Congratulations to Tanauanos who lord the 10th National Skimboarding Competition held at shoreline of Bantay-Dagat Tanauan, Leyte (December 27-30, 2011).
Winners are:
Groumet Category
1st Mebul Pingol -Tanauan
2nd Jake Cartalla - Palo, Leyte
3rd Joe Cris Lago - Tacloban City
4th Dexter Oquinas - Baybay City
Wahini Category
1st Inday Ibañez - Tanauan
2nd Sikay Ayes - Tacloban City
3rd Janice Tapdasan - Cebu
4th Clau Las Piñas - Cebu
Open Category
1st Brando Espada - Tanauan
2nd Dariel Espada - Tanauan
3rd Obet Yanuario - Tanauan
4th Rioben Vivero - Tanauan
(This 10th Skimboarding competition is the fifth championship award for the 14 year old Inday Ibañez for skimboarding competition in Wahini Category.
Brando Espada is among the top skimboarders in the country who had been representing us (along with Obet Yanuario and Leo Espada) in various international skimboarding competition)
participants for this year comes from Guimaras Island, Cebu, Talisay, Toledo, Cavite, Baybay City, Borongan City, Tacloban City, Catarman, Samar Province, Tolosa, Tanauan and Palo.
Friday, December 30, 2011
DOH-8 reiterates warning against the use of firecrackers
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Health in this region has reiterated its warning to the people not to use firecrackers in celebrating New Year’s Eve.
This was made through Iwas-Paputok coordinator Josephine Ariza in the weekly press forum Express it at the Park on Saturday.
Ariza told media practitioners that there was a change in this year’s slogan of the health agency.
Instead of Iwas-Paputok, the health agency is now using APIR or Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction that also aims to reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by firecrackers/fireworks, to include indiscriminate firing of gun, firecracker ingestion, and firecracker related non-neonatal tetanus.
Based on the record of DOH last year, a total of 49 individuals in the region were injured due to firecracker related accidents, with two of them getting amputated.
The number of victims in 2010 is slightly lower than the 59 cases of firecracker related accidents cases, according to Ariza.
Ariza added that establishing a common firecracker area is one of the best way to mitigate accidents this holiday season, to include having a community fireworks display.
Moreover, that traditional “lantaka,” according to Ariza, is also not advisable to be used this holiday season as it uses chemical that is harmful not just to human health but also to the environment.
She advised the use of “torotot” as it is more affordable and safer but cautioned parents to check first the “torotot” and not to let young children use it.
This was made through Iwas-Paputok coordinator Josephine Ariza in the weekly press forum Express it at the Park on Saturday.
Ariza told media practitioners that there was a change in this year’s slogan of the health agency.
Instead of Iwas-Paputok, the health agency is now using APIR or Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction that also aims to reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by firecrackers/fireworks, to include indiscriminate firing of gun, firecracker ingestion, and firecracker related non-neonatal tetanus.
Based on the record of DOH last year, a total of 49 individuals in the region were injured due to firecracker related accidents, with two of them getting amputated.
The number of victims in 2010 is slightly lower than the 59 cases of firecracker related accidents cases, according to Ariza.
Ariza added that establishing a common firecracker area is one of the best way to mitigate accidents this holiday season, to include having a community fireworks display.
Moreover, that traditional “lantaka,” according to Ariza, is also not advisable to be used this holiday season as it uses chemical that is harmful not just to human health but also to the environment.
She advised the use of “torotot” as it is more affordable and safer but cautioned parents to check first the “torotot” and not to let young children use it.
Public urged to avoid the use of firecrackers
TACLOBAN CITY – The Office of Civil Defense has urged residents in this region to avoid using firecrackers in celebrating the holiday season to avoid accidents. This is also in response to the call of the Department of Health.
OCD Regional Director Rey Gozon said that aside from calamities and disasters, their office are also in alert status during this holiday season as people are in festive mood, celebrating Christmas and the New Year by using firecrackers as one of the traditions that had long been practiced.
However, although it is part of our tradition, Gozon said that using said materials1 in celebrating the holidays should be minimized if not totally stopped to prevent injuries and to protect human health.
“If we cannot avoid it, officials in the barangay must identify a common firecracker zone area,” said Gozon.
“In this way, we can supervise carefully the uses of firecrackers and we may also prevent accidents and injuries,” Gozon said.
He added that instead of using money to buy firecrackers, their money should be saved or rather use it to buy foods.
The same was also asked by Tacloban City Police Chief Superintendent Wilson Caubat.
Caubat stressed that using firecrackers during Yuletide celebration should now be avoided due to injuries it causes especially to children who are more vulnerable to firecracker-related injuries.
As part of their campaign to limit or avoid firecracker related accidents, Caubat said that they had started campaigning and inspecting all stores that sell firecrackers and if they see illegal or prohibited firecrackers being sold, they will immediately confiscate it.
Caubat then asked members of the police force and from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and gun owners to be responsible citizens this holiday season by not using their service firearms or their guns in celebrating Christmas and the New Year.
“If they will be caught or if they are proven to have used their guns in celebrating Christmas and the New Year, those who are in service will face administrative sanction aside from charges and dismissal from service, while civilians will charged in court,” Caubat said.
Caubat added that instead of using their guns, servicemen and gun holders must celebrate the holiday in a way that no one will be hurt.
OCD Regional Director Rey Gozon said that aside from calamities and disasters, their office are also in alert status during this holiday season as people are in festive mood, celebrating Christmas and the New Year by using firecrackers as one of the traditions that had long been practiced.
However, although it is part of our tradition, Gozon said that using said materials1 in celebrating the holidays should be minimized if not totally stopped to prevent injuries and to protect human health.
“If we cannot avoid it, officials in the barangay must identify a common firecracker zone area,” said Gozon.
“In this way, we can supervise carefully the uses of firecrackers and we may also prevent accidents and injuries,” Gozon said.
He added that instead of using money to buy firecrackers, their money should be saved or rather use it to buy foods.
The same was also asked by Tacloban City Police Chief Superintendent Wilson Caubat.
Caubat stressed that using firecrackers during Yuletide celebration should now be avoided due to injuries it causes especially to children who are more vulnerable to firecracker-related injuries.
As part of their campaign to limit or avoid firecracker related accidents, Caubat said that they had started campaigning and inspecting all stores that sell firecrackers and if they see illegal or prohibited firecrackers being sold, they will immediately confiscate it.
Caubat then asked members of the police force and from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and gun owners to be responsible citizens this holiday season by not using their service firearms or their guns in celebrating Christmas and the New Year.
“If they will be caught or if they are proven to have used their guns in celebrating Christmas and the New Year, those who are in service will face administrative sanction aside from charges and dismissal from service, while civilians will charged in court,” Caubat said.
Caubat added that instead of using their guns, servicemen and gun holders must celebrate the holiday in a way that no one will be hurt.
Media practitioners given recognition for their works
TACLOBAN CITY – Four years after it was launched, the Express It At the Park Media Awards has already made its mark on media practitioners in the region.
EIATP Media Awards is the only award giving body in the region, giving recognition to media practitioners and at the same time allowing them to mingle and have time with each other despite their hectic work and schedule.
For this year’s media awards, the organizers chose the theme “Amaya,” inspired by the first tele-epic production of Kapuso Network.
These year’s winners in print category: Best News Writer was Medora Nimfa Quirante of Gahum Weekly; Best Feature News Writer Vicente “Ven” Labro of Leyte Samar Daily Express; and Best Press Photojournalist, Henry Gadaingan of Eastern Visayas Probe.
The television category winners were: Best News Reporter – Jenette Fariola-Ruedas of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban; Best News Anchor – Clifford Nolido of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban; and Best TV Cameraman – Jayson Rey Pabua of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban.
Winners for the radio category were; Best Commentator – Ronald Viñas of DyVL (Aksyon Radyo); Best Radio Newscaster – Luzvi Rimandiman of Bombo Radyo Tacloban; and Best Radio News Reporter — Reyan Arinto of DyVL (Aksyon Radyo).
Recently, Arinto was also given recognition in the national scene for his reportage on ethnic community in Tacloban City.
For this year’s media personality award, Ranulfo Docdocan of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban was chosen by his colleagues to be given the said recognition.
Docdocan’s segment in TV Patrol Tacloban, Hoy Gising, had made him a household name and as a “big brother” for those in dire needs or those wanting of government services.
Sid Lazada-Palaña of DyVL(Aksyon Radyo) was given citation for his contribution as Entertainment News Reporter and Ryan Gabriel “Rani” Arcenas also of Aksyon Radyo DyVL was given citation for his reportage on Agri News.
Aside from media practitioners, individuals or organizations that made it to headlines this year were also recognized. They were Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez; Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla; An Waray party-list Rep.Florencio “Bem” Noel; and Councilor Cristina Romualdez.
Aside from being named as the News Maker of the Year, Rep.Noel was also cited as the Darling of the Press, for being approachable for interviews and as a “media sensitive individual” who is always ready to support the media in their endeavors.
Special awards were also given such as Star of the Night for those who attended wearing their Amaya- inspired costumes. Eden-Benusa Reyes of Gahum Weekly was chosen as the Female Star of the Night while Ven Labro was the Male Star of the night and PRTV-12 Tacloban was recognized as media outfit with the most number of participants.
Gracing the awards nights were Leyte Vice-Governor Mimiette Bagulaya, Councilor Romualdez, PDEA Regional Director Julius Navales, DILG Regional Director Pedro Noval, and Tacloban City Police Director Wilson Caubat, among others.
Judges of this year’s media awards were Cleofe Luanco-Lajada of the Leyte Normal University, Aurora Casimpan of the Philippine Information Agency, Fr. Amadeo Alvero of Sto. Niño Parish and Joey Reyna of Studio One.
A total of 55 entries from various categories competed in this year’s media awards, making it the most number of entries since it started four years ago.
Sponsors for this year’s media awards were Reps.Neil Montejo and Noel of An Waray Party-list, Paul Clarence Oaminal, Board Member Anlie Apostol, Councilor Romualdez,Babes Costudio, DyVL station manager, and Mr. and Mrs. Dalmacio Grafil and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Regional Office VIII.
EIATP Media Awards is the only award giving body in the region, giving recognition to media practitioners and at the same time allowing them to mingle and have time with each other despite their hectic work and schedule.
For this year’s media awards, the organizers chose the theme “Amaya,” inspired by the first tele-epic production of Kapuso Network.
These year’s winners in print category: Best News Writer was Medora Nimfa Quirante of Gahum Weekly; Best Feature News Writer Vicente “Ven” Labro of Leyte Samar Daily Express; and Best Press Photojournalist, Henry Gadaingan of Eastern Visayas Probe.
The television category winners were: Best News Reporter – Jenette Fariola-Ruedas of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban; Best News Anchor – Clifford Nolido of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban; and Best TV Cameraman – Jayson Rey Pabua of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban.
Winners for the radio category were; Best Commentator – Ronald Viñas of DyVL (Aksyon Radyo); Best Radio Newscaster – Luzvi Rimandiman of Bombo Radyo Tacloban; and Best Radio News Reporter — Reyan Arinto of DyVL (Aksyon Radyo).
Recently, Arinto was also given recognition in the national scene for his reportage on ethnic community in Tacloban City.
For this year’s media personality award, Ranulfo Docdocan of ABS-CBN TV Patrol Tacloban was chosen by his colleagues to be given the said recognition.
Docdocan’s segment in TV Patrol Tacloban, Hoy Gising, had made him a household name and as a “big brother” for those in dire needs or those wanting of government services.
Sid Lazada-Palaña of DyVL(Aksyon Radyo) was given citation for his contribution as Entertainment News Reporter and Ryan Gabriel “Rani” Arcenas also of Aksyon Radyo DyVL was given citation for his reportage on Agri News.
Aside from media practitioners, individuals or organizations that made it to headlines this year were also recognized. They were Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez; Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla; An Waray party-list Rep.Florencio “Bem” Noel; and Councilor Cristina Romualdez.
Aside from being named as the News Maker of the Year, Rep.Noel was also cited as the Darling of the Press, for being approachable for interviews and as a “media sensitive individual” who is always ready to support the media in their endeavors.
Special awards were also given such as Star of the Night for those who attended wearing their Amaya- inspired costumes. Eden-Benusa Reyes of Gahum Weekly was chosen as the Female Star of the Night while Ven Labro was the Male Star of the night and PRTV-12 Tacloban was recognized as media outfit with the most number of participants.
Gracing the awards nights were Leyte Vice-Governor Mimiette Bagulaya, Councilor Romualdez, PDEA Regional Director Julius Navales, DILG Regional Director Pedro Noval, and Tacloban City Police Director Wilson Caubat, among others.
Judges of this year’s media awards were Cleofe Luanco-Lajada of the Leyte Normal University, Aurora Casimpan of the Philippine Information Agency, Fr. Amadeo Alvero of Sto. Niño Parish and Joey Reyna of Studio One.
A total of 55 entries from various categories competed in this year’s media awards, making it the most number of entries since it started four years ago.
Sponsors for this year’s media awards were Reps.Neil Montejo and Noel of An Waray Party-list, Paul Clarence Oaminal, Board Member Anlie Apostol, Councilor Romualdez,Babes Costudio, DyVL station manager, and Mr. and Mrs. Dalmacio Grafil and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Regional Office VIII.
Move to create new province opposed
TACLOBAN CITY – “We oppose the move to create a new province because it would only mean the decrease of IRA (internal revenue allotment) not just for the province but for other provinces as well.”
This was the reaction of the Leyte fith district Board Member Carlo Loreto when he was asked why they supported the resolution of Surigao province opposing the creation of a new province in Bicol Region.
IRA allocation for every local government unit, according to Loreto, is not enough to support all projects and programs of each LGU particularly in delivering basic social services.
“This strategy of creating new provinces is not good particularly in stimulating for development if it will only be focused in one area like Bicol,” Loreto explained.
Nueva Camarines is a creation of House Bill 4728 and its amended final version, HB 4820, is authored by Deputy Speaker Arnulfo Fuentebella, who represents the 4th district of Camarines Sur.
At present the bill is pending at the committee on local government under the chairmanship of Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Said bill seek for better development particularly in the northern part of the province of Camarines Sur under the Partido Development Administration and will cover the city of Iriga , the municipalities of Baao, Balatan, Bato, Bula, Nabua, Caramoan, Garchitorena, Goa, Lagonoy, Presentacion, Sagnay, San Jose , Siruma, Tigaon and Tinambac
However, this bill which is already approved by Congress with 299 votes is being opposed by several groups such as the leaders of the Camarines Sur chapters of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines , Philippine Councilors League, Liga ng mga Barangay and Camarines Sur 5th District Rep. Salvio Fortuno.
Said officials alleged that the creation of a new province was to accommodate the plan of Fuentebella to run as governor in the election.
Other groups who oppose the creation of the new province and had ask Senate to set aside the consideration of said bill were Sangguniang Panlalawigans of Mountain Province and Surigao and the Vice-Governors League of the Philippines, which they called on the Senate to dump House Bill 4728.
Main reason of why they oppose was it will reduce the IRA due to equal sharing affecting the delivery of basic services.
Problem of reduction of IRA share is currently being experienced by cities in the country after 16 new cities were conferred by the Supreme Court.
To recall, Samar 1st district Representative Mel Senen Sarmiento had also planned to create a new province in Samar.
However, this plan did not push through due to opposition of some sectors and a minimal support from other local officials.
This was the reaction of the Leyte fith district Board Member Carlo Loreto when he was asked why they supported the resolution of Surigao province opposing the creation of a new province in Bicol Region.
IRA allocation for every local government unit, according to Loreto, is not enough to support all projects and programs of each LGU particularly in delivering basic social services.
“This strategy of creating new provinces is not good particularly in stimulating for development if it will only be focused in one area like Bicol,” Loreto explained.
Nueva Camarines is a creation of House Bill 4728 and its amended final version, HB 4820, is authored by Deputy Speaker Arnulfo Fuentebella, who represents the 4th district of Camarines Sur.
At present the bill is pending at the committee on local government under the chairmanship of Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Said bill seek for better development particularly in the northern part of the province of Camarines Sur under the Partido Development Administration and will cover the city of Iriga , the municipalities of Baao, Balatan, Bato, Bula, Nabua, Caramoan, Garchitorena, Goa, Lagonoy, Presentacion, Sagnay, San Jose , Siruma, Tigaon and Tinambac
However, this bill which is already approved by Congress with 299 votes is being opposed by several groups such as the leaders of the Camarines Sur chapters of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines , Philippine Councilors League, Liga ng mga Barangay and Camarines Sur 5th District Rep. Salvio Fortuno.
Said officials alleged that the creation of a new province was to accommodate the plan of Fuentebella to run as governor in the election.
Other groups who oppose the creation of the new province and had ask Senate to set aside the consideration of said bill were Sangguniang Panlalawigans of Mountain Province and Surigao and the Vice-Governors League of the Philippines, which they called on the Senate to dump House Bill 4728.
Main reason of why they oppose was it will reduce the IRA due to equal sharing affecting the delivery of basic services.
Problem of reduction of IRA share is currently being experienced by cities in the country after 16 new cities were conferred by the Supreme Court.
To recall, Samar 1st district Representative Mel Senen Sarmiento had also planned to create a new province in Samar.
However, this plan did not push through due to opposition of some sectors and a minimal support from other local officials.
Approval of revised Tacloban property tax ordinance can be questioned, says city dad
TACLOBAN CITY – Although the ordinance for the revision of real property tax for the city was already approved through the votes of the members of the majority bloc, Councilor and minority member Jerry Uy said that its implementation can be questioned due to technicality.
“I object for the reason of constitutionality,” said Councilor Uy in their last session when they tackled the issue during their regular session.
Asked why he is questioning the passage of the ordinance, Uy explained that the process of public hearing as mandated by a memorandum order of the Department of the Interior and Local Government states that public hearing pertaining to tax ordinances should be initiated by the committee on ways and means and this was not followed by the majority members of the city council.
The two public hearing held in the city for the revenue revisions were headed by the Committee on Finance, which is chaired by Councilor Cristina Romualdez.
This, according to Uy, may become ground for those who would want to question the implementation of the revision 9 of the city in court.
“It should be a joint committee but they do it all by themselves,” Uy said.
“Since this is already approved in the Sangguniang, therefore the implementation of this ordinance will push through not unless somebody contest this in court,” he added.
Uy added that increasing tax collection for the city is inevitable as it is the lifeline of government giving income to be used as funding for government projects and delivering basic social services such as health.
He added that the 25% approved increase is lower than the 100% proposed increase by the City Assessor’s Office may also be acceptable by other sector like the business community.
Councilor Jerry Yaokasin, who also objects the passage of the ordinance, said that he stick to their promise when he supported the campaign of HUC status of the city in 2009, that there will be a tax moratorium for five years.
“My position is, a promise is a promise, whether a tax increase is minimal it is still a tax increase, and we’ve promised Taclobanons to have the increase in 2013, therefore we should stick to that promise,” Yaokasin said.
“We just hope that the taxpayers will accept this,” Yaokasin added.
Yaokasin asked the city government to limit their plans of increasing taxes in the city and rather concentrate in enhancing its local economy.
“If our economy is good it will generate more income and more fund,” Yaokasin said, adding that it would also mean more projects can be implemented such as providing additional classrooms.
“I object for the reason of constitutionality,” said Councilor Uy in their last session when they tackled the issue during their regular session.
Asked why he is questioning the passage of the ordinance, Uy explained that the process of public hearing as mandated by a memorandum order of the Department of the Interior and Local Government states that public hearing pertaining to tax ordinances should be initiated by the committee on ways and means and this was not followed by the majority members of the city council.
The two public hearing held in the city for the revenue revisions were headed by the Committee on Finance, which is chaired by Councilor Cristina Romualdez.
This, according to Uy, may become ground for those who would want to question the implementation of the revision 9 of the city in court.
“It should be a joint committee but they do it all by themselves,” Uy said.
“Since this is already approved in the Sangguniang, therefore the implementation of this ordinance will push through not unless somebody contest this in court,” he added.
Uy added that increasing tax collection for the city is inevitable as it is the lifeline of government giving income to be used as funding for government projects and delivering basic social services such as health.
He added that the 25% approved increase is lower than the 100% proposed increase by the City Assessor’s Office may also be acceptable by other sector like the business community.
Councilor Jerry Yaokasin, who also objects the passage of the ordinance, said that he stick to their promise when he supported the campaign of HUC status of the city in 2009, that there will be a tax moratorium for five years.
“My position is, a promise is a promise, whether a tax increase is minimal it is still a tax increase, and we’ve promised Taclobanons to have the increase in 2013, therefore we should stick to that promise,” Yaokasin said.
“We just hope that the taxpayers will accept this,” Yaokasin added.
Yaokasin asked the city government to limit their plans of increasing taxes in the city and rather concentrate in enhancing its local economy.
“If our economy is good it will generate more income and more fund,” Yaokasin said, adding that it would also mean more projects can be implemented such as providing additional classrooms.
Leyte SP commends Arinto
TACLOBAN CITY – Members of the provincial board of Leyte in their last session for this year unanimously approved the resolution commending Leyte Samar Daily Express and Aksyon Radyo–DyVL News Correspondent Reyan Arinto. This, after he received recognition on his news reportage on the plight of indigenous community in Tacloban City.
Arinto is also a correspondent of national daily Businessworld.
Arinto’s broadcast story at Aksyon Radyo DyVL for the project of An Waray party-list through the Sinirangan Visayas Youth Organization and the University of the Philippines Office of Continuing Education – “Project Lapis: Learning for Adult Persons initiative of the SVYO” earned him a spot of the International Labor Organization (ILO) sponsored “Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Kuwentong Katutubo” in partnership with Probe Media Foundation.
Project Lapis is a literacy program of the An Waray party-list, the first ever literacy program for indigenous people in the region that was gladly accepted by the Manobos.
It was launched in September of this year with around 20 members of the indigenous group as beneficiary of the program.
Moreover, Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Kuwentong Katutubo awards aims to recognize program focuses on success stories of indigenous peoples communities or individuals and on how they were able to empower themselves amidst adversities and challenges and that that “journalists have an important role in reaching out to IPs to be able to write positive stories about them other than their being the most disadvantaged sector.”
Just this Saturday at the Express it at the Park 4th Media Awards Arinto for his news reportage at DYVL on the commemoration of Maguindanao Massacre by members of the fourth state in the region also earned him an award as the Best Radio News Reporter.
The resolution for commendation of Arinto was sponsored by Leyte Fifth District Board Member Carlo Loreto and was seconded by all members of the provincial board.
Aside from the commendation of Arinto, An Waray party-list and the University of the Philippines were separately also to be given with resolution of commendation from the provincial board on their effort to uplift the education and knowledge of indigenous people residing in the city of Tacloban.
Arinto is also a correspondent of national daily Businessworld.
Arinto’s broadcast story at Aksyon Radyo DyVL for the project of An Waray party-list through the Sinirangan Visayas Youth Organization and the University of the Philippines Office of Continuing Education – “Project Lapis: Learning for Adult Persons initiative of the SVYO” earned him a spot of the International Labor Organization (ILO) sponsored “Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Kuwentong Katutubo” in partnership with Probe Media Foundation.
Project Lapis is a literacy program of the An Waray party-list, the first ever literacy program for indigenous people in the region that was gladly accepted by the Manobos.
It was launched in September of this year with around 20 members of the indigenous group as beneficiary of the program.
Moreover, Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Kuwentong Katutubo awards aims to recognize program focuses on success stories of indigenous peoples communities or individuals and on how they were able to empower themselves amidst adversities and challenges and that that “journalists have an important role in reaching out to IPs to be able to write positive stories about them other than their being the most disadvantaged sector.”
Just this Saturday at the Express it at the Park 4th Media Awards Arinto for his news reportage at DYVL on the commemoration of Maguindanao Massacre by members of the fourth state in the region also earned him an award as the Best Radio News Reporter.
The resolution for commendation of Arinto was sponsored by Leyte Fifth District Board Member Carlo Loreto and was seconded by all members of the provincial board.
Aside from the commendation of Arinto, An Waray party-list and the University of the Philippines were separately also to be given with resolution of commendation from the provincial board on their effort to uplift the education and knowledge of indigenous people residing in the city of Tacloban.
DoH advises public to watch out ones health during the Holidays
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Health in this region advised the public to watch out on their health this holiday session to prevent lifestyle-related diseases or the non-communicable diseases to have a safe and healthy holiday session, as lifestyle-related diseases are major public health concern that entails lifelong treatment and major lifestyle changes.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are among the leading causes of death that includes diseases of the heart, diseases of the vascular systems, malignant neoplasms, chronic lower respiratory diseases, and diabetes mellitus.
Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and diabetes mellitus, the four major non-communicable diseases in the country are linked by four most common and preventable risk factors related to lifestyle – tobacco use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity and alcohol use.
Hypertension and diabetes prevalence have increased; hypertension from 22% to 25% and diabetes from 3.4% and 4.8%.
To ensure a healthy and stress-free holiday season, there are twelve ways to do, according to DOH.
These are prepare early, avoid the Christmas rush to prevent stress; make sure to give children toys which are safe and appropriate to their age and abilities; buy only legitimate and registered products to ensure safety; prepare healthy food, including vegetables and fruits; make sure that foods to be served are unspoiled and fresh to avoid food poisoning.
Attend every festivity but make sure to eat moderately; avoid fatty and salty foods for a healthy heart; have fun and enjoy the holidays but stay sober and drink moderately. Do not drink and drive; engage in regular exercise like walking, jogging and dancing to keep fit; have enough rest and sleep; avoid accidents due to firecrackers/fireworks; have a safe Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Aside from the DOH, the Philippine National Red Cross also advises the public to watch-out on the food that they eat due to several complications it causes like hypertensions.
PNRC added that with the variety of foods that are eaten during the holiday session it also hamper or causes for the low turn-out of blood donations as would be blood donors must have healthy body before donating blood.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are among the leading causes of death that includes diseases of the heart, diseases of the vascular systems, malignant neoplasms, chronic lower respiratory diseases, and diabetes mellitus.
Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and diabetes mellitus, the four major non-communicable diseases in the country are linked by four most common and preventable risk factors related to lifestyle – tobacco use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity and alcohol use.
Hypertension and diabetes prevalence have increased; hypertension from 22% to 25% and diabetes from 3.4% and 4.8%.
To ensure a healthy and stress-free holiday season, there are twelve ways to do, according to DOH.
These are prepare early, avoid the Christmas rush to prevent stress; make sure to give children toys which are safe and appropriate to their age and abilities; buy only legitimate and registered products to ensure safety; prepare healthy food, including vegetables and fruits; make sure that foods to be served are unspoiled and fresh to avoid food poisoning.
Attend every festivity but make sure to eat moderately; avoid fatty and salty foods for a healthy heart; have fun and enjoy the holidays but stay sober and drink moderately. Do not drink and drive; engage in regular exercise like walking, jogging and dancing to keep fit; have enough rest and sleep; avoid accidents due to firecrackers/fireworks; have a safe Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Aside from the DOH, the Philippine National Red Cross also advises the public to watch-out on the food that they eat due to several complications it causes like hypertensions.
PNRC added that with the variety of foods that are eaten during the holiday session it also hamper or causes for the low turn-out of blood donations as would be blood donors must have healthy body before donating blood.
Councilor Neil Glova urge massage parlors to have their massage therapist acquire license
TACLOBAN CITY – Tacloban City councilor Neil Glova is urging massage parlors in the city to have their massage therapist acquire license.
This is to ensure that provider of massage services are accredited by the appropriate government agency and to ensure that they are doing a legitimate work and not engage in underground or illegal activity like providing extra services.
Glova said that he will be endorsing an ordinance in the city council next year after their holiday recess regarding the matter.
Massage therapy and salon and parlor offering such service is a booming business in the city.
Such business, however, according to Glova, is prone to illegal trade such as prostitution, which is why those who are working should ensure that they have license.
Presidential Decree No. 856 required all massage clinics and parlor to have at least one licensed massage therapist.
This license is to be given or to be certified under Section 62 (a) of PD 856 by Department of Health Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy before they practice their skills.
This is to ensure that provider of massage services are accredited by the appropriate government agency and to ensure that they are doing a legitimate work and not engage in underground or illegal activity like providing extra services.
Glova said that he will be endorsing an ordinance in the city council next year after their holiday recess regarding the matter.
Massage therapy and salon and parlor offering such service is a booming business in the city.
Such business, however, according to Glova, is prone to illegal trade such as prostitution, which is why those who are working should ensure that they have license.
Presidential Decree No. 856 required all massage clinics and parlor to have at least one licensed massage therapist.
This license is to be given or to be certified under Section 62 (a) of PD 856 by Department of Health Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy before they practice their skills.
Illegal drug problem in Leyte still manageable,PDEA says
TACLOBAN CITY – Despite the region’s position as strategic transshipment point, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Director Julius Navales said that the situation of illegal drug problem in the region especially in Leyte is still manageable.
Navales, who was invited by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during their session on Tuesday informed the members of the provincial board that Leyte there are 150 barangays that are “moderately affected” by illegal drugs while 62 barangays are” slightly affected.”
Moderately affected means there is a presence of one illegal drug-pusher while slightly affected is there is no presence of drug pusher.
Navales added that 16 out of 41 municipalities and one city in the province has no anti-illegal drug operation.
According to Navales, it is either the mayor or other local officials that are not cooperating on their operation to stop illegal drugs.
Moreover, Navales urged members of the Philippine National Police to always coordinate with their agency when conducting anti-illegal drug operation.
Failure to get coordination papers from PDEA might result for the dismissal of case filed against person apprehended on anti-illegal drug operation, according to Navales.
Although they had been advocating and continuously informing police operatives in said process, Navales revealed that still they receive few request from law enforcers on request for coordination papers.
Navales added that in 2010, 30 individuals where arrested due to illegal drugs while in 2011 48 were arrested.
Thirty-two cases were filed in court in 2010 while 50 cases were filed in court in 2011.
He added that conviction rate on cases filed against person apprehended due to illegal drugs is very minimal due to technicality of the case filed.
Navales, who was invited by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during their session on Tuesday informed the members of the provincial board that Leyte there are 150 barangays that are “moderately affected” by illegal drugs while 62 barangays are” slightly affected.”
Moderately affected means there is a presence of one illegal drug-pusher while slightly affected is there is no presence of drug pusher.
Navales added that 16 out of 41 municipalities and one city in the province has no anti-illegal drug operation.
According to Navales, it is either the mayor or other local officials that are not cooperating on their operation to stop illegal drugs.
Moreover, Navales urged members of the Philippine National Police to always coordinate with their agency when conducting anti-illegal drug operation.
Failure to get coordination papers from PDEA might result for the dismissal of case filed against person apprehended on anti-illegal drug operation, according to Navales.
Although they had been advocating and continuously informing police operatives in said process, Navales revealed that still they receive few request from law enforcers on request for coordination papers.
Navales added that in 2010, 30 individuals where arrested due to illegal drugs while in 2011 48 were arrested.
Thirty-two cases were filed in court in 2010 while 50 cases were filed in court in 2011.
He added that conviction rate on cases filed against person apprehended due to illegal drugs is very minimal due to technicality of the case filed.
Prov’l gov’t, local officials cited for declaring Leyte ‘insurgency free’
TACLOBAN CITY – The reason why Leyte was declared as “manageable conflict affected area” and ready for development area was due to the effort of the leadership of local officials, particularly the provincial government.
Major General Mario Chan, 8th Infantry Division commanding general, said this statement right after the province of Leyte was declared as manageable conflict-affected and ready for development on Thursday.
The signing of the declaration was done at the provincial capitol with Governor Jericho Petilla, Major General Chan, Colonel John Bonafos, commander of the 802nd Brigade and Brigadier General Alejandro Estomo, deputy commander of Central Command of the AFP together with the provincial board members and mayors in the province of Leyte.
Chan said that in order to attain their objective to make problem of insurgency in the province inconsequential, contribution of officials from different local government units has big part on the campaign.
“Military operation is not the only solution in attaining this level but the participation of local government officials are also one of the basis why Leyte was declared as manageable conflict-affected area,” Chan said.
“Although we asked for two replacements, the higher-ups only provided us with one battalion, but we still managed to provide security for the province of Leyte,” Chan added.
With the declaration of Leyte as manageable conflict-affected area, this would mean a security for the province to invite more investors, according to Governor Petilla.
The declaration would mean that insurgency is not a problem and local governments to included law enforcers have the capability to secure and maintain peace and order.
Biliran and Southern Leyte were earlier declared as insurgency free provinces.
Major General Mario Chan, 8th Infantry Division commanding general, said this statement right after the province of Leyte was declared as manageable conflict-affected and ready for development on Thursday.
The signing of the declaration was done at the provincial capitol with Governor Jericho Petilla, Major General Chan, Colonel John Bonafos, commander of the 802nd Brigade and Brigadier General Alejandro Estomo, deputy commander of Central Command of the AFP together with the provincial board members and mayors in the province of Leyte.
Chan said that in order to attain their objective to make problem of insurgency in the province inconsequential, contribution of officials from different local government units has big part on the campaign.
“Military operation is not the only solution in attaining this level but the participation of local government officials are also one of the basis why Leyte was declared as manageable conflict-affected area,” Chan said.
“Although we asked for two replacements, the higher-ups only provided us with one battalion, but we still managed to provide security for the province of Leyte,” Chan added.
With the declaration of Leyte as manageable conflict-affected area, this would mean a security for the province to invite more investors, according to Governor Petilla.
The declaration would mean that insurgency is not a problem and local governments to included law enforcers have the capability to secure and maintain peace and order.
Biliran and Southern Leyte were earlier declared as insurgency free provinces.
Leyte SP approves strict use of helmets among motorcycle riders
TACLOBAN CITY – The members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte unanimously approved last Tuesday the ordinance that will strictly enforce the use of helmet among motorcycle riders and owners in the province of Leyte.
Ordinance No 2011-07 or The motorcycle ordinance of the Province of Leyte aims to protect and safeguard all Leyteños especially motorcycle riders and drivers and back riders from deadly road mishaps involving motorcycles and other transport vehicles.
Said ordinance was authored by First District Board Member Roque this after he noticed in their last Sesyon sa Bayan held in the municipality of Abuyog that several individuals particularly motorcycle drivers and back riders are not wearing helmet prompting them to be prone to accidents.
Wearing standard protective helmet is mandated and prescribed by Republic Act 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act which is authored by Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla enacted last June 2010 and under Section 5 of the provincial ordinance it states that helmet should be worm properly in order to obtain the level of protection.
Its implementation is also applicable to enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies.
However, in situation where a sick, ailing or dying person is being transported in a motorcycle to the nearest hospital for immediate intervention, or in the performance of a hot pursuit operation by law enforcement officers and while wearing turban or headdress on account of religious belief and affiliation, motorcycle drivers and back drivers are exempted to wear helmets.
The ordinance also mandates the Department of Trade and Industry to conduct regular inspection and monitoring of all establishments engaged in selling and/or dealing of helmets and motorcycles.
Only those helmets with marking or bearing Philippine Standard mark or Import Commodity Clearance of the Bureau of Product Standards are to be sold to person with motorcycle or to those who has yet to purchase a motorcycle.
Local government units are also mandated by the ordinance to conduct massive information campaign within their respective jurisdiction to inform their constituents the existence of the ordinance including informing them of the penalties for violators.
Violators of the Motorcycle Helmet Ordinance of the province are to be fined with P500 for first offence; P2,000 for second offense with an imprisonment for a period of two months; and P5,000 for third offense and an imprisonment of six months.
While for law enforcement officers violating the provisions of the Ordinance will be meted out with administrative sanctions in addition to the fine and imprisonment.
This ordinance is the fourth ordinance that Tiu authored that was passed and approved in the provincial board.
Aside from Tiu, his co-authors are Board Members Carlo Loreto, Florante Cayunda Jr, Rolando Piamonte Sr, Deborah Bertulfo, Ma. Lourdes Go-Soco, Anlie Apostol and Kim Roger Serdoncillo.
Ordinance No 2011-07 or The motorcycle ordinance of the Province of Leyte aims to protect and safeguard all Leyteños especially motorcycle riders and drivers and back riders from deadly road mishaps involving motorcycles and other transport vehicles.
Said ordinance was authored by First District Board Member Roque this after he noticed in their last Sesyon sa Bayan held in the municipality of Abuyog that several individuals particularly motorcycle drivers and back riders are not wearing helmet prompting them to be prone to accidents.
Wearing standard protective helmet is mandated and prescribed by Republic Act 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act which is authored by Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla enacted last June 2010 and under Section 5 of the provincial ordinance it states that helmet should be worm properly in order to obtain the level of protection.
Its implementation is also applicable to enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies.
However, in situation where a sick, ailing or dying person is being transported in a motorcycle to the nearest hospital for immediate intervention, or in the performance of a hot pursuit operation by law enforcement officers and while wearing turban or headdress on account of religious belief and affiliation, motorcycle drivers and back drivers are exempted to wear helmets.
The ordinance also mandates the Department of Trade and Industry to conduct regular inspection and monitoring of all establishments engaged in selling and/or dealing of helmets and motorcycles.
Only those helmets with marking or bearing Philippine Standard mark or Import Commodity Clearance of the Bureau of Product Standards are to be sold to person with motorcycle or to those who has yet to purchase a motorcycle.
Local government units are also mandated by the ordinance to conduct massive information campaign within their respective jurisdiction to inform their constituents the existence of the ordinance including informing them of the penalties for violators.
Violators of the Motorcycle Helmet Ordinance of the province are to be fined with P500 for first offence; P2,000 for second offense with an imprisonment for a period of two months; and P5,000 for third offense and an imprisonment of six months.
While for law enforcement officers violating the provisions of the Ordinance will be meted out with administrative sanctions in addition to the fine and imprisonment.
This ordinance is the fourth ordinance that Tiu authored that was passed and approved in the provincial board.
Aside from Tiu, his co-authors are Board Members Carlo Loreto, Florante Cayunda Jr, Rolando Piamonte Sr, Deborah Bertulfo, Ma. Lourdes Go-Soco, Anlie Apostol and Kim Roger Serdoncillo.
3 robbers arrested in Tacloban
TACLOBAN CITY –An “akbay-bahay” group was arrested by operatives of Tacloban City Police Office Station 1 after they received reports that the group was at Barangay 109-A.
The three suspects were identified as Marvin Abuyabor alias Burdado, Luigi Lacandazo and Arthur Radaza, all jobless and from the municipality of Dulag, were nabbed by police operatives who immediately responded to the report of the robbery incident in said barangay.
Seized from the three suspects were one unit Blackberry phone, two units Nokia 1210, one Nathaniel bag and an XRM motorcycle with plate number 8780HK.
Said motorcycle, according to police operatives, was borrowed by the group from a certain BJ Villegas, also from Dulag.
In the follow-up operation of the Tacloban City law enforcers after coordinating with law enforcers of Dulag to apprehend other suspects, they were able to seize in the hideout of the suspects one unit Nokia N70, two units of laptop computer, one unit Samsung phone, another unit of Nokia phone and a digital camera.
Upon retrieving said robbed items, the police investigators immediately filed a complaint against the suspects at the City Prosecutors Office for the crime of robbery and violation of Batas Pambansa Bilang 6.
City police director Senior Superintendent Wilson Caubat said they are still conducting a follow-up operation as there are still other members of the group that remain at large.
Caubat added that said accomplishment only means that the law enforcers are always on alert and ready to respond on reports of criminal activities done by criminal groups in the city.
He added that as the holiday season is fast approaching, they have instructed their men to always be vigilant and to ensure peace and order at all times.
Caubat then asked the help of barangay officials in safeguarding of the community and identifying criminal elements operating in their area.
The three suspects were identified as Marvin Abuyabor alias Burdado, Luigi Lacandazo and Arthur Radaza, all jobless and from the municipality of Dulag, were nabbed by police operatives who immediately responded to the report of the robbery incident in said barangay.
Seized from the three suspects were one unit Blackberry phone, two units Nokia 1210, one Nathaniel bag and an XRM motorcycle with plate number 8780HK.
Said motorcycle, according to police operatives, was borrowed by the group from a certain BJ Villegas, also from Dulag.
In the follow-up operation of the Tacloban City law enforcers after coordinating with law enforcers of Dulag to apprehend other suspects, they were able to seize in the hideout of the suspects one unit Nokia N70, two units of laptop computer, one unit Samsung phone, another unit of Nokia phone and a digital camera.
Upon retrieving said robbed items, the police investigators immediately filed a complaint against the suspects at the City Prosecutors Office for the crime of robbery and violation of Batas Pambansa Bilang 6.
City police director Senior Superintendent Wilson Caubat said they are still conducting a follow-up operation as there are still other members of the group that remain at large.
Caubat added that said accomplishment only means that the law enforcers are always on alert and ready to respond on reports of criminal activities done by criminal groups in the city.
He added that as the holiday season is fast approaching, they have instructed their men to always be vigilant and to ensure peace and order at all times.
Caubat then asked the help of barangay officials in safeguarding of the community and identifying criminal elements operating in their area.
Rep. Noel to try to transport ‘tuba’ via commercial flight
TACLOBAN CITY – To know if indeed airline companies do not allow transporting of local wine “tuba,” An Waray party-list Representative Florencio “Bem” Noel said that he will try to do it by himself to personally know if indeed bringing “tuba” is indeed prohibited.
“I would like to experience it, and not just rely on what people had told me, ako an magsi-ship,” Noel said.
Noel added that he had already prepared several bottles of tuba which he will give as Christmas present to his fellow congressmen.
“The tuba are with good packaging and wrapped on “bayong” and I will use the plane to transport it,” Noel added.
Transporting tuba via airplane is one of the problems that local producers are complaining as airline companies prohibit them to placed it in their cargo.
Airline companies are not the only one prohibiting the bringing of tuba but there are also reports that hotels also prohibits them to bring said products.
The regional office of the tourism department had also share the same story of tuba producers based on comments they get from personnel of hotels and airline companies.
Tuba is not just popular in this region but also in other parts of Visayas and Mindanao.
As a help to promote this product in the national market, the An Waray party-list group yearly hosts a festival showcasing the variety of uses of tuba, from wine to ingredients in cooking through the Oktubafest during October.
The yearly event does not only aim to promote tuba but also to support the coconut industry, where the region is one of the top coconut producing regions in the country.
“I would like to experience it, and not just rely on what people had told me, ako an magsi-ship,” Noel said.
Noel added that he had already prepared several bottles of tuba which he will give as Christmas present to his fellow congressmen.
“The tuba are with good packaging and wrapped on “bayong” and I will use the plane to transport it,” Noel added.
Transporting tuba via airplane is one of the problems that local producers are complaining as airline companies prohibit them to placed it in their cargo.
Airline companies are not the only one prohibiting the bringing of tuba but there are also reports that hotels also prohibits them to bring said products.
The regional office of the tourism department had also share the same story of tuba producers based on comments they get from personnel of hotels and airline companies.
Tuba is not just popular in this region but also in other parts of Visayas and Mindanao.
As a help to promote this product in the national market, the An Waray party-list group yearly hosts a festival showcasing the variety of uses of tuba, from wine to ingredients in cooking through the Oktubafest during October.
The yearly event does not only aim to promote tuba but also to support the coconut industry, where the region is one of the top coconut producing regions in the country.
Loreto warns people to be vigilant vs groups that use his name in criminal acts
TACLOBAN CITY – Majority Floor Leader of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Atty. Carlo Loreto warns people to be vigilant on groups that uses his name in committing criminal acts.
This appeal was made by Loreto after some law enforcers from Baybay City were victimized by a group where one of its members pretended to be himself even asking a load from the law enforcers.
“If they were able to do this on phone, how much more for us to know if they did something more heinous,” Loreto said.
Scam using mobile phone had already victimized several individuals in the country, using names of several government agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry and mobile line providers.
Criminal syndicates sent text messages to several phone numbers, informing them that they supposedly won a promo.
In order for the supposed winner to receive their prices, they will be required to text back certain personal details such as a home phone number and other personal details and/or prepare a certain amount to be paid as a processing fee.
The mobile phone owners are also asked to send prepaid cell phone load to the supposed promo organizer.
To address this problem, Loreto through a resolution that was approved by members of the provincial board, asked the chairman of the committee on peace and order to look into the matter.
To recall, law enforcers, the National Telecommunication Commission and even mobile line providers had already warned the public over various scams of criminal groups as holiday season is fast-approaching.
Aside from mobile phone scams, people are also warned over syndicated groups like budul-budol gangs who are victimizing innocent people taking away their precious belongings aside from their money.
This appeal was made by Loreto after some law enforcers from Baybay City were victimized by a group where one of its members pretended to be himself even asking a load from the law enforcers.
“If they were able to do this on phone, how much more for us to know if they did something more heinous,” Loreto said.
Scam using mobile phone had already victimized several individuals in the country, using names of several government agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry and mobile line providers.
Criminal syndicates sent text messages to several phone numbers, informing them that they supposedly won a promo.
In order for the supposed winner to receive their prices, they will be required to text back certain personal details such as a home phone number and other personal details and/or prepare a certain amount to be paid as a processing fee.
The mobile phone owners are also asked to send prepaid cell phone load to the supposed promo organizer.
To address this problem, Loreto through a resolution that was approved by members of the provincial board, asked the chairman of the committee on peace and order to look into the matter.
To recall, law enforcers, the National Telecommunication Commission and even mobile line providers had already warned the public over various scams of criminal groups as holiday season is fast-approaching.
Aside from mobile phone scams, people are also warned over syndicated groups like budul-budol gangs who are victimizing innocent people taking away their precious belongings aside from their money.
Prov’l administrator: No information yet if EVSU, CHED have changed contract on use of land inside EVSU campus
TACLOBAN CITY – The administrator of the provincial government of Leyte has no information yet if the management of Eastern Visayas State University(EVSU) and the Commission on Higher Education(CHED) have already changed their usufruct contract with regards to the use of land inside the campus of EVSU.
Administrator Vincent Emnas in an interview said that he has not yet received any communication from EVSU officials if they had already changed the deed of donation which they entered into with the officials of CHED for the construction of a building to be used as the regional office of the education agency.
The information on the construction of a building inside EVSU campus was discovered by the provincial government after officials of the barangay forwarded a copy of a complaint to them, due to violation of the agency that funded the building construction of the process of acquiring permits.
The piece of land which EVSU donated to CHED was donated by the provincial government, a violation to the contract with the provincial government, which even the lawyers of said school had admitted, according to Emnas.
“CHED may construct a building on that land and donate it to EVSU after several years, but there is no way that EVSU will donate that land to CHED because it is prohibited in the contract as stipulated when the provincial government donated that land to the school,” Emnas explained.
“That is a violation to the deed of donation by the province,” Emnas added.
He added that they were only informed about the situation when they received a copy furnished letter of the complaint of the barangay chairman of the barangay where EVSU is located.
“When we learned about it, we immediately called the attention of the EVSU management to withdraw the execution of the deed of donation with CHED,” Emnas said.
“We don’t have problem if they will enter into a contract for as long as the deed of donation will not be violated, but as of right now we have not yet received any update on the matter,” Emnas added.
Administrator Vincent Emnas in an interview said that he has not yet received any communication from EVSU officials if they had already changed the deed of donation which they entered into with the officials of CHED for the construction of a building to be used as the regional office of the education agency.
The information on the construction of a building inside EVSU campus was discovered by the provincial government after officials of the barangay forwarded a copy of a complaint to them, due to violation of the agency that funded the building construction of the process of acquiring permits.
The piece of land which EVSU donated to CHED was donated by the provincial government, a violation to the contract with the provincial government, which even the lawyers of said school had admitted, according to Emnas.
“CHED may construct a building on that land and donate it to EVSU after several years, but there is no way that EVSU will donate that land to CHED because it is prohibited in the contract as stipulated when the provincial government donated that land to the school,” Emnas explained.
“That is a violation to the deed of donation by the province,” Emnas added.
He added that they were only informed about the situation when they received a copy furnished letter of the complaint of the barangay chairman of the barangay where EVSU is located.
“When we learned about it, we immediately called the attention of the EVSU management to withdraw the execution of the deed of donation with CHED,” Emnas said.
“We don’t have problem if they will enter into a contract for as long as the deed of donation will not be violated, but as of right now we have not yet received any update on the matter,” Emnas added.
Samar gov to duplicate Leyte basic health services in her province
TACLOBAN CITY – The best practices of Leyte province in terms of delivering basic health services to the people is what Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan want to replicate in her province.
Conditions of hospitals in Samar province is considered as one of the worst in the region due to absence or lack of equipment, doctors and poor building condition.
Tan, in an interview after her meeting with Leyte Gov.Jericho Petilla, on Tuesday said that among the programs on health services that will be replicated by her administration is to improve the mother and child care and hospital improvement.
Although there is an existing project on rehabilitation of district hospitals, Tan said that on the part of provincial hospital, they are still waiting for the capitation coming from Philhealth which would fund its rehabilitation.
However, although no construction work for additional building is being done, additional equipment were put in place at the Samar Provincial Hospital, Tan said.
Aside from the rehabilitation of district hospitals, she said that they had already forged a tie-up with Sister Eloisa David to address problem on mother and child mortality due to birthing complication by establishing birthing units in every municipality.
David is an official of Kakak Foundation, who had been assisting the provincial government by establishing birthing clinic in the province.
As of July of this year, 23 birthing units had been funded by Kakak Foundation to provide basic health and medical assistance and services to pregnant women and new-born babies.
To address the malnutrition problem in Samar, Tan said that they had been coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development in identifying areas in the province with high malnutrition incidence.
Conditions of hospitals in Samar province is considered as one of the worst in the region due to absence or lack of equipment, doctors and poor building condition.
Tan, in an interview after her meeting with Leyte Gov.Jericho Petilla, on Tuesday said that among the programs on health services that will be replicated by her administration is to improve the mother and child care and hospital improvement.
Although there is an existing project on rehabilitation of district hospitals, Tan said that on the part of provincial hospital, they are still waiting for the capitation coming from Philhealth which would fund its rehabilitation.
However, although no construction work for additional building is being done, additional equipment were put in place at the Samar Provincial Hospital, Tan said.
Aside from the rehabilitation of district hospitals, she said that they had already forged a tie-up with Sister Eloisa David to address problem on mother and child mortality due to birthing complication by establishing birthing units in every municipality.
David is an official of Kakak Foundation, who had been assisting the provincial government by establishing birthing clinic in the province.
As of July of this year, 23 birthing units had been funded by Kakak Foundation to provide basic health and medical assistance and services to pregnant women and new-born babies.
To address the malnutrition problem in Samar, Tan said that they had been coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development in identifying areas in the province with high malnutrition incidence.
Lack of accommodation facilities one reason why tourist arrivals in EV is low
TACLOBAN CITY – The lack of accommodation facilities is one of the reasons why tourist arrivals in the region is still way behind its neighboring islands of Cebu and Bohol.
Accommodation facilities, according to Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Cynthia Nierras, is among those being looked into by tourists when they visit a tourist destination or when they visit a place for a vacation.
“No matter how good our tourism sites are if there is not enough accommodation facility or we lack of tourism facility, they (tourist) will not come back,” Nierras said.
Aside from having an accommodation facility, Nierras stressed that services of those facilities must also be improved to encourage tourists to visit more often.
Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla made the same sentiment with Nierras during the recent Provincial Development Council meeting of the province.
Petilla, talking with different local chief executives in the province, underscored the importance of having hotels and other accommodation facilities that will house tourists each time they visit the province.
Although there are lots of accommodation facilities available in Leyte, Petilla emphasized the needs of a hotel that can compete with first class hotels in other regions.
“We need to have a hotel that we can compare with other hotels in other regions,” said Petilla.
“And I am glad right now that the renovation of MacArthur Park is about to be finished and they will start its operation this December,” he added.
Petilla said that with the opening of the newly-renovated MacArthur Park Hotel, now called Leyte Oriental Hotel, would draw more tourists to the province.
Lack of accommodation facilities is also the problem of Guiuan, the tourism capital of Eastern Samar province, according to Mayor Annaliz Kwan.
Guiuan, famed with its white sand beaches, draws hundreds of tourists yearly, particularly during big events, reason why additional accommodation facilities is needed in said town, according to Kwan.
This problem is being addressed by one of the providers of accommodation facility, the Calicoan Surf Camp, where they purchased container vans and converted them into a room type structures equipped with air-conditioning units and amenities found in regular hotels.
Accommodation facilities, according to Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Cynthia Nierras, is among those being looked into by tourists when they visit a tourist destination or when they visit a place for a vacation.
“No matter how good our tourism sites are if there is not enough accommodation facility or we lack of tourism facility, they (tourist) will not come back,” Nierras said.
Aside from having an accommodation facility, Nierras stressed that services of those facilities must also be improved to encourage tourists to visit more often.
Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla made the same sentiment with Nierras during the recent Provincial Development Council meeting of the province.
Petilla, talking with different local chief executives in the province, underscored the importance of having hotels and other accommodation facilities that will house tourists each time they visit the province.
Although there are lots of accommodation facilities available in Leyte, Petilla emphasized the needs of a hotel that can compete with first class hotels in other regions.
“We need to have a hotel that we can compare with other hotels in other regions,” said Petilla.
“And I am glad right now that the renovation of MacArthur Park is about to be finished and they will start its operation this December,” he added.
Petilla said that with the opening of the newly-renovated MacArthur Park Hotel, now called Leyte Oriental Hotel, would draw more tourists to the province.
Lack of accommodation facilities is also the problem of Guiuan, the tourism capital of Eastern Samar province, according to Mayor Annaliz Kwan.
Guiuan, famed with its white sand beaches, draws hundreds of tourists yearly, particularly during big events, reason why additional accommodation facilities is needed in said town, according to Kwan.
This problem is being addressed by one of the providers of accommodation facility, the Calicoan Surf Camp, where they purchased container vans and converted them into a room type structures equipped with air-conditioning units and amenities found in regular hotels.
Leyte SP passes resolution seeking help from Senators Pia, Allan Peter Cayetano
TACLOBAN CITY – A resolution seeking assistance from Senators Pia Cayetano and Allan Peter Cayetano to provide fund for indigent patients from Leyte who are admitted to the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center was passed by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
It was authored by Majority Floor Leader Carlo Loreto.
Loreto introduced the resolution after the consultant of the two senators came to the province and visited the biggest government-run hospital in the region to check its condition including the patients.
Aside from asking the two senators to provide funds for indigent patients from the province confined at the EVRMC, the members of the provincial board also passed a resolution asking the senators to provide funds for hospital equipments and facilities for EVRMC.
It was learned that the Cayetano siblings, through their Priority Development Fund, had been extending help to government-run hospitals by providing funds for the procurement of hospital equipment.
The Cayetano siblings as advocates of health have been providing assistance to local government units by funding the construction and rehabilitation of rural health units.
The two senators recently provided assistance for the construction of the rural health unit in Hilongos, Leyte.
It was authored by Majority Floor Leader Carlo Loreto.
Loreto introduced the resolution after the consultant of the two senators came to the province and visited the biggest government-run hospital in the region to check its condition including the patients.
Aside from asking the two senators to provide funds for indigent patients from the province confined at the EVRMC, the members of the provincial board also passed a resolution asking the senators to provide funds for hospital equipments and facilities for EVRMC.
It was learned that the Cayetano siblings, through their Priority Development Fund, had been extending help to government-run hospitals by providing funds for the procurement of hospital equipment.
The Cayetano siblings as advocates of health have been providing assistance to local government units by funding the construction and rehabilitation of rural health units.
The two senators recently provided assistance for the construction of the rural health unit in Hilongos, Leyte.
Leyte SP commends topnotchers, schools
TACLOBAN CITY – Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during their recent session passed resolutions of commendation to several individuals from the province of Leyte.
The resolution for commendation was authored by Board Member Roque Tiu.
Dennis Bondos of Leyte Normal University who ranked 7th place in the recent Licensure Examination for Teachers was commended in a resolution.
It was learned that Bondos took BS Biology at the University of the Philippines and took additional 30 units under the teacher certificate program (TCP) which offers a supplemental course for formerly non-education students.
He got a rating of 84.20%,which is a bit lower than 85.80 % of the first placer.
Aside from Bondos, LNU was also given the resolution for commendation having produced students who excel in the licensure examination that is given by the government.
Zandro Dubalan Pluma of the University of the Philippines Manila-School of Health Sciences, was also given with a resolution of commendation after he placed 6th in the recent Midwifery Licensure Examination with general average of 87%.
Tanauan Community eCenter of Tanauan, was also provided with same commendation after being adjudged as the country’s Most Outstanding Community eCenter for this year while Eugene Ramos, manager of the Tanauan CeC, was proclaimed as this year’s Most Outstanding Community Knowledge Worker at the 7th Knowledge Exchange Conference on Community eCenters held last November 22, 2011at Hotel Elizabeth Baguio in Baguio City.
The awards were received by Tanauan Mayor Agapito Pagayanan, Jr. and Ramos from Undersecretary Louis Napoleon Casambre, Executive Director of the Department of Science and Technology.
The resolution for commendation was authored by Board Member Roque Tiu.
Dennis Bondos of Leyte Normal University who ranked 7th place in the recent Licensure Examination for Teachers was commended in a resolution.
It was learned that Bondos took BS Biology at the University of the Philippines and took additional 30 units under the teacher certificate program (TCP) which offers a supplemental course for formerly non-education students.
He got a rating of 84.20%,which is a bit lower than 85.80 % of the first placer.
Aside from Bondos, LNU was also given the resolution for commendation having produced students who excel in the licensure examination that is given by the government.
Zandro Dubalan Pluma of the University of the Philippines Manila-School of Health Sciences, was also given with a resolution of commendation after he placed 6th in the recent Midwifery Licensure Examination with general average of 87%.
Tanauan Community eCenter of Tanauan, was also provided with same commendation after being adjudged as the country’s Most Outstanding Community eCenter for this year while Eugene Ramos, manager of the Tanauan CeC, was proclaimed as this year’s Most Outstanding Community Knowledge Worker at the 7th Knowledge Exchange Conference on Community eCenters held last November 22, 2011at Hotel Elizabeth Baguio in Baguio City.
The awards were received by Tanauan Mayor Agapito Pagayanan, Jr. and Ramos from Undersecretary Louis Napoleon Casambre, Executive Director of the Department of Science and Technology.
Mayor, SP members do not want increase in taxes, says Cristina
TACLOBAN CITY – The city mayor and even the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod do not want to have any form of increase on payments to the city government but the law is already mandating them to do so, said by Councilor Cristina Romualdez in an interview.
Romualdez, who chairs the finance committee at the council, said that in the proposed Revenue Revision 9, no tax increase will be made but rather on the evaluation of the current market price of city lands.
“We are already mandated by law (to do this),” said Councilor Romualdez.
“We have been receiving words and letters from the Department of Finance asking us to increase taxes or have a slight increase on taxes,” Romualdez added. “If we do not do this, we may face repercussion,” she stressed.
However, even if the city government is aiming to increase its tax collection, proper procedure are to done such as the conduct of public hearing which they did in the Sagkahan District and another public hearing to be conducted next week, according to Romualdez.
Romualdez added that they are still in the stage of negotiation with other sectors as to how much increase is to be implemented for the city in the revenue revision 9.
“We wanted it to be in the minimum so that taxpayers will not be burdened, and we will be implementing programs on tax paying such as installment payment and discounts on early taxpayers,” Romualdez explained.
Moreover, a barangay official of Barangay 62-B commented that taxes that are to be collected by the city should go down to funding projects that are beneficial to the city populace such as addressing problem of garbage, flooding and providing additional street lights.
The official also asked the city councilor on what had happened to the promise of the city mayor that there will be no tax increase within five years once the city of Tacloban status is upgraded into a highly-urbanized city.
Romualdez sidestepped the question by saying that all the the taex paid by the people of the city goes directly to various programs and projects that will benefit the public.
Councilor Jerry “Sambo” Yaokasin, meantime, said that considering the population and the big area of the city, two public hearing on revenue revision is not enough.
“There should be a massive information campaign especially to real property owners if what will happen to them once the revision 9 is approved,” said Yaokasin.
“There should be a series of public hearings until such time that everybody agree on the exact percentage or amount that is to be increased,” Yaokasin added.
Yaokasin said that once the two public hearing of the committee on finance is done, the members of the minority bloc plan to invite City Assessor Engineer Carlos Cordero to their session.
Romualdez, who chairs the finance committee at the council, said that in the proposed Revenue Revision 9, no tax increase will be made but rather on the evaluation of the current market price of city lands.
“We are already mandated by law (to do this),” said Councilor Romualdez.
“We have been receiving words and letters from the Department of Finance asking us to increase taxes or have a slight increase on taxes,” Romualdez added. “If we do not do this, we may face repercussion,” she stressed.
However, even if the city government is aiming to increase its tax collection, proper procedure are to done such as the conduct of public hearing which they did in the Sagkahan District and another public hearing to be conducted next week, according to Romualdez.
Romualdez added that they are still in the stage of negotiation with other sectors as to how much increase is to be implemented for the city in the revenue revision 9.
“We wanted it to be in the minimum so that taxpayers will not be burdened, and we will be implementing programs on tax paying such as installment payment and discounts on early taxpayers,” Romualdez explained.
Moreover, a barangay official of Barangay 62-B commented that taxes that are to be collected by the city should go down to funding projects that are beneficial to the city populace such as addressing problem of garbage, flooding and providing additional street lights.
The official also asked the city councilor on what had happened to the promise of the city mayor that there will be no tax increase within five years once the city of Tacloban status is upgraded into a highly-urbanized city.
Romualdez sidestepped the question by saying that all the the taex paid by the people of the city goes directly to various programs and projects that will benefit the public.
Councilor Jerry “Sambo” Yaokasin, meantime, said that considering the population and the big area of the city, two public hearing on revenue revision is not enough.
“There should be a massive information campaign especially to real property owners if what will happen to them once the revision 9 is approved,” said Yaokasin.
“There should be a series of public hearings until such time that everybody agree on the exact percentage or amount that is to be increased,” Yaokasin added.
Yaokasin said that once the two public hearing of the committee on finance is done, the members of the minority bloc plan to invite City Assessor Engineer Carlos Cordero to their session.
Proposed revenue revision not for tax increase, says Tacloban City assessor
TACLOBAN CITY – The revenue revision of Tacloban is not a proposal for tax increase but rather focuses on market value of all lands and productive improvement within the city.
This was clarified by City Assessor Engr. Carlos Cordero during a public hearing held at Sagkahan Gymnasium .
“The subject of the public hearing was focused on the evaluation of market values of land that needs to be updated,” said Cordero in an interview.
Thus, Cordero said the buildings are not included in the increase and the classification of land (agricultural, residential, commercial or industrial use) but more on the actual market value of land as it has been 12 years since the revision of the tax code of the city was implemented.
“People should not be worried…,” Cordero said.
Former Leyte board member Attorney Evangeline Esperas, who was among those who attended the public hearing, stressed that tax is indeed a must for every local government unit as it is their life blood.
However, Esperas stressed that inflation rate and the comments and recommendations from the business sector should also be heard, before the council members introduced any revision of the tax code.
She added that 100% increase is considerately high among low income taxpayers to include businessmen.
“If there will be an increase that should be reasonably just, not oppressive, and equitable,” Esperas said.
Although it was learned from Cordero that the proposed increase on property tax is 100 percent, he stressed that said increase is still reasonable as the increase is the comparison of the 2000 market value to the market value of 1999, the last time there was a revision of tax code.
“The comparison is not market value in 1999 to the market value of 2011, but the market value of 2000 to the market value of 1999, because if we will use the 2011 market value that would be a huge increase,” Cordero explained.
Cordero added that the revision to be implemented this year is the revision that should have been done in 2002.
This was clarified by City Assessor Engr. Carlos Cordero during a public hearing held at Sagkahan Gymnasium .
“The subject of the public hearing was focused on the evaluation of market values of land that needs to be updated,” said Cordero in an interview.
Thus, Cordero said the buildings are not included in the increase and the classification of land (agricultural, residential, commercial or industrial use) but more on the actual market value of land as it has been 12 years since the revision of the tax code of the city was implemented.
“People should not be worried…,” Cordero said.
Former Leyte board member Attorney Evangeline Esperas, who was among those who attended the public hearing, stressed that tax is indeed a must for every local government unit as it is their life blood.
However, Esperas stressed that inflation rate and the comments and recommendations from the business sector should also be heard, before the council members introduced any revision of the tax code.
She added that 100% increase is considerately high among low income taxpayers to include businessmen.
“If there will be an increase that should be reasonably just, not oppressive, and equitable,” Esperas said.
Although it was learned from Cordero that the proposed increase on property tax is 100 percent, he stressed that said increase is still reasonable as the increase is the comparison of the 2000 market value to the market value of 1999, the last time there was a revision of tax code.
“The comparison is not market value in 1999 to the market value of 2011, but the market value of 2000 to the market value of 1999, because if we will use the 2011 market value that would be a huge increase,” Cordero explained.
Cordero added that the revision to be implemented this year is the revision that should have been done in 2002.
Some councilors in quandary what system to be implemented on garbage
TACLOBAN CITY – The members of the minority bloc of the city council said that they are confused what system is to be implemented by the city government to address garbage problem.
This after members of the minority bloc noticed in the proposed Annual Investment Plan as submitted by Mayor Alfred Romualdez to the city council for review and approval with a proposal of P70 million as fund in the construction of sanitary landfill.
“We are confused what is really the plan of the city government to address our garbage problem,” said Councilor Jerry Yaokasin.
“Is it by constructing our own sanitary landfill or through the German technology based of waste management,” Yaokasin added.
This German technology is called Stabilat and was presented to the city government by representative from Herhof in the previous session.
The company had seek for an authorization for the city mayor to enter into a memorandum of agreement with them and recently approved by members of the city council.
“We need to enlighten which of the two are to be used and implemented in the city,” he added.
The construction of sanitary landfill is mandated to all local government units based on the provision of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of the Philippines.
In the region, three cities (Calbayog Ormoc and Maasin) and a cluster of municipalities in Southern Leyte were able to comply with this provision.
Tacloban City, which is the center of the region, had not yet complied with this provision, even with several letters coming from the Environmental Management Bureau urging the city government to construct its own sanitary landfill and close the control dump site located in the northern barangay to avoid penalty or fine that are impose in the law.
This after members of the minority bloc noticed in the proposed Annual Investment Plan as submitted by Mayor Alfred Romualdez to the city council for review and approval with a proposal of P70 million as fund in the construction of sanitary landfill.
“We are confused what is really the plan of the city government to address our garbage problem,” said Councilor Jerry Yaokasin.
“Is it by constructing our own sanitary landfill or through the German technology based of waste management,” Yaokasin added.
This German technology is called Stabilat and was presented to the city government by representative from Herhof in the previous session.
The company had seek for an authorization for the city mayor to enter into a memorandum of agreement with them and recently approved by members of the city council.
“We need to enlighten which of the two are to be used and implemented in the city,” he added.
The construction of sanitary landfill is mandated to all local government units based on the provision of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of the Philippines.
In the region, three cities (Calbayog Ormoc and Maasin) and a cluster of municipalities in Southern Leyte were able to comply with this provision.
Tacloban City, which is the center of the region, had not yet complied with this provision, even with several letters coming from the Environmental Management Bureau urging the city government to construct its own sanitary landfill and close the control dump site located in the northern barangay to avoid penalty or fine that are impose in the law.
SMART to provide P2M support to Leyte LSA
TACLOBAN CITY – SMART Communication through their program SMART Sports promised to provide P 2 million as support to the program of the provincial government of Leyte to develop and enhance Leyte’s youth sports ability.
This amount was the outcome of recent meeting of Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla and SMART Communication President Manny Pangilinan and will be provided to the provincial government for two years.
But this is still subject for negotiations, according to Governor Petilla in his talk with the mayors, provincial board members and department heads of the province in the recent Provincial Development Council meeting held at the Governor’s Hall of Leyte Capitol.
“Leyte Sports Academy is the only facility in the country that they find to be provided with fund,” Governor Petilla said, citing its continuous function after it was rehabilitated for the Palarong Pambansa 2009 by training young athletes of the province.
“But what I hope is they fund it like what they did to the boxing arena in Misamis,” Petilla said.
“We are trying to get more, because the idea here is for the province not to spend more for the program,” Petilla added.
In order to get the funding from the telecommunication company, Governor Petilla said that athletes of LSA must perform well by producing more medals in every competition which in recent sports event participated by athletes of LSA most of the kids are able to grab medals particularly gold.
LSA is not just a facility for youth sports enhancement and development but also a facility for their academic performance.
Athletes of LSA are given full scholarship by the provincial government and are taking their academic class within the facility but enrolled in schools in their respective municipalities.
At present around 70 athletes are now enrolled in LSA mostly with an operating expense of P6 million since it started in 2009 and around P8 million budget for 2012 as the LSA management targets 100 scholars for next year.
Aside from the up-coming supports from SMART Communication, Governor Petilla said that Manny Pangilinan had already donated boxing gloves to LSA boxing athletes.
Petilla added that they are also forming a team that will seek help from big companies like Adidas and Nike, to provide LSA athletes uniforms and shoes to lessen expenses of the provincial government.
This amount was the outcome of recent meeting of Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla and SMART Communication President Manny Pangilinan and will be provided to the provincial government for two years.
But this is still subject for negotiations, according to Governor Petilla in his talk with the mayors, provincial board members and department heads of the province in the recent Provincial Development Council meeting held at the Governor’s Hall of Leyte Capitol.
“Leyte Sports Academy is the only facility in the country that they find to be provided with fund,” Governor Petilla said, citing its continuous function after it was rehabilitated for the Palarong Pambansa 2009 by training young athletes of the province.
“But what I hope is they fund it like what they did to the boxing arena in Misamis,” Petilla said.
“We are trying to get more, because the idea here is for the province not to spend more for the program,” Petilla added.
In order to get the funding from the telecommunication company, Governor Petilla said that athletes of LSA must perform well by producing more medals in every competition which in recent sports event participated by athletes of LSA most of the kids are able to grab medals particularly gold.
LSA is not just a facility for youth sports enhancement and development but also a facility for their academic performance.
Athletes of LSA are given full scholarship by the provincial government and are taking their academic class within the facility but enrolled in schools in their respective municipalities.
At present around 70 athletes are now enrolled in LSA mostly with an operating expense of P6 million since it started in 2009 and around P8 million budget for 2012 as the LSA management targets 100 scholars for next year.
Aside from the up-coming supports from SMART Communication, Governor Petilla said that Manny Pangilinan had already donated boxing gloves to LSA boxing athletes.
Petilla added that they are also forming a team that will seek help from big companies like Adidas and Nike, to provide LSA athletes uniforms and shoes to lessen expenses of the provincial government.
RDC-8 supports resolutions of RDC-5, 7 opposing re-imposition of ANCAR
GOVERNMENT CENTER, PALO – Members of the executive committee of the Regional Development Council (RDC) in this region supported the resolution passed by RDC 5 and 7, opposing the re-imposition of anti-carnapping clearance (ANCAR), a way to fight or reduce incidence of carnapping in the country.
ANCAR was first implemented in the Martial Law period until 2011.
The imposition of ANCAR was suggested by Police Director General Attorney Raulo Bacalso of the Philippine National Police National Headquarters in June 14, 2011 where he forwarded a draft to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr on the re-imposition of clearance requirements for the transfer of motor vehicles from one island to another.
The PNP contends that the discontinuance of the transshipment clearance resulted in the proliferation of car theft because syndicate had used the situation to freely transport the stolen goods to other parts of the country.
This decision of RDC 8 to support the resolution of RDC 5 and 7 is based on the comments of government agencies and local government units asked to comment on the issue.
Based to the comment of Land Transportation Office, it was discontinued because the PNP realized that it was not a foolproof solution in preventing carnapping incidents and syndicates will just no longer transship or transfer their stolen motor vehicles to other islands to avoid apprehension.
The LTO therefore recommends that the PNP should post personnel in transshipment ports to check registration papers of transported motor vehicles.
On the part of the Department of Interior and Local Government, it commented that the Highway Patrol Group might not be able to implement the function in all ports due to lack of personnel and this may become a venue for corruption and abuse by some PNP personnel.
While the local government of Liloan in Southern Leyte, one of the areas in the region with a busiest port, recommended that the PNP must make sure that the Executive Order will not result to red tape and become a source of graft and suggested that HPG personnel must be always available at all times in every port.
The discontinuance of ANCAR imposition was ordered in May 11, 2004 by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as part of her Nautical Highway Program that aims to promote efficient movement of passengers and goods across island in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao resulting for the spur of trade and tourism and brought down the cost of goods from rural production areas to urban markets based on the statement of RDC 5.
RDC 5 added that based on the data of Highway Patrol Group on carnapping incidents from January to April 2011 reveal that 286 carnapping incidents are confined in Regions 1, 2,3, 4-A and National Capital Region.
In 654 carnapping incidents from that period, only 11 cases were committed outside Luzon.
ANCAR was first implemented in the Martial Law period until 2011.
The imposition of ANCAR was suggested by Police Director General Attorney Raulo Bacalso of the Philippine National Police National Headquarters in June 14, 2011 where he forwarded a draft to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr on the re-imposition of clearance requirements for the transfer of motor vehicles from one island to another.
The PNP contends that the discontinuance of the transshipment clearance resulted in the proliferation of car theft because syndicate had used the situation to freely transport the stolen goods to other parts of the country.
This decision of RDC 8 to support the resolution of RDC 5 and 7 is based on the comments of government agencies and local government units asked to comment on the issue.
Based to the comment of Land Transportation Office, it was discontinued because the PNP realized that it was not a foolproof solution in preventing carnapping incidents and syndicates will just no longer transship or transfer their stolen motor vehicles to other islands to avoid apprehension.
The LTO therefore recommends that the PNP should post personnel in transshipment ports to check registration papers of transported motor vehicles.
On the part of the Department of Interior and Local Government, it commented that the Highway Patrol Group might not be able to implement the function in all ports due to lack of personnel and this may become a venue for corruption and abuse by some PNP personnel.
While the local government of Liloan in Southern Leyte, one of the areas in the region with a busiest port, recommended that the PNP must make sure that the Executive Order will not result to red tape and become a source of graft and suggested that HPG personnel must be always available at all times in every port.
The discontinuance of ANCAR imposition was ordered in May 11, 2004 by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as part of her Nautical Highway Program that aims to promote efficient movement of passengers and goods across island in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao resulting for the spur of trade and tourism and brought down the cost of goods from rural production areas to urban markets based on the statement of RDC 5.
RDC 5 added that based on the data of Highway Patrol Group on carnapping incidents from January to April 2011 reveal that 286 carnapping incidents are confined in Regions 1, 2,3, 4-A and National Capital Region.
In 654 carnapping incidents from that period, only 11 cases were committed outside Luzon.
Nicua Mining Corp harvests 155 cavans of palay in rehab field
MACARTHUR, Leyte – As of November 5, 2011, harvesting by Nicua Mining Corporation in rice fields which they rehabilitated, the firm was able to harvest a total of 155 sacks of palay.
This was revealed by Nicua Mining Corporation (Leyte Ironsand Corporation) officials during the visit of Board Member and committee chair on environment and natural resources Roque Tiu, representatives from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Provincial Agriculture Office.
The 155 sacks of palay were harvested from the 2.1 hectares of rice field that was fully rehabilitated by the mining firm.
The mining firm,which has rehabilitated 11 hectares of rice fields, is said to have its final harvesting on Nov. 22.
As the 2.1 hectares of land are already converted back to its original use as rice fields, the remaining one hectare was just planted with the legume but will be planted with palay.
About 18 hectares of rice fields were already mined by the mining firm, in the first ever rice field mining in the country, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
Moreover, it was noticed that the rehabilitation process that is being implemented by the mining firm was slow, as 11 hectares are already rehabilitated but only 3.1 hectares is fully rehabilitated as at this time.
Nicua officials reasoned out the occurrence of flooding was the reason why their rehabilitation procedure was slow.
To address this, they had elevated the areas that they had mined and will undergo rehabilitation process.
The mining firm it was learned, will conduct activities that include the drying of palay, repair of dikes, irrigation of paddies, harrowing, spreading of rice straws and construction of farm toilets.
This was revealed by Nicua Mining Corporation (Leyte Ironsand Corporation) officials during the visit of Board Member and committee chair on environment and natural resources Roque Tiu, representatives from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Provincial Agriculture Office.
The 155 sacks of palay were harvested from the 2.1 hectares of rice field that was fully rehabilitated by the mining firm.
The mining firm,which has rehabilitated 11 hectares of rice fields, is said to have its final harvesting on Nov. 22.
As the 2.1 hectares of land are already converted back to its original use as rice fields, the remaining one hectare was just planted with the legume but will be planted with palay.
About 18 hectares of rice fields were already mined by the mining firm, in the first ever rice field mining in the country, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
Moreover, it was noticed that the rehabilitation process that is being implemented by the mining firm was slow, as 11 hectares are already rehabilitated but only 3.1 hectares is fully rehabilitated as at this time.
Nicua officials reasoned out the occurrence of flooding was the reason why their rehabilitation procedure was slow.
To address this, they had elevated the areas that they had mined and will undergo rehabilitation process.
The mining firm it was learned, will conduct activities that include the drying of palay, repair of dikes, irrigation of paddies, harrowing, spreading of rice straws and construction of farm toilets.
Revised MOA of German firm presented anew to city council
TACLOBAN CITY – The revised memorandum of agreement of German firm Herhof was presented anew to the members of the city council during their recent session.
Based on the revised MOA, the company now asks the council members to grant Mayor Alfred Romualdez to enter into a MOA with Herhof.
From 99 years contract, it was reduced to 50 years contract and renewable for 25 years, Councilor Jerry “Sambo” Yaokasin said.
However, members of the city council noticed that in the revised MOA, the company did not include an early provision citing that they will start implementing the project within five years after the MOA is signed.
“We ask to insert in the MOA, that within one or two years after the MOA is signed they should be fully operational,” said Yaokasin.
Yaokasin added that based on the revised MOA, it states that once the garbage of the city do not reach 1,000 tons, garbage from other local government units may be dump in the garbage facility granting that the local government unit will pay for tipping fee.
The revised MOA also mention of BOT or Build and Transfer to Operate.However, the members of the city council criticized it as the facility should be turn over to the city government after 50 years of contract and should not be renewed for another 25 years.
“Another important thing that we should consider is this about technology,” said Yaokasin.
“After 25 years or 50 years this German technology might be obsolete already and another technology might be presented and maybe even better than this one,” he added.
“We asked them (Herhof) to be more specific for us to give the authority,” Yaokasin explained adding that their move is not to block the German company to operate here in Tacloban.
“This project aims to solve the problem on garbage that is why we wanted to support it,” he added.
Moreover, with the passage of the MOA, Yaokasin said that the chief executive of this city can now go to Germany to visit and study the technology that is being presented to them.
Based on the revised MOA, the company now asks the council members to grant Mayor Alfred Romualdez to enter into a MOA with Herhof.
From 99 years contract, it was reduced to 50 years contract and renewable for 25 years, Councilor Jerry “Sambo” Yaokasin said.
However, members of the city council noticed that in the revised MOA, the company did not include an early provision citing that they will start implementing the project within five years after the MOA is signed.
“We ask to insert in the MOA, that within one or two years after the MOA is signed they should be fully operational,” said Yaokasin.
Yaokasin added that based on the revised MOA, it states that once the garbage of the city do not reach 1,000 tons, garbage from other local government units may be dump in the garbage facility granting that the local government unit will pay for tipping fee.
The revised MOA also mention of BOT or Build and Transfer to Operate.However, the members of the city council criticized it as the facility should be turn over to the city government after 50 years of contract and should not be renewed for another 25 years.
“Another important thing that we should consider is this about technology,” said Yaokasin.
“After 25 years or 50 years this German technology might be obsolete already and another technology might be presented and maybe even better than this one,” he added.
“We asked them (Herhof) to be more specific for us to give the authority,” Yaokasin explained adding that their move is not to block the German company to operate here in Tacloban.
“This project aims to solve the problem on garbage that is why we wanted to support it,” he added.
Moreover, with the passage of the MOA, Yaokasin said that the chief executive of this city can now go to Germany to visit and study the technology that is being presented to them.
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