Gutierrez added.

Both cardiologists pointed out  unhealthy lifestyle, vices such as smoking and drinking, “fast food” diet and use of illegal drugs as culprits in the incessant rise of heart-related diseases.

Aside from the cardio-health program that BMC is endorsing Dra. Maria Estrella B. Litam, BMC Medical Center Chief also led the formal declaration of the “launching of no to plastic and Styrofoam policy in BMC” through the distribution of eco-bags to employees and patients.

Litam also acknowledged the significant contribution of the media in disseminating timely information to the public through their radio programs and media outlets. She said that while doctors at BMC were instructed to educate their patients, media can also reach other members of the community who are living in the provincial outskirts and have lesser access to medical facilities.

The celebration wrapped up with film showing of video clips showcasing the activities conducted by the Health Care Waste Management Committee towards a Clean and Green BMC.  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861456113975/bmc-promotes-cardio-month-with-a-three-pronged-approach#sthash.gmwRUl6b.dpuf

Albay Park and Wildlife remains a come on for tourists in Albay

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- Some  64,882 visitors thronged to the Albay Park and Wildlife (APW) in this city from January to June last year providing at least P2.2 million revenue for the provincial government from the entrance fees of the guests.

Dr. Florencio Adonay, Albay provincial veterinarian said the number of visitors and revenue could have been higher if not for the park’s closure to give way for its immediate renovation to accommodate construction of additional facilities.

Earlier, Albay Gov. Joey Salceda ordered the renovation of the Albay Park and Wildlife to improve facilities for the use of visitors while at the same time the haven for animals kept inside the park.

Adonay furthered that although the facilities were nearing completion, the park is still a top grosser in gate receipts because of its welcoming environs of spacious mini-forest and caged animals numbering about 22 plus the 46 others representing various species.

Amusement features consisting of playground, biking area, lagoon for boating, cottages for picnics and meeting, horseback riding area, food court, zipline and a nerve-wracking wall-climbing facilities are also added inside the park.

Adonay said the park has been a favorite itinerary for educational tours, family picnics, meetings and social gatherings, adding that the most important role of the facility is to serve not only as an eco-tourism area but also as a wildlife rescue center.

“We also cater to research on wild animals as well as everything about flora and fauna,” he added. Located at the foot of Lignon Hill in Legazpi City, the five-hectare facility is expected to re-open by second quarter of this year, maybe in time for the province’s hosting of the Palarong Pambansa in April — a time when Albay expects thousands of visitors.  (MAL-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211456188785/-albay-park-and-wildlife-remains-a-come-on-for-tourists-in-albay#sthash.kiwC6pA6.dpuf

BJMP, PDEA join forces to ensure drug-free jails in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 22 (PIA) – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) regional offices V in this city have activated and joined forces in conducting surprise and discreet “Greyhound Operations” in all jails in the Bicol region.

Greyhound Operation refers to the act of flushing out contrabands inside jail facilities.

BJMP regional director and jail senior superintendent Ignacio C. Panti disclosed that the joint effort was in response to the standing memorandum of agreement between PDEA and BJMP aimed to “sanitize” or make jails drug-free.

The said MOA, added Panti, is also in compliance to the recent directive from BJMP OIC chief superintendent Deogracias C. Tapayan for BJMP to jointly conduct said operation with the PDEA to eradicate contraband, drugs in particular, inside jails and erase speculations of drug laboratories or transshipment points in BJMP jails.

Reports of prevalent drug use, trade and trans-shipment in jails have stirred the minds of the public after a series of Oplan Galugad operations

Panti said prevalent drug use, trade and trans-shipment in jails have been reported after a series of  “Oplan Galugad” operations in the Bureau of Corrections drawing speculations that the same conditions are also true inside BJMP facilities.

Moreover, Panti stressed he is confident that jails in the region are drug-free noting that the BJMP is sincere in its desire to avert entry of contrabands through regular and religious Greyhound Operations initiated by the frontline field officers with actions taken immediately against personnel or visitors allegedly linked to such illegal activity.

The Greyhound Operations operatives are composed of agents from PDEA, members of the Special Tactics and response (STAR) team and available personnel from the BJMP regional office.   Details of the operations are kept confidential to avoid compromising its objective.

To ensure optimum result, the personnel of the facility subject to the operation are not involved or engaged to the actual flushing-out activity except as perimeter or stand-by forces during the conduct of operations.

In Albay, the bureau chief said the team has conducted at least five operations confiscating “insignificant items and numbers” or items that are in excess to the prescribed belongings of the resident inmates but are not risky or dangerous.

The BJMP chief led the recent greyhound operations at Polangui District Jail, Ligao City Jail abd Camalig District Jail. BJMP assistant director for admin and operations jail superintendent Bernardo M. Sanchez joined the team in the same operations held at tabaco City District Jail and Sto Domingo District Jail on February 16, 2016.

The same activities are scheduled in other jails throughout the Bicol region until March of this year.(MAL/SAA/BJMP5/PIA5/Albay)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571456120347/bjmp-pdea-join-forces-to-ensure-drug-free-jails-in-bicol#sthash.YyDY3K3N.dpuf

CSC Bicol reminds government officials, employees to file 2015 SALN before April 30

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Bicol regional office has reminded all government officials and employees to file their Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) for 2015 on or before April 30, 2016.

The filing of SALN is pursuant to Republic Act No. 6713 otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

SALN is a declaration of assets (i.e. land, vehicles, etc.) and liabilities (i.e. loans, debts, etc.), including business and financial interests of an official or employee, his or her spouse, and his or her unmarried children under 18 years old still living in their parents’ households.

CSC Bicol has advised state workers to use the SALN Form, revised as of 2015 pursuant to CSC Resolution No. 1500088, promulgated on January 23, 2015 which requires filers to include the exact location of their real properties.

The SALN Form is downloadable from the CSC website: csc.gov.ph.

Government officials and employees may refer to CSC Memorandum Circular No. 3, s. 2015 for the complete list of repository agencies for SALNs.

CSC Bicol reiterated that failure of an official or employee to submit SALN is a violation of Section 8 of R.A. No.6713 which is punishable by suspension of one (1) month and one (1) day to six (6) months for the first offense, and dismissal from the service for the second offense.  (MAL-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211456120938/csc-bicol-reminds-government-officials-employees-to-file-2015-saln-before-april-30#sthash.HMe202zd.dpuf

Naga City's EDUCARE cited in Panata Ko sa Bayan awards program of DSWD

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 19 (PIA) -- The Early Education Program or EDUCARE of the local government of Naga City was recently adjudged Best New Social Technology under the Panata Ko sa Bayan Award of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Naga City EDUCARE Program was recognized for its creative innovation and combined childcare and early education.

Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat, along with  EDUCARE Division supervisor Elsie Romano and DSWD regional director Arnel Garcia received the trophy and a cash prize from DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano “Dinky” Soliman and Undersecretary Camilo Gudmalin during the awarding ceremony held at Asian Institute of Management last January 28, 2016 is line with the 65th DSWD Anniversary Celebration.

The new teaching and learning approaches led to the introduction of the School for Early Education and Development (SEED) using the Montessori system. It has since grown to become a key service program with EDUCARE centers catering to pre-school children in all of the city’s barangays.

EDUCARE pursues nurturing Naga City’s future through excellent learning foundation.

EDUCARE is a pillar of having “Good Schools” one of the 12 elements of Naga’s Maogmang Lugar vision. The city is committed to the vision of “Education for All” and the Sustainable Development Goals.

As human rights – based approach to development, the city is duty bound to uphold the citizens achieve their dreams and goals in life. The programs came about when the City Government in 1990, recognized the need for providing day care services to children ages 3 to 6 years old.

Bongat shared that aside from providing the basic amenities needed at the center, one unit of tablet was also provided to each of the Day Care Centers in Naga City.

"This is to help them in the quick and easy preparation of their lesson plans. And they are given regular trainings to enhance/improve their teaching skills. Scholarship program also offered for those day care teachers who are unable to finish their college course. To date, there are 21 day care workers who have completed their course in Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education," Bongat elaborated.

The “Pagkakilala sa Natatanging Kontribusyon sa Bayan (Panata Ko sa Bayan) awards acknowledges the efforts of the individuals, groups, and organizations whose “PANATA”  or “VOW” is to share their resources, time and selves in providing for better opportunity for the disadvantage sector.

“Gawad sa Makabagong Teknolohiyang Panlipunan “ is an award given to either a local government unit (LGU),NGO or DSWD, Field Office who has introduced a new and effective social technology who has introduced a new and effective social technology deemed as best practice based on the standard set. (MAL-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455842381/naga-city-s-educare-cited-in-panata-ko-sa-bayan-awards-program-of-dswd#sthash.MCk8Lmk3.dpuf

CSC Bicol adopts CORE system in recruitment, selection of personnel

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb.18 (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Bicol regional office has launched an online recruitment system to facilitate employee selection procedures and promote equal employment opportunity for all.

According to the Public Assistance and Liaiason Division of CSC Bicol, the system dubbed the "CSC RO5 Online Recruitment for Excellence (CORE)" will be the source of qualified candidates for vacant positions in CSC Bicol much as to upgrade the commission's human resource management systems.

It added that only those who have applied through CORE will be considered for selection by CSC Bicol Human Resource Division.

The CORE can be accessed through CSC RO5’s website, www.cscro5.wordpress.com.

The same has advised that all vacant positions are posted on the site and interested applicants should fill-out the Online Personal Data Sheet.

Those who are qualified for the position/s shall be notified by the office and will move to the next stage of the recruitment and selection process.

Since the Commission’s adoption of the Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM), it has consistently provided various HR systems innovations which are aimed at attaining higher maturity level in PRIME-HRM.

The maturity level indicates how well the behaviors, practices and processes of the organization can reliably and sustainably produce required outcomes.

CSC Bicol aims to move from Level I (Transactional HRM) to Level III (Integrated HRM) by adopting excellent human resource management practices such as the CORE. For more information about the CORE, CSC RO5’s Human Resource Division can be reached through telephone number 482-0314 and email address cscro5hrd@yahoo.com. (MAL/LEN-PALD-CSC5/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455757885/csc-bicol-adopts-core-system-in-recruitment-selection-of-personnel#sthash.7xh66Jbp.dpuf

Mga ahensiya ng gobyerno at Repair Shops sa CamSur nagkaroon ng pag-uusap

By Danilo Abad

LUNGSOD NG NAGA, Pebrero 18 (PIA) -- Pinangunahan ng Kagawaran ng Kalakalan at Industriya o DTI sa lalawigan ng Camariner Sur ang pagpupulong sa mga may-ari ng repair shops at iba pang establisyementong nagbibigay ng serbisyo sa mamamayan na naglalayon na matukoy ang mga interes at alintana na hinaharap ngayon ng kanilang industriya.

Ayon kay DTI Camarines Sur Trade and Industry chief Tess Arbo, mahalaga ang naturang pagtitipon dahil isinalaysay ng ahensiya ang mga programang ipinatutupad tungkol sa accreditation ng mga service at repair shops.

Tinalakay din ang tungkol sa training and skills enhancement, TESDA assessment, certification costs at iba pang pangangailangan ng mga technicians ng auto repair, calibration, electronics, electrical, refrigeration, air-conditioning at machine shops.

Inihayag naman ni TESDA Officer Gideon Ranido, na ang kahalagahan ng TESDA Certification ay para matiyak ang kompetisyon ng mga local manpower sa bansa.

Ayon pa kay Ranido na may pagbabago sa regulasyon ng pagsasanay ng mga manggagawa. Gaya ng renewal ng TESDA National Certification nagbago ang skills required para NC-1 o kaya NC-2 ng industry skills category.

Ang isinagawang aktibidad ay ikinalulugod naman ng opisyales at miyembro ng Camarines Sur Association of Service and Repair Shop Owners (CARSSO) dahil sa naunawaan ng naturang sektor ang dahilan para masiguro at maitaas ang kalidad ng trabaho, produksyon at kompetisyon ng mga middle-level workers sa pamagitan ng certification program ng ahensiya.

Bago nagtapos ang pagpupulong hinikayat din ng DTI ang mga lumahok na magtatag ng grupo na may 10 miyembro bawat trade category upang makinabang ng mababang assessment costs. (MAL/DCA-PIA5/Camarines Sur)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/851455763865/mga-ahensiya-ng-gobyerno-at-repair-shops-sa-camsur-nagkaroon-ng-pag-uusap#sthash.UpMCDkaq.dpuf

DOLE Bicol trains program beneficiaries on financial management

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 18 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Bicol teamed up with the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) to train livelihood program beneficiaries in Camarines Norte on Financial Management.

The participants are Project Management Team (PMT) members of the group livelihood projects in the province enrolled under the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF).

The seven group livelihood projects are Abaca Slipper Making of Guisican Multi-Purpose Cooperative (GMPC), Garments Production of Sta. Elena Agri-fisheries Cooperative (SEAFC), Citronella Processing of Kooperatiba ng Maliliit na Magniniyog ng Barangay Kanapawan (KMMBK), Pineapple and Pili by-products of Daet Food Producers Association (DFPA), Pineapple Beverages of Women and Families of San Lorenzo Ruiz Association (SLRA) and the Jewelry Production of Gold and Silver Makers Association (GSMA).

“They are the officers of the group in which we granted millions if not thousands of livelihood funds. Of course we have to train them on how to handle the group’s money so that their livelihood project will be successful,” DOLE Bicol director and Regional Coordinating Council chairman Nathaniel V. Lacambra said.

DOLE Bicol Camarines Norte provincial office manager Jane Rolda led the training to help the participants in effeciently managing their financial resources.

“We analyzed that most of our group livelihood projects fail due to poor financial management which later would result to financial losses and eventually failure of the entire project.  This training is aimed to prevent this,” Lacambra stressed.

In its goal to create a profitable and sustainable alternative livelihood for Bicolano , thru its multi-million livelihood grants, DOLE Bicol  has extended its services not only in delivering the funds but also in monitoring and collaborating with other government agencies such as this training.

 “We believe that the impact will be greater if government agencies would help each other achieve a common goal. This is the reason why we are forging a strong DOLE RCC here in Bicol to deliver a better and committed public service for the Bicolanos,” Lacambra stated.

The training focused on the basics of accounting, bookkeeping, increasing productivity, business management, preparation of financial statement and marketing with the topics discussed by experts from the RTWPB.        

“Now that we have a concrete grasp of simple accounting, going back to our places of operation we will immediately reconcile our records, check all transactions and prepare financial reports.  In that case, we can determine how our businesses are going,” said a certain participant of the training.(MAL/SAA/DOLE5/PIA5/Albay)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571455780461/dole-bicol-trains-program-beneficiaries-on-financial-management#sthash.qiEvDBSM.dpuf

PH climate czar bringing fresh news from US-ASEAN Summit to Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 18 (PIA) – Climate Change Commission (CCC) Sec. Emmanuel de Guzman, who joined President Benigno S. Aquino III in Sunnylands, California for the Joint US-ASEAN meeting  on February 15-16, 2016, is ‘bringing the bacon’ to Bicol through a gathering here on the opening of the 3-day technical write-shop on K to 12 Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk and Vulnerability Reduction (CCA/DRVR): Learning Materials for Philippine Schools.

De Guzman is set to report directly to hundreds of technical writer-participants whatever positive outcomes of the Joint US-ASEAN meeting concerning CCA/DRVR for the best of the Filipino communities via the education system and the academe sector.

The said event scheduled February 19-21, 2016 is the first of its kind in the country being a sequel to the CCA/DRVR integration to the education curriculum piloted in Albay five years ago.  “At first, it was the formulation of lesson exemplars for school curricula integrated and being continuously implemented in the four divisions of Albay with the use of training of trainers teaching demo for 8,000 teachers in some 713 public schools in Albay from July 2011 onwards,” said Nong C. Rangasa, Executive Director of the Local Climate Change Adaptation for Development (LCCAD).

Prior to the 3-day technical write-shop, a 2-day National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) is conducted at the Casablanca Hotel and Convention Center here which was constituted to provide the CCC policy recommendations as well as technical and advisory services related to climate science, technologies, and best practices for risk assessment and management.

The NPTE consists of the following: Dr. Rex O. Cruz-environment and ecology; Dr. Laura T. David-Biodiversity; Dr. Rodel D. Lasco-environment and ecology; Dr. Glen Roy V. Paraso-Health; Dr. Rosa T. Perez-meteorology; Dr. Fernando P. Siringan-Earth science and environment; and Dr. Lourdes V. Tibig-Meteorology among others.

As the CCC takes into consideration post-2015 International Frameworks; including the Sendai Disaster Risk Framework, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), Paris Climate Agreement, in its development pursuits and efforts in reducing climate and disaster risk, the integration and convergence of current efforts towrd understanding and reducing risks becomes a main concern.

In order to achieve this, the CCC has identified the following priorities: 1) establishment of national climate and disaster risk information system 2) capacity development on climate and disaster risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis for local development planning 3) establishment of national disaster loss and damage inventory-database system;

4) policy development on disaster risk financing and risk transfer mechanism 5) integration of climate change and disaster knowledge in K to 12 education 6) information-education-communication on disaster and climate risk reduction, including the raising awareness on the post-2015 international development frameworks 7) strengthening multi-hazard early warning systems and services; and 8) establishment of monitoring, reporting and evaluation system for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and Sustainable Development Agenda (SDA) 2015-2030, and Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs).

Rangasa said that the strengthening of the implementation of the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP), which outlines the specific long-term programs and strategies for adaptation and mitigation, is also essential. In line with this, CCC hopes to initiate a consultation workshop to harmonize current CCC priorities with the 7 NCCAP thematic priorities.

The workshop intends to outline responsibilities of the NPTE for 2016. The workshop serves as a venue to discuss existing climate and disaster risk tools as well to harmonize the currect thrusts of the commission with the NCCAP with the following expected outputs: 1) Approved 2016 NPTE Work Plan and 2) Inventory of existing and proposed climate and disaster risk tools.  (MAL/REN-LCCAD/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455841345/ph-climate-czar-bringing-fresh-news-from-us-asean-summit-to-bicol#sthash.5AhrIQD6.dpuf

TESDA Sorsogon opens new slots for training programs through BuB for 2016

SORSOGON CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) – New training program slots await residents of different municipalities in the province of Sorsogon under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through Bottom-Up-Budgeting (BuB) for fiscal year 2016.

TESDA Sorsogon senior specialist Ric Detecio said the agency, as one of the participating entitiesin carrying out projects under BuB, continues its pursuit of providing quality programs, trainings and social development projects to address poverty and help communities by providing employment opportunities.

Detecio said that this year, new projects and trainings are to be launched under the different qualifications offered by the agency and a budget has already been approved for the different municipalities in the province including Sta. Magdalena, Juban, Pilar, Irosin,Gubat, Casiguran and Bulusan for the year 2016.

This is exclusive in the qualifications under the sector existing in TESDA menu of program for 2016 such as automotive, electronics, food processing and beverage, garments, and textile, agriculture and fishery, metal and engineering, construction, tourism (hotel and restaurant) and health, social and other community development service.

More so, TESDA Sorsogon announced that the training programs are open for interested applicants from the aforesaid municipalities in the province of Sorsogon with the following slots and budget:

 Slot and Budget per municipality


Municipality                            No. of Slots                          Allotted Budget

Sta. Magadalena                           196                                     Php 1,680,000

Bulan                                             51                                     Php 1,500,0000

Juban                                           180                                     Php 500, 000

Pilar                                              613                                    Php 2,000,00

Irosin                                            149                                     Php 1,768,073

Gubat                                           837                                     Php 4,524,060

Casiguran                                     384                                     Php 2,000,000

Bulusan                                        102                                     Php 6,000,000

Total                                          2,512                                    Php 14, 572,133.00

                                             
The same narrated that since the start of BuB in 2012, a lot of community members have already benefitted from the previous BuB programs. Most of these beneficiaries are already engaged into self or wage employment.

Detecio encouraged Sorsoganons from the eight municipalities to enhance their technical skills and empower their employment opportunities by availing the training programs they offer and for further details to visit TESDA Provincial Office located at the City Hall Compound in barangay Cabid-an, Sorsogon City or the Municipal Training Employment Coordinator (MCTEC) of their respective municipality or contact TESDA Sorsogon’s mobile phone no. 09778153389. (MAL/BAR/TESDA/PIA5/Sorsogon)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2581455614432/tesda-sorsogon-open-new-slots-for-training-programs-through-bub-for-2016#sthash.SU88Suka.dpuf

Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) eyes more scholars in 2016

SORSOGON CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Sorsogon provincial office here has eyed more scholars this year as it continues to invest in youth empowerment through the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP).

TESD senior specialist Ric Detecio said the STEP is a community-based training program that seeks to address the specific needs of communities and promote employment.

Detecio added that it aims to train youth with technical skills that will equip and empower them towards employment opportunities, may it be as self-employment or entrepreneurship.

The qualified scholars of the program are privileged not only with free training and competency assessment but also provide with starter took kits and a training allowance of Php60.00/day. These are just few of many perks every scholar is privileged of once he/she becomes qualified to the program aside from being ensured with TESDA’s quality training.

According to Detecio, TESDA Sorsogon is now accepting interested applicants in the said program. They will be opening about 143 slots in the first district of the province of Sorsogon under various qualifications provided in the list of training programs including 20 slots for Carpentry NC II, 21 for Masonry NC I, 21 for Tile Setting NC II, 21 for Installing Wiring Devices/Lighting System leading to Electrical Installation and Maintenance on II, and 21 for Dressmaking NC II.

Qualified to avail the scholarship are those 15 years old and above who are willing to complete the training.

Applicants are interested to avail of the scholarship may visit TESDA Sorsogon Provincial Office located at City Hall Compound in Brgy. Cabid-an, Sorsogon City or call their mobile no. 09778153389 for inquires. (MAL/BAR/TESDA/PIA5/Sorsogon)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2581455615017/special-training-for-employment-program-step-eyes-more-scholars-in-2016#sthash.AG9L2waN.dpuf

AFP, PNP reactivate joint forces vs political mercenaries in Masbate

MASBATE CITY, Feb. 17 (PIA)—A special operations group of elite policemen and soldiers was reactivated on Tuesday to press the campaign against mercenary groups working for politicians and communist guerillas in the island-province of Masbate.

A conference presided by the highest military official in Southern Luzon and the highest police official in Bicol was held on Tuesday marking the activation of AFP-PNP Joint Special Task Force Masbate (JSTF Masbate) at the provincial headquarters of the Philippine National Police here.

Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the Southern Luzon Command (Solcom), said he has ordered his troops in the JSTF Masbate to arrest any armed candidates and armed bodyguards as a gun ban is in force during the election period.

“Pag pumutok sila, tapusin sila agad (If they open fire on you, finish them off),” said Visaya.

He told candidates who appeared in the meeting that the estate security forces had a list of armed groups working for politicians in Masbate.

Chief Supt. Augusto Marquez Jr., director of Philippine National Police for Bicol, said the decision to reactivate the JSTF Masbate was part of the police and military’s aim to stem the growing tension and “help create an environment that will be conducive for the holding of peaceful and orderly elections.”

Judging from the statements given during the meeting, there was a consensus among political contenders that the presence of JSTF in Masbate was for the good of the province as it has remained in the election watch list areas (EWAs) for the May 9 balloting.

Masbate’s inclusion in the EWAs this year was due to the resurgence of partisan death squads and New People’s Army, whose “dwindling” force, Visaya said, will attempt to rake in millions of pesos extorting money from candidates.  

The candidates said all of them and their campaign leaders—from gubernatorial to village councilors—are under serious threat.

At least seven killings have been reported since January, when the election season began and the Commission on Elections imposed the ban on firearms, in what authorities said were election-related attacks in Ticao Island and Placer town in Masbate mainland.

Members of JSTF Masbate who belong to the military’s special operations forces will arrive in Masbate “very soon” to beef up the battalion of police troopers in the task force, said Visaya.

In 2010, an election year, Masbate surprised observers when it registered a relatively low number of politically motivated killings. The decline was chiefly credited to the JSTF Masbate, which was then backed up by the Masbate Advocates of Peace (MAP), a multisectoral group.

In 2013, the JSTF Masbate was reactivated to oversee the security operations in what turned out to be blood-tainted elections in the province. (EAD/PIA5-Masbate)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/821455692637/afp-pnp-reactivate-joint-forces-vs-political-mercenaries-in-masbate#sthash.EUMPkSF6.dpuf

Naga City's candidates ink covenant for an honest and fraud-free election

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 17 (PIA) --- Local candidates here vowed to seal their pledge of integrity by signing the covenant that will ensure a free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible election on May 9.

Mayor John Bongat, who will seek for re-election this year in this city, led other mayoral aspirants Fortunato Mendoza and Luis Ortega in signing the "covenant" held at the Plaza Quezon here last Monday.

Candidates for vice mayor alike, including incumbent vice mayor Nelson Legacion, Joaquin Calleja, former city councilor Atty. Nathan Sergio were also present as well as aspirants for the city legilators' seat.

The candidates by signing the covenant also agreed to abide by the tenets of the Philippine Constitution, including its related provisions that will guarantee a fraud-free election. They also vowed to uphold every citizen’s right to suffrage.

The covenant also includes the aspirants’ assurance that they will not, in any way inflict harm or use any form of violence just to justify their own caprice and gain unlawful advantage over their opponents.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) also included the disclosure of campaign expenses in the pledge pursuant to Resolution No. 9991 or the Omnibus rules and regulations governing campaign finance and disclosure of the expenses that the candidates will incur during the entire duration of their campaign.

Doves were flown as a symbol of impartiality or fairness while white candles were lighted as a symbol of a peaceful, clean and honest election.

The covenant, although not a legal document per se, is expected to bind the candidates morally in a pledge to promote honesty and integrity and vowed to uphold the sanctity of the democratic process.

PS/Supt. Narciso D. Domingo, OIC, Naga City Police Office stated that they are in full support of the said exercise as part of their advocacy for secure and safe elections this 2016. This, according to him, is also in line with the PNP Patrol Plan 2030 or the Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule of Law of the PNP. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861455695297/naga-city-s-candidates-ink-covenant-for-an-honest-and-fraud-free-election#sthash.TC7pRm2h.dpuf

Naga City's candidates ink covenant for an honest and fraud-free election

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 17 (PIA) --- Local candidates here vowed to seal their pledge of integrity by signing the covenant that will ensure a free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible election on May 9.

Mayor John Bongat, who will seek for re-election this year in this city, led other mayoral aspirants Fortunato Mendoza and Luis Ortega in signing the "covenant" held at the Plaza Quezon here last Monday.

Candidates for vice mayor alike, including incumbent vice mayor Nelson Legacion, Joaquin Calleja, former city councilor Atty. Nathan Sergio were also present as well as aspirants for the city legilators' seat.

The candidates by signing the covenant also agreed to abide by the tenets of the Philippine Constitution, including its related provisions that will guarantee a fraud-free election. They also vowed to uphold every citizen’s right to suffrage.

The covenant also includes the aspirants’ assurance that they will not, in any way inflict harm or use any form of violence just to justify their own caprice and gain unlawful advantage over their opponents.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) also included the disclosure of campaign expenses in the pledge pursuant to Resolution No. 9991 or the Omnibus rules and regulations governing campaign finance and disclosure of the expenses that the candidates will incur during the entire duration of their campaign.

Doves were flown as a symbol of impartiality or fairness while white candles were lighted as a symbol of a peaceful, clean and honest election.

The covenant, although not a legal document per se, is expected to bind the candidates morally in a pledge to promote honesty and integrity and vowed to uphold the sanctity of the democratic process.

PS/Supt. Narciso D. Domingo, OIC, Naga City Police Office stated that they are in full support of the said exercise as part of their advocacy for secure and safe elections this 2016. This, according to him, is also in line with the PNP Patrol Plan 2030 or the Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule of Law of the PNP. (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861455695297/naga-city-s-candidates-ink-covenant-for-an-honest-and-fraud-free-election#sthash.TC7pRm2h.dpuf

P7 minimum jeep fare starts Feb 15 in Bicol – LTFRB Bicol

By Sally Atento-Altea

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 16 (PIA) – Effective Monday, Feb. 15, the minimum fare for public utility jeepneys or PUJs in Bicol region is P7.00 for first four kilometers, according to a regional official of Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Bicol.

 LTFRB Bicol administrative officer Jose Descalzo clarified over the Aramon Ta Daw radio program of the Philippine Information Agency Bicol that the rollback is due in part to series of rollback in prices of petroleum products in local and global markets and also provisional which may be subjected to change.

“The P0.50 fare rollback is provisional, which comes from the series of oil price rollback, so it may change in the coming days depending on changes in the oil market,” Descalzo said.

 An additional P1.40 will be charged per succeeding kilometer.

With the 20% discount grant, minimum fare for students, person with disabilities or PWDs and senior citizens will be P5.60.

Instead of a fare matrix, Descalzo said notice of fare adjustment will be posted in terminals for public information.

He also urged the media and other concerned government agencies to help them in dissemination and enforcement of the said rollback.(MAL/SAA-PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571455607254/p7-minimum-jeep-fare-starts-feb-15-in-bicol-ltfrb-bicol#sthash.Ifm7O1Am.dpuf

Legazpi CIty strengthens Rabies prevention, control program

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) -- Mayor Noel E. Rosal of this city has urged all village officials and barangay health workers (BHWs) to take the lead in creating awareness among their constituents the need for rabies prevention, control and eradication.

Rosal said leaders and health workers in the barangays have very significant role and responsibilities in cascading the program of the city government in ensuring rabies-free communities.

“We should prevent even cases of animal bites, especially by dogs which are the common carriers of rabies, by promoting responsible ownership of pets and enforcing policies that would keep animals from the streets and public places,” he stressed.

Dr. Nancy Andes, chief of the City Veterinary Officer (CVO), meanwhile said that her office has since been conducting regular vaccination of dogs in barangays.

“In our 2015 monitoring, some 18,000 dogs were vaccinated or almost 92 percent of the more 20,000 dog population in this city,” she added.

Andes pointed out that last year cases of dog bites increased, but no death recorded.

The CVO chief has also reiterated that barangay officials need to strongly implement the ordinance on rabies prevention and control to reduce the number of stray dogs in the streets and other public places in order to prevent cases of dog bites.

Andes added that the CVO will have a Search for Ten Outstanding BHWs, citing among the criteria that  the barangay he or she covers must have 100 percent dog population survey and 100 percent rabies vaccination.  The barangay must also conduct rabies awareness seminar and implement related ordinances.

CVO will also select 3 Best Performing Large Barangays and 3 Best Performing Small Barangays with the criteria of having 100 percent dog vaccination, zero casualty on rabies, zero stray dogs, programs implemented and ordinance enacted related to rabies control. (MAL/EPS-CGLegazpi/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455523894/legazpi-city-strengthens-rabies-prevention-control-program#sthash.5HscWdiy.dpuf

CCC chief taps youth for CCA/DRVR convergence

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) – With the majority of young Filipinos go to school, they are now the new target for propagating awareness to enable them to directly participate in the Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk and Vulnerability Reduction (CCA/DRVR) efforts toward building resilient communities.

Through school curricula, the Local Climate Change Adaptation for Development (LCCAD) shall conduct a series of live-in Technical Write shops on K to 12 Mainstreaming CCA/DRVR Learning Materials for Philippine Schools, the first of which will be on February 19-21, 2016 at the Casablanca Convention Hall, this city.

Climate Change Commission Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman, who joined Pres. Aquino in Naga on Friday last week, said in an interview that these new series of training-workshops will focus on a nationwide campaign to be piloted in Bicol region.

Dubbed as “Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation in K to 12 Education and Disaster Risk and Vulnerability Reduction: Learning Materials for Philippine Schools Integrating of Paris Agreement of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Sendai Framework for DRR 2030 and Agenda 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals” the project supported by the Special Committee on Climate Change of the House of Representatives, chairman Rodel M. Batocabe AKB Partylist, the Office of Albay 3rd District Representative Fernando V. Gonzalez, the local government of Legazpi City, headed by City Mayor Noel E. Rosal,  the United Nations Development programme (UNDP) and DepEd.

“The K to 12 mainstreaming CCA/DRVR learning materials can very well be categorized as a sequel to the earlier project initiated and being continuously implemented in the whole province of Albay, the cities of Ligao, Tabaco and Legazpi,  in collaboration with the DepEd Albay Division, United Nations Millenium Development Goals Fund-1656 (UNMDGF-1656), the UNDP, Government of the Philippines (GOP) through the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Government of Spain through the Agencia Espanolla de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarollo (AECID), the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB) and the LCCAD. This means that the climate change integration to the school curricula which was pioneered, demonstrated and implemented in Albay is now being replicated across Bicol region and other parts of the country,” Secretary de Guzman said.

The project called “Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation integration into curriculum in the Philippines” was designed to bring climate issues, impacts and responses into the consciousness of the present and the next generation of Filipinos, by integrating such topics in the academic curriculum of primary and secondary levels, that were pilot tested in a Training of Trainers Teaching Demo for 8,000 selected teachers in some 713 public schools in the province of Albay, from July 2011 onwards.

The upcoming event is set to gather hundreds of writer-teachers from all over Bicol region in a tough 3-day technical write shops that will be replicated in other parts of the country in the following months.

Jointly spearheaded by the LCCAD and the office of Albay 3rd District Rep. Fernando V. Gonzalez, the move has tied up with the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

This roll out of such events aims to develop explicit K to 12 learning materials and teaching curricula/modules in the primary and secondary levels.

Department of Education (DepEd) Bicol Regional Director Ramon Fiel Abcede said the participation of the teachers in the write shops is “buoyed up by the experience during the first workshop in year 2008 for us to come up with the first-of-its-kind convergence on CCA/DRVR learning materials for Filipino students as a sequel to the lesson exemplars for teachers developed and produced earlier by the same group now consisting LCCA and CCC.

This interlocking among advocates mostly based in Bicol is envisioned to develop a pool of educators/trainer among private and public educational institutions and widen the resource base needed for national capacity building and development.

The convergence will increase and enhance the capacities of critical local partners such as local academic institutions, civil society organizations and multiple stakeholders to consistently support local risk management action.

The campaign also aims to develop information, education and communication materials for other sectors such as the students, educators, executives, the legislators and other decision makers at various levels and to conduct a process documentation of these climate change adaptation disaster risk and vulnerability reduction initiatives.

“The adverse impacts of climate change are never ending, in fact they are escalating. This reality requires everybody to join, work and act together for a better life now up to the 7th generation,” said climate change adaptation Guru, Manuel ‘Nong’ Rangasa, LCCAD Executive Director, adding that although cultures may be diverse and environments different across the Philippine archipelago, it is certain that benefits will be enjoyed by men who breathe the same air on even one planet and face the same risk and sunlight.

All who face the threats must develop capabilities for innovation and integrated approaches to avert, minimize and address displacements related to adverse impacts of climate change.

“As a brainchild of Gonzalez,”  Rangasa said “the project concept is anchored securely on the commonly accepted fact that measures to address climate change and disaster impacts start at home where families and individuals are the basic elements of the day-to-day decision-making process.”

According to Gonzalez, educating the youth is a significant element of a new strategy to embed climate change adaptation in the country’s educational system. “Our schools can provide the venue for the adoption and implementation of the integrated global goals for resilience among vulnerable peoples, multiple stakeholders and communities by preparing the populace, both socially and culturally, to meet the unequivocal challenges of climate change and natural disasters,” he stressed.

At the infancy of CCA/DRVR, the Albay Education Division trained more than 8,000 school teachers eight years ago to pioneer on the integration of climate change ‘languages’ into their respective curriculum across all learning areas from mathematics, to science, to music, physical education, English, and Filipino among others.

The above events will form part of a synergy of the empowering advocacy to knit all CCA/DRVR enabled sectors such as the local government units that are now equipped with their respective Local Climate Change Action Plans for municipalities, cities and provinces, as well as the Barangay Contingency and Recovery Plans for the frontliners.

Created about four years ago, the LCCAD, which is based in Legazpi is the national CCA and DRVR training institution and service provider duly recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) that provides theoretical moorings to national, local government units and multiple stakeholders.

 The current education project is governed by a memorandum of agreement (MOA) recently entered into between the LCCAD and CCC which officially assigns the former in the development of the K to 12 conceptual framework and the rollouts of its implementation under the guidance of the latter.

In the MOA signing, Rangasa said CCC Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman took note of the LCCAD’s K-12 conceptual framework that call for the integration of information from three international agreements related to disasters crafted in 2015 that reflect the growing awareness about the need for more resilient communities and economies.

Rangasa said De Guzman was referring to the Paris Agreement of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-21), the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.

Year 2016, according to De Guzman, is a critical and exciting year as it marks the start of the implementation of these global agreements which are doubly significant for the Philippines as they address common and interlocking issues affecting the country’s aspirations for a prosperous, sustainable future.

These issues converge on the Philippines’ vulnerabilities, which stem from its geographical location, socio-economic features like rapidly growing population, and external factors like climate change which is outstripping the country’s natural coping mechanisms.

Rangasa noted that all these issues have to be factored in the preparation of the next Philippine Development Plan with resilience becoming a national priority, given that global warming leading to climate change turns into a local disaster when the root cause is not identified or the response is not appropriate to the threat.

 “The Philippines has done a lot to combat and prepare for the adverse effects of climate change and the natural hazards and endeavoured to put its development on the path of sustainability. However, the country keeps incurring significant annual losses from disasters and seems unable to maximize opportunities for optimal development. The totality of all these efforts sum up to ARAS or being Applicable, Replicable, Attainable and Sustainable developments encompassing all walks of life,” Rangasa pointed out. (MAL/REN-LCCAD/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455499694/ccc-chief-taps-youth-for-cca-drvr-convergence#sthash.iVewi8T6.dpuf

Virac launches “Green Hearth Program”

VIRAC, Catanduanes, Feb. 15, (PIA) –The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (MDRRMC), under the auspices of the municipal government here, launched the “Virac Green Hearth Program” that will pursue massive tree planting activities, especially in coastal area of barangay Balite in this town.

The greening project is pursuant to the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, otherwise known as RA 10121 on Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation.

Held on February 14, the activity was participated by the members of Virac MDRRMC’s, local government employees, representatives of local and national agencies and barangay officials of Balite.

Mariel Torzar, Virac MDRRMO chief, said that in line with the institutionalization of the program, MDRRMC has authorized the funding of annual reforestation fund focused at the municipal nursery on seedling production.

The grown treelings shall be planted on strategic locations at considered schedules in every month with specific theme according to momentous celebrations.

The launching activity was conducted with the theme: “Pagkamoot sa Inang Kalikasan”. (MAL/EAB-PIA5/Catanduanes)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/841455626758/virac-launches-green-hearth-program-#sthash.8H1JLA2d.dpuf

Mayon Volcano now on Zero Alert Level

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- The Philippine Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has lowered the Alert Level from 1 to 0 over the Mayon Volcano effective today after the observational parameters have returned to baseline levels and no magmatic eruption is foreseen in the immediate future.

Alert Level 0 indicates "normal" while 1 means "abnormal" conditions of the volcano.

With the recent development in the condition of Mayon Volcano, The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) in Albay has advised several measure to avoid disasters and emergency situations as such will attract anew more tourists to explore the volcano while residents to make use of the resources downslopes.

Albay Governor Joey Salceda, chair of the PDRRMC, stressed in the advisory that people living in valleys and active river channels are cautioned to remain vigilant against sediment-laden streamflows and lahars in the event of prolonged and heavy rainfall brought about by the advent of the rainy season.

The same advisory furthered that Mayon Volcano climbing activity, except crater area, should only be allowed upon registration with the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office.

It added that all other activities such as orchids gathering, ATV rides, Skyline visit and camping are now allowed with proper caution.

Phivolcs noted that there has since been continued decline in all monitoring parameters of Mayon Volcano for  Volcanic Earthquake Activity, Ground Deformation, Gas Emission, Visual Observation of the Summit.  (MAL-PIA5/Albay)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455260076/mayon-volcano-now-on-zero-alert-level-#sthash.I59YGb8i.dpuf

PNoy cites gains of Daang Matuwid leadership

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, Feb.12 (PIA) --- President Benigno Aquino III led the inauguration of the 3.94 kilometers Pili Diversion road today.

The widened road section is one of the projects that President Benigno Aquino III cited as “ginhawang dulot ng mabuting pamamahala” or the result of good governance.

The P66.32-million project which started in March 2014, includes the widening of the said road section from a two to a 4-lane highway. It was finally completed in January 2016.

After the Pili Diversion Road was formally opened, 6,000 vehicles need not pass the Pili Poblacion, decongesting the small town’s lanes as a result and benefitting thousands of motorists and travelers who now enjoy ease of transport going to neighboring towns and provinces.

“Ngayong kumpleto na ang pagpapagawa ng diversion road, ang biyahe, magiging limang minuto na lang. Bukod kasi sa napalawak ang kalsada, lahat ng nanggagaling sa Albay, Sorsogon, at mga lugar sa bahaging Partido na wala namang pupuntahan sa Poblacion, mayroon nang alternatibong ruta na ikabubuti at ikagiginhawa ng lahat. Dahil sa proyekto, nabawasan ng halos 6,000 sasakyan ang bumabagtas sa Pili-Poblacion Road.”

Aquino also conducted a windshield inspection of the newly refurbished San Jose Bridge which was completed in June 2015. The two-lane road has been strengthened and its dilapidated foundation replaced to give way to the 4-lane bridge, a first in the history of the province of Camarines Sur.

The President made mention that the two projects are part of the comprehensive strategies under the Daang Matuwid that seeks to invest more infrastructures as part of its development agenda.

Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio L. Singson during his short briefings on the status of infra projects in Camarines Sur, stated that of the 651kms of national road in the province, only 48kms were not yet paved or cemented. This he said, means the completion of 93 per cent of the roads which are either cemented or already asphalted.

“The almost 48-km unpaved roads are either located in far flung areas or still having problems with peace and order issues. But rest assured that they will be completed this 2016 as part of the Aquino’s administration mission to ensure that all our national roads follow the standard quality and safe.”

The P4.73B infra project for Camarines Sur from 2005 to 2010 was tripled under the Aquino government raising it to P15.96B. Forty-percent of which according to Singson, went to the upgrading and security of national roads all over the country.

Aquino said that they have already completed and near the completion of road projects covering the Tigaon-Goa-San Jose-Lagonoy-Guijalo Road, Pili-Tigaon-Albay Boundary Road, and Daang Maharlika.

Out of the 7,200 kilometers of national roads to be refurbished, the Aquino administration already completed 6,212 and vowed to finish the remaining kilometers this year. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861455275148/pnoy-cites-gains-of-daang-matuwid-leadership#sthash.TaAglC2R.dpuf

“Good Governance is good economics”-PNoy

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, Feb.12 (PIA) --- President Benigno Aquino III cited during his visit here today the fruits of the “Daang Matuwid” thrusts, enumerating among others the various road networks and bridges that were improved and completed under his administration.

Aside from the widening of the Pili Diversion road which has cut the travel time between Barangay Anayan to San Agustin in Pili from 10 to 5 minutes and the widening of the San Jose Bridge from a 2 to a 4-lane highway, Aquino announced other projects that are now benefiting the Camarinenses.

One of which is the Sabang Fishport Development Project in Calabanga which will benefit 80,000 constituents once operational. The port is part of the 40 priority projects that 3rd District Representative Leni Robredo wanted to realize under her stewardship.

Other projects include the rehabilitation of Naga River flood control projects,  construction of district hospital in Calabanga, building of sea walls in coastal areas and farm to market roads, to mention a few.

Aquino said that this is the best testimony of Good Governance.

“Malinaw naman.  Good governance is good economics. Sa tapat at mabuting pamamahala, napapaunlad ang ekonomiya. Ito rin mismo ang nagbibigay sa gobyerno ng higit na kakayahang bigyang lakas ang ating mamamayan upang makiambag sa lalo pang pag-unlad ng bansa.”

The President stated that aside from the national roads, some 1,550 kilometers of tourism roads in various parts of the country have been completed, including 3,700 local roads which were done in close coordination with local government units.

Aquino specifically cited the benefit of the road widening project in Pili Diversion which now serves as an alternative route for motorists coming from Albay going to Pili and Naga and ten (10) towns of the 4th Congressional District of Camarines Sur.

Aside from decongesting the town’s Poblacion area,  the widened Diversion road in Pili also benefits 5, 757 motorists every day.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under Aquino’s term also replaced 12,585 linerar meters of temporary bridges all over the country and strengthened them to ensure the safety of the motorists.

The President ended his speech in Bicol dialect.

“Sa saindo, mga padangat kong Boss na Bicolano, ipadagos ta ang satong pagkasararo para sa realisasyon kan satuyang mga minamawot o pangaturugan.”  (To all of you, beloved Bicolano Boss, let us continue to be united so that we can realize all our aspirations.)  (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861455320551/-good-governance-is-good-economics--pnoy#sthash.C7Wy6qxW.dpuf

World Wetlands Day observed in Masbate with student assembly, tree-planting

MASBATE CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA)—A significant wetland in Masbate took center stage last Feb. 5 as the office here of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), together with young volunteers, observed World Wetlands Day to demonstrate the vital role of wetlands for the future of humanity.

No less than 100 students of Mobo National High School took part in a tree-planting to restore vegetation in Bañadero, one of the protected wetlands in Masbate and just eight kilometers from this provincial capital.

Malou Espinas joined her classmates on the regreening of the banks of the wetland.

“I planted five trees so I am now a part-owner of this wetland,” she jested.

World Wetlands Day actually falls on Feb. 2 every year, marking the adoption of an intergovernmental treaty for wetlands protection in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar.

Worldwide, the theme of this year's World Wetlands Day was "Sustainable Livelihoods" to acknowledge the 1 billion people who rely on wetlands for fishing, rice farming, travel, tourism and water.

Just before the tree-planting, a special assembly was conducted by DENR to appraise the students of the importance of wetlands.

Jamon Espares of the Rotary Club of Masbate graced the event as the chief guest.

DENR forester Aldrin Barruga discussed the value and importance of wetlands to Masbateños.

Barruga said wetlands provide ecological services such as flood control, food production and carbon storage.

In storing carbon, wetlands help regulate climate change, he added.

They are also good for people’s health because acting like kidneys for other ecosystems, wetlands remove sediments, excess nutrients and even bacteria from drinking water used by Masbateños, he said.

Barruga said not a few Masbateños make a living from wetlands because wetlands are home to a variety of wildlife and provide nursery habitat for fish.

Marjun Refamonte joined his schoolmates in the engaging discussion about wetlands.

“I like wetlands before.  I love them now,” he said.

“Everytime I use water to brush my teeth or quench my thirst, I should probably thank a wetland,” he added. (EAD/PIA5-Masbate)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/821455227004/world-wetlands-day-observed-in-masbate-with-student-assembly-tree-planting#sthash.mqYV95i9.dpuf

Search on for outstanding gov’t officials, employees in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 11 (PIA) – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Bicol enjoins the public to submit nominations to the 2016 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or Honor Awards Program (HAP) set until March 31, 2016.

All employees in the career and non-career service of the government, including appointive barangay officials and employees recognized as government employees may be nominated. Employees who are under job order or contracts of service are excluded from the program.

CSC Bicol Director Cecilia Nieto said the three categories for the search are Presidential Lingkod Bayan award, Outstanding Public Officials and Employees award or Dangal ng Bayan award and the CSC Pagasa award.

“The conferment of the awards forms part of CSC’s advocacy of promoting excellence and recognizing as well as rewarding civil servants for outstanding performance, contribution and achievements, and/or consistent manifestation of exemplary ethical behavior,” Nieto stated.

The Presidential Lingkod Bayan award is conferred to an individual or group for exceptional or extraordinary contributions that had nationwide impact.

The Dangal ng Bayan award is conferred to an individual for performance of extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the basis of his/her adherence to 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 that directly benefit more than one department of the government.

These awards are the highest and most coveted recognition given by the government to state workers.

To promote and strengthen teamwork, the CSC strongly encourages group/team nominations.

Any individual or organization with extensive knowledge of the outstanding work performance and/or exemplary ethical of certain public servants may nominate an individual or group of individuals for a specific category in the Honor Awards Program.

The guidelines and nomination forms may be secured from any CSC office in the region or downloaded from the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph.

Nieto also encourage heads of agencies in the region to support the HAP campaign by hanging the 2016 HAP streamer in front of their respective offices.

For further inquiries, contact CSC Bicol Public Assistance and Liaison Division at telephone number 482-0699.(MAL/SAA/CSC5/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571455177175/search-on-for-outstanding-gov-t-officials-employees-in-bicol#sthash.zu7KrnkM.dpuf

DOLE reminds establishments, workplaces to implement new wage increase in Camarines Norte

By Rosalita B. Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte, Feb. 12 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provincial office here has reminded owners of establishments to implement new wage order which took effect since December 25 last year.

This is in line with the new Wage Order No. RBV 17 of the National Wage Productivity Commission of DOLE.

Based from the said wage order, the salary was increased from P260.00 to P265.00 per day to workers working in establishments or non-agriculture which have 10 employees or more.

Among these establishments are department store, grocery store, hardware, restaurants, bakery, construction firm, gasoline station and among others.

Those working in agricultural, cottage or handicrafts or establishments with less than 10 employees, salaries shall be P248.00 per day from the previous P236.00.

DOLE Provincial Director Jane Rolda said that they have already distributed copies of the new wage order to the establishments and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of the local government units for implementation to their locality.

She also urged employees to visit their office if they have complaint against their employer and if they don’t receive proper wage and other benefits which are due for them.

DOLE office in Camarines Norte is located at Viscaya Bldg., Magallanes Iraya, infront of the Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative (CANORECO). (MAL/RBM-PIAV/Camarines Norte)

 - See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/871455243842/dole-reminds-establishments-workplaces-to-implement-new-wage-increase-in-camarines-norte#sthash.JJ2Kn4Vc.dpuf

Albay joins global call to end violence against women

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb 12 (PIA) – Hundreds of Albayanos gathered today to join the 1 Billion Rising global campaign to end violence against women converging at the Bicol University grounds early morning for a “Walk for Justice” towards Peñaranda Park, where the symbolic rites was held.

The provincial government of Albay led the celebration together with employees and representatives from various government agencies, non-government organizations, academe and other stakeholders to help create awareness and to urge the community to be one in the cause to end violence against women.

Glenda Ong Bongao, board member and chairman of the Committee and Women and Family of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Albay (PGA), said in her speech that the PGA will exhaust all efforts to provide all the ordinances and actions that they can possibly provide not only to curb VAWC but strive for its total elimination.

“We will always be by your side, do not be afraid to fight abuse and violence, we will stand side by side, arms linked tight and we will overcome all obstacles that will stand in our way, this is not only your right as women, it is our fight as human beings,” Bongao stated.

During the program, heads and representatives of the various agencies and organizations pledged their commitment to carry on the global call of the One Billion Rising campaign.

The program also include symbolic dances led by female students of the Bicol University  and female employees of the Department of Labor and Employment and National Food Authority.

In the afternoon, the Team Albay Youth Organization (TAYO) led a focused group discussion for the youth in the province in hopes of instilling values to promote respect and justice for all women and children particularly victims of violence.

This year’s One Billion Rising theme “Revolution” continues the call to focus on marginalized women and to bring national and international focus to their issues; to bring in new artistic energy; to amplify Revolution as a call for system change to end violence against women and girls and to call on people to rise for others, not just for ourselves.(MAL/SAA/PGA/PIA5/Albay)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2571455263049/albay-joins-global-call-to-end-violence-against-women#sthash.nAfoR0RP.dpuf

Albay BNS notched championship of 5th Regional Nutrition and Health Quiz

LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 12 (PIA) – Wedona B. Ariola, a barangay nutrition scholar (BNS) from Quitago village in Guinobatan notched the championship of the 5th Regional Nutrition and Health Quiz held on February 4 at the Event Area of the Pacific Mall here.

Ariola, representing Albay province, bested Shierly P. Abanes of Naga City after breaking the tie for the top spot of this year's competition. Rosela B. Paguia of Barangay San Juan representing the City of Sorsogon bagged the third place.

The lady champion received a cash prize of P5,000 plus certificate of participation.  The second and thirds placers received P3,000 and P2,000 pesos, respectively while all other contestants received 1,000 cash prize as consolation prize and ertificates of participation.

Eleven scholars, representing their respective province and city in the Bicol region, competed in the said regional quiz event.

The 5th Regional Nutrition and Health Quiz was spearheaded by the Regional Nutrition Committee (RNC) in Bicol, under the auspices of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) with funding support from the Department of Health (DOH).

The quiz event has since been utilized as a tool to assess the knowledge and ability of the volunteers on health, nutrition, food, population, current events and programs on social services.

NNC Bicol chief Arlene Reario said, "Indeed, all contestants were champions from their respective provinces and cities but only one took home the title as the regional champion. The battle of minds and enthusiasm during the whole contest was so intense that three tie breaking questions needed to be drawn on both the elimination and championship round to declare the winner."

Dr. Napoleon Arevalo, officer in charge of DOH Bicol and chair of the RNC, extended his gratitude to the support of the members of the RNC and commended NNC for this event.

"A grander quiz and bigger cash prizes for the next regional nutrition and health quiz will serve as inspiration to the BNS and BHW to study harder and do better in the next regional quiz. Who will be the next regional champion? Wait till the next regional health and nutri quiz," Arevalo said.  (MAL-PIA5/Albay)



- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3211455262317/albay-bns-notched-championship-of-5th-regional-nutrition-and-health-quiz#sthash.9wuXY6HE.dpuf

President Aquino to inaugurate the widened Pili- Diversion Road

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA) ---  President Benigno Aquino III is set to visit Camarines Sur Friday for the inauguration of the widened Pili Diversion Road in Pili.

The widened 4-lane road which extends from Barangay San Agustin to Anayan with approximate length of 4 kilometers now accommodates most of the bulk of big vehicles en route to Legaspi City and Partido area which helps decongest the poblacion of Pili which is bustling with economic activities especially during daytime.

Pili Mayor Alexis San Luis II will be joined by 3rd District Representative and LP’s Vice Gubernatorial bet Leni Robredo and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio Singson to welcome the President.

San Luis expressed his gratitude for the opportunity given to his town to be visited by a President for the first time in history.

“I am doubly proud that my town was visited by President Aquino and even happier that it is under my term. I wanted to personally thank him for all the help, for all the projects that Pili and its constituents are now enjoying,” San Luis said in an interview.

Singson is also expected to brief the guests on the various infrastructure projects in Camarines Sur particularly the completion of the 4-lane bridge in Barangay San Jose in Pili, the widening of Maharlika highway and the drainage projects from Barangay San Jose towards Barangay Anayan.

The President en route to the Diversion road, will have a windshield inspection of the San Jose bridge. The old structure replaced the old, deteriorated two (2) km lane bridge into four (4) lanes to keep pace with the increasing number of road users and for the convenience of the motorists.  (MAL/LSM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/861455194444/president-aquino-to-inaugurate-the-widened-pili--diversion-road#sthash.6n1ELqou.dpuf

Navy reports 102 rescued from remote island

MASBATE CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA)—Authorities expressed relief Wednesday after 102 local tourists were rescued from an uninhabited island where they were marooned by huge waves and strong winds, saying the mission was made on short notice.

 Lt. Junior Grade Frances Mae Pendon, public affairs director of Naval Forces Southern Luzon based in Legazpi City, said a navy gunboat succeeded in pulling them Tuesday out of Sombrero Island, an islet off Burias Island in Masbate.

Pendon said two rubber boats landed in the island and ferried the tourists in groups of eight to Patrol Gun Boat 370.

The gunboat brought them to San Pascual, a mainland town on Burias Island in Masbate which has jurisdiction over Sombrero Island.

Pendon said they received a report from the San Pascual Municipal Tourism Office that the 100 tourists and their pair of guides could not leave the island since Sunday when sea travel was prohibited with gale warning then hoisted by the government weather bureau over the seaboard of Southern Luzon.

“The tourists were on the last day of their three-day tour in Sombrero Island when they were prohibited from leaving due to strong winds and very rough sea conditions,” Lt. Edwin M. Nuestro Jr., the gunboat commander, told the Philippine Information Agency.

“They were forced to stay in the island for an additional day as the weather condition worsened,” Nuestro said.

“As soon as a distress call from the stranded tourists reached the attention of Naval Forces Southern Luzon, a rescue mission was planned and launched,” the Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command said.

By 9 p.m. of that Tuesday, the tourists were returned to the comfort of inns in San Pascual and the navy rescuers were back to their headquarters.

Shortly after being rescued, one of the tourists from Manila, Skye Yco, posted on Facebook: “I'm happier because I have overcome the sadness I've known and wiser because I have learned from my life.”

In a statement, Southern Luzon Command Chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya commended the Naval Forces Southern Luzon, saying the successful rescue operations demonstrated how “dependable and reliable (the) Navy (is) in securing the seas” in Southern Luzon. (E. Delgado/PIA5-Masbate)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/821455155224/navy-reports-102-rescued-from-remote-island-#sthash.oGafhdJs.dpuf