MIGHTYAURELL WORLD: News Update

DA’s Secretary Alcala Pours Multi-Million Aggie Projects in Caraga

2012-01-26T00:19:00.000-08:00

One of the visit of Secretary Alcala in Caraga Region particularly in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte as guest of honor during the farmer’s forum.

Butuan City – Around 35 million worth of various farm inputs and implements had been turned-over by no less than Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala during his regional engagement here in Caraga Region for the whole year of 2011 to boost production in the region.

Recipients of such inputs and implements were the five provinces of Caraga Region: Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte and including the cities of Cabadbaran, Surigao, Bayugan, Tandag, Bislig and Butuan.

Inputs and implements includes farm tractors, green houses, irrigation equipments, power sprayers, small ruminants, planting materials, coffee de-huller, fingerlings and fishing paraphernalia, fertilizers and more.

Also includes funding support to farm to market roads, diversion dam, potable water system, various livelihood projects under Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP), counterpart for establishment of liquid nitrogen plant and computer with accessories.

Aside from projects already turned-over, some supports were programmed for 2012 and 2013.

The said farm inputs and implements were handed over by Secretary Alcala to the respective LGU chief executives during the farmers’ forum last January 20-21, 2011 in Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur; Surigao City, Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte and Agriculture and Fisheries Council Congress (AFC) here in Butuan City.

Alcala during his early part of leadership as agriculture secretary devoted his time to visit all regions in the country and Caraga became one of his favorite destinations to reach out farmers as well as local government officials. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Attainment of Country’s Food Sufficiency Level Top Priority of Current Food Czar

2011-12-14T00:38:00.000-08:00

Attaining food sufficiencylevel in the country within his stewardship as agriculture secretary is thegreatest accomplishment that Secretary Proceso J. Alcala is dreaming of.

This he revealed during the newsconference with the local media in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur during hisvisit in Caraga Region recently.

“Ang pinakamalaki pongsignificant na program ay talaga pong if we reach the self sufficiency level,ito ay napakalaki pong accomplishment”, thus he said.

According to him heconsidered attaining food sufficiency as the biggest accomplishment not justfor himself but for the whole country as well.

He said that for the longperiod of time, Philippines have not been sufficient in rice.

Historically, on later partof 1970’s Philippines had been sufficient in rice during the leadership offormer Secretary Arturo Tanco, Jr. through the Masagana 99 rice productionprogram and even went into exporting rice.

A similar program on cornalso made the country self-sufficient in white corn.

In 1990 during the time ofSecretary Senen Bacani, he implemented the Rice Action Program (RAP) and CornProduction Enhancement Program (CPEP) enabling the Philippines to once againexport rice in 1992 and attained self-sufficiency in corn, respectively.

However, Alcala said thoseachievements were not sustained.

“Kaya ngayon naging maingattayo na if we will reach self-sufficiency ng ating palay production ito po’yhindi na aatras kundi ito’y tuloy-tuloy (That is why nowadays,if we will reachself-sufficiency of our rice production it will not detour but will head on),he said.

Alcala further said thatcurrently they are making plans and projections on how to export excess riceafter 2013.

In recognizing the potentialof the province of Surigao del Sur to contribute to the attainment ofsufficiency target, Secretary Alcala suggested to come up a master developmentplan for the whole province on agricultural sector that would focus on whatcommodities could be aggressively pushed.

Moreover, he said theagriculture department would push for the modernization of farm equipments notonly on irrigation but for other necessary farm implements.

He also urged farmers andirrigators association to strengthen since government assistance would becoursed through them to make them more empowered.

As he stated, organized andstrong farmers and irrigators association could be assisted through theprovision of mechanical dryers and rice mill.

He also urged agriculturestakeholders to include idle lands and marine resources in boosting foodproduction so as to contribute more to the attainment of food sufficiency notjust on rice but also other staple foodsfor the Filipinos. (AURELL P. ARAIS/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Upland Rice Production Takes Off in Caraga with a Training of Trainers

2011-12-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

This blogger (its me) one of the participants of the study tour inspects upland rice in Arakan, Cotabato

In response to thecall of Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala to tapped upland rice farming toboost up food production in the country, the Department of Agriculture RegionalField Office 13 (DA- RFO 13) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)jointly conducted the Training of Trainers (TOT) for Upland Rice Productionrecently.

Two batches of participantsfrom municipal and provincial agriculture offices within Caraga Region successfullygraduated on the training which was held at Pastoral Center, Ampayon, ButuanCity.

Salient topics on uplandrice production ranging from seed preparation to harvesting as well itsvarieties were thoroughly discussed through the expertise of two resourcepersons, namely PhilRice Agusan ManagerAbner Montecalvo and Sammy Gualiza of PAKISAMA, a non- government organization(NGO) who actively advocates natural farming.

ATI Caraga Center DirectorNenita Sumile said that Caraga Region is a potential area for upland rice productionsince its vast areas were not irrigated and some were sloping.

Technically, upland agriculturewere practiced in non-irrigated fields without impounded surface water, occursin mountainous areas, but not exclusive, as may occur in lower elevation andupland areas do not have to be sloping, they can be flat also, such in the caseof South Asian uplands.

To encourage farmers toengage in upland rice farming, each local government units committed to put upa demo farm for upland to showcase the technology to the farmers on itslocality.

In order for each participantto actively advocate upland rice farming , a field tour was conducted inArakan, North Cotabato to see for themselves the actual upland rice farms.

Arakan farmers are largely engaged in upland rice farming thus theMunicipality of Arakan proudly claims as the home of Denurado Rice, an uplandrice traditional variety. (AURELL P. ARAIS/DA RAFID CARAGA)

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DA RFU-13 Maps Out Cassava and Corn Roadmap

2011-12-14T00:11:00.000-08:00

Caraga AgriPinoy Corn Program Coordinator Abel Wagas being interviewed by this blogger

Butuan City – Envisioning productive corn and cassava farmingcommunities across Caraga Region, the Agri-Pinoy Corn Program of the Departmentof Agriculture Caraga led by Regional Corn program coordinator Abel Wagasrecently convened with its provincial counterparts to sketch out the Cassavaand Corn Roadmap for the year 2011-2016 at Goat2geder Hotel and Restaurant.

Theworkshop was participated by provincial corn program coordinators and reportofficers from Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao delNorte and Dinagat Islands.

Theworkshop aimed to set clearer direction for the corn and cassava industry inthe region through identifying location specific interventions and problems maycross along the way and plan out for possible solutions.

Participantsof the two day workshop map out their respective plans and projects for theprovince as well for municipalities and even down to barangay level to fullydevelop existing and potential areas for corn and cassava.

Wagassaid the output of the roadmap workshop for cassava and corn would reinforcetheir collective effort and eventually helps in attaining maximum production tocatch up with the ever rising demands of such particular commodities.

RegionalAgricultural Statistics Officer Melchor Baustista hinted on his presentationthat the cassava and corn roadmap should be in concurrence with the prioritiesset by livestock industry since cassava and corn are basically for human andanimal food specifically as ingredients for feeds.

Wagassaid to achieve maximum impact of the cassava and corn program in the regionthe package of interventions would include the following: production support,infrastructure and postharvest development, marketing development services,extension support, research and development services and information support services.

As a jumpstart and to address the need of the farmers tohave quality and high yielding cassava variety, training on mass propagation ofcassava planting materials was conducted in Agusan del Sur recently.

Afterthe training, a study tour for the graduates was conducted in Visayas StateUniversity, Baybay City, Southern Leyte to gain more insights on actual demofarm of PhilRootcrops.

Uponreturning in Caraga Region, PhilRootcrops had given 15 boxes of tissue culturedcassava plantlets and bundles of stalks of high yielding cassava variety. (AurellP. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA- RAFID Caraga Taps Multimedia for Public Awareness on AgriPinoy Framework

2011-12-14T00:04:00.000-08:00

Butuan City - To massively inform the public on AgriPinoyFramework, the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division (RAFID)of DA Caraga Region tapped local media partners in its advocacy and informationcampaign.

Radio plugs and discussions concerningAgripinoy were aired through nine DA funded radio programs in the provinces ofAgusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte and thecities of Bislig, Surigao and Butuan.

In Surigao del Sur, radioguesting was conducted to reached out vast majority of the radio listeners.

Just recently RAFID throughthe able leadership of Rebecca Atega strongly supports the conduct of AgripinoyTechnical Briefing and Teknoklinik for Agricultural Extension Workers andFarmers in provinces of Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur,Surigao del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands.

The briefing was acollaborative effort with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), PhilippineRice Research Institute (PhilRice), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources(BFAR), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Fiber Industry DevelopmentAuthority (FIDA), Department of Agriculture (DA), Non-Government Organizations(NGOs) and the respective local government units.

To compliment, readingmaterials were also distributed aside from conducting agri caravan.

Agripinoy is a strategicframework for all functions and programs of the Department of Agriculture incorporatingthe principles and practices for the optimum development of Philippineresources, natural and human to meet the goals in agriculture and fisheries inthe country. (Aurell P. Arais/DA-RAFID CARAGA)

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DA –Regional Office 13 Now Anchored with a Lady

2011-12-13T19:43:00.001-08:00

Butuan City – During the simple yet emotion-filled turn-over ceremony last March 28, 2011, outgoing Regional Executive Director Reinerio B. Belarmino, Jr. turned-over the leadership to the new OIC RED in the person of Edna M. Mabeza, Ph.D, Center Director of Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in Northern Mindanao based in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental.

Coincidence or not… as the world is giving due recognition to all women this March through the celebration of the International Women’s Month, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 has new OIC Regional Executive Director, now for the first time a woman.

Dr.Mabeza succeeded Belarmino based on Special Order No. 244 series of 2011 designating her as officer in charge of DA RFU 13 effective March 28, 2011 duly signed by Agriculture Secretary Proseso J. Alcala.Belarmino said the changes of the DA regional leadership is “immediate and very quick” but he revealed that not only DA Caraga is affected by the reshuffling but also almost all DA regional field units even including some Regional Technical Directors (RTDs).

“I don’t want to say goodbye”, concluded Belarmino as he cited that he is being recalled to the DA-Central Office as Technical Assistant for Livestock Concerns under the Office of the Secretary.

As per information shared by RTD Fiel, Director Mabeza is a Bicolana but resided in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental to serve the Agricultural Training Institute(ATI) in Northern Mindanao for quite sometimes now.

It was also learned that before her special order to lead DA Caraga she has been a national coordinator of an International Training Program and currently a Technical Working Group (TWG) member of the Upland Rice Cropping System.

She graduated degree of Doctor of Philosophy from Central Mindanao University (CMU), Bukidnon. After receiving the ceremonial key of responsibility, Mabeza said that she is overwhelmed by joy with her new tasks assigned to her.

“I am very happy to be here with you. I know I am in the right place, in the right time, in the right moment with the right person”, she said. Director Mabeza appealed to the whole DA Caraga family to work hand in hand for the common good of the Caraganons.

“With great faith in God and with the strong belief that you and I have a common desire for the welfare of our clientele; the farmers, fisher folks, rural women, youth, indigenous people and all our stakeholders, I sincerely accept the responsibility being the OIC RED of DA Region 13” she sincerely said.

For 15 years since the birth of Caraga Region, DA Regional Field Unit 13 had experienced 10th turn-over of leaderships with seven Regional Executive Directors serving the region . (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA).

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DA 13 –AMAD Fast Tracks Implementation of Brgy. Food Terminals

2011-12-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

The Agribusiness, Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD) of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 beefed up its efforts to heave farmers from a mere land tillers to agribusiness enthusiasts through fast tracking the implementation of Barangay Food Terminals (BFTs).

Last February, AMAD devoted its time in launching three BFT sites formerly known as Barangay Bagsakan bringing a total of 45 BFT existing sites to date.

First to launch was in Barangay Aclan, Nasipit Agusan del Norte through Aclan Coconut Farmers’ Cooperative as project cooperator and followed by in Sta. Teresita, Bayugan City , Agusan del Sur with JCA Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multipurpose Cooperative as project cooperator last February 9, 2011.On February 15, another BFT site was launched in Brgy. Don Ruben, San Jose, Dinagat Islands through Don Ruben Multipurpose Cooperative as project cooperator.

Each of the BFT cooperators were given various equipments such as plastic crates, plastic trays, push cart, freezer, chiller, electronic cash register, digital weighing scale, platform weighing scale, mechanical table scale, ice box, and P100,000.00 capitalization as grant from the Department of Agriculture aside from funding and or technical support from its respective local government units.

In an interview, AMAD Officer in Charge Servilla D. Balaan said for the first quarter of the current year, seven new BFT sites will be set in place in different areas in the region.

BFT serves as a consolidation area wherein farmers and fisher folks alike as well as consumers or buyers could meet thereby sparking economic activities.BFT is a component of the Accelerated Hunger Mitigation Program (AHMP) aimed to suppress hunger and malnutrition in the countryside through access of affordable and nutritious food supply. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA’s AMAS Encourages Producers to Access Agribusiness and Marketing Services

2011-12-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

Butuan City –Director Leandro H. Gazmin of the DA’s Agribusiness, Marketing and Assistance Services (AMAS) in his recent visit to Butuan City urges producers to access the different services of the department particularly on agribusiness and marketing to be more competitive.

In his meeting with Mr. Mat Noos, a producer of coco sugar in Mahogany , Butuan City the young AMAS Director said he is currently eyeing products from the regions to be included in its package to strengthen the marketing thrusts of the Department of Agriculture as directed by DA Secretary Proseso J. Alcala.

In Caraga, Gasmin visited coco sugar venture in Silad, Mahogany, Butuan City and a proposed coco sugar manufacturing center in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte as well as corn coffee manufacturing in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.

Both ventures are proposing for a financial support from DA-AMAS through its project support under Municipal and City Food Terminals to expand their operation and eventually emerged as one of Caragas’ pride.

“Dito sa Caraga meron kayong products about coconut na pwede nating i-enhance para magkaroon ng export quality “ (Here in Caraga you have products out from coconut that could be enhanced as export quality products), he said.

With this, he encouraged every stakeholder to keep in touch with the region’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) for possible tie-ups and market linkage. Gazmin hopes that through DA-AMAD , such products could have better marketing edge and could be marketed not only within the region but outside Caraga and hopefully become an export commodity of the country. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Sec. Alcala to the Youth : Be an Agent of Agricultural Development Take up Agri Courses

2011-12-13T19:27:00.001-08:00

Butuan City – Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala is urging the youth sector to be an agent of agricultural development through taking up courses related to agriculture.

In a news conference during his visit here in Caraga Region, Alcala said all over the country students taking up agriculture related courses has declined notably.“Sa lahat po sa buong bansa nangyayari po ito even sa UP College of Agriculture the enrollment is going down” he said.

According to him, parents are hesitant to persuade their sons and daughters to take up agriculture related courses due to notion that nothing will change to their lives and still remains living in a low economic level.

“Ako man po kung ang tingin ko’y di magbabago ang buhay, hindi ko na po pakukunin ng agrikultura” (Even for me if I sense that life will never change, I won’t allow them to take up agriculture), Alcala said.

Currently students are taking up the so called in demand courses such as nursing and electronics related courses but he said nowadays lot of graduates of such courses and even registered nurses end up jobless due to enormous number of graduates annually who will compete each other to land a job.

But this time with various projects being launched by the Department of Agriculture through Agri-Pinoy framework, Alcala expressed optimism that positive changes will be happening.

Agri-Pinoy aims to enhance farmers’ productivity and increase their income to boost the performance of the Philippine agricultural sector stressing the importance of fostering partnerships and collaborative undertakings through sustainable agriculture.

To awaken young minds to be molded towards agriculture, the secretary advocated gardening in the school, which he said DepEd is now currently adopting it nationwide.

He is also lobbying for other stakeholders to help boost the campaign of attracting youth to take up agriculture related courses through offering scholarship programs.

“If we can change the lives of our farmers with the projects we are doing, there is no reason why the farmers won’t entice their sons or daughters to take up agriculture” he said.

“If we only go back to basic at ito po yung agrikultura, ito po ang mag-i-espark ng pagkalakas-lakas na ekonomiya ng ating bansa” (agriculture will trigger titanic economic spark for the country), Alcala concluded. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Sec. Alcala Visits Caraga Region -Interact with Farmers, LGU Officials

2011-01-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – To come up with more viable projects and programs that truly answer the need of the agricultural sector, Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala visited Caraga Region and conduct meetings with the farmers, local chief executives, NGOs/POs and the local media last January 20 to 22, 2011.

On his three day visit in the region, Secretary Alcala managed to attend various gatherings and meetings with officials from the four provinces and cities of Caraga with the respective provincial and municipal /city officials.

In Agusan del Sur, Butuan City , Surigao del Norte Surigao City and Agusan del Sur , the Secretary attended forum with around three thousand farmers who aired their issues and concerns. Among those mentioned were on irrigation, seeds, pre and post harvest facilities, livestock and fisheries.

In every province that the secretary visited, Alcala turned-over various farm inputs and implements , computer sets, drip irrigation units amounting to more or less P12 million aside from the funding commitments amounting to at least P30M.

The secretary’s visit was highlighted with the conduct of the Caraga Agriculture and Fisheries Council Congress and the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) National Meeting wherein he was the guest of honor.

Local media practitioners in Butuan City and Surigao City were also able to interact with the secretary during the news conference.

The secretary also spent in a meeting of the members of the Regional Management Committee (RMC) and had dialogue with social action organization and non-government organizations.

Alcala said that every concern from the farmers, local officials and peoples’ organization is vital to come up with a more responsive and realistic approach towards agricultural development. In his pronouncements, he emphasized that his administration plans to attain food sufficiency in 2013 and try to have zero rice importation.

Among of the strategies that will be employed are developing upland rice variety, tapping communities in the uplands especially the indigenous people; promoting the use of hybrid and certified seeds and improving the irrigation system. With this, he ordered Irrigation Administrator, Antonio S. Nangel to come to Caraga within the next two weeks to validate all irrigation concerns in the region and to come up with a comprehensive plan to repair/rehabilitate and complete the construction of irrigation systems that are seen to serve vast areas for rice production.

The marching order of the President, he said is to ensure adequate, affordable safe and sufficient food for every Filipino. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Pres. Aquino Turns-over Farm Implements to LGUs in Caraga

2011-01-25T22:49:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – His Excellency President Benigno Simeon Aquino III turned-over various farm machineries and inputs to four provinces and one city in Caraga region that was recently ravaged by flood during his visit last January 14, 2011 at Bancasi Airpot, this city.

Together with DA Caraga Regional Director Reinerio B. Belarmino, Jr., President Aquino handed the certificates of turn-over to Butuan City through City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr., Province of Agusan del Norte received by Governor Erlpe John Amante, Agusan del Sur through Governor Adolph Edward Plaza, Surigao del Sur through Governor Johnny Pimentel and Surigao del Norte through Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay.

Each recipient local government unit received the agricultural inputs that include three pump and engine sets, 200 bags of certified seeds and two boxes assorted vegetable seeds.

The said inputs will augment the effort of each LGU to help its constituent particularly farmers to start anew after affected by flood.

Aside from agricultural inputs, the president also turned over medicines and relief goods.

Aquino visited Caraga Region to see for himself the extent of damaged brought by the recent flood. However, due to limited time the president just stay at the closed door presidential briefing done by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council at Civil Aviation Authority Office at Bancasi Airport.

Based on the said presidential briefing presented by Regional Director Blanche Gobenciong of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga, the damaged done by recent flood on the agriculture sector are the following: cereal crops which are rice and corn has a total estimated cost of P72,493,282.00; for other crop like vegetables, banana, rootcrops, including all other crops which are not cereal crops the total estimated cost of damaged was P14,806,543.00.

In livestock the total value of losses reached to P3,426,710.00 while on fisheries the total value of losses recorded P16,725,000.00 and in irrigation system the cost of damaged was P58 million.

Agusan del Sur is the hardest hit in terms of damaged to agriculture with an estimated cost of P105,595,224.00 followed by Agusan del Norte with P27,850,186.00; Surigao del Sur recorded 21,327,350.00; Surigao del Norte reached to P10,501,875.00 and Dinagat Islands recorded P346,100.00.

In summary as per OCD report, the cost of damage to agriculture in the whole region reached to P165,620,535.00. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA 13 Agri Chief: “In Attaining 2013 Rice Sufficiency Target…Di Tayo Pahuhuli”

2010-12-06T17:38:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City - “Di tayo pahuhuli, kasama ninyo ko d’yan” (we should not be left out, count on me), these are the words uttered by Regional Executive Director Reinerio B. Belarmino, jr. in inspiring agricultural technologists to actively takes part of the rice self sufficiency target by the year 2013.

In response of the marching order of Agriculture Secretary Proseco J. Alcala to increase rice production so as the country will halt importing rice in 2013, Belarmino said that every stakeholders should do its part.

Belarmino was the guest of honor during the opening of the season-long Training on Trainers (TOT) on rice production of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in Los Angeles, Butuan City recently.

RED Belarmino lauded ATI Caraga for conducting such training in which he said can greatly enhanced the knowledge of every participating agricultural technologists.

In turn, he challenged every participant to impart their knowledge and expertise to the farmers on their respective localities after they completed the season-long training.

“You are our partners, it is a big challenge for us” said Belarmino as he recognizes every local government units as collaborator towards food security.

He said there two major ways in attaining sufficiency in rice, one of which is increasing the hectarage planted with rice through expanding irrigated areas and increasing cropping index while the other one is increasing the yield through the use of high quality rice varieties and nutrient and water management.

He also gives emphasis on effective pest and disease management as he bared his plan to set up soon a Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) to focus on pest and disease management in the region.

Currently the sufficiency level on rice of the country ranged from 85 to 90 percent.

Meanwhile Training Project Officer Heracleo Paler of ATI said that the season-long TOT on rice production will run from period November 8, 2010 to March 18, 2011. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Soil Sampling Key to a Successful Farming

2010-12-06T17:36:00.002-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – Caraga Regional Corn Coordinator Abel Wagas reiterated the importance of soil analysis before planting a particular crop to attain optimum yield.

In an interview with Tingog sa Kaumahan a radio program of the Department of Agriculture Caraga aired over DXMK FM, Wagas said it is a must for the farmers to undergo their respective plot on soil analysis to know if it is necessary to apply fertilizer and or what kind and how much of fertilizers are needed in the soil.

“Dapat lang gyud nga magpa-soil analysis kay lisod nang magtagna-tagna ta, kwarta gud ang buhian niana aron igasto sa abono” (It is really necessary to have soil analysis than guessing since you are spending money for the fertilizer), he said.

Wagas also discourage practice of some farmers in just replicating their fellow farmers on their fertilizer application ratio since the soil in the region vary from one area to another even in the distance of just a few meters away.

For proper soil sampling method, Wagas urged farmers to consult their respective municipal or city agricultural technologists or visit any of the nearest agricultural research stations.

Wagas said that farmers need not to worry on the cost of soil sampling since it is free of charge on the Regional Soil Testing Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture situated in Barangay Taguibo, Butuan City. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

MIGHTYAURELL WORLD: News Update

2010-12-06T17:32:00.000-08:00

MIGHTYAURELL WORLD: News Update: "Mabuhay ang Pilipinas..."

MRDP-RPCO 13 Conducts Bookkeeping Seminar to CFAD Recipients

2010-12-06T17:17:00.000-08:00

Trento, Agusan del Sur - Proper recording on every transaction within an organization is fundamental for good management.

The underlying principle that prompted the accounting division of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 the Regional Program Coordinating Office (RPCO) to conduct bookkeeping seminar to recipients of livelihood projects funded by Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) particularly under the Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD) component.

Gerry Leop, accounting division chief said that based on experience during projects monitoring, some of the peoples organization who are recipients of MRDP-CFAD failed to show proper financial records.

As per assessment, recipients lack the necessary knowledge to do the recording or bookkeeping, thus Leop said they decided to extend such seminars to interested recipients.

One of such simple bookkeeping seminar took place last November 12, 2010 in Trento Agusan del Sur right after a ceremonial launching and awarding of certificates to four recipients of CFAD projects.

Gracing the occasion were CFAD Regional Coordinator John Gamboa of DA RFU 13, Mayor Johnmark Billanes, DMD and other local officials of Trento LGU and members and officers of the four PO recipients.

The recipients are Trento Agusan Manat Farmers Association Incorporated and Barangay San Isidro Farmers Association both recipients of Banana Cassava and Carabao Production; Road 75 Indigenous People’s Cooperative with their Abaca Intercropped with Cassava and Carabao Production; and Tudela Farmers Association with Carabao Production with Ampalaya.

Each proponent is required to submit financial records to MRDP through their municipal accounting office to liquidate the 250,000 pesos funding support.

The simple bookkeeping seminar followed shortly with Gerry Leop assisted with Britta Paulin. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Surigao City LGU Allocates Bigger Chunk of Budget for Agri over Infra

2010-08-26T00:25:00.000-07:00

Surigao City – The newly elected city mayor of Surigao Ernesto Matugas set a clear direction for the city to prioritize agriculture through allocating bigger chunk of budget from 20 percent development fund over infrastructure.

Probably first time in the whole country the local government unit (LGU) of Surigao will allocate 70% for agriculture and aquaculture while the remaining 30% will be for infrastructure taken from the 20% development fund of the city.

The amount is totally reverse from the previous administration which according to him allocated the 30% for agriculture while 70% for infrastructure.

“Bahala na mangasuko nako ang mga contractor kay 30 porseyinto lang ang maila, ang importante sa ako kamo mga mag-uuma ug mga mangingisda” (I don’t care contractors will got irked of me because only 30% are due to them, what is important to me are you, farmers and fisherfolks), he said boldly during a forum with the farmers.

Matugas said that under his administration the city of Surigao will embark more on food production.

Meanwhile, Matugas lauded the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 through the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division (RAFID) for conducting University on the Air in the province of Surigao del Norte including Surigao City on Hybrid Rice Production.

During the mass enrollment held last July 13-15, 2010, Matugas notably the lone local chief executive who attended the activity said that giving an opportunity to the farmers to study rice production through a radio station is a great contributory factor towards the attainment of food sufficiency program of the government.

Regional Agriculture and F isheries Information Division (RAFID) OIC Rebecca Atega, was overwhelmed due to hundreds of farmers flocked during the mass enrollment that took place in Tagana-an, Placer, San Francisco and Bacuag in Surigao del Norte and in Surigao City and soon in Sison.

The University on the Air on Hybrid Rice Production, an advocacy program of RAFID will start August 4, 2010 and ends November 24, 2010 through farm casters Zenaida Peramide of Surigao del Norte Provincial Agriculture Office and Aurell Arais of RAFID DA-RFU 13. (Aurell P. Arais/ RAFID DA-CARAGA)

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DA-CARIARC Hosts RDE Network 2nd Quarter Zonal Meeting 2010 Successfully

2010-08-16T00:02:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Trento, Agusan del Sur - The Caraga Integrated Agricultural Research Center of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA-CARIARC) successfully hosted the 2nd Quarter Zonal Meeting of Mindanao Zonal Research Development and Extension (RDE) Network last June 23-25, 2010.

Supported by DA RFU 13, Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) the three days zonal meeting was participated in by key research and extension personnel from region 9 led by Regional Technical Director (RTD) Constancio Alama, Region 10 led by RTD Lester Jaducana, Region 11 led by RTD Romulo Palcon, Region 12 led by RTD Jimmy Olivo and Caraga Region led by RTD Edgardo D. Dahino.

Also present were BFAR XI Director Jorge Campeon and BAR Coordinator for Caraga Engr. Rodolfo Fernandez.

During the opening program, Municipal Mayor Irenea Hitgano of Trento wherein CARIARC is situated, recognized the importance of R&D in agricultural development and shared her vision for farmers towards economic freedom that serves a driving force for her to write a book about natural farming system.

To update the participants on what are the latest; Salve Ritual, Chief of Research Coordination Division and Digna Sandoval, Chief of Technology Commercialization Unit of BAR reported BAR updates.

Presided by RTD Dahino and RTD Jaducana various agenda were tackled during the meeting proper including some plans and proposals.

The 2nd Quarter Zonal Meeting culminates with a field tour.

CARIARC Center Chief Wilfreda Maslog was so gratefully to all staff of DA RFU 13 headed by OIC Regional Executive Director Constancio C. Maghanoy, Jr.,for extending support and assistance that makes the hosting of DA-CARIARC of the meeting successful. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Farmers and Fisherfolks Month in Caraga Region

2010-06-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Hailed as the backbone of the country, farmers and fisherfolks alike were given due recognition especially in the month of May for the Farmers and Fisherfolks Month celebration. This year’s theme “Magsasaka at Mangingisda Sama-samang Harapin ang Hamon ng Climate Change Gamit ang Makabagong Teknolohiya “ seems so fitting as different LGUs become aware of the effects on climate change to the agriculture sector. Thus, in this year’s commemoration, discussion on climate change has been the focus.

In Caraga Region, various local government units (LGU) conducted activities in line with the celebration for the year 2010.

Last May 5, 2010, Carrascal in Surigao del Sur celebrated it with a grand parade and various contest participated in by different farmers and fisherfolks association.

Local Chief Executive Alfred Arreza said that the economy of Carrascal relies mainly on farming and fishing activities thus they are given priority by the local government through the Municipal Agriculture Office under the leadership of Municipal Agriculturist Edgardo P. Intano.

It was the 5th Farmers and Fisherfolks Month Celebration of the town.

Meanwhile on May 18, the LGU of San Francisco, Surigao del Norte conducted its Joint 23rd Municipal Agriculture & Fishery Council (MAFC) Day and Farmers & Fisherfolks Month at the Municipal Gym.

As Municipal Agriculturist Marieto Clerigo said, San Francisco is the only town that has consistently celebrated the Farmers & Fisherfolks Month annually.

Among of the highlights of the activity was the Agro-Trade Fair which was participated in by the different barangays of the said town.

The participants displayed various products in their barangay wherein Barangay Banbanon was adjudged as the winner.

The City of Cabadbaran also took part in the celebration last May 26 through a Farm Family Forum in which DA-13’s Regional Technical Director for Administration, Finance & Regulatory Teodora P. Fiel, DVM graced the occasion.

In her address, RTD Fiel lauded the officialdom of Cabadbaran LGU led by Mayor Dale Corvera for conducting such activity which is an indication of a strong commitment of the town to empower the farmers and fisherfolks. She also acknowledged the efforts done by the Office of the City Agriculturist through CA Floreza D. Montalban and staff for being the led of the said occasion.

On the other hand, in Barobo, Surigao del Sur , a culminating activity to commemorate the Farmers and Fisherfolks Forum was conducted wherein Municipal Agriculturist Lyrio R. Campos presented the programs and projects implemented by Barobo LGU though the Municipal Agriculture Office. The participants were given time to exchange views and ideas thus the forum served as a consultation between the local officials of LGU in to further improve local governance.

A mass dog vaccination against rabies was also conducted during the event to curb the reported rising problem of dog bites in the municipality. There was also an agrivan showing of the different agricultural technologies through the DA-RAFID . (Aurell P. Arais/ Vanessa P. Sanchez/ RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Caraganons Life…at ease with InFRES

2009-12-20T21:23:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

The struggle of farmers to have a better life is full of hardships and tedious process but not until the Infrastructure for Rural Productivity Enhancement Sector (InfRES) of the Department of Agriculture reaches its arm to Caraga Region.

In Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, InFRES brings milestone for development. The town now enjoyed two subprojects: livelihood engaging in livestock and cassava projects and farm to market road with a total project cost of more than 19 million pesos serving the barangays of Bacolod, Taganito, Panikian, Babuyan and Gamuton.

Marilyn Suguian, a recipient of working carabao said that she saves a lot on her farm since she no longer hire farm workers and the money she had save helps a lot to send her daughter to school and just recently her daughter taking up social work emerged top 7 among all examinees nationwide in the recent board examination.

Upon seeing the impact of the projects to the recipient community, Mayor Alfred Arreza is so grateful and vows that LGU of Carrascal is so willing to enroll again if there’s another round.

Another completed InFRES project is located in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. 13.2 kilometers of farm to market road was put in place traversing the barangays of Osmeña, Panaytay, Charito and Marcelina.

According to Engr. Primitivo Alimpoos, the city planning and development officer of Bayugan the Infres FMR helps a lot in delivering farm produce and other products to the market.

He also said that InFRES FMR not just serves the residents of Bayugan, but also serve as the alternate access road going to and from Bayugan to its neighboring town of San Luis and some barangays of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

Just recently, November 17, 2009, another InFRES projects was formally turned-over to the local government unit of Sta. Monica, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. Three road segment of farm to market road were completed, the Garcia-Alegria Road segment, Garcia-Campayato Road Segment and Magsaysay Tamdumon-Libertad Road with a total length of 5.86 kilometers and with a total project cost of 14,154,443 pesos.

The completion of the said farm to market road renews the hope of farmers to strive and produce more as well as open up new livelihood opportunities for barangay residents.

Rosalinda Arlan-Penera the local chief executive of Sta. Monica, express her gratefulness to all officers and staff of DA-InFRES for giving their municipality the chance to enroll the program and urged her constituents to help in maintaining the projects for sustainability.

November 25, 2009, another project of InFRES was formally turned-over to the local government unit of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

The municipality of Jabonga grabbed two sub-projects, the rehabilitation and improvement of San Vicente-San Jose-Magdagooc Farm to Market road stretching 8 kilometers with total project costs of P24, 236, 677.92 and rehabilitation and improvement of Celopan and Mayuga Level 11 Water Systems with a total project cost of P 6,135,120.71.

Engr. Ramon Lagura, the Municipal Planning and Development Officer of Jabonga narrated that before the InFRES FMR were put in place, farmers mostly coconut growers and fishermen, experienced difficulty in delivering their produce to the town proper but with the completion of the InFRES FMR brings ease to their problem.

InFRES, ultimately help in increasing farm household income, reduced rural poverty incidence and improved rural accessibility…. inFRES truly makes the life of Caraganons easier. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA RFU 13 Conducts Briefing on RaSSFiP Implementing Guidelines

2009-12-20T21:22:00.001-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – In a bid to further boost the production of palay in the next cropping season, a new scheme on rice seeds procurement and distribution will be adopted to be jointly undertaken by the National Food Authority (NFA) and Department of Agriculture with the respective local government units (LGUs).

The new scheme was based on the memorandum of agreement (MOA) earlier signed by DA Secretary Arthur C. Yap and NFA Administrator Jessup P. Navarro as an offshoot of the Rapid Seed Supply Financing Project (RaSSFiP) financed through the International Fund for Agricultural Development-European Commission (IFAD-EC) loan and grant.

Last September 11, 2009, a briefing about the implementing guidelines of the scheme was conducted at Conference Hall of DA RFU 13 attended by DA personnel involved in rice program, NFA staff headed by NFA Caraga Regional Director Gil Pepito Paqueo and other rice program stakeholders from different provinces in Caraga including some rice seed producers.

Based on the Implementing guidelines, DA will download to the NFA the RaSSFiP fund in the amount of P668,819,742.00, a loan from IFAD and the IFAD-EC grant of P430,665.420.00.

The said amount will be used by NFA for the procurement of Certified Inbred Seeds based on the volume and variety as determined by DA from certified seed growers and with certification from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI).

On distribution aspect, DA shall determine the target distribution areas, the seed requirements per area in terms of variety and the volume and the farmer beneficiaries in consonance with the local government units.

Farmers could still avail the seeds on 50% discounted price through the DA authorized representative upon payment of the farmer’s equity to NFA.

In his speech during the program, Regional Technical Director (RTD) for Operations Eliseo T. Tila expressed optimism that the new scheme on seeds procurement and distribution would yield positively which may translate to higher production of rice in the region.

Before the RaSSFiP, procurement and distribution of seeds was handled solely by DA but nowadays a joint effort of DA, NFA as well as with the LGUs concerned. (Aurell P. Arais/DA-RAFID Caraga)

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DA RFU 13 Hosts GMA-National Livestock Program 3rd Quarter Performance Review and Workshop

2009-12-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

Surigao City- Despite heavy downpour and gusty winds on the onslaught of tropical storm Urduja, the Livestock Division of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 successfully hosted the GMA-Livestock Program 3rd Quarter Performance Review and Workshop held at Lipata, Surigao City last November 23-25, 2009.

Participants of the three day activity were livestock coordinators from various regions in the country except from region 2 and 7 who failed to arrive due to unfavorable weather condition.

Gracing the occasion were Mayor Alfonso Casurra of Surigao City, Provincial Governor Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Norte, Director Felix Valenzuela of GMA Livestock Program and Regional Technical Director for Admin, Finance and Research Edgardo Dahino.

On his speech, Mayor Casurra was so grateful for choosing his city as the venue of the national gathering and reiterated his commitment for agricultural development under his administration.

Meanwhile Governor Barbers posed challenge to all the livestock coordinators to implement a sustainable livestock program.

“Farmers need not only ruminants but to include other basic inputs. What we need is total package of approach to sustain the program”, he said.

A lively exchange of views and ideas were encouraged on the entire duration of the workshop to clarify some issues and concerns especially on the program implementation aspect.

The next Performance Review is slated to be held in Zamboanga City early part of 2010. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA RFU 13 Conducts Hands-on Training on PhilRice-B&S Combine Rice Harvester

2009-11-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – To maximize farm mechanization in Caraga Region, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA RFU13) through the Regional Agriculture Engineering Division (RAED) spearheaded a Hands-on Training on PhilRice Combine Harvester last November 4-5, 2009.

Participants of the said two day activity were Agricultural Engineers and Technicians from provincial agriculture offices of Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and City Agriculture Office of Butuan.

Gracing the occasion were Engr. Rene Morales, RAED OIC; Regional Rice Coordinator June Anthony Ouano; Regional Technical Director for Operations Eliseo Tila; and Regional Executive Director Ricardo Regis.

First day of the training was briefing about the Combine Rice Harvester specifically about its design and parts familiarization held at DA 13 Conference Room and the subsequent day was the actual demonstration and operation of the farm machine held at the rice field of Barangay Captain Desiderio Tabelon of Tiniwisan, Butuan City.

During the briefing Engr. Alfredo Penafiel Jr. said that the machine has outstanding features such as Combines harvesting, threshing, cleaning, and bagging; can harvest 1hectare a day; with grain losses from 1-3%; lower harvesting cost compared to traditional; lightweight and small; easy to operate and designed for local condition and locally manufactured.

Based on an earlier model from China, the said farm implement is manufactured by Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Central Experiment Station based in Science City of Monuz, Nueva Ecija in collaboration with the Briggs & Stratton Corporation.

Each region in the country was provided of such farm implement for demonstration purposes for the farmers to appreciate the usefulness and advantages of the machine and eventually adopt it on their respective farms.

After giving the participants the opportunity to operate the unit, comments or suggestions were gathered about the performance of the machine and was taken by representatives of PhilRice Agusan Experiment Stations as basis for possible further innovations or improvements.

Farm mechanization is a step to address problem of losses incurred both in the production and post production operations affecting the agriculture industry and forms part of the implementation of agricultural mechanization program under Republic Act 8435 otherwise known as the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA). (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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DA RFU 13 Hosts BPI-RCPC-KASAKALIKASAN National Workshop

2009-11-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Carmen, Agusan del Norte – The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 successfully hosted the four day National Workshop to Strengthen BPI-RCPC-KASAKALIKASAN Linkage in Support of Village Crop Protection Strategies held at Veranda 2, Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

A total of 65 crop program stakeholders coming from all regions in Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon who are serving under the department of agriculture regional field unit offices and few from provincial level flocked and join the pool of participants.

Gracing the occasion were Dr. Jesus Binamira, National Program Officer of KASAKALIKASAN; Ms. Wilma Cuaterno, Chief of Crop Protection Division of Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and the host Regional Executive Director Ricardo Regis of DA RFU 13.

During the opening program, RED Regis emphasized the importance of strengthening the linkages of Bureau of Plant Industry, Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) and KASAKALIKASAN to bolster the effort in increasing food production in the country.

Meanwhile, Dr. Binamira challenges all the participants to look for ways to enhance crop protection through pest management and be alert on the eventualities brought about by climate change.

He said that there is urgency for the participants to make the farmers be adaptive on the realities brought about by climate change through providing “a responsive, accurate surveillance, management and system”.

Highlight of the workshop was the sharing of programs and projects undertaken each region in crop protection as well as its experiences and its plans to strengthen pest management program.

A special program was also conducted as tribute to two colleagues who are bound to retire from government service soon; namely Pepito Leysa and Sammy Simbajon.

During the entire duration of the national gathering, RED Regis made every effort to ensure the event more fruitful and memorable that actually really paid off as the participants show eagerness in all their activity. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID DA CARAGA)

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Programang Gulayan ng Masa (PGMA) Addresses Rights of a Child to Grow Healthy

2009-11-03T00:48:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Brgy. Magsaysay, Veruela, Agusan del Sur - Principle 4 of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly resolution 1386 (XIV) of November 1959 states that “The child shall enjoy the benefits of social security. He shall be entitled to grow and develop in health…The child has the right to adequate nutrition, housing, recreation and medical services.

Part and parcel to comply the said provision, the Municipal Agriculture Office of Veruela, Agusan del Sur through its Agricultural Extension Workers strengthen its advocacy to the community to have their own communal garden and to the household to have its backyard gardens. One of the barangay that responded the advocacy fervently is Barangay Magsaysay of Agusan del Sur.

In Purok 1 of the said barangay, residents help each other to take care and maintain their communal garden aside from their gardens on their respective houses.

The said purok availed of the assistance from the Department of Agriculture through Programang Gulayan ng Masa (PGMA) such as free vegetable seeds and other inputs as well as trainings.

According to Elesio Nonog, 62 years old, a barangay treasurer that since the implementation of the PGMA project in their area, residents were encourage to plant vegetables thus minimizing wastage of time.

The produce..? Well, pupils from day care center enjoyed the good and nutritious meal during feeding activities.

Nonog said that they see to it that foods to be served during feeding program is nutritious and will surely nourish their kids, thus veggie menu is on the top of the list.

Moreover unconsumed produce will be divided by the residents in the community who renders their time on the communal garden.

Nonog shared that he himself feels good and rejuvenated every time he eats vegetables. “Siyempre makadugang gyud na sa kusog ug enerhiya” (Of course it can adds strength and energy), he said in vernacular.

Meanwhile Maria Nona Ramillano, Agricultural Technician on the area said that she feels happy and fulfilled since her hard labor finally takes off on persuading the residents to engage in gardening.

“Pinaagi sa mga meeting sa Farmers Association (FA) ug Rural Improvement Club (RIC) ako gyud silang ginadasig nga mananum ug gulay ug gipahibalo nako sa ila ang advantage niini aron mapakunhod ang malnourished nga mga kabataan sa barangay (Through meetings of Farmers Associations and Rural Improvement Club I really advocated them to plant vegetables by presenting the advantages of doing as such which would greatly help to eliminate malnourished children in the barangay), she said.

Programang Gulayan ng Masa (PGMA) is a project of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Department of Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap with the help of Local Government Units (LGU’s) and other private sector which aims to reduce rural hunger and malnutrition through the promotion of home, communal, barangay and school gardening in the country. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID-DA CARAGA)

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Barangay LGU Policy:Plant Vegetable First Before Obtaining Barangay Clearance…

2009-11-03T00:44:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Brgy. Karaos, San Francisco, ADS – The rule is clear! If you want to obtain a certification or clearance from the barangay, show first your vegetable garden, thus said Barangay Captain Delailah Bacera of Barangay Karaos, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Barangay Captain Delailah Bacera said that to attain food sufficiency and to eradicate malnutrition in the barangay, political will of a local chief executive is very much crucial that is why they imposed such policy.

According to her, before a barangay resident can obtain a barangay certification or clearce, he or she shall get an approval from the purok chairman which in turn the purok chairman rules that only those purok residents who have their own backyard garden or at least render time on the communal garden during pahina (bayanihan) will be given an approval.

As a result it is seldom to see a house without a garden and a purok waiting shed without a garden on its background.

Communal garden or backyard garden in Barangay Karaos bears various veggies such as eggplant (talong), bitter gourd (ampalaya), alugbati, string beans, patola, lemon grass (tanglad), kangkong, camote and some herbal plants.

To sustain the program, a yearly search will be conducted by the barangay for outstanding puroks who sustain and maintain their respective gardens with prizes at stake.

“Mao ni ang among paagi sa pagsuporta sa Programang Gulayan ng Masa (PGMA) sa atong pinanggang presidente” (This is our way of supporting the Programang Gulayan ng Masa, a program of our beloved president), Bacera said in vernacular.

Meanwhile, Purok 5 Chairman Efren Armodia expressed his gratitude to the Department of Agriculture for providing free seeds and other inputs which deeply encourages his constituents to plant vegetables. And indeed empower him to exercise his authority as purok chairman since a resident who want to transact in the barangay office should bear his approval first.

“Kaniadto mamalit mi ug gulay sa merkado karon dili na gyud kay naa naman sa among nataran mismo ug presko pa gyud” (Before we bought vegetables from the market but now no more since we can get it from our own backyard and so fresh”, he said with a smile.

Programang Gulayan ng Masa (PGMA) is a project of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Department of Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap with the help of Local Government Units (LGU’s) and other private sector which aims to reduce rural hunger and malnutrition through the promotion of home, communal, barangay and school gardening in the country. (Aurell P. Arais/RAFID-DA CARAGA)

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Barangay LGU Policy:

2009-11-03T00:43:00.001-08:00

NAFC Validates Hard Infra in Agusan del Sur and Dinagat Islands

2009-10-22T22:15:00.001-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – A team from National Agricultural and Fisheries Council (NAFC) successfully conducted the second round of validation of hard infrastructure projects implemented here in Caraga Region under the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies.

The validation took place last September 14-19, 2009 wherein the four NAFC validators were divided into two groups to validate projects sites in Agusan del Sur and Province of Dinagat Islands.

The Agusan del Sur group were composed of Marilu Peralta and Eduardo Cunan while the Dinagat Island group were Engr. Jahensi Supanga and Troadio Montemayor.

The team visited various projects sites accompanied by some DA Regional Field Unit 13staff and its counterparts from provincial and municipal level together with provincial and municipal agricultural and fishery council (PAFC/MAFC) both in Dinagat and Agusan del Sur, representative from Department of Public Works and Highways and National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

In the Province of Dinagat Islands, the group validated hard infrastructure projects in the municipalities of Cagdianao, Dinagat, San Jose, Basilisa, Libjo and Tubajon with 11 irrigation projects and five farm to market roads (FMR) which also include two municipalities in Agusan del Sur particularly Bayugan and Esperanza with one irrigation project and ten farm to market roads.

Meanwhile the Agusan del Sur group able to validate 12 irrigation projects and 22 farm to market roads situated in different towns such as Veruela, Sta. Josefa, Trento, Bunawan, Rosario, San Francisco, Prosperidad, Talacogon and La Paz.

Projects were implemented through the DA funding downloaded to various implementing agencies such as NIA, DPWH as well as local government units of the province and municipal government.

Some projects were also funded through the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP).

Based on general findings of the validating team, most of the projects were in place however some were delayed particularly in Dinagat Islands and recommended to the concerned implementing agencies to strengthen coordination and monitoring for smooth project implementation.

DA RFU 13 Regional Technical Director Edgardo Dahino gladly accepted the recommendations from the validation team and vowed to work hard for its improvement.

The first round of NAFC validation was conducted April 13-18, 2009 covering the provinces of Agusan del Norte, portion of Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte including Siargao Islands. (Aurell P. Arais/DA RAFID-Caraga)

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SUCCESS STORY: Infrastructure for Rural Productivity Enhancement Sector Project (InfRES)

2009-06-28T23:36:00.000-07:00

DA’s InfRES Makes Life Easier

by: Aurell P. Arais

Caraga Region - “Tungod sa InfRES misayon gyud ang among kinabuhi”. (InfRES makes our life easier).

A word of relief uttered by Marilyn Sugian, a resident of Purok 6, Brgy. Panikian, Carrascal, Surigao del Norte after being freed from daily hardships on their place going to and from Poblacion to their barangay due to almost inaccessible road.

According to her before the construction of the farm to market road through the Infrastructure for Rural Productivity Enhancement Sector Project (InfRES) in their place farmers experienced the pain of agony on how to bring their produce to the market and even buyers refrain to fetch their product due to the difficulty of the road.

In effect, farmers will carry their farm produce manually or with the help of carabao resulting to delay of time and eventually affecting the quality of their product.

“Luoy gyud kaayo mi kaniadto kay ang among abot sa uma mabaligya na lang ug barato kaysa sa malata lang”, (We’re so pity before because we are compelled to sell our farm produce at lower price than completely spoiled”, she said in vernacular.

She also said that in times of bad weather they will not be able to travel especially when the river they need to cross will overflow.

Marilyn also said that education in their place was greatly hampered. “Kaniadto daghan gyud ang miundang ug eskwela kay dili na kaantos sa kalisod sa agianan labi na ug mu-ulan” (Before several students were forced to stop from going to school due to hardships on the way to school more so if its raining), she narrated.

And even on emergency cases, they’re having difficulty in rushing ill person to the hospital for an immediate health care.

However, she said since the completion of the farm to market road on their barangay their agony before were gone and completely change the community life and hasten development in their area.

The town of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur is a recipient of Construction and Rehabilitation of Farm to Market Road (FMR) with appurtenant structures last 2008 through the Infrastructure for Rural Productivity Enhancement Sector Project (INFRES) with local government unit counterpart worth 19,436,193.85 traversing the barangays of Tag-anito, Panikian, Bacolod, Babuyan and Gamuton.

Marilyn happily said that due to the InfRES Project traders would now come to their barangay to purchase farm produce at reasonable price while reviving the eagerness of their children to study hard and even boasted that several of the students from their place got honored in the class.

A regular public vehicle now served their place and people who need medical attention can now easily go the hospital even at night time.

More government services have now reached their area such as agricultural technicians, health personnel, police officers and investors that resulted to the development of the area.

Same situation was also experienced by the residents of Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur also a recipient of Farm to Market Road through the InfRES serving the barangays of Osmeña, Panaytay, Marcelina and Charito.

Former Panaytay Barangay Captain Dominga Lumanglas said that before the project of InfRES their barangay was considered a sleeping area since only few houses were seen and some residents even decided to leave the area due to the isolation from livelihood opportunity.

However due to the InFRES project their barangay were awaken, more houses were constructed; more opportunities came in and helped alleviate the plight of the farmers. Barangay Kagawad Angelito Diamos of Charito also shared the same testimony.

Truly, the InfRES Project provided support to Government initiatives for removing infrastructure constraints in rural areas in Caraga Region and thereby helped rural production and productivity.

InfRES indeed makes life easier. (Aurell P. Arais/ da rafid caraga)

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DA- RFU 13 Joins Kalayaan 2009

2009-06-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P.Arais

Butuan City – The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA RFU 13) had actively participated in the celebration of 111th Independence Day last June 12, 2009dubbed as Kalayaan 2009.

A contingent of DA personnel participated during the motorcade and attended the program held at Inland Resort Convention Center led by Regional Technical Director (RTD) for Research, Administration and Finance Edgardo Dahino.

Guest of honor during the celebration was Tourism Secretary Ace Durano who at the same time designated for Caraga as Cabinet Officer for Regional Development (CORD).

The Kalayaan 2009 offered various services to the public such as jobs far, livelihood fair, processing of various clearances and documents, awarding of employment contracts, health and wellness, medical services and livelihood grants to workers-beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) participated by various government offices and private entities.

On the part of DA, the Human Resources Management Office headed by Josefa Gidacan conducted screening of qualified applicants for 10 available positions, priority were those relatives of displaced workers.

During the affair two farmers groups in Agusan del Norte who benefited mechanical drying facilities from Department of Agriculture namely Sto. Niño Multipurpose Cooperative (Butuan City) represented by Plenio Atega and Abad Irrigators Association (RTR) represented by Jun Paiste received the certificate of turn-over handed through Secretary Durano.

In Caraga Region, the implementing agencies for CLEEP are the following: Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and Local Government Units (LGUs) and Department of Agriculture (DA).

Data presented during the program showed that CLEEP in Caraga generated 11,554 jobs with 11,554 individually employed and a total of 6,512,576.58 pesos funding assistance. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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DA-AMAD, LGU San Franz, Launch 3rd Bagsakan Center in Caraga

2009-06-28T23:28:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

San Francisco, Agusan del Sur – The Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA RFU 13) and the local government unit of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur jointly launched the 3rd Bagsakan Center (BC) in Caraga Region located at Brgy. 1 of the said town last June 20, 2009.

Gracing the occasion were local officials of San Francisco led by Mayor Carl Elias Lademora, vendors association officers and members, farmers and staff from DA-RFU 13 led by AMAD OIC Servilla Balaan.

In order for the public to fully understand the project, Balaan shared the overview of the project while municipal vice mayor Bernardino Ursos warmly welcomed all the guests and visitors.

On his speech Mayor Carl Lademora expressed optimism that the project would greatly contribute to the economic plight of farmers as well as the residents of the area.

He urged farmers to deliver their produce directly to the Bagsakan Center to eliminate the unscrupulous middle men resulting to the soaring of farm prices sold to the end buyers.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Jennny de Asis representing Governor Valentina Plaza on the other hand reiterated their commitment to fully support the agricultural sector of the province through the necessary legislation and funding.

To signal the formal start of the operation, Balaan awarded the Certificate to Operate to the LGU San Francisco as operator received by Mayor Lademora.

Two guests from Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) of DA Central Office visited the site after the launching to see for themselves on an actual operation of the project. The two AMAS staff was Jenny Torred, Barangay Bagsakan and Bagsakan Center (BB/BC) coordinator for Caraga and Jose Manta, AMAS Marketing Division Chief.

The Bagsakan Center (BC) in San Francisco is the 3rd in the entire region of Caraga. First was in Aras-asan, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur and followed by Cancohoy, del Carmen, Siargao Islands, Surigao del Norte.

BC is a component of the Accelerated Hunger Mitigation Program (AHMP) aimed to suppress hunger and malnutrition in the countryside through access of affordable and nutritious food supply. (Aurell P. Arais/ rafid da caraga)

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PVET AgNor Conducts Heat Synchronization and AI Program in Santiago

2009-06-08T18:49:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Santiago, ADN – Aiming to further boost the livestock industry in the province of Agusan del Norte, a team from the Provincial Veterinary Office conducted a massive Heat Synchronization and Artificial Insemination (AI) Program in the town of Santiago last May 26, 2009.

The team was composed of the following: Nestor Andoy, AI Technician of Santiago; Rizalino Abrogar, provincial AI technician; Pedro Concon, AI technician of Las Nieves; Adriano Balan, AI technician of Jabonga, Pierlito Aruelo, AI Technician of Kitcharao, Jaime Monte, coordinator of Forage and Pasture; and Raul Cornites, provincial coordinator of Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) Livestock.

Also present were Zaida Badajos, agricultural technician (AT) of Santiago and Josephine Ramos, a staff of Santiago Municial Agriculture office, both were in-charge of recording the recipients of the program.

Before the sun goes down on May 26, the team rendered its services on four barangays within the municipality of Santiago, namely San Isidro; Poblacion 1; La Paz; and Tagbuyacan.

Around 30 farm animals benefited the program which includes carabao, cow, horse and even goat through de-worming, artificial insemination, pregnancy diagnosis, heat synchronization and vitamins.

Some were also taken with fecal sample collection to determine internal parasite on animals. The samples will be endorsed to the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RDDL) situated in Taguibo, Butuan City for laboratory analysis.

A follow-up activity was also undertaken on the following day on the same area on those animals that needs further veterinarian services.

The activity was also supported by the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Division (RAFID) of Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA-RFU 13) through agrivan services and documentation.

Giving care to the farm animals in Agusan del Norte is an utmost priority of the Provincial Veterinarian Office under the leadership of Dr. Belen Aruelo. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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San Francisco SDN Holds Joint 22ND MAFC Day as Farmers/Fishermen’s Month Celebration Culminates

2009-06-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

San Francisco, Surigao del Norte – Farmers and fisher folks alike converged in Poblacion to celebrate the culmination of Farmers and Fishermen’s Month celebration last May 27, 2009.

What makes it more significant is the simultaneous holding of the Joint 22nd Municipal Agricultural and Fishery Council (MAFC) Day which drew huge crowd.

The joint celebration kicked-off with the thanksgiving mass at the municipal gym celebrated by Reverend Father Almario Ramada Jr.

Outside the gym, fresh produce from farms and aqua products were displayed by the participating barangay joining the Tabo Contest.

After the evaluation of the board of judges, the Tabo was opened to the public which buyers rushed to grab the produce which was sold lower than the prevailing market price.

On the height of the adrenaline rush on Tabo area, a formal program was conducted inside the gymnasium to highlight the Joint 22nd MAFC Day and Farmers/Fishermen’s Month celebration duly attended by the municipal officials and members and officers of MAFC.

San Francisco MAFC chairman Ramon Logronio expressed his gratefulness to all stakeholders who one way or the other supported the activity as he welcomes all the guests and participants.

Officer in Charge Mayor Florefiel Bañacia was overwhelmed by what he saw on the Tabo area wherein bountiful farm harvest were displayed and vowed to look for more ways to support the agricultural sector of San Francisco.

Similar commitments of support were also expressed by Crops Division Chief Cecil Sol of Provincial Agriculture Office representing PA Trujelio Pepito and Dr. Julio Domiquel, provincial veterinarian of Surigao Del Norte.

Followed shortly was the awarding of prizes to the Tabo contest winners with Barangay Oslao emerged as first, followed by Banbanon, and third was Macopa. Other participants were Linongganan, Diaz, Magtangale, Poblacion and Jubgan placing fourth to eight respectively.

Also during the program, certificate of recognition to Outstanding Livestock Raisers were distributed to the following: Edilberto Laurejas, large ruminant catergory; Ptolomeo Canoy, small ruminant category; Bebina Sabio, Swine category; Gilberto Cabusao, kabir category and Brgy. Poblacion Livestock and Poultry Raisers Association (LAPRA) for BLAPRA category.

Prior to his closing remarks, Municipal Agriculturist Marieto Clerigo distributed Rice Hull carbonizer to farmer recipients.
Staff of Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Division (RAFID) of Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA RFU13) boosted the program with showing of agricultural technologies though the agrivan services.

This year’s celebration of Farmers and Fishermen’s Month Celebration has a theme “Sapat at Abot Kayang Pagkain para sa Lahat.” (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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BPRE Conducts Training on the Operation of Pneumatic Corn Planter in Caraga Region

2009-06-03T21:18:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – The Bureau of Post Harvest Research and Extension (BHRE), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture is aggressively pushing its campaign for farm mechanization here in Caraga Region.

To materialize its mandate, BPHRE conducted a two day Training on the Operation and Maintenance of BPHRE Pneumatic Corn Planter held at DA RFU 13 Conference Hall, Butuan City last May 5 to 6, 2009.

The said training was participated by farmers’ cooperative such as St. Gabriel Multipurpose Cooperative and Self Reliance Team (SRT) in Butuan City, as well as representative from Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte.

Also present were staffs from different division of DA Regional Field Unit 13 such as Crops Division headed by Ms. Lynn Pareñas, Regional Agriculture Engineering Division (RAED) headed by Engr. Rene Morales and Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Division (RAFID).

St. Gabriel Multipurpose Cooperative is the first recipient of the BPHRE Pneumatic Corn Planter throughout the country through soft loan scheme.

Regional Executive Director Ricardo C. Regis warmly welcomes the resource persons from BPHRE Central Office headed by Director Hugo Tolentino.

During the training proper, Supervising Science Research Specialist Helen Martinez discussed about the Corn Mechanization as well as the Economics of using the BPHRE Corn Planter.

On mechanical aspect, Engr. Aldrin Hipolito BPHRE Research Specialist talked about the Component Parts and Functions as well as the principles on the operation of Corn Planter and its maintenance.

In order for the participants to keep abreast on the corn program, Regional Corn Coordinator Abel Wagas also tackled about the Protocols on Corn Production.

After all of the discussions, an actual operation using the BHRE Pneumatic Corn Planter was conducted at the corn field owned by National GAWAD SAKA Awardee Demetrio Tabelon at Brgy. Tiniwisan, Butuan City.

As of now, BPHRE is currently looking for manufacturers based here in Mindanao to produce BPHRE Farm Technologies for an easy accessibility of the farmers.

Part of the training was the conduct of BPHRE Technologies Licensing Protocol for Manufacturers spearheaded by Division Chief Dr. Eduardo Cayabyab.

It was attended by five Mindanao-based manufactures such as RJR Agro-Industrial Enterprises of Malaybalay City, Bukidnon; MDV Machine Shop and Engineering Works of Surigao City; Marbel Corn Sheller of Maramag, Bukidnon; Allied Shop of Surigao City and Green Valley Agro Industries of Kononadal City, South Cotabato. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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NAFC Team Validates Hard Infra Projects in Caraga Region

2009-04-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City- To ensure transparency of government projects implemented under the auspices of the Department of Agriculture, an eight (8) member team from National Agricultural and Fishery Council (NAFC) conducted a one week validation and monitoring here in Caraga Region last April 13-18, 2009.

Focus of the validation was the hard infrastructure projects such as Farm to Market Roads (FMR) and Irrigations with funding source from DA and either implemented by the said office or downloaded to other agency such as National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) or the provincial and municipal local government units.

The eight member team was divided into four sub-teams with two members each to cover four identified cluster areas within the region.

The first team validated mainland Surigao del Norte and some parts of Surigao del Sur areas covering the towns of Alegria, Tubod, Sison, Placer, Bacuag, Gigaquit, Claver, Carrascal, Lanuza and the cities of Tandag and Surigao.

The second team validated Agusan del Norte areas covering the towns of Kitcharao, Jabonga, Santiago, Las Nieves, Carmen, Nasipit, Buenavista and the cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran while the third team validated Siargao Island and some parts of mainland Surigao del Norte covering the areas of General Luna, Pilar, San Isidro, San Benito, Burgos, Sta. Monica, San Francisco and Malimono.

The fourth team validated Surigao del Sur areas covering the towns of Hinatuan, Lingig, Tagbina, Barobo, San Agustin, Marihatag, and Tago.

Each team was accompanied in the area by its local counterparts from DA RFU 13, DPWH, NIA, representative from respective LGUs and Agricultural Fishery Councils (AFCs) while the new Caraga Coordinator of Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) Claire Bacation accompanied the team 3.

During the exit conference, all data gathered were consolidated and showed that generally all projects were put in place.

Regional Executive Director Ricardo C. Regis welcomes the validation team and viewed it positively not as fault finder but to look into some rooms for improvements.

The national validation team expressed an appreciation to the coordination effort extended by DA RFU 13 through Regional Agriculture Engineering Division (RAED) head by its division chief Engr. Rene Morales.

The said activity is part of the leg of project validation in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

It is sad to note that while the team conducted its mandate here in Caraga Region, the Regional Executive Director of Region 2 and at the same time Undersecretary for Monitoring Gumersindo Lasam, was killed in an ambush by still unidentiied men in Solana, Cagayan Valley Tuesday morning. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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A Mechanic Turned to a Farmer

2009-04-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Success Story of
JERRY RAGANAS MORENO

by: Aurell P. Arais

Farming is a golden business enterprise…

This motivates Jerry Raganas Moreno of Brgy. Dugsangon, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte to forget his job abroad and instead focus his attention on farming.

Jerry, 41 years old, happily married to Lolita Tan gifted with three (3) children is a graduate of Automotive Mechanic and Electronics. Due to the demand of his skills abroad, Jerry was able to land a job in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) where he worked for five years and a half (5½).

But on 1997, he received sad news about the death of his father that prompted him to go home. His father leaves his family with a piece of land but nobody wanted to till it, thus Jerry volunteered himself.

At first Jerry find difficulty in cultivating the land. He explored almost all possibilities to increase his production with his 1.8 hectares agricultural land that was due to him but to no avail due to high cost of farm inputs.

Until 2003, Jerry was invited by the Municipal Agriculture Office of Bacuag to attend a seminar on Integrated Bio-System Farming in Butuan City. Upon return, he practiced what he was learned on the seminar especially on formulating and application of Organic Fertilizer to his own rice farm land.

The use of organic fertilizer greatly helps to reduce the cost of farm inputs since he is not going to purchase synthetic chemicals anymore and was identified by MAO as the first person to adopt organic rice farming in the locality.

To share his expertise, he demonstrated to his co-farmers the proper way of producing organic fertilizers utilizing the farm wastes such as rice hull, rice straw, carabao and goat manure and paved the way for an additional source of income-the organic fertilizer.

Jerry said that since he applied organic fertilizer on his farm, his yield has greatly increased that other farmers in the neighborhood were convinced and purchased his produced organic fertilizer. He was able to achieve an average yield ranging from 6.7 to 7.6 tons per hectare.

Jerry said that there are three (3) factors to consider in rice farming for better yield. First is nutrient management through using organic fertilizer, second is water management through maintaining the correct level of water and lastly is pest management.

Aside from rice farming and producing organic fertilizer Jerry devoted his time in planting and caring other crops such as corn, coconut and falcatta utilizing the land of his other brothers and sister.

With his income and expertise on mechanic, Jerry able to purchase an additional 1.0 hectare of land planted with corn and established a rice mill where his wife Lolita manages it.

“For me farming is business, you have to invest your time, effort and system and put your love on it. My secret in success is hardwork, technology and prayers” he smilingly uttered.

Inspired by his three children and very supportive wife, Jerry is willing to devote his entire life on his business…FARMING. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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MRDP-RPCO M&E Unit Caraga Conducts Series of CBMEG Training in ADS

2009-03-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – To ensure sustainability of sub-projects of the Mindanao Rural Development Program Adaptable Program Loan 2 (MRDP-APL2) implemented on various local government units, the Regional Program Coordinating Office Monitoring and Evaluation Unit of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 conducted a series of Community Based Monitoring and Evaluation (CBMEG) training in several municipalities in Agusan del Sur.

The series of CBMEG trainings started in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur last March 4 and 5, 2009 held at Municipal Agricultural Training Center

The occasion was graced by the chief executive of the said municipality Honorable Leonida P. Manpatilan.

After Esperanza, the same training was conducted at Trento last last March 10 to 11 held at Hills View Inn Conference Room and followed by Bunawan last March 17 to 18, 2009 held at Kalahi Training Center.

Each CBMEG training were consist of two days and were jointly spearheaded by RPCO M&E Unit Head Rebecca R. Atega, Provincial Program Management and Implementing Unit (PPMIU) of Agusan del Sur headed by Engr. Cynthia Lumanta with PPMIU M&E Unit Head Edna Tongson and staff and the respective Municipal Program Management and Implementing Unit (MPMIU) with MPMIU M&E Unit.

Through CBMEG, the communities were empowered to participate on monitoring and evaluating the implementation of MRDP sub-projects on their locality and report their findings directly to the municipal level.

MRPDP has four sub-projects namely Investments for Governance Reform (IGR), Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), Natural Resources Management (NRM) and Rural Infrastructure (RI).

IGR aims to make more effective the devolution to complement the Local Government Code and further improve competitiveness of agricultural sector, RI focus on rehabilitation and construction of communal irrigation systems, farm to market roads, single lane bridges, potable water supplies an other agricultural infrastructure critical in enhancing farm productivity and access to markets, CFAD serves the disadvantaged sectors through livelihood projects to increase rural incomes and NRM mainstreams the protection and conservation of the environment.

Of the four components, majority of the LGU in Agusan del Sur who availed the program through a particular counter parting scheme embraced two subprojects such as CFAD and RI.

The series of CBMEG trainings serves as the output of the Training of Trainors (TOT) conducted through the Program Support Office based in Davao City last February 24 to 25 held at the Provincial Training Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Similar CBMEG Trainings will be conducted in other municipalities and provinces in Caraga Region soon. (Aurell P. Arais/ rafid da caraga/Info Ace)

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MANGAGOY FISHERMEN MULTI-PURPOSE COOPERATIVE (MAFISCO)

2009-03-31T01:09:00.000-07:00

Brief Story of
MANGAGOY FISHERMEN MULTI-PURPOSE COOPERATIVE (MAFISCO)
A Cooperative as a Tool for Reform

Bislig City is not only the seat of the formerly largest wood and paper industry in Southeast Asia but also one of the fishing grounds in the province of Surigao del Sur hence majority of its inhabitants make a living out of fishing.

However, when the fishing regulations and local ordinances were strictly imposed by the LGU of Bislig, disallowing to fish within the 14 km. radius from the coastal area, majority of the small fishermen were dislocated and deprived of a living to sustain the daily needs of their families.

At this instance, a brilliant idea was born. Seventeen individual consisted of small fishermen, fish traders, marine products traders and ice distributors agreed to form a multi-purpose cooperative that on August 8, 1994, the group comes up with an initial paid-up capital of only P16,150.00.

Due to financial constraint, the group faced a subsequent difficulty in pursuing their first project in marketing of fish and marine products, thus they focused their attention in looking for somebody or entity for financial assistance.

Unfortunately the request for financial assistance to the Office of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan last November 17, 1994 had been denied due to the election ban imposed at that time. The first disappointment of the group did not stop them from pursuing its determination to exist and instead proceeded on acquiring the official recognition of the government by registering their group in its official name Mangagoy Fishermen Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAFISCO) from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

From then on, the group aggressively continues their quest to ask financial and technical assistance from different government offices and entities which includes the Department of Agriculture for bigger capital and for proper management of the cooperative. Their efforts were being paid off after raising a start off capital amounting to P200,000.00 that was invested for retail lending and marketing of fish and marine products.

In a matter of seven (7) months since its birth their initial capital has rose to P201,086.34 from P16,150.00 and P2,770,888.81 in 1999.

In 2002 with enough capitalization, MAFISCO has proudly launched a prototype mini banking operation under a project called Member Savings Operations which includes micro-lending with only 2% interest rate and eventually frees the borrowers from the hook of persons engaging in lending with higher interest rate ranging from 5-10%. Same year, a P10 million worth of Ice Plant Facility was established to stabilize the supply and price of ice in the locality.
October 3, 2006 a fire broke out in Mangagoy, Bislig City burning almost 5,000 houses wherein most of the coop members were affected including some important papers of the cooperative was turn into ashes. But the tragedy, never weaken the eagerness of the group to pursue its dreams, it still manages to stand and continue its business venture despite of its losses and the affected member-borrowers.

No matter what the crisis that beset the local economy; MAFISCO has consistently manifested a serious meaning to its area of business with added venture- rice trading particularly wholesale and retail, which in turn the whole operation helps to generate employment with 15 personnel who are mostly displaced workers from PICOP who ceased its operation.

Based on record the collection rate has never go beyond the minimum passing grade of 70% and instead made an average of 96% spread out in five years or an overall collection grade of 102%.

From year 2000 up to 2008, the capitalization from P2,983,959.80 now rose to P 6,316,137.47. Capital share from P 1,686,244.90 to P6,216,302.53 in the year 2008. Coop assets from P2,983,959.80 in 2000 steadfastly increased to P25,450,070.89 in the year 2008.

Due to good performance and success of the coop, from its 17 original members now rose to 747 including the associate members, garnering numerous honors, awards and recognition which include Outstanding Surigaonon Entrepinoy Award and Outstanding This is a great indication of the Power of COOPERATIVISM.

MAFISCO is also socially involved in the community. They are part of the Bundle of Joy, a gift-giving activity for the poor children of Bislig, also a benefactor of Adopt-a-Street Children program, actively participated in the Tree Planting and activities during celebration of the Cooperative Month every October.

This year 2009, MAFISCO is currently pushing for an expansion of its business venture such as Ice Plant and Cold Storage Facility, Purified Drinking Water Station and Rice Trading Wholesale and Retail.

With the Coop’s thrust toward self-reliance coupled with competent officers, nothing is impossible for MAFISCO to excel on its field of endeavor now and for the years to come.

MAFISCO is indeed a Cooperative, a tool for Reform.

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DA-RFU 13 Supports PNRC Blood Donation Drive

2009-02-18T18:02:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Butuan City – Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA-RFU 13) strongly supports the drive of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) for blood donation campaign.

The support was manifested by allowing personnel from PNRC Butuan City/Agusan del Norte Chapter to utilize the DA lobby as venue for blood donation drive last February 9, 2009.

A dozen of DA personnel responded on the campaign by donating their blood for about 450 cc each.

Other personnel also availed the services of PNRC such as free taking of blood pressure (BP) and blood type.

Seven (7) staff from PNRC Butuan City/Agusan del Norte Chapter composed the team headed by Soljin M. Robles, Registered Medical Technologist (RMT).

In an interview, Robles explained that a person who donates blood will received a card and may use it anytime to avail free blood from their office on an emergency situation.

Donating blood is a healthy practice to keep healthy blood cells in the body produced by bone marrow. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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Seed Producers Training/Seminar Conducted at Trento

2009-02-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Trento, Agusan del Sur – A seminar/training for seed producers in the province of Agusan del Sur was successfully conducted last week..

The said activity was held last July 28 to August 1, 2008 at Sasepco Warehouse., Trento, Agusan del Sur.

It was learned from Rose Marzo, municipal agriculture officer of Trento that the said seminar were participated by old and new applicant for seed producer.

Participants were coming from Veruela, Sta. Josefa, Bunawan, Loreto, San Francisco and Trento, all of Agusan del Sur.

Marzo emphasized that the seminar served as retooling for old producers while the new applicant will acquire knowledge on proper way of seed production and the law related to this kind of undertaking.

Resource persons during the training were Abner Montecalvo, GMA Rice Program Coordinator for Mindanao who talked about status of the rice seed industry in Mindanao/ Region and Varietal Selection and Characteristics; Henry Carpiso, chief of National Seed Quality Control Services (NSQCS) Central Office in Quezon City, who delievered about the policies and guidelines on seed certification for inbred rice seed production; Jane Rasco- Wagas, officer in charge of RSQCS Caraga; Johnny Ramos of Provincial Agriculture Office, Agusan del Sur; Jojo Dagum, delivered the overview of the training course and other speakers from Philrice namely Frenciso Varquez, Jisell Rendon and Richard Tabudlong.

For the past few years, the province of Agusan del Sur rice seed growers had difficulties in providing sufficient supply to the farmers which would affect the government efforts geared towards rice sufficiency, thus the seminar was conducted to train more seed growers.

It is not only the province of Agusan del Sur who suffered such shortage of seed supply but on the entire province of Caraga thus the same training will be conducted on other parts of the region soon.(Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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DA-LGU Holds Plan Integration Workshop for CY 2009

2009-02-03T00:14:00.000-08:00

Butuan City – To ensure a unified program implementation approach for the year 2009 between the agriculture department and the local government units (LGUs) in Caraga Region on FIELDS program, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA RFU 13) conducted a two day DA-LGU Plan Integration Workshop.

The activity was held at Goat2Geder Hotel and Restaurant, this city last January 29-30, 2009 and was participated by City and Provincial Agriculturists and Veterinarians in the region.

Regional Technical Director (RTD) Edgardo E. Dahino warmly welcomes all the participants during his opening remarks and lauded the planning division headed by Josephine Alban for spearheading the workshop.

Meanwhile, Regional Executive Director Ricardo C. Regis extends his appreciation to all the LGU-DA participants and urged to work closely for a common direction towards agricultural development.

Each veterinary and agriculture officers presented their LGU Plans and Programs for calendar year CY 2009.

Regional Agriculture Statistics Officer Melchor Bautista of BAS also presented the agricultural trends in the region that may serve as basis for effective program planning.

Highlight of the gathering was the workshop by sector or component such as Ginintuang Masagang Ani (GMA) Rice, Corn, High Value Commercial Crops (HVCC), and Livestock.

Regional Technical Director Eliseo T. Tila answered one by one all the issues and concerns surfaced during the open forum such as on DA-LGU project counterparting schemes, incentives and other matters.

Financial matters were also ably addressed by Finance Division Chief Jessica Daan. (Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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DA-AMAS Director Francisco Ramos III Spearheads BB Launching in SDS

2009-02-03T00:05:00.000-08:00

Surigao del Sur – To personally oversee the start of the operation, Director Francisco “Bong” Ramos III of the Department of Agriculture-Agribusiness, Marketing and Assistance Services (DA-AMAS) spearheaded the launching of its flagship project Barangay Bagsakan in Surigao del Sur.

For the whole month of November 2008, the Agribusiness, Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD) headed by OIC Servilla Balaan, a regional counterpart of AMAS in central office conducted a series of Barangay Bagsakan launching in several location within the province.

Last November 18, Barangay Bagsakan in Diatagon, Lianga was successfully launched and on November 20 another BB was launched in Poblacion Barobo, Surigao del Sur.

It was followed on November 26 at Gamut, Tago; November 27 at Bungtod, Tandag City and a day after in Agsam, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur.

Prior to the formal launching, an information caravan was conducted with the staff of Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Division (RAFID) on the neighboring areas of the BB sites to let the public know about the big event.

Director Ramos was the keynote speaker in Bungtod, Tandag City and in Agsam, Lanuza wherein he emphasized the value of cooperation among operators for smooth implementation of the project.

He also said before the agriculture department bombarded the farmers through its interventions to have more produced but without offering an option where to market the harvest, but nowadays marketing aspects is given priority through the Barangay Bagsakan and Bagsakan Center projects.

Barangay Bagsakan in Surigao del Sur was strongly supported by Governor Vicente Pimentel through Provincial Agriculturist Mark Quico and the whole officialdom on respective local government units where the BB site is located.

Notably in Lanuza, Mayor Algerico Irizari even vowed to replicate the project in another barangay within his town if the BB project in Agsam will succeed.

BB/BC is a barangay-based food depot and distribution system offering affordable, safe and quality food products like meat, poultry, fish, vegetables and fruits, directly links farmers and fisherfolk producers to the consumers and community participated retail food distribution system.

This project is jointly undertaken by the local government unit (LGU) who will provide the space/land, building and operating capital and designate a recipient to operate the BB/BC and DA who will provide the technical assistance during the pre-operation and actual operation, links suppliers and provides Cold Storage Facility, Plastic Crates and other facilities needed for the project.

Barangay Bagsakan and Bagsakan Center formerly known as Barangay Food Terminal (BFT) started its implementation since 2006 in Metro Manila but in 2007 it has expanded its scope of operation on the provinces to support the hunger mitigation program of the president Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

As of press time, a total of 13 BB sites had been launched all over Caraga Region but Balaan revealed that they are targeting around 14 BB and three (3) Bagsakan Centers before the year ends.

Due to be launched this month is the BB site in Mainit, Surigao del Norte and Barangay Centers in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur; Cancohoy, Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte and Aras-asan, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur.

According to Director Ramos the DA-AMAS is targeting around 160 BB/BC sites all over the country but as of now they have already launched close to 200 sites.(Aurell P. Arais/rafid da caraga)

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Fire Prevention Month Kicks Off in Bukidnon

2008-03-31T06:31:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Various activities have been lined-up here in the province of Bukidnon to observe the month of March as the Fire Prevention Month.

In an exclusive interview with Monitor Today, Fire Superentident Allan Aladano, Provincial Fire Marshall disclosed that the celebration kicked off last March 1, 2008
through a thanksgiving program.

This year's observation of Fire Prevention Month has a theme: "Prevent Fire: Be Informed, Get Involved."

"Be informed means education is a vital aspects in the prevention of fire through demostration, seminars, lectures and media guesting", Aladano explained.

He further stated that get involved means fire prevention is everybody's concern.

"Fire is the most common man-made calamity just like what had happened in Camp Alagar, Ozone Disco and in KJFM", he said.

Aladano also clarified that fire prevention should start in home through adopting the concept called EDITH which means Exit Drill in the Home.

"Every member of the family should know what to do and where to go in case of fire", he explained.

Other activities line-up are conduct of continuous fire prevention lectures, physical fitness and enhancement activities, recoreda at least twice a week in identified fire prone areas, inspection of water sources and fire hydrants, bumbero mascot tour, fire olympics and more.

"Fire prevention should be observed everyday", Aladano concluded.

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Bukidnon Celebrates 91st Founding Anniversary

2008-03-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - The whole province of Bukidnon successfully celebrated its 91st
foundation day last March 10, 2008 with civic parade as highlight.

The parade was participated by thousand of contingent from different municipal and city local government units( LGU's, private sector and business sector, peoples organization as well as member of Bukidnon media both from print and broacast.

Upon arriving at the capitol stage, Governor Jose Ma. R. Zubiri, happily waved his hands and exclaimed that the contingent of the civi parade was the biggest ever.

A formal program followed shortly after the parade with Senate President Manuel Villar, Jr., as the guest honor.

On his keynote speech, Villar lauded the cooperation of all stakeholders who make the celebration successful and appreciated very much the cold climate yet warm peole of the province.

"Dapat ipag-alam sa buong bansa na ganito pala kaganda ang Bukidnon" (the whole country should know how beautiful Bukidnon is", he said.

After his speech, Governor Zubiri declared Villar as an adopted son of the province which the senator happily smiled.

Before stepping back from the stage, Zubiri asked the senator to allocate an amount of P10 million pesos for the province to be used for housing program which the senator nodded positively.

Farm Employee Shot Dead

2008-03-26T02:17:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Police authorities are still conducting an in-depth investigation on a shooting incident that caused to instantaneous death of an employee of Guingona Farm located in Dalwangan, this city at around 6:00 in the morning last March 26, 2008.

Records obtained from Malaybalay City PNP identified the victim was one Mike Jimeno, 47, married and a resident of Purok 8, Barangay 11, this city.

According to report the victim was fatally shot by an unidentified person using an unknown handgun.

Initial investigation conducted by the police disclosed that the victim while disembarking from his Isuzu Elf service with plate number GHB 247 in front of his residence, lone male suspect suddenly approached and shot the victim.

After shooting, the suspect fled riding on a motorcycle park just a few meters from the crime scene.

Attending physician from Bethel Baptist Hospital declared the victim dead who sustained one gunshot wound on the right portion of his head.

Motive of killing is still unknown as of press time.

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School Principal Shot Dead

2008-03-26T02:14:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – A school principal of Airport Village Elementary School in Casisang, this city was shot dead by an unidentified lone suspect inside on his office at around 5:00 in the afternoon last March 25, 2008.

Police record identified the victim as Onesimo Salga,, 60 and married.

Prior to the incident the victim was inside on his office watching television together with his wife one Vivian Salga washing utensils when one unidentified male suspect wearing bonnet suddenly entered and shot the victim twice hitting his head.

The wife upon hearing the gun burst immediately rushed to the comfort room for fear of her life and later went outside to call for help upon sensing that the suspect had left.

Some witness said that the gun man fled on foot with two allege unidentified companions believed to be back-up and rode on the motorcycle park a few meters from the crime scene.

Responding police officers recovered from the crime scene three (3) fired empty shells of caliber .45.

Dr. Grace Buquiran of Malaybalay City Emergency Response Unit (MERU) who examined the victim’s body found out two (2) gunshot wounds on the left portion of his head in which the bullet exited through on the right portion and another one gunshot wound on the left wrist.

Police operatives are still conducting a thorough investigation on the case for possible motive and to arrest the perpetrator.
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Fake Media Off During Kaamulan

2008-03-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Local media practitioners will be given top priority by the provincial government on aspect on access of media coverage during the Kaamulan Festival 2008.

This was the assurance from Provincial Spokesperson Cesar Apao in a media briefing helt at Phillippine Information Agency (PIA) office, Capitol Ground this city last February 11, 2008.

Apao is also the chairman of the promotion and publication committee of the celebration.

“Under my watch I can assure you that local media will be my first and foremost priority. You are the rist in line”, Apao said.

On previouss years as per experience, the local media during big events will always be left behind when national media step in from big media companies coming from Manila.

“National media should they come must coordinate first to local media for us to have unity and equal access”, he reiterated.

The provincial government through Governor Jose Zubiri Jr., has provided a media booth located in a very strategic area within Capitol Grounds for easy access on every event during the festivities.

The media booth is located just beside the PNP booth for security reasons and for easy coordination, which Apao said will be provided with water, communication facilities, electrical outlets and even food especially during major events.

Local media then was organized and urged to render their time voluntarilly in shifting basis in manning the booth wherein visitors may obtain vital information about the festivities and about the province as well.

A media watch tower is also provided just beside the provincial stage for easy media access during the ground performances.

“This is not the way of controlling you guys but for us to have unity and order and we should show how professional we are”, Apao clarified.

However, he vowed to sanitize the group to avoid being infiltrated by the fake media or fondly called as (media-media) or (tigbas group).

He urged media outlet superiors to watch their own rank by recommending only certified media practitioners on his office for Kaamulan Media ID. (ADPA)

9 LGU Vie for Kaamulan Streetdancing

2008-03-04T19:16:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Seven municipalities and two cities will compete during the streetdancing as highlight of the crowd-drawing Kaamulan Festival 2008.

This was learned from Mayflor P. Intong, the Kaamulan overall in-charge during the media briefing helt at PIA office last February 11, 2008.

Intong said that the nine local government units are the municipalities of Maramag, Don Carlos, Libona, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Lantapan and Sumilao and the two cities of Valencia and Malaybalay.

During the ethnic streetdancing competition two categories will be adjudged, namely streetdancing and float competition.

Prizes at stake for the streetdacing were: third prize P50,000.00, second prize P100,000.00 and first prize or the champion will receive P150,000.00.

Meanwhile the winners for float competition will receive P20,000.00, P 30,000.00 and P50,000.00 for the third, second and first or champion respectively.

As of presstime, the criterion for judging is not yet available.

Accordingly each participating group will have a maximum member of not more than 200 persons.

For his part, Provincial Spokesperson Cesar Apao boasted that this year’s Kaamulan has a bit of authenticity since each participating contingent are required to have a member that are really real native in Bukidnon.

Apao enjoined people in Bukidnon to enjoy during the festivities that serves as the window of the province not just in our country but in the whole world.

Kaamulan is derived from the lumad term amul-amul which means gathering of the seven tribe of Bukidnon; Umayamnon, Tigwahanon, Matigsalog, Bukidnon, Manobo, Higaonon and Talaandig.

GMA Handog Pamasko Held at Malaybalay

2008-01-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Recipients of hunger mitigation program of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo happily received their share in a distribution ceremony held at Covered Court, Malaybalay City last January 7, 2008.

Two (2) kilos of rice, 2 pack of noodles and 2 small can of sardines placed inside in a plastic celophane make them smile for a moment.

The said distribution dubbed as Pamaskong Handog ni GMA was led by Secretary Domingo Flores Panganiban lead convenor of National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) and assisted by Malaybalay City officials led by Mayor Florencio Flores.

In his message, Panganiban urged the public to exert more effort towards economic upliftment and continue support government programs and projects under the present administration.

A total of 2,088 individuals received their gift from Her Excellency.

Recipients were poor and indigents from downtown district barangays composed from barangay 1 to 11, including Sumpong, Casisang and Kalasungay.

The same activity was also held at San Fernando, Bukidnon. (with reports from Jhonny Failago/ Noning Castillon).

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PNP Adunay Recruitment sa Gustong Mahimong Pulis sa 2008

2008-01-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Adunay paglaum ang mga batan-on nga buot musulod isip sakop sa Philippine National Police kon PNP.

Sa paghinabi sa radyo bandilyo, gitug-an ni Police Senior Superentindet Noel Armilla, ang PNP bukidnon director nga adunay slot karong tuiga alang sa bukidnon alang sa recruitment sa pagkapulis.

Hinoon wa pa makasiguro si armila kung pila ang kuhaon nga bag-ong pulis.

Subay niini, usa sa nasinating problema sa kapulisan mao ang kakuwang sa pwersa ug gilauman nga ang makuha nga mga bag-ong elemento makatabang ug dako sa pagmintenar sa kahusay ug kalinaw.

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Bukidnon PNP Crime Lab to be Inaugurated

2007-12-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City- To have our own crime laboratory is a big help for more efficient crime solution.

This is the reason why the provincial government of Bukidnon look for a way to put up such project.

The said vision is now given a realization wherein a crime laboratory will be inaugurated this afternoon today (December 18, 2007).

The said crime laboratory is situated inside Camp Ramon Onahon, Provincial PNP Headquarter Compound, this city.

According to the report over DXDB, the said inauguration ceremony will be spearheaded by Governor Jose Zubiri; Police Senior Superentindent Noel Armilla, PNP Bukidnon Director and Police Chief Supt. Arturo Cacdac, PNP Crime Laboratory Director.

The said project is funded by the provincial government of Bukidnon worth 1.9 million pesos wherein 1.5 million is the worth of the building and the half million is the worth of equipments.

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Bag-ong Napili nga mga Opisyal sa Liga ng Barangay sa Malaybalay Nanumpa Na

2007-12-11T00:27:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Pormal nang nanumpa sa ilang katungdanan ang mga bag-ong opisyal sa Liga ng Barangay sa dakbayan sa malaybalay karong lamang hapon (Disyembre 11, 2007).

Ang maong mga opisyal nanumpa atubangan mismo sa mayor sa dakbayan sa malaybalay Florencio docboy Flores Jr.

Sa gipahigayon nga piniliay , ang migawas nga mga mananaug mao ang mga musunod;pagka presidente mao si glorio sajulga kansa way miparang, pagkabise presidente - Alexander Maputi, way miparang ug auditor - Jose Medardo Estaniel, way miparang.

Samtang ang walo ka mga board of directors mao sila si Gabriel Alima, Eleazar Condes, Rosa Maria Elena Robosa, Rosanna Linhay, Oscar Diano, Alberto Failagao, Renato Sumbongan ug Michael Daniot.

Human sa pagpanumpa gisunod usab sa pagpahigayon ang turn-over sa katungdanan sa kanhi ABC President nga si Manuel Evangelista ngadto sa bag-ong presidente nga si Sajulga.

Ang nahisgutang piniliay gipahigayon inubanan sa mga board of election supervisors nga gilangkuban nila ni city local government operations officer Cindy Daniot, city election officer Winifred Salilo ug non government sector representative- inyong alagad Aurell Arais.

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Light A Tree Project Gibuksan Na

2007-12-03T23:22:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Pormal nang gibuksan sa miaging gabii (Disyembre 3, 2007) ang Light A Tree Project.

Ang pormal nga pagbukas o switch on ceremony gipangunahan mismo ni Mayor Florencio Flores Jr., ang amahan sa dakbayan sa Malaybalay.

Kini tinambungan usab sa mga sakop sa konsehao, mga kawani ug mga opisyal sa mga buhatang lokal sa Malaybalay ug ingon man sinaksihan sa nagpunsisok nga mga katawhan.

Ang Light A Tree Project, usa ka tinuig nga prohekto sa kagamhanang lokal sa dakbayan sa Malaybalay aron paghatag ug dugang kadasig ug kaalegre panahon sa pasko aron nga adunay kasuyuran ang mga katawhan uban sa mga kahigalaan ug tibook pamilya.

Ilawom sa maong proyekto ang mga kahoy nga makaplagan sa Plaza Rizal gi-assign sa mga pribadong kompanya nga ania sa dakbayan sa Malaybalay aron nga dayan-dayanan ug dekorasyon maoy kalabutan sa pasko.

Aron paghatag ug dakong kadasig sa mga sumasalmot, adunay gigahin nga ganti alang sa mapili nga labing nindot nga dekorasyon.

Nasayran nga adunay lima ka mga consolation prizes nga makadawat ug tag-lima ka libo ka pesos matag usa, alang sa ikatulong ganti makadawat ug 20 mil pesos, ikaduhang ganti 25 mil pesos ug alang sa unang ganti makadawat ug 30 mil pesos.

Human sa pagswitch-on, mihugyaw tungod sa kalipay ang mga katawhan nga mitambong atol sa okasyon isip timaan sa kabibo sa dakbayan sa malaybalay ning panahon sa pasko.

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Search for Best POC on Going

2007-11-21T15:29:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - The evaluation for the search for best peace and order council in the province of Bukidnon is still going on.

This was disclosed by Cesar Apao, provincial spokesperson in an interview over DXDB Radyo Bandilyo.

According to Apao, the search for best POC were categorized intro three namely; city category, municipal category A and B.

The evaluation was started last November 6, and is scheduled to commence this coming November 26, this year.

Apao also revealed that the evaluation team were composed of eight (8) members representing from government offices and from private sector.

"As of now (November 22, 2007 ) almost southern portion of the province were evaluated and the northern portion will be followed. In fact today our schedule are Talakag ang Baungon", Apao stated.

The winners for the best POC in the province will vie for the regional level and hopefully for the national level.

Apao also said that Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri highly supports the Search for Best POC provincial level.

The said search is in line with the program of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) urging all local government units to strengthen its peace and order plan within its area of jurisdiction.

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Transco Due To Be Privatized

2007-11-11T15:35:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Few days from now, the National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO) will be privatized.

This was disclosed by Transco Information Officer Raffy Magbanua during an interaction with members of Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Bukidnon.

According to Magbanua, based on timetable, this coming December 12 will be the schedule for final bidding contested by three big bidders to choose from.

"This is the time to know the company who will take-over the operation of Transco", he said.

However, he clarified that the privatization will cover only the management and maintenance of the operation while the current equipments are still under the ownership of the government.

"I myself and all employees of Transco don't know yet what will happen to us, by the time the new management will takeover after the transition period", Magbanua clarified.

The privatization of Transco aim to improved the services of the company however the public expressed fear that it mighty result to the increase of electricity bill.

The National Transmission Corporation is a distribution arm of National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR).

-=###=-

Paglobo ng Bilang ng mga Botante sa Brgy. 10 Kiniwestyon

2007-10-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Umaalingawngaw na ang ibat-ibang kontrobersya may kinalaman sa nalalapit na halalan sa barangay at sangguniang kabataan o SK ngayong Oktubre 29, taong kasalukuyan.

Isa sa naturang kontrobersya ang naganap sa barangay 10 na kung saan nadiskobre ang humigit kumulang isang daang botante na kwestyunable.

Kwestyunable dahil ang naturang mga tao ay hindi residente sa nabanggit na barangay at di umanoy ang may pakana ay isang kandidato sa pagkabarangay chairman upang makadagdag sa kanyang boto.

Idinulog na ang naturang problema sa commission on election ngunit ayon kay city election officer Winifred Salilo na wala na silang magagawa dahil natapos na ang inclusion at exclusion sa voters list.

Ibig sabihin ang naturang mga kwestyunableng botante ay makaboto sa barangay 10 maliban sa katotohanan na silay di residente dito.

Ngunit nilinaw na di sila makonsederang double registrants dahil ang kanilang pangalan ay nabura na mula sa kani-kanilang tinitirhang barangay.

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Mga Kongresista Dry Up Daw Sa Halalan

2007-10-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Pansariling kapakanan lamang kung kayat pumasa sa kamara de representate ang panukala na ipagpaliban ang halaan sa sangguniang kabataan at barangay.

Ito ang ibinunyag ni 2nd district representative teofisto guingona III ng Bukidnon.
Anya, isa siya sa mariing tumutol sa naturang hakbang ngunit mas nakakarami ang pumabor nito.

Ang dahilan ay kakapusan daw ng pundo at masyadong malapit sa nakalipas na may 14, 2007 election at upang mabigyang panahon ang automated election.

Ngunit sinabi niya na sa mga informal na usap-usapan, ang totoong dahilan ay dry-up daw ang karamihan ng mga kongresista o ibig sabihin kapos ng pundo na maaring panustos sa mga barangay candidates lalung-lalo na yaong katasuporta nila sa katatapos pa lamang na halalan.

Samantala sinabi din ni guingona na maugong ang hakbangin na ibigay na lamang sa mga local chief executive ang kapangyarihan sa pag-appoint ng mga opisyal ng barangay upang mas maging maayos ang kooperasyon sa pagpapatakbo ng isang local government unit at di pa magastos.

Dagdag pa nito na maugong din ang usap-usapan na i-abolish na lamang ang sangguniang kabataan dahil naging manok na rin ito ng ibang pulitiko.

CENRO Appealed to the Public : Help Protect Trees

2007-10-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - The City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) has appealed to the public particularly those residing beside roads to help them protect and care the trees planted along the highways few months ago.

According to Felix Mirasol, Jr. CENR Officer, the said tress were planted under Green Philippine Program (GPP) and Greening Philippine Highway (GPH) programs spearheaded by DENR nationwide.

Mirasol specifically appealed for those residing along the highway from Aglayan in Malaybalay City to Kulasihan, Lantapan and from Dalwangan to Lumbo, Valencia City.

He reiterated that based on an existing law there will be 30 meters road allowance or road right of way from the center of the road.

Accordingly destroying any of the plant growing within the 30 meters road right of way is apparently a violation of the law.

To avoid any legal implications, Mirasol appealed to the public to refrain from undertaking any activities that may result to the damage of trees planted within the specified areas such as spraying herbicide, making fire and letting the domestic animals to roam around the area.

“Successful planting of trees is a success for all of us” Mirasol concluded.

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Water Pump Gisubhan

2007-10-06T00:17:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Valencia City- Dili matukib nga kalipay ang gibati sa mga katawhan sa dakbayan sa Valencia gumikan sa pagsubo sa bag-ong water pump sa miaging Oktubre 5 tuig kasamtangan.

Kini ilawom sa Valencia City Water District (VCWD) nga diin nahimutang sa Purok 3-B, Poblacion, Valencia City.

Matod sa General Manager nga si Roel Padrequil nga ang naasoy nga proyekto water pump numero 8 gipunduhan ug duha ka milyon ka pesos kansa gikan sa development fund ni Congressman Teofisto Guingona III.

Samtang gikanayon usab ni Guingona nga ang maong proyekto usa ka pagpamatuod nga padayon ang kagamhanan pinaagi sa iyang buhatan sa pagtubag sa panginahanglan sa katawhan.

Nasayran nga ang maong proyekto kapahimudsan sa mokabat walo ka gatos ka mga pamilya.

NFA Bukidnon Celebrated 35th Anniversary

2007-09-28T02:09:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - The National Food Authority Bukidnon had just celebrated its 35th anniversary last September 26 this year.

The celebration kicked off with a holy mass at NFA Provincial Office and it was followed by a short program and stakeholders/employees forum.

Afterwards the whole force of NFA personnel proceeded to Belica Sport Center for a sport fest where they showed their prowess in badminton to relieve tensions from daily work and help strengthen camaraderie among themselves.

This year celebration has a theme “Tatlumpu’t limang taong patuloy na paglilingkod sa sambayanang Pilipino”.

In an interview over DXDB, NFA Provincial Manager Victoria Duray expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all local government units in Bukidnon, stakeholders both from government and private, farmers and the community as well.

She also vowed to continue fulfilling their main mandate to ensure food security in the province especially during times of emergencies/calamities.

Duray also hinted positive action on farmers clamor to increase the NFA buying price of palay.

It was learned from Information Officer Ma. Socorro Mellomida that Provincial Farmers Action Council asked NFA to consider increasing NFA buying price so as to give them more reasons to sell their harvest to NFA rather to the commercial traders.

As of writing the NFA buying price is 10 pesos with 25 cents incentive to individual and 10 pesos with a total of 50 cents incentive for cooperative per kilo of clean and dry palay while private buyers are offering from 11 to 11.30 pesos per kilo.

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Torneyo sa Basketball Ipahigayon

2007-09-20T00:43:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Samtang bata pa angayan nang diskobrehon ug umulon ang mga potensiyal nga mahimong maayong magdudula sa natad sa paugnat sa kusog.

Kini ang pagtuo sa Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) maoy hinungdan nga ilusad dinhi sa Bukidnon ang Open Intersecondary Basketball Tournament alang sa mga lalaki.

Tumong niini nga mahashasan ang mga talento sa mga batan-on gikan sa grass root elevel nga mahatagan ug kahigayunan nga makasalmot sa mga nasyunal ug internasyunal nga kompetisyon sa basketball.

Ang torneyo molungtad sa tulo ka bulan sugod kadrong Oktubre 7, 2007 hangtod Disyembre 16, 2007.

Sumala ni Nick Variacion, ang SBP Commisioner sa Bukidnon nga ang buot nga mosalmot sa naasoy nga indigay sa paugnat sa kusog mahimong makighimamat lamang kaniya sa dalang Initial ning dakbayan sa Malaybalay kansa deadline sa pagsumite sa line up karong Obtubre 6, 2007.

Gipasabot ni Variacion nga tumong usab sa maong tournament nga mahalikay ang mga kabatan-unan sa mga makadaut nga bisyo mas maayo pang magumon sa sports kaysa sa bisyo.

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Seminar Sa Pagpasuso Ipahigayon

2007-09-10T15:57:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Gitinguha karon sa Provincial Health Office ning lalawigan sa Bukidnon ang pagpalapnag sa impormasyon sa kamahinungdanon sa pagpasuso sa inahan ngadto sa anak.

Aron makab-ot ang maong tinguha ipahigayon sa maong buhaton ang “Infant and Young Feeding Counselling Training”.

Kini maoy labing unang hut-ong nga pagahimoon sa Ecosystem Rsearch and Development Services kon ERDS sa Sumpong dakbayan sa Malaybalay karong Septembre 17-24 tuig kasamtangan.

Mokabat 16 ka mga rural health midwives ang motambong sa naasoy nga lima ka adlaw nga pagbansay-bansay.

Sila gikan sa unom ka mga munisipalidad ug duha ka siyudad sa Bukidnon nga mao ang Don Carlos, Kadingilan, Kibawe, Quezon, San Fernando, Malaybalay City ug Valencia City.

Gikanayon ni Nurse III ug Maternal and Child Health Coordinator Gilda Ajoc nga tumong sa kalihukan mao ang pagtudlo sa mga partisipante sa mga pamaagi sa maayong pagpasuso kansa ilang ikapaambit usab sa mga ginikanan.

Ang training maglangkob sa 39 ka mga sesyon nga diin batbaton sa musunod mga resource speakers nga sila si Ajoc, Victoria Cloma, Violeta Almacen, Miguela Armendarez ug Perla Dinlayan.

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BSU Student Bags Gold in a Speech Contest

2007-08-27T01:40:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - A first year student of Bukidnon State University bags the gold in a recently concluded 8th Regional Philippine Army- Reserve Officer Training Corps(ROTC) Speech Contest.

The said contest was conducted last August 19, 2007 at BSU Auditorium.

Adjudged as champion was Dianne Mae Torres, a first year Hotel and Restaurant Management student.

The contest was participated in by seven (7) contestants coming from Region 10, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and Caraga Region who were also the winners in their respective provincial-wide Speech Contest.

According to Dr. Rogelio Villamor, National Service Training Program Unit Coordinator of BSU the contestants represented the 7 Community Defense Centers (CDC) of the entire Mindanao namely: 1001 CDC, Butuan Cadet Karen Bordeos, 1002 CDC Iligan Cadet Charisse Mae Salcedo, 1003 CDC Bukidnon Cadet Dianne Mae Torres, 1004 CDC Marawi Cadet Remilyn Linquiqan, 1005 CDC Cagayan de Oro Cadet Remo James Alsa, 1006 CDC Surigao Salahudin Abdelgafur and Camiguin Province Cadet Metchilyn Lantaca.

The theme of the contest was “ROTC – Training the Youth for a Progressive Nation”.

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Rape Suspect Throw Grenade to Police Officers; 1 Killed, 4 Wounded

2007-08-24T01:43:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - One police officer was killed while four others were wounded in a grenade blast allegedly thrown by lone suspect who was a target of police operation due to a rape case early dawn last August 23, this year.

Killed was P02 Roy Francisco while wounded were PO3 Esmeraldo Cahilig, PO3 Joseph Galupo, SPO1 Melchor Hinlo and Police Inspector Crisanto Molina.

Prior to the incident, Malaybalay City PNP received information on the where about of the suspect identified as Moises Brandia of Purok 5,Barangay 9 this city.

Upon serving the warrant of arrest, the suspect hurriedly run away and allegedly throw the grenade towards the arresting officers.

Officer Francisco transpired while on the way to Cagayan de Oro City due to wounds on different parts of the body while the four wounded were admitted at a local hospital.

Also wounded in the blast was the mother of the suspect but out of danger.

As of press time, a hot pursuit operation was conducted against the suspect. (with report from Jhonny Failago)

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Barangay at SK Election Tuloy

2007-08-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City, Bukidnon - Wala nang makakapigil at tuloy na tuloy na ang halalan sa barangay at SK ngayong Oktubre 29.

Ito ang pagsisiguro na sinabi winifredo salilo ang city election officer didto sa siyudad ng malaybalay sa panayam ng ating himpilan.

Sa katunayan anya, plantsado na ang mga skedyul sa kanilang tanggapan bilang paghahanda sa naturang eleksiyon.

Ayon kay salilo ang filing of certificates of candidacy o COC ay nakatakda ngayong oktubre 11- hanggang 18 taong kasalukuyan.

Habang may sampung araw na campaign period ngayong oktubre 19 hanggang
27.

Nililinaw ni salilo na ang barangay at SK election ay non partisan at di dapat makialam ang mga kasalukuyang mga opisyal.

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Creating Powerful Radio Seminar Held

2007-08-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Davao City- Radio still has its own space despite on the existence of various communication medium including the so-called high technology gadgets nowadays.

This was the encouragement uttered by Valerie Geller, an internationally acclaimed broadcast consultant working with stations that emphasize news, talk, information and personality radio and author of various broadcast publications.

Geller was the resource person during a one day seminar dubbed as “Creating Powerful Radio” held at Marco Polo Hotel, Davao City last August 15, 2007.

The said seminar was attended by more than 30 radio personalities both from AM and FM all over Mindanao and Visayas.

During the open forum Geller said that the existence of radio industry depends on the current radio players.

“1920’s was the era of television, many projected radio will perished but eventually it has survived, 1990’s was the era of newspapers again it was projected radio will but it has survived, now on high technology age with internet, mobile phones, mp3 etc. radio will still exist since it is the most convenient medium but its life depends on you (referring to the broadcasters). If you let radio listenership to die then radio would definitely die.

Few decades ago, radio was the dominant communication tool but with television, newspapers and now with internet era its pie in listenership becomes smaller and smaller.

Listenership is the game for survival hence the more listeners the station has, the more advertisement will pour in.

Geller emphasized to achieve a powerful radio it must have the following criteria; tell the truth, never be boring and make it better.

Creating powerful radio seminar was jointly undertaken Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Coca-cola Phils. and Philippine Airlines.

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Dengue Downed 11 in Bukidnon

2007-08-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

A total of eleven persons were confirmed dead due to dengue in the province.

This was learned from Dr. Inosentes Dagohoy, Provincial Health Officer during the round table discussion regarding the matter.

Based on data, in the whole province from January to June this year, 672 cases were reported and 11 of them died.

Due to high incidence of dengue Inosentes said they are currently intensifying their education and information campaign to all municipalities in the province with the municipal health officers and there respective local government units.

Still he said cleanliness is the best weapon to get rid of mosquitoes that are carrier of the said deadly disease. (with report from Jhonny Failago)

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Bukidnon Pseudo-Rabies Free; Hog Cholera under Control

2007-08-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Bukidnon have nothing to worry on the dreaded hog disease called hog cholera and pseudo-rabies affecting hundreds of pigs in Bulacan and Pampanga.

This was the clarification made by Dr. Nancy V. Diez the Provincial Veterinary Officer in the province in an interview over DXDB Bukidnon.

Dr. Diez said that in whole province of Bukidnon there is no records of case of pseudo-rabies even a single one so it is safe to say that Bukidnon is pseudo-rabies free.

However on hog cholera, the provincial veterinary office monitored (11) cases as of June this year from four municipalities and one city in the province namely Cabanglasan, Malitbog, Libona, Manolo Fortich and Valencia City.

But she said that the said case is very minimal and already controlled.

In fact Bukidnon even supplied hog products to other provinces.

Dr. Diez advised hog raisers to maintain cleanliness on piggery farm and to have a regular vaccination to protect animals from diseases.

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Spiritual Adviser sa PDRC Gipatay

2007-07-28T02:11:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Padayon pang giimbestigahan hangtod karon sa kapulisan ning dakbayan sa Malaybalay ang misteryo nga naglimin sa kamatayon sa giilang spiritual adviser sa mga inmate sa Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (PDRC).

Giila ang biktima nga si Art Pabillaran o mas naila sa sampit nga Tatay Art, 62 anyos, ulitawo ug mulopyo sa dalang San Isidro ning dakbayan.

Kahinumduman nga kaniadtong Hulyo 25, mga kapin kong kuwang alas otso y medya sa buntag, nakaplagan na lamang ang biktima nga nagbuy-od sa sawog sulod sa iyang gipuy-an na nabulit na sa kaugalingong dugo.

Sa pagresponde sa mga otoridad, patay na gayud ang biktima ug gituhuang linuog kining gipatay tali sa tungang gabi-i ngadto sa alas tres sa kaadlawon.

Adunay samad nga nakita sa iyang aping ug adunay agi sa daw gituok ang iyang liog.

Nahanaw usab ang usa ka VCD player nga gipang-iyahan sa biktima.

Sa pagsuwat ning balita padayon pang gisubay sa kapulisan ang motibo sa maong krimen.

Samtang dugtong niini, sa paghinabi sa DXDB giasoy ni Bishop Honesto Pacana S.J. DD ang obispo sa Diocese sa Malaybalay nga ang biktima usa ka volunteer nga spiritual adviser sa mga binilanggo sulod na sa hataas nga katuigan.

Samtang dakong kasubo ang gibati sa mga inmate sa PDRC nga mitug-an nga halos kada adlaw ilang kauban ang biktima ug nagasilbing kadasig sa mga inmate nga halos gikalimtan na sa ilang mga mahal sa kinabuhi gumikan kay wa nay dalaw sulod na sa taas nga panahon.

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2 Fetus Found; 1 Inside Cathedral Another in Kaamulan Park

2007-07-27T02:19:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City, Bukidnon - Authorities are still hoping that conscience may haunt on who was responsible on the mysterious dead baby that was left inside San Isidro Cathedral last July 24, 2007.

In an interview over DXDB Bukidnon, Sean Sulogan a church worker revealed that while he was fixing inside the church he saw a bag left unattended on the aisle.

Without thinking any unusual he just put the bag on the side but a companion opened it and to their surprise a decomposing baby was found inside.

Dr. Grace Boquiran of city health office examined the baby and found out that it was a 9 months old baby girl and believed a victim of abortion.

“Pag-examine nako murag medyo nainat and iyang liog so basin ug gi-vacuum o gipugos gyud pagbira”’ Dr. Boquiran narrated.

The said dead baby was given a decent burial at the public cemetery in the city.

She also said that as of this year this is the second case of abortion she knows, first was found in Can-ayan garbage area few months ago.

Meanwhile, on the following day, another fetus was found at Calawaig Creek, Kaamulan Park.

According to report, the said fetus was put inside a cartoon prompting the security guard to call for police assistance.

In an examination, the said fetus was a male believed from 3 to 4 months old.

Police authorities are still investigating in the hope to uncover on whose responsible on the said abortion cases.(with report from Johnny Failago)

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Zubiri delivers SOPA: Focus on 7 Point Agenda

2007-07-20T01:08:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Governor Jose Maria R. Zubiri Jr., laid down the seven pillars under his administration as a framework for its endeavor towards effective governance.

During his State of the Provincial Address (SOPA) attended by provincial legislators and head of offices of the province at SP session hall last July 17, 2007, Zubiri pointed out his 7 point agenda as the following: 1.Health and Social Services, 2. Housing and Resettlement, 3. Economic Services, 4. Education, 5. Agricultural Enhancement, 6. Infrastructure Support and 7. Peace and Order.

According to him, Provincial Health Stations are now in place in 15 municipalities to complement seven existing Provincial Hospitals which includes the three newly constructed hospitals strategically located in Manolo Fortich, medical center in Malaybalay and tertiary hospital in Maramag.The governor also vowed to continue the Provincial Indigency Health Program (PIHP).

He also noted the agricultural productivity and livelihood opportunities to 39,535 family recipients have already been extended. These include the more aggressive Economic Development Enterprise Development efforts.

In the field of education, around 86 scholars have already graduated through the Provincial Scholarship Program. At present 740 students were enrolled in different schools from 2002-2006. Scholarship assistance was also granted to 2,842 college students.

The province is also striving for quality education through construction of various classrooms and other support services.

It has also implemented various projects/programs for infrastructure support services, nutrition, social welfare services, population and development, gender and development, the child friendly movement, disabled, senior citizens and tourism development.

However Zubiri reiterated that all of the stated undertakings would not be possible with unstable peace and order thus he vowed to continue extending a hand of reconciliation to all misguided constituents and offer them assistance in joining the mainstream of Bukidnon.

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Distribution of Military Reservation for Landless Sought

2007-07-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Newly proclaimed senator elect Juan Miguel Zubiri eyed military reservations as one of the way to solve huge number of landless people.

Zubiri said that in Bukidnon alone around 42,000 hectares of land are classified military reservation.

A classic example is in Sitio Kibaritan, Brgy. Mahinay, Kalilangan wherein a number of farmers are in threat to be demolished from the land they tilted as it is said within a military reservation.

His father Governor Jose Maria Zubiri Jr. endorsed such move, during his oath of office last July 16, this year and outrightedly approved by the senator elect and vowed to pursue such idea.

“Why not divide the military reservations to the landless. These exists not only here in Bukidnon but all over the country”, Governor Zurbiri reiterated.

For his part, senator elect Zubiri said that he will lobby to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to issue a presidential proclamation to identify the only area suited and much needed for military purposes and the rest of the land will be distributed to the landless.

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Sayre Highway to be Renamed Warly’s Highway

2007-07-16T02:17:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais/ Johnny Failago

Malaybalay City - Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ex-Officio member Manuel Dinlayan filed a resolution proposing Sayre Highway to be renamed as “Warly’s Highway”.

The said resolution urged Representative Teofisto Guinguna III, Second District of Bukidnon to file a bill in Congress renaming Sayre Highway from Sawaga Bridge of Barangay Casisang in Malaybalay City up to Panlibatohan Bridge of Valencia City as Congressman Reginaldo N. Tilanduca Highway, otherwise known as Warlys’s Highway”.

It said that venerable Reginaldo Tilanduca was a great political leader and a political icon of all Bukidnon natives being a lawyer, certified public accountant and a dedicated public servant and for having been elected as munucipal mayor of Malaybalay and congressman of the second district of Bukidnon for three consecutive terms.

It further stated that the late Congressman Tilanduca was the principal author of Republic Act No. 8490 dated February 11, 1998 creating the City of Malaybalay and Rep. Act No. 8985 dated January 12, 2000 creating the City of Valencia.

The creation of the two premeire cities in Bukidnon accelerated enormous economic development threby making the Sayre Highway between the two cities as an economic zone and corridor of industrialization in the Province of Bukidnon.

The resolution also said that is a fitting tribute to perpetuate the name of the late Congressman in the memory of the people of Bukidnon for his cosmic visions.

The said proposal was referred to the committee on laws chaired by SP member Atty. Roland Detecio for further study.

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Malaybalay To Participate on 2nd Regional Rescue Olympics

2007-07-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

The Regional Coordinating Council for Northern Mindanao will be conducting a two day 2nd Regional Rescue Olympics starting today July 11, 2007 in Cagayan de Oro City.

Based on report from City Civil Defense Deputized Coordinator Virginia Flores to City Administrator Rolando Daniot, four out of six participants from Bukidnon were from the city of Malaybalay.

This after City Mayor Florencio Flores Jr. has given the signal to send them out.

The said four participants were Jodelito Ares, Joel Sinues, Rodolfo Estaniel Jr., and Claire Myra Castonera.

Meanwhile the remaining two were from Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Bukidnon Chapter namely Roel Villar and Paul Donato Quinto.

Participants for the 2nd Regional Rescue Olympics were coming from the provinces of Misamis Oriental and Occidental and Bukidnon that comprises Northern Mindanao.

It is line with the observance of 2007 National Disaster Consciousness Month with the theme “Safe Ka Ba? Programa Laban sa Kalamidad Tungo sa Pag-unlad”.

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Rebels Attacked Dangcagan PNP Station, 1 Killed

2007-06-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais/ Arthur Sapanghari

Malaybalay City- Disguising as government troops by wearing fatigue uniforms, around 30 fully armed New Peoples Army rebels
attacked the police station of Dangcagan, Bukidnon at around 12:40 in the afternoon Sunday June 24 killing one police officer.

In an interview over DXDB, Police Inspector Henry Pañares, Dangcagan PNP chief said two vans without plate number suddenly parked in front the police station and hurled two hand grenades.

The
two police personnel inside managed to exchange fires with the rebels but unfortunately hitting Senior Police Officer 1 Danilo Noblepranca leading to his death.

Upon realizing that they are undermanned, the other police PO1 Rene Villarias pulled out from the station to save his life.

According to the report, there were
four police on duty during the attacked but the other two were responding to police assistance.

The rebels ransacked the belongings inside the police station and carted away fire M16 armalite rifles, two 9 mm pistols and assorted ammunications and some personal belongings.

The attacked lasted for about 10
minutes.

Pañares said who are not around during the attacked that he firmly believed that the attackers were the rebels operating on the said area.

Earlier, an intelligence report revealed that government enemy might attack targeting police station and outpost.

Pañares also said that the entire Dangcagan police force composed of only 10 personnel with two women.

The attacked is the second police station raided by the rebels in Bukidnon.

Last year, NPA rebels attacked the police station of Quezon and carted away several firearms and ammunitions.

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Taga-Bukidnon nga Nakatungas sa Mt. Everest Gipasidunggan

2007-06-23T02:03:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Gipasidungan sa kagamhanang probinsiyal sa Bukidnon ang usa sa tulo ka mga pinay nga labing unang asyanong babaye nga nakatungtong sa kinatumyan sa Mt. Everest nga nahimutang sa utlanan tali sa Tibet ug Nepal.

Ang gitumbok niini mao si Carina Cacay Dayondon,27 anyos kinsa usa ka garbo ug natawo sa lungsod sa Don Carlos ning probinsiya sa Bukidnon.

Sa milabay nga Hunyo 28 tuig kasamtangan, nahidangat si Dayondon dinhi sa dakbayan sa Malaybalay ug kauban ang tanang membro sa First Philippine Mount Everest Expedition.

Personal nakita sa katawhan ang lain pang duha ka kauban ni Dayondon sa pagtungas sa Mt. Everest nga mao sila si Janet Belarmino ug Noelle Wenceslao.

Mitungas ang nahisgutang tulo ka mga pinay sa Mt. Everest sa milabay nga tunga-tungang bahin sa Mayo tuig kasamtangan.

Kauban usab ni Dayondon ang duha ka pinoy nga nahaunang nakatungas sa Mt. Everest nga sila si Leo Oracion ug Erwin Emata ug lakip na ang team leader nga si Arturo Valdez, kanhi undersecretary sa Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).

Mainiton nga gihangop ug gidawat sa kagamhanang probinsiyal ang grupo ni Dayondon sa pagpanguna ni Acting Provincial Governor Alex Calingasan.

Usa ka programa ang gipahigayon sa Provincial Stage nga diin gihatagan ug pasidungog si Dayondon.

Mihatag usab sa pasidungog ang iyang kanhi gitunghaan sa elementarya ang San Isidro College pinaagi sa presidente sa tunghaan nga si Fr. Vergilio Delfin.

Sa iyang pagpamulong, gikanayon ni Calingasan nga dako kaayong garbo nga usa ka taga-bukidnon ang usa sa nakahatag ug dungog di lamang alang sa nasod kundili sa tibuok kalibutan.

Samtang sa iyang bahin, dako ang kalipay nga gibate ni Dayondon ug sa mga kaubanan sa init nga pagdawat kanila sa katawhan sa Bukidnon.

Sumala ni Dayondon nga duha ang mensahe nga ilang gisakwat sa pagtungas sa Mt. Everest, una ang personal nga tinguha ug ang ikaduha ug labing mahinungdanon mao ang pagpakita nga way imposible sa Pinoy basta adunay determinasyon ug panaghiusa sama sa nahitabo sa ilang team.

Ang Mt. Everest adunay gihabugon nga 29,029 ka tiil (8,848 metros) ug giilang labing habog nga bukid sa tibuok kalibutan.

-=###-=

Malaybalay Ready for Nationwide Tree Planting

2007-06-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City will take part of the upcoming nationwide project for the environment dubbed as Green Philippines Program.

It was learned from City Information Officer Joni Parrado after a meeting as preparation for the said tree planting activity.

Around 1,983 participants are expected to join on the said activity slated this coming June 29 this year.

Expected participants are composed of different group in the society such as barangay government of Casisang, local government of Malaybalay, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO), Bukidnon Environment and Natural Resources (BENRO) Bukidnon Forest Incorporated (BFI), City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO), Provincial Agrarian Reform Office, PNP Malaybalay, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Bukidnon National High School (BNHS), Bukidnon State University (BSU), San Isidro College (SIC), Mindanao Arts Technological Institute (MATI), Department of Education (DepED), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine Information Agency, Peacemaker Press Corps and Philippine Army.

It was learned that the said tree planting activity would be undertaken in Sitio Natid-asan, Barangay Casisang this city particularly in Mt. Tralala.

Prior to the actual planting, a meeting will be held at around 6:30 in the morning to be followed by a briefing and a short program.

Planting will be done at around 9:00 in the morning.

Col. Florante Martinez, 403rd Brigade Commander of Philippine Army extends his gratitude to City Mayor Florencio Flores for supporting the activity.

Recently, Malaybalay City Government through the City Council allocated an amount to be utilized for the said activity.

The participants who are mostly students will plant a total of 20 hectares.

Green Philippine Program is aiming to be a record holder in the Guiness Book of World Records with the biggest area and most number of trees planted simultaneously.

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AWFP Mindanao Convention Ipahigayon sa Malaybalay

2007-06-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City, Bukidnon- Gikatakdang sugdan ugmang adlawa Hunyo 21 hangtod 24 tuig kasamtangan ang tigum sa usa ka kapunungan sa mga babayeng formators sa nasod.

Ang nahisgutang kapunungan mao ang Association of Women Formators in the Philippines (AWFP)

Pagahimoon ang AWFP Mindanao convention sa MCM Central House, Impalambong ning dakbayan sa Malaybalay.

Nasayran nga pinasidunggang mamumulong sa maong okasyon mao si Fr. Cañete, MJ. nga gikan sa kauluhan.

Motambong sa kombensyon mao ang mga vocation formators, seminary rectors, religious formators, superiors ug mga council members.

Ang kalihukan magtangag sa tema Filipino Way of Formation.

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Pastor Shot to Death

2007-06-08T16:32:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Three unidentified suspects shot to death a pastor here recently.

Senior Police Officer 2 Jesus Delfin, investigator of Malaybalay City PNP identified the victim as Misael Confesor Manangkil, 38, married and a resident of Sitio Tintinaan, Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City.

The victim is a pastor of Assembly of Yahweh whose church based in the said area.

According to the report, one of the suspects posed himself as a customer on a sari-sari store owned by the victim but suddenly pulled a gun and pumped several bullets on the victims’ body causing his instantaneous death.

After shooting the victim, the other two suspects fired their gun and shout as quoted saying “Ayaw mo ug gawas” (Don’t dare to go out) causing panic on the neighboring houses.

Upon the arrival of the police authorities with army personnel the suspects already escaped to an unknown direction.

Recovered from the crime scene were believed empty shells from .45 pistol and armalite rifle.

As of press time, it is still a puzzle who were the suspects are and the motive behind the killing.

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Bukidnon Comelec Final Election Result

2007-05-22T00:13:00.000-07:00

compiled by: Aurell P. Arais

Governor - Jose Maria Zubiri 332,238
Nerius Acosta 70,993

Vice Governor - Alex Calingasan 248,106
Doydora 20,451

Representative 1st District( Baungon, Kalilangan, Libona, Malitbog, Manolo Fortich,
Pangantukan, Sumilao and Talakag)
Eduy Pancrudo 39,136
Malou Acosta 39,015
Virgilio Garcillano 22,390

SP Members
Ben Pancrudo 52,058
Quiño 41,263
Lago 35,463
Albarece M. 18,108
Albarece V. 17,658
Linaac 12,550
Soriano 11,617
Villanueva 9,189
Bornido 3,651

Representative 2nd District (Cabanglasan, Impasug-ong, Lantapan, San Fernando,
Malaybalay City and Valencia City)
Teofisto Guingona III 60,430
Roderico Bioco 45,211
Glen Galario 19,700
Ernesto Tabios 16,430
Artacho 178

SP Members
Atty. Roland Detecio 82,989
Atty. Nemesio Beltran 77,611
Glen Peduche 73,695
Pepito 67,860
Junie Dinlayan 51,796
Pet Janao 27,365
Jampit 9,824

Representative 3rd District (Kitaotao, Damulog, Dangcagan, Don Carlos, Kadingilan,
Kibawe, Maramag and Quezon)
Joey Zubiri III 107,632
Atty. Gardunez 7,639

SP Members
Mabilin 56,366
Macias 54,509
Baguio 54,215
Batao 19,932
Lopez 7,809

Senators (top 15 only)
1. Zubiri, Juan Miguel 328,970
2. Legarda, Loren 202,589
3. Escudero, Francis 179,253
4. Villar, Manuel 157,366
5. Lacson, Panfilo 151,424
6. Pangilinan, Francis 145,911
7. Pimentel, Aquilino 139,628
8. Pichay, Prospero 134,071
9. Trillanes, Antonio 127,997
10. Aquino, Benigno III 126,886
11. Honasan, Gregorio 123,193
12. Angara, Edgardo 117,497
13. Cayetano, Allan Peter 111,458
14. Defensor, Michael 103,267
15. Montano, Cesar 102,203

Partylist (top 10 only)
1. A Teacher 15,288
2. Coop Natco 15,036
3. Bayan Muna 10,742
4. Aba Ako 10,148
5. ANAD 8,211
6. Anak Mindanao 7,279
7. Arts Business Science Prfsnls 7,090
8. TUCParty 6,186
9. APEC 6,023
10. UniMAD 4,951

note: Highlighted are proclaimed winners by Comelec

PNP Raided Houses of 3 Local Officials in San Fernando

2007-05-12T02:10:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Elements of Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) and Provincial Police Mobile Group (PPMG) jointly conducted a raid on houses of three local officials in San Fernando, Bukidnon Thursday morning.

Raided was residence of Mayor Laurencia Edma. Her husband Levi Edma Sr. is running for mayoralty race this election for the said municipality.

Also raided were residence of their son Levi Edma Jr., an ABC president and also the residence of a barangay captain Andres Dano of Sacramento Valley, San Fernando.

Dano is running for Sangguniang Bayan member.

According to the report, the raiding team was looking for fake money allegedly to be used during election.

However, on the said three houses that were raided not even one of such fake money was confiscated.

The raid was conducted based on search warrant issued by Judge Josefina Bacal.

But the three officials believed the raid on their residence was politically motivated.

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Majority of Candidates No Show on Provincial Forum

2007-05-04T02:40:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Only a handful of candidates responded to the call of Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting for the Provincial Candidates Forum held just recently.

Present and able to discuss their platforms of government in front of big crowd were Dr. Nerius Acosta, a gubernatorial candidate, his sister Malou Acosta vying for congressional seat for the 1st district of Bukidnon; Boy Tabios running for 2nd district representative; Atty. Fabian Gardunis running for 3rd district representative and two candidates for provincial board member Atty. Nemesio Beltran and Atty. Roland Detecio.

After presenting their platforms and programs of government, the crowd were given a chance to interact with the candidates through the open forum.

Followed later was the signing of a covenant for a credible and peaceful election.

As of press time, it is not yet known why the other candidates failed to show up during the said forum.

The holding of Provincial Candidates Forum was jointly undertaken by PPCRV, National Movement for Free Election (Namfrel) and National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA) of the Catholic Church.

Fr. Danny Paciente, the PPCRV Bukidnon Provincial Coordinator stressed that holding of such activity was part of the education campaign of the Diocese of Malaybalay for the voting populace for them to choose the right person to hold position in government.

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DepEd Bukidnon Shines in Palarong Pambansa

2007-05-04T02:08:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Maybalay City – Athletes from Department of Education (DepEd) Bukidnon belonging to the Region X delegation to the Palarong Pambansa had successfully garnered medals during the recently concluded national sports competition held at Koronadal City, South Cotabato last April 22-28, 2007.

DepEd Bukidnon Press Officer Edilberto Oplenaria revealed that Marisol Pacquaio from Talahiron Elementary School, Kibawe District clinched the Gold Medal in High Jump Elementary Girls while Dywen Sumaria of Kalilangan National High School, Kalilangan, Bukidnon settled for Silver Medal in the 5,000 Meter Run Secondary Boys.

Also settling for Silver Medal is Carl Arnold Palo of the Bukidnon National High School, Malaybalay City in Taekwondo Secondary Boys.

There were four individual events also earned Bronse Medals for DepEd Bukidnon.

These are Long Jump Elementary Girls also by Marisol Pacquiao of Talahiron Elementary School, Kibawe; Chicky Cha Cabello of Lantapan National High School in 400 Meter Run Secondary Girls, and Julie Pearl Bongabong of Quezon Baptist Academy Taekwondo Elemetary Girls.

In team competition, Table Tennis Girls Elementary from Paitan Elementary School, Quezon 1 District, grasped the Bronze Medal and Table Tennis Secondary Girls from Kalilangan National High School also settled for Bronze Medal.

It was learned also from Schools Division Superintendent Gloria Benigno that the overall rank of Region X where DepEd Bukidnon belongs is 10th place in the Elementary out of 17 regions and 11th place in the Secondary out of 17 regions nationwide.

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Diocese of Malaybalay To Hold Provincial Candidate Forum

2007-04-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – The Diocese of Malaybalay is currently conducting a series of activities for the political education campaign for this coming election this year.

Aside from radio programs and plugging through DXDB Radyo Bandilyo Bukidnon, a candicate forum for provincial level candidates will be held tomorrow May 1, 2007 at Plaza Rizal, this city at around 2 pm.

The said candidate forum is a joint undertaking of Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), National Movement for Free Election (NAMFREL) and Social Action Center (SAC) of the Diocese of Malaybalay.

During the said forum the candidates will deliver their programs and platforms of government and people will have a chance to ask during the open forum.

According to Fr. Danilo Paciente, DCM, the PPCRV-NAMFREL provincial coordinator that after the forum a covenant signing will follow shortly for an honest and peaceful election.

This will be aired live through DXDB Radyo Bandilyo, a catholic run radio station in Bukidnon.

-=###-=

Election Big Boost for Income for Habal-habal

2007-04-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - If there’s anyone who feels happy during this season of politics, one of them are motor single operators and drivers.

Here in Bukidnon, it was learned that motor single that were hired by politicians during this election fever were rented P500.00 per day.

This is aside from free food and gasoline for the motor unit.

This is usually occurred on mountainous and remote areas that are no longer fit for four wheeled vehicles.

Although it is not permanent, nevertheless it is a big help for the family.

According to a habal-habal driver in a vernacular “once in a blue moon lang ni bay pahimos sab ta”.

Forest Protection is Everybodys' Concern-BENRO

2007-04-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

The Bukidnon Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) have appealed to the public to help them protect the environment.

The appeal was made by Forester Arturo Melendez of BENRO as reaction to the recent forest fire within 5000 hectares Bukidnon Tree Park here in Malaybalay City.

The Bukidnon Tree Park was planted with pine tree the main reason why Malaybalay has a very nice and cold climate.

According to Melendez, trees are very important for animal being since it gives off oxygen for us to breath.

“Trees are precious gift from GOD, so we must refrain to destroy it instead protect it” he concluded.

-=###=-

Virgilio Garcillano Naghain Na ng CoC Bilang Kongresista sa Bukidnon

2007-03-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City- Matapos maging kontrobersiya dahil sa pulitika, itoy kanya nang tatahakin.

Kahapon ng umaga (March 28, 2007) naging final na, ng si former comelec commissioner virgilio garciallano ay naghain ng kanyang certificate of candidacy (COC) sa commission on elections Bukidnon provincial office bilang kongresista ng unang distrito didto sa Bukidnon.

Bago ang paghain ng kanyang COC, isang motorkada ang ginanap mula sa bayan ng Manolo Fortich patungo didto sa Malaybalay City na kung saan naging star-studded dahil sa presensiya ng apat na membro ng Viva Hotbabes.

Si Garciallano ay naghain ng kandidatura bilang indepedente.

Sa news conference, nilinaw ni Garcillano na di siya kasapi ng partidong kampi at ni minsan di siya nag-aplay nito.

Dumating din si Mayor Jose Galario ng Valencia City upang kumbindahin na sasama sa kampi ngunit sa harapan ng medya itoy inayawan ni garcillano.

Ayon ni garcillano ayaw niya na mapasailalim sa kahit anong partido dahil gusto niyang makagalaw na malaya ayon sa kanyang gusto.

Nilinaw din niya na walang kinalaman si presidente Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sa kanyang desisyon na sasabak sa pulitika.

Sa unang distrito didto sa Bukidnon, tatlo ang magtutunggali bilang kongresista sina Garcillano, Eduy Pancrudo at ang babaeng kapatid ni Representative Nerius Neric Acosta na si Malu Acosta.

Si Neric ay tatakbong gobernador laban kay incumbent Governor Jose Maria Zubiri ng Bukidnon.

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MY DESTINY

2007-03-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Hi it’s me Aurelius Parido Arais a.k.a mightyaurell.

I believe on destiny. And I do believe that I am destined to be a media man. My stamina in broadcasting started when I was still in high school days. Driven by too much passion, it came to a point that I projected myself and lied to my classmates that I am connected with a certain radio station, this was in Davao City.

When somebody ask me the particular station where am I connected, I choose and replied the least popular radio station for them not to bother to check whether I’m telling the truth or not and of course I’m just playing safe to avoid being caught that I am indeed lying.

Upon reaching the fourth year level in secondary, I applied to an AM Station still in Davao City named DXRR as radio reporter. I was rejected. However instead of losing hope I consider it as a challenge for me to pursue more on my dream to be a broadcaster.

When I enrolled in college in the University of Mindanao in Davao City, I applied to its AM station DXUM-UMBN.

Fortunately, at last, my talent and passion was given a break. The station manager then Mr. Ely Luciano accepted me as newswriter/reporter and became a working scholar of the station under Student Assistance Program (STAP).

I was taking up Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication (ABMASSCOMM). Admittedly, I give more priority to my career that is why I’ve got low grades in my studies.

However, due to my interest to learn almost, if not all of aspects of broadcasting, I choose to keep on transferring or hopping from one station to another, just to gain more knowledge and actual experiences.

I explored in writing and fortunately I was became a freelance writer for Peoples Daily Forum, a local paper and I was assigned in Camp Catitipan Davao PNP headquater. Then I explored disc jockeying, I was accepted at DXSS FM 97.9 Mhz and at the same time a TV Newscaster on SBN TV 7 and commentator on its AM Station DXIP.

From Davao City, I transferred to DXSF FM in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur as newscaster. I worked there for a little while then I went back to DXUM in Davao as one of the pioneering of Radyo Ukay Drama Production. I was a drama writer and director and an actor as well. I produced various radio soap drama, some of them was Ang Karaang Villa (An Old Villa), a horror story; Tres Marias (action), Dino (sci-fi) and more.

Then I transferred to DXGL FM Real Radio in Butuan City as program director/disc jockey and at the same time newscaster/director on TV 13 and eventually became a station manager of DXGL AM Radyo Kaalyado. Then I was transferred to Real Radio Tandag, Surigao del Sur as station manager.

Wheww… what a long list. Maybe my dear reader you are asking now, where am I connected at present? Well, currently I am the program/ production director of DXDB AM Radyo Bandilyo in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Thanks to the former station manager Fr. Rey Raluto (who is now in Belgium) who had trust on my talent.

Now, if you are going to ask me what is my unforgettable experience? The most nerve cracking and heart pounding part of my career was when I was in Tandag, Surigao del Sur. There I experience a libel case filed by a certain fiscal, sorry I forgot his name. He filed a libel case against one of our radio block timer whom he said maligned his name and reputation on the air and I was implicated accordingly in my capacity as the head of the station.

Due to this case not only me who suffered numerous sleepless nights but also my beloved family.

Fortunately, thanks to GOD, the said case was dismissed by the Prosecutors Office due to lack of merit and of course to the divine intervention. Wheew, what a big relief.

I really love broadcasting. In fact I found love in this field of endeavor. I’ve meet my wife Annie also a broadcaster when I was working with Real Radio in Butuan City. She was one of my disc jockey before. As the saying goes “the same feather flock together”. And now we are blessed with two beautiful daughters Reginah Reign and Kaycee Laureign.

The world of media is full of trials, hardships, challenges and surmountable obstacles but if you have the burning passion, you will still found happiness out of it. If you are planning to be a media practitioner, well it’s up to you. Who knows you and I have the same destiny.

By: Aurelius Parido Arais
aka mightyaurell
DXDB Radyo Bandilyo Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

Malaybalay Not A Hot Spot Area

2007-03-20T02:04:00.000-07:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

A ranking official of Philippine National Police Region 10 (PRO 10) clarified that Malaybalay City is not a “hot spot area” in the coming May 14 election.

The clarification was made by Police Chief Superintendent Teodorico Capuyan, PRO 10 regional director in an interview by local media.

It was recalled that a gun battle was erupted at Sitio Kiito, Barangay Can-ayan disrupting the peace and order of the city last March 1, this year during Kaamulan Festival.

The said gun battle between government forces and rebels claimed 12 lives, 2 government fighters and 10 rebels.

However, Capuyan said that the encounter is not related to the electoral process and purely military operation against group tagged as government enemies.

As of now, no known barangay in Malaybalay might be considered as a source of conflict on the height of election fever.

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Bukidnon PNP Provincial Headquarter Attacked?: 1 killed

2007-03-01T00:51:00.000-08:00

By: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - A policeman was killed in gunfight at the gate of Bukidnon PNP provincial command in Malaybalay City at around 9:20 in the evening February 28, 2007.

Police Supt. Juan Ratunil, PNP Bukidnon provincial director identified the fatality as PO2 Procoro Lutrago, a member of 1003rd provincial mobile group.

According to report, the slain police while on duty at the gate, two unidentified person approached and shot him several times using an unknown caliber of pistol.

Two other policemen responded that prompted an exchange of fire. However, the suspects able to fled to an unknown direction.

It was not certain if any of the suspects was hit during the encounter.

Some accounts of witness said that the two suspects fled from the crime scene riding a motorcycle.

In hot pursuit operation, an abandoned motorcycle was recovered at Brgy. 9, this city without plate number believed used by the suspects.

Ratunil said that before the suspects fled they brought the armalite rifle of the slain policeman.

The slain policeman succumbed to death with 20 gun shots in different parts of the body.

It was also uncertain if the incident was a direct attack against the provincial command or a personal motive in nature.

As of press time an investigation is still going on.

Meanwhile, Ratunil clarified that the said incident will not affect the on going Kaamulan Festival and 90th Foundation Day celebration of the province.

Bukidnon PNP beefed up its security measures to prevent the same attack in the future.

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Drivers in the City Are Now Emergency Responder

2007-02-21T16:11:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - To strengthen the emergency response capability of the city, some drivers in the city had undergone basic life support and first aid training.

Just recently, the said drivers graduated from the training which the ceremony was held at Peoples Hall, City Hall compound graced by Mayor Florencio Flores Jr.

In his speech, Flores said that knowledge acquired by the drivers during the training were not be in vain since they can use it for their own, for family and for community.

The said training was conducted as support to the existing Malaybalay Emergency Rescue Unit (MERU).

Meanwhile City Consultant Eileen Ortega Gamo hope that Malaybalay will become the most prepared city all over the country in terms of emergency response.

This is one way of luring tourist and investors to visit in the city and invest as well.

It was learned from information officer Joni Ester Parrado that around 80 drivers in the city composed of four batches graduated from basic life support and first aid training.

Drivers are great help during emergency situation since they are usually the first to know untoward events while roaming around the city streets.

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Nigeria Gagawing Krimen Ang Pagiging Bading At Tomboy

2007-02-15T14:20:00.000-08:00

World News

Hinigpitan ng nasabing bansa ang batas laban sa mga bakla at tomboy.

Sa ilalim ng panukalang batas na isinusulong ngayon sa kanilang kongreso – papatawan ng limang taong pagka-bilanggo ang sinumang mapapatunayan na bading o yung openly at practising gay.

Gayunman – binatikos ng ibat-ibang grupo ang nasabing batas na anila ay paglabag sa kalayaan bagamat umani ito ng suporta sa ibat-ibang religious leaders.

Ayon sa komite na dumidinig sa panukala nakatanggap sila ng mahigit 100 petisyon mula sa ibat-ibang human rights group na tumututol sa nasabing panukala.

Sinabi ni Alimi Ademola, puno ng gay rights organisation na Independent Project Nigeria, hindi kailangan na isulong ang batas dahil nilalabag nito ang karapatan ng isang taon. Tinawag rin niyang “evil” ang nasabing batas na hindi na aniya kailangan pang patulan ng kanilang kongreso.

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Mysterious Black Dog Terrorizes Mati

2007-02-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

By: Ben O. Tesiorna

A HALF-breed "mysterious black dog" is now causing terror in Mati, Davao Oriental after it reportedly bit 36 people in just a span of three days.

The biting rampage started on February 3 from Barangay Bobon up to the poblacion area (more than 20 kilometers) with the skinny dog victimizing humans.

The dog even entered the provincial hospital here and bit a medical attendant at his lower leg. Victims describe the dog as black, skinny, and normal-looking.

Not one of the victims died due to rabies, however, as local authorities immediately injected them with anti-rabies medication.

Mati rural health officer Onjie Catbagan said they have now conducted an intensive campaign to fight rabies.

"So far since February 3, no rabid pets were documented by the provincial health office only dog bite cases which have been properly attended to with the local government providing assistance to most of the pets," Catbagan said.

The rabid black dog was reportedly killed by authorities sometime last week. But rumors flew thick and fast that the "mysterious black dog" is not a common canine but a "supernatural" one.

Various versions of the story are circulating in this town as to the true identity of the mysterious dog.

Some say it was a man whose family was killed by criminals in a far-flung barangay and vowed to exact vengeance from the criminals by selling his soul to the devil, thus becoming an "aswang."

Others say it was an "aswang" from Barangay Bobon whose habitat was slowly being destroyed thus, the aswang's migration to the poblacion area.

Despite the dog's reported death, many residents here are still not taking any chances. Some are opting to stay inside their homes when the night falls while others are shooing away black dogs that are seen around the streets.

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National Dental Health Month Gisaulog

2007-02-12T20:02:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City - Kasamtangan karong gitamod sa tibuok nasod ang 3rd National Dental Health Month niining buwan sa Pebrero tuig kasamtangan.

Niining tuiga ang selebrasyon nagtangag sa tema nga “Pag-atiman sa Ngipon Atong Batasanon, Hayag nga Ugma Maangkon”.

Nasayran gikan kang Perla Badola-Dinlayan ang information officer sa Provincial Health Office nga dinhi sa Bukidnon gisugdan ang kasaulugan kaniadtong Pebrero 6 didto sa Maramag alas otso sa buntag pinaagi sa usa ka motorkada ug gisunod gilayon ang programa.

Sa maong higayon gitudluan usab ang mga magtutungha sa Maramag Central Elementary School sa insaktong paagi sa pag-atiman sa ngipon sama na sa pag-tooth brush ug fluoride rinsing.

Gipahigayon usab ang poster ug slogan making contests ug ang pagkaplag sa orally fit child contest ug napahimuslan usab ang libre nga dental clinic.

Karong Pebrero 15 ipahigayon ang pagkaplag sa Mr. and Miss Healthy Smile elementary division sa Sumpong Elementary School, dakbayan sa Malaybalay.

Pagka-pebrero 22 ipahigayon usab ang interchool Mr. and Miss Healthy Smile high school division sa Bukidnon National High School ug isunod usab ang Sportsfest sama sa badminton ug bowling.

Katapusang kalihukan gitakda karong Pebrero 28 sa Lantapan pinaagi sa libre nga Dental Clinic.

Ang kasaulugan sa 3rd National Dental Health Month gipasikad sa Proklamasyon Numero 559 nga gipermahan ni Prisedente Gloria Macapagal Arroyo kaniadtong Pebrero 24 tuig 2004.

Kini maoy pagpahalapad sa nahaunang proklamasyon numero 235 kaniadtong Pebrero 24, 1951 nga nagdeklara sa matag Pebrero 3 hangtod 9 nga National Dental Health Week.

Tumong niini nga pukawon ang kaikag sa katawhan sa kamahinungdanon sa pag-amping sa ngipon.

Sigun sa survey nga gipahigayon kaniadtong tuig 1998 nasuta nga 96 sa usa ka gatos nga pinoy adunay problema sa ngipon ug hayan maoy labing komon nga balatian nga nakaapekto sa katawhang pinoy.

Usa sa maayong lakang sa pag-amping sa ngipon mao ang regular nga pagpanipilyo.

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Earthquake Drill Gipahigayon

2007-02-08T01:14:00.000-08:00

by: Aurell P. Arais

Malaybalay City – Malampusong gipahigayon ang usa ka pagbansaybansay kung unsay angayan nga buhaton kung ugalingong adunay mahitabo nga linog.

Ang nahisgutan nga earthquake drill gipahigayon sa Sumpong Elementary School ug sa Mindanao Arts Technological Institute (MATI) sa milabay nga Pebrero 8 ning tuig kasamtangan.

Dungan nga mitingog ang makusog nga siren kansa may timaan nga adunay pagtay-og sa linog.

Gilayon usab nga nagpasalipod ang mga tinun-an sa maong duha ka eskwelahan ilawom sa mga lamesa ug ang uban nanghapa.

Pipila ka gutlo ang milabay, hinay-hinay nga migawas ang mga tinun-an sa ground ug didto nagtapok nga nagsilbing evacuation area.
Gisunod gilayon ang pagsusi sa matag andana sa tunghaan aron pagsubay kung aduna bay bahin sa gambalay nga naguba o nadamyos.

Miabot usab ang mga emergency responder aron pagtabang sa mga nasamdan.

Daw matuod ang nahisgutan nga earthquake drill ug man gani adunay nadala sa emosyon ug nawad-an sa panimuot.

Gipasiugdahan ang naasoy nga pagbansaybansay sa City Disaster Coordinating Council kon CDCC kinsa mipahigayon usab sa pag-asses sa maong kalihukan.

Tumong niini nga matudluan ang mga magtutungha sa labing angayan nga buhaton kung maatlan nga adunay pagtay-og sa linog.

Ang Probinsiya sa Bukidnon nahimutang sa gitawag nga ring of fire ug fault line tungod sa gikataho nga adunay 13 ka mga bulkan ug duha ang aktibo nga mao ang Mt. Musuan ug Mt. Kalatungan.

Gawas sa linog aduna pay ubang matang sa kalamidad ang giplanuhan nga pagahimuan usab ug pagbansay-bansay.

Sa miaging tuig, gipahigayon usab ang Bomb Drill Exercise.

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Ari Na Pinutol Ng Aso Naibalik

2007-02-04T19:55:00.001-08:00

(AFP)

BEIJING --- Matagumpay na naibalik ng mga doktor sa southern China ang ari ng isang lalaki matapos itong kagatin at maputol ng aso, ayon sa ulat ng state media.

Ang mga doktor sa ospital na affiliated sa Guangzhou city-based Sun Yat-sen University ay gumamit ng balat at laman mula sa dibdib ng 35-anyos na lalaki, at bone mula sa kanyang balakang para ikabit muli ang ari, anang ulat ng Xinhua news agency.

Ang lalaki na kinilala lamang bilang Zhen, ay nakagat at naputol ang ari ng aso noong bata pa siya, na nagdulot ng mental at physical pressures sa kanya habang siya’y nagkaka-edad.

Ang newly reconstructed organ ng lalaki ay may habang 14 centimeters, ayon kay plastic surgeon Zhang Jinming.

"He can have a sex life and enjoy pleasant sensations... but not as intensely as other people because he still doesn’t have testicles," ani Zhang.