Mushroom spawns in 8ID
Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar –What could be more fitting to start the week productively than to learn and acquire income-generating skill? Recently, the soldiers of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division were taught on how to cultivate mushrooms from which they could profit should they venture into this livelihood project. Mr. Ronaldo R Fabella, Technician of the Department of Agriculture Soils Laboratory in Tacloban City facilitated the seminar with the help of Colonel Virgilio M Espineli, the Assistant Division Commander.
According to the research, mushroom culture started in the Philippines in 1930’s and has steadily been gaining popularity nowadays. Mushroom is a fungus of the edible variety and has became in demand and popular because of its nutritional value in terms of protein and medicinal benefits. Furthermore, it’s a profitable entrepreneurial venture that provides additional income and generates employment for the community; and it requires only a small piece of lot and little amount of money as start-up capital.
Now, the soldiers of 8ID are aware that cultivating mushroom can help them earn extra income for their families. Colonel Espineli believes that mushroom culture will help in improving the lives of the people in the region. Samar Island is one of the ideal places where space and materials needed are already available.
As 8ID vigorously pursues its implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan”, your Army Division in Region 8 is more than eager and willing to help the people in the region help themselves to improve their lot by propagating this mushroom culture as a livelihood project
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Plan to establish up zipline in Caluwayan resort put on hold
TACLOBAN CITY – Although the design of the zipline project at the Caluwayan Palm Beach Resort is already finished, it was decided by its owners to withhold its implementation for the meantime as they want to focus first on finishing the construction of additional facilities such as rooms and function halls, Marabut municipal tourism officer Estela Obuyes said.
“The municipal government had already signed a memorandum of agreement with the operators of Caluwayan, but the management of Caluwayan decided to push said project early or mid next year once all construction of additional building is done,” Obuyes said in an interview.
Caluwayan Palm Beach Resort is a privately-owned resort located in Barangay Caluwayan, Marabut, Samar. It is the premier tourism facility in said town that had been helping the municipal government in the promotion of their tourism programs.
Last May 27, 2011, Zeny Cosimino, the manager of the resort, and her brother Engr. Mario Pacuri initiated the MOA with Mayor Ortillo, Jr for the LGU.
The signing was made at the resort and it was witnessed by various officials of the municipality.
In November 17, a team that includes investors and consultants from Meadowland Development Corporation specializing on extreme sports facilities and water system development assessed the entire municipality of Marabut for a zipline project that will be constructed within its tourism destinations
The proposed Marabut zipline project is unique for it will feature an island to island zipline hopping that will give tourists the chance to have an aerial view of their beautiful scenery and tourism spots in contrast to other existing ziplines in the country that offers a canopy views for its enthusiasts.
The construction of the said facility will help boost the local economy and provide additional employment.
Guv: Access roads to help solve insurgency problem
THE government cannot address the problem of insurgency in Eastern Visayas as long as road accessibility in the region does not exist, said Leyte Governor Jericho Petilla in the dialogue with representatives from the World Bank and Millennium Challenge Corporation.
Petilla cited the three provinces in the island of Samar, which are rich in mineral deposits and have a potential for eco-tourism development, yet remain economically depressed partly due to insurgency problem.
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The lack of roads that connect the three provinces of Samar and their interior towns to the national highways had caused the residents in remote towns to support the insurgents.
This problem, said Petilla, is the focus of the current officials of the Regional Development Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council before their term ends.
However, insurgency is not just a problem of Samar provinces.
According to Petilla, Leyte also experiences the said problem that is why his administration is also focusing in the implementation of various road network projects.
“We are prioritizing the areas where insurgency or road network is badly needed,” Petilla said.
Although road networks may help in solving insurgency, Petilla said other government programs can also provide assistance in solving the problem.
Among the programs of the National Government that may help address insurgency is the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program and the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS).
CCT and Kalahi-CIDSS, according to Petilla, focus on individuals that have less in life, mostly residing in rural and hinterlands, by providing them cash incentives which they can use for their children and health needs.
“These two projects can provide behavioral control such that we will tell the people (supporters of insurgents) that if they will continue supporting the insurgents we will not grant them the benefits that CCT and Kalahi-CIDSS offers,” Petilla said.
Petilla cited the three provinces in the island of Samar, which are rich in mineral deposits and have a potential for eco-tourism development, yet remain economically depressed partly due to insurgency problem.
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The lack of roads that connect the three provinces of Samar and their interior towns to the national highways had caused the residents in remote towns to support the insurgents.
This problem, said Petilla, is the focus of the current officials of the Regional Development Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council before their term ends.
However, insurgency is not just a problem of Samar provinces.
According to Petilla, Leyte also experiences the said problem that is why his administration is also focusing in the implementation of various road network projects.
“We are prioritizing the areas where insurgency or road network is badly needed,” Petilla said.
Although road networks may help in solving insurgency, Petilla said other government programs can also provide assistance in solving the problem.
Among the programs of the National Government that may help address insurgency is the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program and the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS).
CCT and Kalahi-CIDSS, according to Petilla, focus on individuals that have less in life, mostly residing in rural and hinterlands, by providing them cash incentives which they can use for their children and health needs.
“These two projects can provide behavioral control such that we will tell the people (supporters of insurgents) that if they will continue supporting the insurgents we will not grant them the benefits that CCT and Kalahi-CIDSS offers,” Petilla said.
Matin answer criticisms to her frequent travels
TANAUAN, Leyte – The lady town chief executive of Palo municipality defended her frequent travels outside her town as part of official business and she always file a leave of absence whenever she goes out-of-the-country.
Mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla stressed that her travels was purely on official basis which include invitation to businessmen to relocate in Palo to do business there, especially at inside its economic zone.
“If I will just sit and wait for investors to come, nothing will happen to my town.As a chief executive who want her town to progress economically, I must look for locators and investors,” she said.
Petilla added that once she is able to convince businessmen to invest in Palo,this would spur development and help its local economy and eventually, benefit its people by providing employment generation.
In her recent trip to Metro Manila, Petilla revealed that she had met with Japanese locators who are expected to visit Palo within this month to discuss the investment proposal of the firm.
She added that each time she goes on a trip it is her personal money that she uses and not from the fund of the municipal government.
Moreover, Petilla added that in the implementation of small and medium enterprises in her town, the local government unit is coordinating with the Department of Science and Technology for the implementation with the different livelihood projects for her constituents.
Among their SME livelihood projects that is supported by the DOST are the buko-cassava pie production, salt-making and bayong (decorative and for market use) production.
Mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla stressed that her travels was purely on official basis which include invitation to businessmen to relocate in Palo to do business there, especially at inside its economic zone.
“If I will just sit and wait for investors to come, nothing will happen to my town.As a chief executive who want her town to progress economically, I must look for locators and investors,” she said.
Petilla added that once she is able to convince businessmen to invest in Palo,this would spur development and help its local economy and eventually, benefit its people by providing employment generation.
In her recent trip to Metro Manila, Petilla revealed that she had met with Japanese locators who are expected to visit Palo within this month to discuss the investment proposal of the firm.
She added that each time she goes on a trip it is her personal money that she uses and not from the fund of the municipal government.
Moreover, Petilla added that in the implementation of small and medium enterprises in her town, the local government unit is coordinating with the Department of Science and Technology for the implementation with the different livelihood projects for her constituents.
Among their SME livelihood projects that is supported by the DOST are the buko-cassava pie production, salt-making and bayong (decorative and for market use) production.
16-man delegation visits Leyte province
TACLOBAN CITY – A delegation composed of 16 members coming from various provinces in Luzon and Mindanao, where the foreign non-government organization German International Cooperation is operating, had visited Leyte for its implementation of the local flood early warning system.
The group was welcomed by Board Member Roque Tiu during their courtesy call at the provincial capitol where he gladly answered questions of delegate members.
A local flood early warning system was installed by the GIZ at the Binahaan River in San Joaquin, Palo.
In their discussion, Tiu stressed the importance of cooperation between the local government units and their constituents for the success of the program.
“The local government units must learn on how to make their people have the sense of ownership and learn how to encourage them to cooperate in this kind of project because this does not only provide us warning but also enables us to save lives,” Tiu said.
Tiu added that mayors must also learn on how to be receptive in implementing flood control program projects just like what the local government chief executives of Palo, Pastrana and Dagami did when the GIZ installed the warning system at the Binahaan River.
He also underscored the importance of the role provincial government in harmonizing local chief executives in order to have a smooth project implementation.
Allen Molen, GIZ senior adviser, added that the organization was lucky for the support extended by the provincial government and the mayors of different towns on their projects, including the early warning system.
“Trying to convince LGU to support us is really a challenge and selling this kind of idea is very hard, but in our talks we always emphasize the value of life which is more important than the value of material things,” Molen said, adding that community participation is also a must aside from the support of the LGU officials.
Moreover, Molen also stressed the importance of media participation in disaster and calamities as media practitioners serve as the bridge of communication to disseminate warnings and information to ground level or the greater number of people.
“It is better if the local government units and the national agencies had better ties with media because they can send information immediately that can reach people in the right time before any disaster like floods reaches their areas.
Monday, September 19, 2011
250 successful CAAs now in uniform
Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – This morning, the 52nd Infantry (Eagle) Battalion held Closing Ceremony of Civilian Active Auxiliary Basic Military Training (CAA BMT) Class 04-11 held at Brgy Caticugan, Sta. Rita, Samar. Colonel John S Bonafos, the Commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade was the Guest of Honor and Speaker of this program.
During the ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel Jose H Narciso, Commanding Officer of the 52IB declared the two hundred fifty (250) students as graduates. The CAAs are composed of two (2) females and two hundred forty eight (248) males from the Provinces of Cebu, Leyte and Samar who successfully completed the training.
In his message, Colonel John S Bonafos congratulated the new CAAs who are now members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. They successfully hurdled the training and have become Force Multiplier of the AFP in the area of responsibility of 8ID.
With this new breed of CAAs molded and trained to be strong and determined para-military forces, the 8ID will has additional warm bodies now ready to help Win the Peace in Eastern Visayas, and serve and protect its people.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Wait for implementation of rehab project, vice mayor tells critics
TACLOBAN CITY – “Let’s not talk about it,” said Vice Mayor Arvin Antoni in reaction to criticisms for receiving help on the repair of the city legislative building.
Antoni stressed that since the fund is already available and it is to be implemented by the regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways, it just proper that critics should stop throwing issues against them and to Rep.Florencio Noel who helped them by providing fund to the tune of P2 million.
“They had been promising even before the 2010 election that the executive department will allocate funds for the much needed repair of this building.But this didn’t materialized until now, but in the case of Rep.Noel, it didn’t even take a year to provide us with a fund,” Antoni said.
“So it is just proper that we stop talking about this and stop adding political color on it, and wait for the implementation of the repair,” he added.
Antoni added those who are criticizing should instead provide help in the repair of the legislative building as the P2 million fund allocated by the representative of An Waray party-list might not be enough for the repair of the entire two-storey building.
Among the areas of the Sangguniang Panlungsod that needs to be rehabilitated are the comfort rooms, ceiling and walls, the offices of the councilors and the lighting facilities of the legislative building.
“We are working here not for ourselves but for the people of Tacloban who put us in this position and this money is not for us but for the institution that we are working and representing,” Antoni stressed.
Antoni stressed that since the fund is already available and it is to be implemented by the regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways, it just proper that critics should stop throwing issues against them and to Rep.Florencio Noel who helped them by providing fund to the tune of P2 million.
“They had been promising even before the 2010 election that the executive department will allocate funds for the much needed repair of this building.But this didn’t materialized until now, but in the case of Rep.Noel, it didn’t even take a year to provide us with a fund,” Antoni said.
“So it is just proper that we stop talking about this and stop adding political color on it, and wait for the implementation of the repair,” he added.
Antoni added those who are criticizing should instead provide help in the repair of the legislative building as the P2 million fund allocated by the representative of An Waray party-list might not be enough for the repair of the entire two-storey building.
Among the areas of the Sangguniang Panlungsod that needs to be rehabilitated are the comfort rooms, ceiling and walls, the offices of the councilors and the lighting facilities of the legislative building.
“We are working here not for ourselves but for the people of Tacloban who put us in this position and this money is not for us but for the institution that we are working and representing,” Antoni stressed.
City council supports move to amend Juvenile Justice Act
TACLOBAN CITY – The move of senators to amend Republic Act 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, is supported by council members of this city as it has become an evident excuse of some criminal minds to use children as their instrument to commit crimes as children under said law are not liable to any criminal liability.
The councilors during their recent regular session, unanimously approved a resolution authored by Councilor Niel Glova to support the move of the Senate, particularly Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, chairman of the committee on justice and human rights.
“This is very laudable and timely to amend said law,” said Glova.
Glova added that there were instances that youth offenders have with them a birth certificate to show that they are underage and are not liable to criminal liability.
RA 9344 provides that youth offenders aged 15 to 18 are not liable from any criminal charges, except if they committed an act with discenment.
However, even if they are underaged the law also provides that they are not exempted from criminal liability but not on the same level as the liability of adult offenders.
Releasing a youth offender involved in serious criminal offense is also a violation of the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act.
“We hope that this law will be amended immediately, but it only needs a remedial measure in order to strengthen it,” Glova added.
Concern of amending RA 9344 had been among the topics in the previous sessions of the city council after several incidents of wrongdoings were perpetuated by children who are said to be used by some adults.
Among the proposed amendments on said law is to lower the age covered by the law from 15 years old to nine years old, which is on the provisions of the Revise Penal Code as amended by the Child and Youth Welfare Code.
RA 9344 was made into law in 2006, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Among its provisions is for the local government units to provide rehabilitation or intervention program especially if the youth offenders are repeaters.
The councilors during their recent regular session, unanimously approved a resolution authored by Councilor Niel Glova to support the move of the Senate, particularly Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, chairman of the committee on justice and human rights.
“This is very laudable and timely to amend said law,” said Glova.
Glova added that there were instances that youth offenders have with them a birth certificate to show that they are underage and are not liable to criminal liability.
RA 9344 provides that youth offenders aged 15 to 18 are not liable from any criminal charges, except if they committed an act with discenment.
However, even if they are underaged the law also provides that they are not exempted from criminal liability but not on the same level as the liability of adult offenders.
Releasing a youth offender involved in serious criminal offense is also a violation of the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act.
“We hope that this law will be amended immediately, but it only needs a remedial measure in order to strengthen it,” Glova added.
Concern of amending RA 9344 had been among the topics in the previous sessions of the city council after several incidents of wrongdoings were perpetuated by children who are said to be used by some adults.
Among the proposed amendments on said law is to lower the age covered by the law from 15 years old to nine years old, which is on the provisions of the Revise Penal Code as amended by the Child and Youth Welfare Code.
RA 9344 was made into law in 2006, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Among its provisions is for the local government units to provide rehabilitation or intervention program especially if the youth offenders are repeaters.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
BM Tiu asks concerned gov’t agencies to also conduct ocular inspection in mining site
MACARTHUR, Leyte – The chairman of the committee on environment and natural resources of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan had asked possibility that the line agencies of the national government that had vocally expressed their opposition to mining operation should conduct ocular inspection at said mining sites.
Last week, Board Member Roque Tiu of the first district, conducted an ocular inspection at the mine site of NICUA, this town, to personally see the current situation of their operations.
Upon reaching the site and having seen the operations being conducted by the mining company,Tiu said that he is satisfied with what they did to the areas that had been extracted with minerals.
“I hope that representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the National Irrigation Administration will also conduct an ocular inspection to assess for themselves the situation of this mining firm and to see for themselves the rehabilitation process that they are doing,” Tiu said.
Tiu added that if those agencies would only see the current situation of the mining site, they might be able to provide technical assistance to the mining firm how to ably rehabilitate the area, especially that the mining firm is using organic farming.
“They had been complaining and opposing to the operation, saying that it will damage the environment, it is just proper that they should also conduct an ocular inspection so that they can see for themselves what is really happening in the field, just like what we did,” Tiu said.
During Tiu’s meeting with the representatives of NICUA, they revealed to the board member that they are on the stage of creating the rehabilitated area into an eco-farm that aims to provide sustainable livelihood to the farmers in the areas affected by their mining operation.
Tiu also stressed that even if they had passed a resolution banning off-shore mining in the entire province of Leyte, the members of the provincial board does not totally oppose mining operations, provided that the mining company has the capability and enough resources to rehabilitate the areas affected by their operations.
“That is why we always call on the officials of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau if the mining company that is applying for permit to mine has the capability to rehabilitate the area where they will conduct their operations,” he stressed.
Last week, Board Member Roque Tiu of the first district, conducted an ocular inspection at the mine site of NICUA, this town, to personally see the current situation of their operations.
Upon reaching the site and having seen the operations being conducted by the mining company,Tiu said that he is satisfied with what they did to the areas that had been extracted with minerals.
“I hope that representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the National Irrigation Administration will also conduct an ocular inspection to assess for themselves the situation of this mining firm and to see for themselves the rehabilitation process that they are doing,” Tiu said.
Tiu added that if those agencies would only see the current situation of the mining site, they might be able to provide technical assistance to the mining firm how to ably rehabilitate the area, especially that the mining firm is using organic farming.
“They had been complaining and opposing to the operation, saying that it will damage the environment, it is just proper that they should also conduct an ocular inspection so that they can see for themselves what is really happening in the field, just like what we did,” Tiu said.
During Tiu’s meeting with the representatives of NICUA, they revealed to the board member that they are on the stage of creating the rehabilitated area into an eco-farm that aims to provide sustainable livelihood to the farmers in the areas affected by their mining operation.
Tiu also stressed that even if they had passed a resolution banning off-shore mining in the entire province of Leyte, the members of the provincial board does not totally oppose mining operations, provided that the mining company has the capability and enough resources to rehabilitate the areas affected by their operations.
“That is why we always call on the officials of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau if the mining company that is applying for permit to mine has the capability to rehabilitate the area where they will conduct their operations,” he stressed.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Loreto lauds PNoy for funding RHU repair in Leyte’s 5th district
TACLOBAN CITY – “P-noy is a silent worker, he works and implement program even without media hype,” said Leyte Sangguniang Panlalawigan Majority Floor Leader Carlo Loreto, citing President Benigno Simeon Aquino III for having funded the repair and improvement of Rural Health Units in the fifth district of Leyte.
“I am happy that he is really true to what he says and that is the kind of leader that we need,” Loreto added.
Recently, several RHU buildings were turned-over to different local government units in the fifth district of Leyte. Their repair and improvement were funded by the national government with the help of the provincial government of Leyte and respective LGUs.
Barangays covering large areas and population were also given health facility building, according to Loreto.
In the province, the leadership of Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla with the help of different sectors (both government and private) since his first term had been providing solution to health problem particularly in the need to address the lack of birthing facilities that could helped in reducing the number and risk of maternal and child death upon delivery period this aside from the improvement of various government hospitals under the management of the provincial government.
Aside from the fund coming from the national government, there were also senators who provided assistance in constructing several facilities in the fifth district of Leyte that are to be used and be benefited by the public, Loreto revealed.
Among these senators were the Cayetano siblings who provided fund for the repair and improvement of a health facility and school building.
Senator Pia Cayetano provided fund for the repair and improvement of the health and maternal care facility in Hilongos, Leyte
while her brother Senator Allan Peter Cayetano provided fund for a school building, according to Loreto.
“This is very good that the national government together with our respective local government units like the provincial government and municipal government are helping each other in providing solution to the problems of our constituents,” said Loreto.
He added that the current local officials in the fifth district are now active in for partners in solving and providing solution in the needs of their constituents.
“I was surprised that now they are active in passing resolution addressed to different offices that can help them provide answers to needs of their constituents. This only shows that our local officials like in the barangay level are now active in governance and truly serves their people,” he stressed
“I am happy that he is really true to what he says and that is the kind of leader that we need,” Loreto added.
Recently, several RHU buildings were turned-over to different local government units in the fifth district of Leyte. Their repair and improvement were funded by the national government with the help of the provincial government of Leyte and respective LGUs.
Barangays covering large areas and population were also given health facility building, according to Loreto.
In the province, the leadership of Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla with the help of different sectors (both government and private) since his first term had been providing solution to health problem particularly in the need to address the lack of birthing facilities that could helped in reducing the number and risk of maternal and child death upon delivery period this aside from the improvement of various government hospitals under the management of the provincial government.
Aside from the fund coming from the national government, there were also senators who provided assistance in constructing several facilities in the fifth district of Leyte that are to be used and be benefited by the public, Loreto revealed.
Among these senators were the Cayetano siblings who provided fund for the repair and improvement of a health facility and school building.
Senator Pia Cayetano provided fund for the repair and improvement of the health and maternal care facility in Hilongos, Leyte
while her brother Senator Allan Peter Cayetano provided fund for a school building, according to Loreto.
“This is very good that the national government together with our respective local government units like the provincial government and municipal government are helping each other in providing solution to the problems of our constituents,” said Loreto.
He added that the current local officials in the fifth district are now active in for partners in solving and providing solution in the needs of their constituents.
“I was surprised that now they are active in passing resolution addressed to different offices that can help them provide answers to needs of their constituents. This only shows that our local officials like in the barangay level are now active in governance and truly serves their people,” he stressed
Other LGUs can also put up tourism facilities like of Abuyog
TACLOBAN CITY – If the private sector does not come in to help in boosting the tourism potential of one place, the local government unit can do so and invest by putting facilities such as hotels just like what they did .
Thus said Abuyog Mayor Octavio Traya whose administration funded the construction of Buyugan Hotel at a cost of P 29 million.
Buyugan Hotel is a three-storey building that showcase a well-refurbished lobby, a restaurant, function rooms, rooms and staffed by more than 20 personnel hired by the municipal government.
The construction of said hotel is being seen as an instrument in increasing and attract tourist arrivals to Abuyog and become a venue for big activities such as seminars and conferences,generating income to the local government in the process.
The hotel is also intended to become a training ground for HRM (Hotel and Restaurant Management) students of the Abuyog Community College.
This project of the municipal government was lauded by the officials from the province of Leyte and the tourism department.
Leyte Sanggunian Panlalawigan Majority Floor Leader Carlo Loreto said that in instances that there is no private sector who will invest in facilities that will aid tourism activities, the local government unit can start the first move by funding the construction of hotels and other lodging structures.
“It is good that they had constructed such kind of facility because this will help in improving their tourism and economic activities and this will also bring more benefits and advantages to the great people of Abuyog,” Loreto said.
Department of Tourism Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes has cited the importance of local government units in helping boost tourism activities.
However, Tiopes added that when it comes to tourism, the private sector is the best player as they are the most experienced sector and have the experience and capability to sustain and manage facilities like a hotel
Thus said Abuyog Mayor Octavio Traya whose administration funded the construction of Buyugan Hotel at a cost of P 29 million.
Buyugan Hotel is a three-storey building that showcase a well-refurbished lobby, a restaurant, function rooms, rooms and staffed by more than 20 personnel hired by the municipal government.
The construction of said hotel is being seen as an instrument in increasing and attract tourist arrivals to Abuyog and become a venue for big activities such as seminars and conferences,generating income to the local government in the process.
The hotel is also intended to become a training ground for HRM (Hotel and Restaurant Management) students of the Abuyog Community College.
This project of the municipal government was lauded by the officials from the province of Leyte and the tourism department.
Leyte Sanggunian Panlalawigan Majority Floor Leader Carlo Loreto said that in instances that there is no private sector who will invest in facilities that will aid tourism activities, the local government unit can start the first move by funding the construction of hotels and other lodging structures.
“It is good that they had constructed such kind of facility because this will help in improving their tourism and economic activities and this will also bring more benefits and advantages to the great people of Abuyog,” Loreto said.
Department of Tourism Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes has cited the importance of local government units in helping boost tourism activities.
However, Tiopes added that when it comes to tourism, the private sector is the best player as they are the most experienced sector and have the experience and capability to sustain and manage facilities like a hotel
Insurgency problem in E. Samar still manageable — Gov. Nicart
ORAS, Eastern Samar – Insurgency problem in the province is still manageable unlike in other provinces of Samar Island.
This was the assessment of Governor Conrado Nicart in an interview.
Nicart said that although there are presence of members of the New People’s Army in the province, his administration is in close coordination with the Philippine Army to provide security and maintain peace and order in the province.
“I have a close coordination with the military forces assigned in the province. This will ensure the peace and order situation in the province and with regards to their performance I am contented with it,” said Nicart.
However, Nicart stressed that insurgency problem is still hard to address for as long as the government will not provide a more adequate and comprehensive solution to the needs and problems of the people especially those living in depressed areas and at the hinterlands who are usually the target of recruitments by the rebel group.
Road network, according to Nicart, is one of the most important tool in addressing insurgency problem.
“If they will construct new road, for instance a road network from Jipapad which is an interior municipality connecting to the national road, this will be of great help to fight insurgency,” Nicart said.
Aside from the municipality of Jipapad, another town in Eastern Samar that is not yet connected to the national road is the town of Maslog.
Both towns can be reached by water transports, although there are on-going road construction projecs from the municipality of Dolores connecting to Maslog.
Road network is also the solution that Major General Mario Chan, commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division, sees to address insurgency problem in the region.
“The main reason why the rebel group are there and recruiting people from said areas is because both towns are isolated,” he said.
“But if these two towns will be provided with a road that will connect them to other towns,they will be more efficient and people will have no reason of joining the rebel group,” said Chan.
“If the road project construction that is currently being implemented is done, this will reduce the influence of rebel group among civilians living in far-flung areas,” he added.
This was the assessment of Governor Conrado Nicart in an interview.
Nicart said that although there are presence of members of the New People’s Army in the province, his administration is in close coordination with the Philippine Army to provide security and maintain peace and order in the province.
“I have a close coordination with the military forces assigned in the province. This will ensure the peace and order situation in the province and with regards to their performance I am contented with it,” said Nicart.
However, Nicart stressed that insurgency problem is still hard to address for as long as the government will not provide a more adequate and comprehensive solution to the needs and problems of the people especially those living in depressed areas and at the hinterlands who are usually the target of recruitments by the rebel group.
Road network, according to Nicart, is one of the most important tool in addressing insurgency problem.
“If they will construct new road, for instance a road network from Jipapad which is an interior municipality connecting to the national road, this will be of great help to fight insurgency,” Nicart said.
Aside from the municipality of Jipapad, another town in Eastern Samar that is not yet connected to the national road is the town of Maslog.
Both towns can be reached by water transports, although there are on-going road construction projecs from the municipality of Dolores connecting to Maslog.
Road network is also the solution that Major General Mario Chan, commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division, sees to address insurgency problem in the region.
“The main reason why the rebel group are there and recruiting people from said areas is because both towns are isolated,” he said.
“But if these two towns will be provided with a road that will connect them to other towns,they will be more efficient and people will have no reason of joining the rebel group,” said Chan.
“If the road project construction that is currently being implemented is done, this will reduce the influence of rebel group among civilians living in far-flung areas,” he added.
LGUs must be active in inviting potential investors – Gov. Petilla
TACLOBAN CITY – Local government units (LGUs) must be active in convincing investors to come to enhance economic activity in their respective areas as people from the business sector are in position of creating economic development by investing and putting establishments and industries that can help uplift economic conditions.
Inviting investors should be the main focus of every LGU as the government should never engage into business, according to Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla in his speech during the recently-concluded 1st Eastern Visayas Chamber of Commerce and Industry Conference held in this city.
“What the government should do is to support businessmen,” Petilla stressed.
He added that in inviting potential investors, LGUs must present all information to their prospect investors, including existing economic indicators.
He also added that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) must come up with a program that will support this endeavor.
Petilla also added that as business sector provides income to the government and are creating jobs to the people, the government, especially the LGUs, should be business friendly.
The provincial government has its own investement code and help organize the Business Month celebration held every October.
However, Gov. Petilla stressed that in the event that the business sector fails to start putting investment in their locality, that is the time that LGUs must take a bold step in investing on something that will help their local economy just like what the municipality of Abuyog did when they funded the construction of a hotel, which is under the management of the local government unit.
Petilla also stressed that as each LGU must concentrate on inviting investors, their mind set should not just concentrate on improving their local economy but for the economic growth of the entire region.
Inviting investors should be the main focus of every LGU as the government should never engage into business, according to Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla in his speech during the recently-concluded 1st Eastern Visayas Chamber of Commerce and Industry Conference held in this city.
“What the government should do is to support businessmen,” Petilla stressed.
He added that in inviting potential investors, LGUs must present all information to their prospect investors, including existing economic indicators.
He also added that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) must come up with a program that will support this endeavor.
Petilla also added that as business sector provides income to the government and are creating jobs to the people, the government, especially the LGUs, should be business friendly.
The provincial government has its own investement code and help organize the Business Month celebration held every October.
However, Gov. Petilla stressed that in the event that the business sector fails to start putting investment in their locality, that is the time that LGUs must take a bold step in investing on something that will help their local economy just like what the municipality of Abuyog did when they funded the construction of a hotel, which is under the management of the local government unit.
Petilla also stressed that as each LGU must concentrate on inviting investors, their mind set should not just concentrate on improving their local economy but for the economic growth of the entire region.
PRC cites do’s and don’ts in blood donation
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine National Red Cross once again reminds people on the do’s and don’ts in donating blood.
This is to ensure that the donor is in good health and the donated blood is not contaminated with diseases.
Among the dos for those who wanted to donate blood include would-be blood donors should have enough sleep and rest before they donate blood; they should motivate themselves to donate blood; and get a light meal at least three hours before donating blood.
The don’ts for those who are planning to donate blood are: don’t drink alcoholic beverages; don’t take any medication; and don’t get tattoo or ear piercing.
However, Dr Michieko Malou Modesto of the PNRC-Leyte Chapter stressed that persons with tattoo can still donate blood but this will only depend on the discretion of the physician who is supervising the blood donation.
“There are doctors who will allow you to donate blood but there are those who won’t.It will depend on their assessment on the appearance of your tattoo,”said Modesto.
“The reason why doctors will not allow persons with tattoo and ear piercing to donate blood is because those with these feature are prone to blood contamination, especially if they get this from unlicensed tattoo artist,” Modesto explains.
Among the diseases that can be accumulated from unsafe tattooing are hepatitis B and C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
But in some cases, Modesto said that if tattoo had already reaches more than a year in the body, doctor would allow would-be donor to donate blood.
Meantime,Modesto added that there are lean months of blood donation experienced by PNRC.
These months are from the month of March until June and from December until January.
The reason, according to Modesto, why they are experiencing low blood donations on those months is because those months are known to be fiesta months and fall under yuletide celebration.
“We all know that in these months there are lots of drinking session and too much eating that is why we experience little amount of blood donations on those months because we do not encourage people to donate blood if they had been eating fatty and spicy foods, especially those who had been drinking,” Modesto explains
This is to ensure that the donor is in good health and the donated blood is not contaminated with diseases.
Among the dos for those who wanted to donate blood include would-be blood donors should have enough sleep and rest before they donate blood; they should motivate themselves to donate blood; and get a light meal at least three hours before donating blood.
The don’ts for those who are planning to donate blood are: don’t drink alcoholic beverages; don’t take any medication; and don’t get tattoo or ear piercing.
However, Dr Michieko Malou Modesto of the PNRC-Leyte Chapter stressed that persons with tattoo can still donate blood but this will only depend on the discretion of the physician who is supervising the blood donation.
“There are doctors who will allow you to donate blood but there are those who won’t.It will depend on their assessment on the appearance of your tattoo,”said Modesto.
“The reason why doctors will not allow persons with tattoo and ear piercing to donate blood is because those with these feature are prone to blood contamination, especially if they get this from unlicensed tattoo artist,” Modesto explains.
Among the diseases that can be accumulated from unsafe tattooing are hepatitis B and C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
But in some cases, Modesto said that if tattoo had already reaches more than a year in the body, doctor would allow would-be donor to donate blood.
Meantime,Modesto added that there are lean months of blood donation experienced by PNRC.
These months are from the month of March until June and from December until January.
The reason, according to Modesto, why they are experiencing low blood donations on those months is because those months are known to be fiesta months and fall under yuletide celebration.
“We all know that in these months there are lots of drinking session and too much eating that is why we experience little amount of blood donations on those months because we do not encourage people to donate blood if they had been eating fatty and spicy foods, especially those who had been drinking,” Modesto explains
Promoting tourism potential a collaborative effort – George Tapan
TACLOBAN CITY – Promoting the country’s tourism potential should not be a lone job of the government, but a collaborative effort of all citizens in this country.Thus said George Tapan, one of the country’s notable prolific travel photographer who was in the city for the launching of Espejo magazine, a travel and information magazine for the region.
Tapan’s works have been published in various prestigious industry publications both in the country and abroad like Time magazine, Department of Tourism, and Department of Natural Resources and for Ayala Foundation.
Tapan also garnered several awards including the 1990 Best Travel Photo Award for the Asian Tourism Association and the 1990 Gold Grand Award for the Pacific Asia Travel Association, Department of Tourism, and 1999 Kalakbay Award- Travel Photography of the Year and the Grand Award-Philippines Rediscovered Paradise of the Northwest Airlines.
Talking to guests and audiences in the launching of Espejo magazine at the activity area of Robinson’s Place, Tapan stressed the importance of being united in promoting our country’s potential to become a haven of tourists as our country has more to offer than our neighboring Asian countries.
“What we only need is to work together not individually when we are going to promote tourism,” Tapan said.
As a photographer, Tapan revealed that he had been in different parts of the country and met tourists from all over the world visiting and some had decided to stay in the country.
“They have chosen to stay because they see that our country is a nice place to live in,” he said.
Tapan added that he is also aware that there are photographers going around the country and taking images of people from all walks of life, but in most of cases it is only the negatives side of the country that is being highlighted.
“That is why I have told myself that my mission is to tell the world that the Philippines is a nice place to stay and we have lots of things to offer,” he stressed.
Tapan lauded the effort of those behind the Espejo magazine.
“This magazine will not just show the beauty of your region but this will connect people from all class,” he said.
“This magazine will show things that are not yet known to others, inform them and educate them about your region,” he added.
“I have been to this region several times, but now I can say that there are lots of places and things that I need to explores in your place,” he stressed.(ROEL AMAZONA)TACLOBAN CITY – Promoting the country’s tourism potential should not be a lone job of the government, but a collaborative effort of all citizens in this country.Thus said George Tapan, one of the country’s notable prolific travel photographer who was in the city for the launching of Espejo magazine, a travel and information magazine for the region.
Tapan’s works have been published in various prestigious industry publications both in the country and abroad like Time magazine, Department of Tourism, and Department of Natural Resources and for Ayala Foundation.
Tapan also garnered several awards including the 1990 Best Travel Photo Award for the Asian Tourism Association and the 1990 Gold Grand Award for the Pacific Asia Travel Association, Department of Tourism, and 1999 Kalakbay Award- Travel Photography of the Year and the Grand Award-Philippines Rediscovered Paradise of the Northwest Airlines.
Talking to guests and audiences in the launching of Espejo magazine at the activity area of Robinson’s Place, Tapan stressed the importance of being united in promoting our country’s potential to become a haven of tourists as our country has more to offer than our neighboring Asian countries.
“What we only need is to work together not individually when we are going to promote tourism,” Tapan said.
As a photographer, Tapan revealed that he had been in different parts of the country and met tourists from all over the world visiting and some had decided to stay in the country.
“They have chosen to stay because they see that our country is a nice place to live in,” he said.
Tapan added that he is also aware that there are photographers going around the country and taking images of people from all walks of life, but in most of cases it is only the negatives side of the country that is being highlighted.
“That is why I have told myself that my mission is to tell the world that the Philippines is a nice place to stay and we have lots of things to offer,” he stressed.
Tapan lauded the effort of those behind the Espejo magazine.
“This magazine will not just show the beauty of your region but this will connect people from all class,” he said.
“This magazine will show things that are not yet known to others, inform them and educate them about your region,” he added.
“I have been to this region several times, but now I can say that there are lots of places and things that I need to explores in your place,” he stressed.
Tapan’s works have been published in various prestigious industry publications both in the country and abroad like Time magazine, Department of Tourism, and Department of Natural Resources and for Ayala Foundation.
Tapan also garnered several awards including the 1990 Best Travel Photo Award for the Asian Tourism Association and the 1990 Gold Grand Award for the Pacific Asia Travel Association, Department of Tourism, and 1999 Kalakbay Award- Travel Photography of the Year and the Grand Award-Philippines Rediscovered Paradise of the Northwest Airlines.
Talking to guests and audiences in the launching of Espejo magazine at the activity area of Robinson’s Place, Tapan stressed the importance of being united in promoting our country’s potential to become a haven of tourists as our country has more to offer than our neighboring Asian countries.
“What we only need is to work together not individually when we are going to promote tourism,” Tapan said.
As a photographer, Tapan revealed that he had been in different parts of the country and met tourists from all over the world visiting and some had decided to stay in the country.
“They have chosen to stay because they see that our country is a nice place to live in,” he said.
Tapan added that he is also aware that there are photographers going around the country and taking images of people from all walks of life, but in most of cases it is only the negatives side of the country that is being highlighted.
“That is why I have told myself that my mission is to tell the world that the Philippines is a nice place to stay and we have lots of things to offer,” he stressed.
Tapan lauded the effort of those behind the Espejo magazine.
“This magazine will not just show the beauty of your region but this will connect people from all class,” he said.
“This magazine will show things that are not yet known to others, inform them and educate them about your region,” he added.
“I have been to this region several times, but now I can say that there are lots of places and things that I need to explores in your place,” he stressed.(ROEL AMAZONA)TACLOBAN CITY – Promoting the country’s tourism potential should not be a lone job of the government, but a collaborative effort of all citizens in this country.Thus said George Tapan, one of the country’s notable prolific travel photographer who was in the city for the launching of Espejo magazine, a travel and information magazine for the region.
Tapan’s works have been published in various prestigious industry publications both in the country and abroad like Time magazine, Department of Tourism, and Department of Natural Resources and for Ayala Foundation.
Tapan also garnered several awards including the 1990 Best Travel Photo Award for the Asian Tourism Association and the 1990 Gold Grand Award for the Pacific Asia Travel Association, Department of Tourism, and 1999 Kalakbay Award- Travel Photography of the Year and the Grand Award-Philippines Rediscovered Paradise of the Northwest Airlines.
Talking to guests and audiences in the launching of Espejo magazine at the activity area of Robinson’s Place, Tapan stressed the importance of being united in promoting our country’s potential to become a haven of tourists as our country has more to offer than our neighboring Asian countries.
“What we only need is to work together not individually when we are going to promote tourism,” Tapan said.
As a photographer, Tapan revealed that he had been in different parts of the country and met tourists from all over the world visiting and some had decided to stay in the country.
“They have chosen to stay because they see that our country is a nice place to live in,” he said.
Tapan added that he is also aware that there are photographers going around the country and taking images of people from all walks of life, but in most of cases it is only the negatives side of the country that is being highlighted.
“That is why I have told myself that my mission is to tell the world that the Philippines is a nice place to stay and we have lots of things to offer,” he stressed.
Tapan lauded the effort of those behind the Espejo magazine.
“This magazine will not just show the beauty of your region but this will connect people from all class,” he said.
“This magazine will show things that are not yet known to others, inform them and educate them about your region,” he added.
“I have been to this region several times, but now I can say that there are lots of places and things that I need to explores in your place,” he stressed.
PRC Leyte Chapter collects 818 blood units from January-July 2011
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Red Cross-Leyte Chapter announces that they were able to collect a total of 818 blood units during the month of January until the month of July from the various mass blood-letting that they conducted as supported by various organizations like the Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, TOMECO and others.
Last year, the PRC-Leyte Chapter was able to collect a total of 1,059 blood units out of the targetted 1,500 blood units to be collected every year.
Out of 1,059 collected blood units last year, 634 blood units were from first time blood donors.
However, even the said collected blood last year did not reach their target collection, said amount of blood is still sufficient to the needs of the province.
“We only collect blood that is sufficient to the needs in this province because we don’t want that what we had collected would be wasted,” said Marcela Pagasartonga, PRC-Leyte Chapter administrator.
Pagasartonga added that all collected blood by their agency undergoes strict screening to know if they are contaminated with various diseases.
Among the diseases that can be accumulated through blood transfusion are malaria, hepatitis B and C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis.
“That is why when we have walk in blood donors we asked them to undergo strict screening,” said Dr. Michieko Malou Modesto of PRC-Leyte Chapter.
“They need to answer questions honestly because if we test the blood and found it positive with contamination, we will quarantine it immediately,” she added.
The PRC officials, however, stressed that ever since they conducted mass blood donation and since the report of having HIV positive patient in the country in the mid-80s the region remains negative from such contamination.
Leyte “remains negative with blood contaminated with HIV,” Pagasartonga stressed.
Last year, the PRC-Leyte Chapter was able to collect a total of 1,059 blood units out of the targetted 1,500 blood units to be collected every year.
Out of 1,059 collected blood units last year, 634 blood units were from first time blood donors.
However, even the said collected blood last year did not reach their target collection, said amount of blood is still sufficient to the needs of the province.
“We only collect blood that is sufficient to the needs in this province because we don’t want that what we had collected would be wasted,” said Marcela Pagasartonga, PRC-Leyte Chapter administrator.
Pagasartonga added that all collected blood by their agency undergoes strict screening to know if they are contaminated with various diseases.
Among the diseases that can be accumulated through blood transfusion are malaria, hepatitis B and C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis.
“That is why when we have walk in blood donors we asked them to undergo strict screening,” said Dr. Michieko Malou Modesto of PRC-Leyte Chapter.
“They need to answer questions honestly because if we test the blood and found it positive with contamination, we will quarantine it immediately,” she added.
The PRC officials, however, stressed that ever since they conducted mass blood donation and since the report of having HIV positive patient in the country in the mid-80s the region remains negative from such contamination.
Leyte “remains negative with blood contaminated with HIV,” Pagasartonga stressed.
Communities have final decision on allowing mining operations
TACLOBAN CITY – “I am not totally opposing it,” An Waray Representative Florencio “Bem” Noel said when asked on what is his stand on the application for mining operations in the region.
Although he does not oppose to any mining operations, Noel stressed that the government including the community should be vigilant and regularly check whether mining companies are following the pertinent provisions of the law that allows them to conduct their operations and whether they are doing responsible mining.
Noel pointed out the concern that Samar residents are showing when it comes to mining operations.
“If we visit Samar Island and we talk about mining, they are really opposed to it,” said Noel.
Mining operations in Samar concentrates in the province of Eastern Samar where the islands of Homonhon and Manicani, both in Guiuan, are among the areas where mining operations exists.
In the two islands, Manicani mining operations, which is under the Nickel Asia Corporation, is currently in the stage of rehabilitation process as NAC is still waiting for the mining permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Their application for resumption of operation is supported by a resolution from the residents and officials from the four barangays located in said island and by the PAMB, while mining operation in the island of Homonhon has an on-going case in court against the provincial government of Eastern Samar.
Aside from said locations, there are also mining operations in said province but classified as small-scale-mining operations like in the municipality of Salcedo.
Here in Leyte, a number of mining exploration applications were also submitted to the office of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau by different mining companies planning to conduct mineral explorations.
Mostly, black sand or magnetite sand was the main subject of applications for exploration permits.
Last year, the MGB regional office had a rift with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan due to cases of mining permit applications approved by the MGB as said agency has failed to conduct prior consultation with the members of the provincial board before they issued such permit.
The Nicua Mining Corporation operating in the municipality of Macarthur was the most controversial case, where said company was able to conduct full-blown mining operation without securing a resolution interposing no objection from the members of the provincial board.
Due to said problem, the members of the provincial had passed a resolution banning off-shore mining operations in the territorial jurisdiction of the province of Leyte.
At present, there are still application by mining companies to operate in the provice of Leyte but said appliation are more on mineral explorations.
“I the application is only for exploration, may be we should allow them, granting that his activity will not damage our environment,” said Noel.
However, Noel stressed that even if the local officials in their locality and in the province are not opposing mineral explorations or mining operations, the decision of the affected people should rule.
“In the end, it is still the community who will decide whether they will allow these companies to operate in their area,” Noel said.
“If during consultation, people are opposed to mining operations, their decision should prevail,” he stressed.
Although he does not oppose to any mining operations, Noel stressed that the government including the community should be vigilant and regularly check whether mining companies are following the pertinent provisions of the law that allows them to conduct their operations and whether they are doing responsible mining.
Noel pointed out the concern that Samar residents are showing when it comes to mining operations.
“If we visit Samar Island and we talk about mining, they are really opposed to it,” said Noel.
Mining operations in Samar concentrates in the province of Eastern Samar where the islands of Homonhon and Manicani, both in Guiuan, are among the areas where mining operations exists.
In the two islands, Manicani mining operations, which is under the Nickel Asia Corporation, is currently in the stage of rehabilitation process as NAC is still waiting for the mining permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Their application for resumption of operation is supported by a resolution from the residents and officials from the four barangays located in said island and by the PAMB, while mining operation in the island of Homonhon has an on-going case in court against the provincial government of Eastern Samar.
Aside from said locations, there are also mining operations in said province but classified as small-scale-mining operations like in the municipality of Salcedo.
Here in Leyte, a number of mining exploration applications were also submitted to the office of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau by different mining companies planning to conduct mineral explorations.
Mostly, black sand or magnetite sand was the main subject of applications for exploration permits.
Last year, the MGB regional office had a rift with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan due to cases of mining permit applications approved by the MGB as said agency has failed to conduct prior consultation with the members of the provincial board before they issued such permit.
The Nicua Mining Corporation operating in the municipality of Macarthur was the most controversial case, where said company was able to conduct full-blown mining operation without securing a resolution interposing no objection from the members of the provincial board.
Due to said problem, the members of the provincial had passed a resolution banning off-shore mining operations in the territorial jurisdiction of the province of Leyte.
At present, there are still application by mining companies to operate in the provice of Leyte but said appliation are more on mineral explorations.
“I the application is only for exploration, may be we should allow them, granting that his activity will not damage our environment,” said Noel.
However, Noel stressed that even if the local officials in their locality and in the province are not opposing mineral explorations or mining operations, the decision of the affected people should rule.
“In the end, it is still the community who will decide whether they will allow these companies to operate in their area,” Noel said.
“If during consultation, people are opposed to mining operations, their decision should prevail,” he stressed.
Media practitioners to undergo first aid workshop
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine National Red Cross together with the Philippine Information Agency and partner agencies like the Kapisanan ng mga Broadcasters sa Pilipinas are set to organize a workshop on various principles and practices for first-aid application among government and private media practitioners this Saturday at the SMED Center, Leyte Capitol Ground, according to Marcela Pagasartonga, PNRC Leyte Chapter Administrator.
The first-aid workshop for media practitioners on Saturday is in line with the celebration for the World First Aid Day which is being observed on the same day with theme “First Aid for All” that aims to highlight the importance and public awareness on how to apply first aid.
According to Pagasartonga, the knowledge that media practitioners will gain from the said workshop will allow them to act and prevent lose of life in cases of emergencies.
“It is important to have knowledge on first aid application and first aid kit because they enable someone who is injured to be quickly treated with basic first aid before they can be properly treated at the local hospital,” Pagasartonga said in a media briefing.
“Therefore, it is important that in an emergency situation, it is recommended that someone knows where the nearest first aid kit is located and how to use the contents within it,” she added.
Meanwhile, PIA Director Olive Tiu welcomed said activity as most often, reporters are among the first to get into the scene of a disaster where if they are equip with the necessary knowledge and skills on providing first-aid application, they would be in a better position to provide such assistance.
Tiu added that aside from the knowledge and training gained from said activity, it will also provide confidence to media practitioners to act immediately when their help is needed in times of emergency.
The first-aid workshop for media practitioners on Saturday is in line with the celebration for the World First Aid Day which is being observed on the same day with theme “First Aid for All” that aims to highlight the importance and public awareness on how to apply first aid.
According to Pagasartonga, the knowledge that media practitioners will gain from the said workshop will allow them to act and prevent lose of life in cases of emergencies.
“It is important to have knowledge on first aid application and first aid kit because they enable someone who is injured to be quickly treated with basic first aid before they can be properly treated at the local hospital,” Pagasartonga said in a media briefing.
“Therefore, it is important that in an emergency situation, it is recommended that someone knows where the nearest first aid kit is located and how to use the contents within it,” she added.
Meanwhile, PIA Director Olive Tiu welcomed said activity as most often, reporters are among the first to get into the scene of a disaster where if they are equip with the necessary knowledge and skills on providing first-aid application, they would be in a better position to provide such assistance.
Tiu added that aside from the knowledge and training gained from said activity, it will also provide confidence to media practitioners to act immediately when their help is needed in times of emergency.
Leyte SP approves ordinance on PWDs
TACLOBAN CITY – An ordinance that recognizes importance of person with disabilities (PWDs) in Leyte was approved by the members of the provincial board during their recent regular session.
The measure titled as “Ordinance declaring the month of July of every year as the person with disability month of the province of Leyte,” aims to institutionalize the observance of PWD month in the province and makes its observance locally initiated.
The ordinance’principal author Board Member Roque Tiu said that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan said that the measure is reflective of the plight of PWDs and consider it imperative to conduct a province-wide and month-long activities that will promote the genuine and full enjoyment of the rights of persons with disabilities, respect for their inherent dignity, suppression of discrimination, recognition of their vital role and contributions in society, good health, and sense of belonging with their fellow Leyteños.
This ordinance was lauded by various national government line agencies in the region in the consultative meeting headed by the committee chair of social services, Board Member Deborah Bertulfo, where the Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development suggested for the provincial government to create a Person with Disability Office that will help the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in dealing with various problems of PWDs and on program implementations.
DSWD Regional Director Letecia Diokno also promised to encourage other LGUs in the region to adopt similar ordinance for the benefit of their PWD constituents.
Tiu said that Leyte PWDs have rights and fundamental freedom and their full participation in activities of the province will result in their enhanced sense of belonging and significant advances in human, social and economic development of society and the eradication of poverty.
Tiu also cited Republic Act No. 7277, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability, which imposes upon the State as its duty to “advocate for and encourage respect for persons with disability” and “exert all efforts to remove all social, cultural, economic, environmental and attitudinal barriers that are prejudicial to persons with disability.”
The ordinance also calls for the PSWDO, in coordination with other government agencies, to initiate the planning and to facilitate the implementation of province-wide and month-long advocacy projects and various related activities that will showcase the reflective concern of the provincial government for the welfare of persons with disabilities.
It also provides that PSWDO shall focus on activities that will promote among others, the human, the fundamental rights of PWDs; respect for inherent dignity of PWDs; suppression of discrimination on account of disability; recognition of the vital role and contributions of PWDs in the society; health services or medical missions; and activities that will enhance the full and effective involvement of PWDs in socio-economic undertakings on equal basis with others.
The measure titled as “Ordinance declaring the month of July of every year as the person with disability month of the province of Leyte,” aims to institutionalize the observance of PWD month in the province and makes its observance locally initiated.
The ordinance’principal author Board Member Roque Tiu said that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan said that the measure is reflective of the plight of PWDs and consider it imperative to conduct a province-wide and month-long activities that will promote the genuine and full enjoyment of the rights of persons with disabilities, respect for their inherent dignity, suppression of discrimination, recognition of their vital role and contributions in society, good health, and sense of belonging with their fellow Leyteños.
This ordinance was lauded by various national government line agencies in the region in the consultative meeting headed by the committee chair of social services, Board Member Deborah Bertulfo, where the Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development suggested for the provincial government to create a Person with Disability Office that will help the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in dealing with various problems of PWDs and on program implementations.
DSWD Regional Director Letecia Diokno also promised to encourage other LGUs in the region to adopt similar ordinance for the benefit of their PWD constituents.
Tiu said that Leyte PWDs have rights and fundamental freedom and their full participation in activities of the province will result in their enhanced sense of belonging and significant advances in human, social and economic development of society and the eradication of poverty.
Tiu also cited Republic Act No. 7277, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability, which imposes upon the State as its duty to “advocate for and encourage respect for persons with disability” and “exert all efforts to remove all social, cultural, economic, environmental and attitudinal barriers that are prejudicial to persons with disability.”
The ordinance also calls for the PSWDO, in coordination with other government agencies, to initiate the planning and to facilitate the implementation of province-wide and month-long advocacy projects and various related activities that will showcase the reflective concern of the provincial government for the welfare of persons with disabilities.
It also provides that PSWDO shall focus on activities that will promote among others, the human, the fundamental rights of PWDs; respect for inherent dignity of PWDs; suppression of discrimination on account of disability; recognition of the vital role and contributions of PWDs in the society; health services or medical missions; and activities that will enhance the full and effective involvement of PWDs in socio-economic undertakings on equal basis with others.
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