NEWS BRIEFS

17 hurt in Cagayan mishap

TUGUEGARAO CITY – Seventeen students riding a dump truck were injured when the vehicle rolled over in Sta. Teresita, Cagayan last Wednesday.

Truck driver Rodolfo Baldovizo reportedly lost control of the wheel, causing the vehicle to hit a row of concrete barriers before it rolled over in Barangay Simpatuyo, town police chief Senior Inspector Gary Matagay said.

The students, who were supposed to join a tree-planting activity in SitioPalagao, were taken to the Gonzaga District Hospital for treatment. --  Raymund Catindig

Burnham parking fee collections nets P2M

BAGUIO CITY –  The City Environment and Parks Management Office Burnham Park Office is seeing a huge increase in parking fees in this mountain resort.

This increase is partly due to the re-opening of the Ganza Pay parking area to address the lack of parking spaces within the central business district especially during peak tourist influx.

The pay parking facility started operation on April 2 to effect memorandum 079-2015 issued by Mayor Mauricio Domogan to the CEPMO.

In its initial 12-day period of operations, the city collected P68,704.00 in pay parking fees for the Ganza area under the CEPMO-Burnham Park Office.

Collections at Burnham Park for January to April reached P1,711,217.

Total collection for the parking facility was P958,294 covering April 1 to May 14 for the main parking area which collected 498,065, off-street parking with P227,554 and Ganza with P232,675.00. 

The Ganza parking facility was formerly operated by Jadewell Parking Systems Corporation for a maximum 12-year pay parking agreement signed in 2000 between the corporation and the city government.

The contract however was rescinded in 2006 due to opposition from the public of the on and off street parking scheme which resulted to the elevation of the issue into a full blown legal battle which to date is still awaiting final ruling from the Supreme Court. 

Presently, the facility is being manned by CEPMO personnel in coordination with the City Treasury Office for collection of parking fees pursuant to existing rules and regulations. 

The facility collects P35 for first two hours of parking and P10 for every succeeding hour.

The income derived from the Burnham Park pay parking facility is deposited to trust fund to defray operational and

maintenance expenses of the park.

Woman found dead in sand dunes

LAOAG CITY – A woman was found dead at the sand dunes here Tuesday morning.

The victim’s head was covered with a sack when she was found by residents at around 6 a.m. near a hut at the La Paz Sand Dunes.

Case investigator SPO 4 Nilo Domingo said the victim, said to be in her early 30s, bore 20 stab wounds in the chest and neck. No identification card was found on her person.

Police believe the woman was killed somewhere else and was dumped in the area to mislead investigators.   

DSWD allots P6.03M projects in Mt. Province

BONTOC, Mountain Province-- The Department of Social Welfare and Development through its Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) provided funds worth P6,038,000 in 2014 for 20 projects in the province.

Joy Pulquiso of DSWD office here told provincial advisory committee four municipalities: Bontoc, Sadanga, Sagada and Tadian were recipients of BUB projects.

Of the total amount, P3, 270,000 was allotted to Sadanga for  seven  projects including   construction of day care center, sanitary toilets, indigenous product development and business enterprise, opening of Fagwang – Nabenngan road in Poblacion; construction of Poyo – Churao footbridge in Saclit(ongoing),  and educational materials to support supervise neighborhood program for children in all barangays.

In Bontoc, three projects worth P850,000 were for day care workers support in barangays,  and supplemental feeding for day care and kindergarten pupils.

Sagada received five projects worth P835,000 for women and  civic society organizations, seminar training on documentation, writing and lobby/advocacy, microenterprise development on postharvest food preservation,   rice mill project for Payag-eo, Suyo; and provision of support to persons with disability primarily for Special Education.

Five projects were given to Tadian worth of P1,083,000. These projects included social pension of 50 indigent senior citizens,  sustainable livelihood on broom making and  shoe and umbrella repair skills training, and  recycling project (decors, holders, hats, among others ) for differently abled persons, and  supplemental feeding to 720 day care and kindergarten pupils.

Pulquiso also reported that the DSWD approved this year eight  BUB projects allotted for  six  municipalities with a total project worth of P16 million.

These projects included Abatan toilet with deepwell in Bauko worth P1.5M, sustainable livelihood program for Bontoc-P1.5M, construction of pathways – P3M and rehabilitation of pathways – P3 in Natonin; construction of Apalitud – Bagwang footbridge in Paracelis – P1.5M; improvement of various pathways leading to potential tourist spots in Sabangan – P2.5M,  and learning center for the marginalized and disadvantaged women – P1.5M and completion of Nabennagan footbridge – P1.5M, both in Sadanga.

Municipal planning development coordinators of the municipal beneficiaries were expected to submit complete  requirements of  the 2015 BUB  projects by end of this month since the project  implementation  is expected to start  this June. -- Juliet B. Saley

Labor exec dies of heat stroke

TUGUEGARAO CITY – An official of the Department of Labor and Employment in Cagayan Valley, who was hospitalized due to heat stroke last week, died in Santiago City, Isabela May 24.

Robert Batalla, 49, had reportedly been making rounds in this city as part of his duty as labor compliance officer, according to DOLE Region 2 directorSixto Rodriguez.

Before he lost consciousness, Batalla reportedly complained of numbness in his left arm on Thursday, when the temperature was at 43.7 degrees Celcius.

He was supposed to assume as head of the labor district office in Santiago City this week.

Earlier, Willy Peralta suffered heat stroke as he was working at a construction site in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur May 22.

On the same day, 77-year-old Julita Sta. Monica was found dead at her home in San Fernando, La Union.

Authorities said she died of heat stroke. – RaymundCatindig

Buguias to establish ‘Timbangan ng Bayan’

BUGUIAS, Benguet--  Weighing dates back thousands of years ago using primitive means initially for commercial purposes to modern instruments now with precise measurements which come in varied forms against unfair trading practices.  

In the market  where trading takes place, weighing of goods is a normal task which may not be that accurate especially if calibration is not a practice or the use of appropriate measuring device is not regulated.

Here, officials saw the need to protect the rights of consumers by getting their money’s worth in the goods they buy through the installation of a public weighing scale.  

Authored by Councilor Rafael Palasi, local officials passed an ordinance to establish public weighing scale or “Timbanganng Bayan” in its public market with penal provisions for violations.

The public could make use of the “Timbanganng Bayan” to be installed in the marketplace to ensure the accuracy of weight measurement of purchased goods.  It shall be used as standard for weight measurement for food like meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits, rice, among others.

As weighing instruments are not being regulated, accordingly there are weighing scales used by ambulant vendors which are observed to be defective, tampered or altered.

Weighing devices will also undergo sealing and testing in all consumer and consumer related transactions every six months by a designated official sealer. -- Susan C. Aro

Kalinga gets 2014 seal of good financial housekeeping award

TABUK CITY, Kalinga--  The  province is recipient of  2014 “seal of good financial housekeeping (SGFH) award of the Department of Interior and Local Government.

Provincial local government operations officer Francisco Gamatero handed the SGFH certificate to Gov. Jocel C. Baac here recently.The SGFH award is pre-qualifying achievement to “seal of good local governance and qualifies the recipient-LGU to implement infrastructure  projects funded under DILG’s Bottom-up-Budgeting Program.      

Gamatero cited provincial leadership for complying with the government policy on good governance, transparency and accountability.

Baac said cash incentive that goes with the award   will be used for  infra projects like previous cash incentives. -- Larry T. Lopez     

 
Isabela mishap snarls traffic for half a day

CORDON, Isabela – Thousands of motorists were stuck in a traffic logjam for at least 12 hours after a trailer truck loaded with 1,000 sacks of rice turned turtle along the mountainous road in the vicinity of DaanMarhalika in Cordon Isabela and Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya Wednesday evening.

Engineer Wilson Valdez, information officer of Department of Public Works and Highways – Region 2 said that the accident site is a one way road due to an ongoing DPWH road project.

“It was really a tough situation, traffic was literally paralyzed, motorists and commuters were all inconvenienced and exhausted,” one public utility vehicle passenger lamented.

The ill-fated truck was eventually removed from the accident site at 4 a.m., although traffic started to get untangled another three hours later

It was not immediately known what caused the truck to overturn, even as government engineers at the work site reminded motorists to heed all road and safety signs in the area and other road project work sites.

Meanwhile, assistant district Engineer Isagani Cayme has ordered a 5-minute alternate traffic flow in the area, to be supervised by additional traffic personnel to expedite and assure the safer movement of vehicles in the area. --  Liezle BasaInigo

Buguias implements traffic code

BUGUIAS, Benguet – A traffic code of this vegetable-producing town is gradually addressing problems on operations of vehicles plying the area.

Councilor Rafael Palasi, author of  ordinance creating traffic code,  said there were vehicles initially apprehended recently  particularly tricycle drivers and operators issued with citation tickets due to traffic violations.

Palasi said the town experienced a rapid increase of motor vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles causing a lot of problems on traffic including unauthorized fare or routes among others, which prompted officials to pass the measure.

Passed late last year, the code covers the regulation of traffic and all kinds of motor vehicles including the Management of Tricycle Franchising and Regulatory Board.      

Buguias has existing Traffic Ordinance Numbered 07-15 but only provides for prohibited acts and penalties for erring drivers, conductors and operators plying the area. It does not sufficiently address present issues and concerns.

The passage of the traffic code will prevent or lessen vehicular accidents and other traffic related problems.

There is also a felt need to streamline the operation, control and administration of motor vehicles, tricycles, motorcycle-for-hire and others to ease traffic flow, prevent road-right-of-way and forestall any untoward incidents in aid of the ordinance.

The code mandates identification and designation of parking and loading zones, traffic rules, and establishment of terminals among others. -- Susan C. Aro

37,000 pine, fruit seedlings set for planting in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY – Some 37,000 pine and fruit seedlings are set for planting here, now with the City Environment and Parks Management Office Forestry and Regreening Unit said.

This was reported by Forester Walter Aguirre during Alay SaKalinisan (ASK) meeting last week.

 According to Aguirre, Busol nursery has  9,902 seedlings; 750 mahogany, ten coffee, 2,050 Callandra, 15 Persimmon, 155 African Tulips, 250 Calamansi, 160 Auri, 129 Alnus, 33 Citrus, and 6,350 Benguet Pine seedlings. 

There are 27,839 seedlings at the Botanical garden; 14,332 Benguet Pine seedlings and saplings, 6,547 coffee, 1,410 Cypress, 3,341 African Tulip, 1,096 Callandra, 490 Yellow shower tree, 457 Citrus, 40 Amapola, 62 Camphor, 7 guava, 25 bottle brush, and 32 Eugenia trees.

There were 793 seedlings planted in residential, commercial, and institutional sites; from the start of January up to May, as to City Ordinance 5, 2011. The ordinance mandates the planting of trees as a requirement for a building permit.

More production is expected with the addition of personnel in both nurseries including an agriculturist.

Aguirre also reported that a survey is done at the Tuba, Benguet-Baguio Boundary, to ascertain more planting areas, a move to help mitigate the effects of climate change.      

Meanwhile, tree-cutting and trimming in road-right-of-ways, private and public places is in full operation this June pending the hiring of tree cutters.

In a report by Forester Amor Bacullo of the CEPMO-FRU said permits have been applied for and approved for cutting of live and dead trees. Danger to lives and property are considered during inspections by personnel.

Bacullo also mentioned that tree-cutting activities are done in coordination with the Benguet Electric Coop. – Julie G. Fianza

INREMP projects start July in Mt Prov, Kalinga towns  

TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- Implementation of projects under the multi-million Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management Program (INREMP) in Tanudan-Barlig and Surong (Tinglayan) areas   will start third quarter of this year.

Judith Baswit, INREMP monitoring and evaluation officer, said projects will be launched with peoples’ organizations on July.

Among projects are reforestation, assisted natural regeneration of forests, and agro-forestry.

There will also be ground validation, community mapping, and  conduct of  base-line economic survey.

“It will also be the consultation months with the barangays aimed to get their commitment to the program,” Baswit added.

The activities are sequels of the watershed characterization done last year in the five management units.

INREMP is implemented in   four priority river basins   in the country to address unsustainable watershed management.

The INREMP site for Luzon is the Chico River, and  five  management units  have been created  to assist and facilitate the implementation of INREMP  project in the area. -- Peter A. Balocnit

South Korean students perk Baguio’s economy

BAGUIO CITY—More than 5,000 South Korean students studying in this mountain resort are helping enhance the city’s economy.

Steve Han, president of the Korean Sports Community here, said a student spends about P40,000 a month for accommodation, food  and other needs.

“In South Korea, we have national passion to learn English and we find Baguio as one of the best places to become skilled in speaking English,” Han said.

“There are so many things why we love Baguio, like its cool weather making it conducive to learning;  the instructors are very good in teaching English; the people are  kind; cost of living is affordable and there are a lot of fresh vegetables here like in our place.”

Over the past three years, roughly 14,000 Koreans have traveled to the Philippines to study English at private academies for a fraction of the price of classes in many other English-speaking nations.

Han said South Korean families spend billions of dollars on private education to prepare their children for standardized tests that are required for entrance into universities, to study overseas and land in many white collar jobs.

Kang Tae-won, 17, is among the students from the city of Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, who chose Baguio among many places in the country to learn English..

‘Studying in the Philippines will surely prepare me and equip me when I go to college in Singapore’, said Kang Tae-won.  -- Joseph Zambrano

Ifugao town bans sale of junk food, carbonated drinks to school children

LAMUT, Ifugao -- Sale of junk food and carbonated drinks to school children in all school premises here is not allowed here to protect children from health hazards.

As  provided under a municipal ordinance,  all retailers, sellers and other business entities  including owners and operators of restaurants, canteens, stores, bakeshops and food establishments within the school premises or 50 meters radius from the school compound are prohibited from selling  junk food and carbonated drinks to school children.

Violators of this ordinance will be penalized with a warning for the first offense, P1,500.00 for second offense and P2,500 and revocation of business permit for third offense. -- Marcelo B. Lihgawon

Vendors selling spoiled products to lose permits

BAGUIO CITY – Market stall owners found selling spoiled products stand to lose their licenses and their privilege to do business at the city market.

Mayor Mauricio Domogan issued this warning last week following reports some stalls at the city market are selling food products unfit for human consumption.

The mayor said the city can close the stalls, withdraw the business permits and ban the sellers from doing business at the city market.

Last May 7, the city veterinary office under Dr. Brigit Piok confiscated some 12.15 kilos of adulterated chicken meat cuts and by-products from three meat stores at the market during an inspection conducted by the task force to monitor the sale, proper and hygienic handling of meat in meat markets.

The task force composed of meat inspectors Cesaria Buayan, Juliet Laron, Myra Bonnie Balting and aquaculturist Judyline Toyoken found the products adulterated with greenish discoloration or decomposition and not fit for human consumption in clear violation of Republic Act No. 9296 or the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines.

The mayor said cases will be pursued against these law violators.

The mayor said the regular market inspections are part of the City Government’s thrust for consumer welfare protection.

The city veterinary office works in coordination with the city market office in the campaign.

City market office head Paul Tamayo said in their thrust to safeguard the welfare of the consumers, they recently underwent training on promoting the safety of consumers of fish. 

They also recently installed tarpaulins in strategic points at the city market on the proper handling and selling of fresh or newly slaughtered , chilled, frozen and thawed meat products. -- Aileen P. Refuerzo

Tabuk passes national  standard for drinking water

TABUK CITY, Kalinga- – The management of Tabuk Water (TAWA), sole provider of household potable water here, said tap water coming from  its  system is safe to drink. 

TAWA Manager Alex Manto said their   water supply passed Philippine national standard for drinking water.

According to Manto, TAWA complied with Department of Health requirement on all drinking water systems in the country to have regular monthly test of drinking water. 

He said water samples are brought to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) water laboratory, a DOH-accredited facility, for test. 

Water samples taken at random from households and from their four  pumping stations are brought regularly for laboratory tests to assure potable water, Manto said.

To keep its water free from contamination, TAWA follows the standard procedure on water treatment.

Manto said fresh water from the wells undergo the process on chlorination through their system before this is distributed for household consumption.

TAWA appealed to consumers to help maintain good potable water by reporting waterline leaks in their areas for immediate restoration. Leaks could be open sources of contaminations aside from causing high system loss, Manto said. -- Larry T. Lopez

IFSU student completes Vietnam scholarship studies

LAMUT, Ifugao -- One of two exchange students of the Ifugao State University (IFSU) here completed her scholarship studies at Thai Nguyen University of Vietnam.

Marcia Buhungan whose scholarship was funded by Vietnam government and University of California-Davis arrived recently from Vietnam after completing her studies in Advanced Education Program, according to  JeremyGawongan, Liaison Officer to IFSU president.

Buhungan is from Barangay Pugol this municipality. 

She is a beneficiary of the Exchange Scholarship Program entered into between IFSU and the Thai Nguyen University in 2011 after IFSU President Serafin Ngohayon visited Vietnam to pursue a transnational education program.

The other exchange student, BonifacioNatag-oy of Alfonso Lista, is  pursuing same degree in same university. He is completing requirements and expected to graduate soon. -- Daniel Codamon

‘Brigada Eskwela’ efforts get P350K lift from La Union officials

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — Volunteerism and cooperation were at the forefront of a “Brigada Eskwela” program here last Monday which saw local officials, police and the coast guard join teachers, parents and students in preparing public high schools in time for the re-opening of classes in June.

Department of Education Dr. Fatima Boado, city school division superintendent led the activity which was held at La Union National High School.

Not to be outdone in this show of support to the education sector was the local government, which donated P350,000 for the week-long school cleaning and repair.

The financial assistance was handed to the 35 teacher-representatives of the program during a simple ceremony attended by City Councilor Joseph de Guzman.

“Malaking tulong narin ito upang ma-paayos ang mga sira-sirang equipment, facilities at pambiling kagamitang pampaayos at panglinis ng eskwelahan (This will be a huge help in the repair of the dilapidated equipment, facilities and in the purchase of cleaning materials),” said De Guzman, who attended on the behalf of Mayor Pablo Ortega, Vice Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto and his fellow councilors.

Dr. Boado, for her part, expressed her thanks to the city government, volunteers, stakeholders and most of all the parents for giving their time and effort in the Brigada.

In a related development, the Department of Public Works and Highways regional office 1 announced on Tuesday the completion of the construction of 102 school buildings.

Some 14 other projects under the Ilocos region’s regular school building works are still ongoing.

Esperanza Tinaza, DPWH region 1 spokesperson said the ongoing school building projects include the construction of a building, repair and replacement of roofs and other carpentry works.

Maintenance activities such as installation of signs, maintenance of roads and bridges as well as repainting were also being done to ensure the safety of the motorists. – LiezleBasaInigo and Erwin G. Beleo

Officials push development of Abra Special Economic Zone 

TAYUM, Abra – Provincial and local officials are pushing projects in a Special Economic Zone here to spur business and livelihood. 

The SEZ created by presidential proclamation in 1997.

Abra provincial administrator GenalynVerzola in a recent meeting of the Economic Development sectoral committee(EconDev Secom) of the Regional Development Council – CAR presented the concept of Abra SEZ to increase trade, investments and create jobs.

The Abra SEZ declared under Presidential Proclamation No. 126 by then President Joseph Estrada involves a 34.68 hectare of semi-developed land located in Barangay Gaddani, Tayum municipality.  

The economic zone is 5.27 kilometers or a 10-minute drive from Bangued, the provincial capital. It is 87 km  away from the Salomague Port in Ilocos Sur and 142 km from Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte.  

Identified investment areas for exploration are hydropower generation and mineral processing and extraction.

According to Verzola, as culled from previous studies of the National Power Corporation, National Electrification Administration and other agencies, there are 17 potential sites for large and mini hydropower sources with a total capacity of 465 megawatts which are yet to be tapped.

A landlocked province, Abra is rich in mineral resources such as gold, copper, silver, limestone, clay, sand and gravel, guano phosphate and rock phosphate.

Investment opportunities include light metal industry, garment and textile manufacturing, car assembly, tropical fruit processing, coffee processing, jewelry making, bamboo plyboard production, wood-based prefabricated construction materials manufacturing and natural dye processing. 

The local government foresees linkaging with potential investors in collaboration with the RDC.

Following the move of Abra, the EconDev Secom passed a resolution recognizing all the officially declared economic zones in the region. -- Susan C. Aro

              

DOH reminds public on food safety this summer

BAGUIO CITY -- With the soaring temperature this summer, the Department of Health reminded the public on food safety.

DOH Cordillera assistant regional Director Dr. Amelita Pangilinan told a media forum here with increasing temperature, bacteria  multiplies rapidly  and spreads faster on food and drinks causing them to spoil easily.

Consumption of bacteria-laced food and drink can cause food poisoning with diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and fever  as symptoms, she  said.

Pangilinan urged the public especially those going on outing, or long trip to ensure food safety  in preparing their “baon”.

Among her food safety tips:  food  should be eaten immediately or at a short time as possible after preparation as refrigerating food or leftovers and re-heating it is not guaranteed; wash hands properly before and after preparing food; avoid drinking water directly from faucets and water pumps or “poso” or unsure source of the water, and  peel and wash vegetables before eating or adding to any dish.

Sick people should refrain from  preparing food to avoid contamination, she added.

DOH – CAR infectious disease head Dr. Alexei Marrero, in the same forum, also urged the public in preparing food, raw meat should be separated from the cooked to avoid contamination. Avoid eating raw meat or the usual “kinilaw” if possible, she said.

Marrero said meat products should be bought from trusted vendors -- EngelbertNievera  

Kabayan celebrates Bendiyan Festival

KABAYAN, Benguet – This town recently celebrated its 8th Eco-Tourism and Bendiyan Festival.

Kabayan, famous for its centuries-old mummies and Mount Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon,  showcased  traditional songs, dances and rituals of  its the rich cultural heritage.

The celebration kicked off with a civic and cultural parade from the Palenas-Pangtal Road to the Kabayan Central School Grounds in Poblacion.

The parade featured participants from barangays in  traditional cultural attires while performing cultural practices of Ibalois here.

The parade was followed by “Abang tan OwikniKeshel” or the traditional pig catching by Ibaloi men followed by the ritual and offering.

In the program, Mayor Faustino Aquisan welcomed guests while Sangguniang Bayan member Ama James Aroco narrated history of Kabayan.

Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) business research  and development division manager Ma. Zenaida Quinahan was guest of honor and speaker during the event.

Benguet Gov. Nestor Fongwan, Rep. Ronald Cosalan and Department of Tourism – Cordillera officer-in-charge Mary Bilagot delivered  inspirational messages.

The Kamora National High School, the multi-awarded dance troupe from the municipality performed cultural dances.

The KNHS had been champion in the previous Panagbenga street dance competition in Baguio City and runner up in Aliwan Festival in Manila.

A special presentation from sister municipalities of Sagada, Banaue and Tabuk City were featured during the event. Recognition was also given to Lucky Bendiyan Festival Visitor or  first time visitor to the municipality who was selected during the May 2 program.

Other activities during the day were “Pansasanopni Senior Citizens” or interaction of senior citizens from  municipalities of Kabayan, Bokod, Itogon and Buguias; a magic and acrobatic show and the Matekal e Ykabayan with fashion show featuring the attires of Kabayan and other ethnic inspired garbs.

The Bendiyan Festival gets its name from the ‘bindiyan’(commonly spelled bendian or bendiyan ) dance of the Ibalois of Kabayan which is done in a circular fashion with various hand movements and steps. 

It is celebrated as part of a sacred ritual made during abundant harvests and a thanksgiving to the gods. – RedgieMelvicCawis

Cordillera on track towards malaria – free status

BAGUIO CITY -- The Cordillera is on track in eliminating malaria in the region, according to the Department of Health.

Cordillera infectious disease cluster head Dr. Alexei Marrero.

He told media forum Baguio City and the provinces of Abra and Benguet have been declared malaria-free  after five consecutive years without recorded malaria cases.

Marrero reported that Mountain Province is getting nearer to achieving a malaria-free status with four consecutive years of zero malaria cases. Ifugao and Kalinga  have zero recorded  cases for three and two years, respectively.

Marrero, in the same forum, reported that 13 malaria cases were recorded in the region in 2014, of which five were imported cases (patient’s infection was from other parts of the country).

For this year,  only one case of malaria was recorded as of April 11, a 67 percent decrease compared to the three cases recorded during the same period (Jan. 1 to April 11) last year.

For the DOH campaign, Marrero reported that DOH  is into continuing  information, education and communication campaign focused on   strengthening   inter-border campaign to ensure that Malaria will not cross from endemic areas to Malaria-free zones, clean-up drives and distribution of insecticide – treated mosquito nets  to households and  treated curtains  to public schools.

Malaria is a life-threatening blood disease which transmission primarily comes from (Anopheles) Mosquito bite and can also be transmitted by blood transfusion between a mother and child.

Malaria signs and symptoms which usually manifest within a week to one month after transmission  include fever, shaking chills, yellowish discoloration of the skin and flu-like illness.

“If bitten by a mosquito and such symptoms manifest, a person must immediately go for a consultation to health centers or hospitals because without treatment, it can cause severe illness and can be fatal”, Marrero said. -- EngelbertNievera

Changyasan fest held in Barlig

BARLIG, Mountain Province -- Constituents of LiasSilangan and Lias Kanluran recently celebrated their 7th Changyasan Festival at open gymnasium here.  

This year’s affair was highlighted by the preparation, cooking and partaking of traditional dishes of Lias called lenau and intom. 

The lenau is a cooked kachew, mixed with a pinch of salt and wrapped with fresh sugar cane leaves. The cooking is done by putting the wrapped kachew on top of piled dried sticks, then covered with another heap of dried sticks and palay hay. These are burned until these turn to ashes.

On the other hand, intom is an improved lenau. It has ingredients composed of vegetables (gabi, camote tops, squash leaves and flowers), kachew, a bit of salt and oil. These are wrapped in banana leaf. It is cooked with the same method as lenau. 

While the traditional dishes were being cooked, the elders played gongs while women danced the “eagle” dance joined by the constituents and visitors.    

In his message, mayor Clark Ngaya said one of his programs is preservation of the natural resources particularly forests and rivers.

He said Lias River was once abundant of kachew and igat (eels). These species are becoming extinct due to the use of illegal fishing such as, the use of chemical and electrically operated gadget (koryente), he said.

According to the mayor, he negotiated for sources of eel fingerlings to be dispersed soon in all rivers and creeks of Barlig.

Ngaya requested cooperation of Lias folks to preserve water sheds and forests. “Our river here in Lias is a tributary to the Tanudan river of Kalinga that exits in Appari, Cagayan.  Creeks and springs are very important in our homes and irrigation for our rice fields, vegetables gardens and orchards. Our forests are habitats of the famous Philippine eagles. However, this bird species is vanishing due to stripping of forest trees and forest fires,” he said.

The mayor also advocated healthy lifestyle. He said most  foods eaten today are unhealthy.  -- Francis B. Degay

916 Kalinga students hired under SPES

TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- The Department of Labor and Employment provincial office here oriented and deployed 916 students hired under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) this summer.

Anthony Luminang of DOLE said Tabuk City had highest number of SPES with  400 hires,  followed by Balbalan – 151; Rizal LGU – 125; provincial government – 116; LGU Pasil - 50; Tinglayan LGU – 44.  Kalinga-Apayao State College hired 20.

He said the municipalities of Tanudan, Lubuagan and Pinukpuk have not submitted their lists though they have given their pledges of commitment to the SPES program. 

Some have not submitted SPES documents to DOLE including participating private companies, he added.

He called on partner LGUs and private employers to hasten processing and submission of pre-employment requirements since the program already started this month.

He added they have to scrutinize the documents since the SPES process is covered by ISO 9001:2008. -- Peter A. Balocnit

Travel clearance needed for minors traveling abroad alone

BAGUIO CITY – Children who are travelling abroad alone or with companion other than their parents should secure a travel clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development here before applying for the children’s passport in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

In the issuance of clearance for minors travelling abroad, the children’s parents or legal guardians submit documents to the DSWD to ensure that the travel to be undertaken is favorable to the minor’s safety and well-being.

A social worker assesses the documents and recommends the approval or disapproval of the request for a travel clearance.

“Aside from the travel clearance being a DFA requirement, securing a travel clearance shall protect the children from the threat of human trafficking,” DSWD-Cordillera regional director Janet P. Armas said.

Human trafficking or trafficking in persons is an act of recruitment, transportation, transfer, or receipt of persons by means of threat or coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power, or compensation, with or without the consent of the person for the purpose of exploitation.

Minors Travelling Abroad Section had Julie Balagot advised  applicants to secure all necessary documents when filing for a travel clearance to facilitate the process.

“The processing and release of travel clearance usually takes 3-5 days, but due to incomplete documents, some applications take longer. So, we encourage our clients to complete the necessary documents before filing”, Balagot  said.

Among the requirements in securing a travel clearance include duly accomplished application form, photo copy of the birth certificate or passport of minor, written consent of both parents, solo parent or legal guardian permitting the child to travel alone or with someone else, two colored passport size photos of the minor taken within the last 6 months, and a photocopy of which is applicable, marriage certificate of minor’s parents, certificate of legal guardianship, solo parent identification card issued by the local social welfare and development office or death certificate of deceased parent of minor.

Application for travel clearance can be filed at the DSWD regional office Cordillera Administrative Region or in the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Offices in their areas.

Application form can be downloaded from www.dswd.gov.ph. A processing fee of P300.00 is required for travel clearance valid for one year and P600.00 for travel clearance valid for two years.

For queries and concerns, applicants may visit the DSWD field office at 40 North Drive, Baguio City (near NBI and BIR) or call (074) 444-3209. Applicants in the provinces may also visit the PSWDOs in their respective areas.

DSWD –CAR  for the first quarter of 2015,  issued 237 travel clearances. The purpose of travel was mostly to visit or to have vacation with parents/ relatives and travel or leisure.

Hongkong was noted to be top destination for minors. -- Nerizza Faye G. Villanueva

12 Ifugao nutrition workers receive long service award

ASIPULO, Ifugao -- Twelve barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) in the province were among those honored   by the National Nutrition Council   for long years of service  during  3rd national conference for BNS Northern Luzon Cluster  in  Vigan, Ilocos Sur recently.

Corazon Dawong, Provincial Nutrition program coordinator and in-charge of the BNS, said awardees of long Service Award  spent 30 to 36 years in service delivering nutrition services and other related activities in the barangays.

Dawong said among Cordillera provinces, Ifugao had highest BNS awardees. “Every year, the province is also producing outstanding BNS in the region,” she added.

Aside from the plaque, the awardees received  cash incentive of P12,000 for 30 years in service and P400 for every additional  year of service. Ifugao has registered a total of 191 BNS in the province.

The giving of long service award is to recognize invaluable contribution of BNSs in implementing the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition. It also aims to encourage continuous and dedicated service among BNSs to the cause of nutrition. -- Marcelo B. Lihgawon

Ifugao honors six achievers

LAMUT, Ifugao -- The municipal government here  honored six of its citizens  for their  exemplary achievements during its  recently fiesta dubbed “Rambakan”.

The municipal search committee selected Freddie Bayangan for academe, VillafuerteCamat, Jr. - agriculture, Carmelita Gualberto – public service and board topnotchers Marvin Dela Questa Cliff Richard Pinkihan and Dennis Nam-on as this year’s awardees.

Bayangan is a teacher  at  Ifugao Provincial Science High School  who has  contributed much efforts to the development of soccer players in the province.

Camat is the outstanding Organic Farmer of the Cordillera Administrative Region while Gualberto is a  dedicated day care worker at Barangay Lucban.

For the topnotchers,  Nam-on  placed  4th in the  2006 Electronics Engineer (ECE) board exam ,   Pinkihan landed  6th place  in the 2010 Certified Accountant licensure exam and Dela Questa placed  9th in  2010 Criminology board exam.

Giving recognition to outstanding citizens is  pursuant to the Lamut Achievers Award ordinance that  honors  exemplary performance of  its citizens  who excelled in the field of public service, education, culture and sports, military, business, and  academe  as well as  board topnotchers. -- Marcelo B. Lihgawon

21 Cordillera HS students qualify as OWWA scholars

BAGUIO CITY -- Twenty one  high school students from Cordillera will join the roster of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) college scholars  for  Academic Year 2015 – 2016.

OWWA Cordillera OIC regional director Evelyn Laranang said  of  21 students, 11 qualified under the Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program and 10  under the Educational Development Scholarship Program (EDSP).

The pass Department of Science and Technology scholarship program qualifying examination Sept. 23, 2014.

OWWA collaborated its scholarship qualifying exam with  DOST to save resources.

Laranang named the  CMWSP scholars as  Mark Jayson Aguda and Alan Chester Tungpalan from Flora, Apayao; Samarah Mae Felis and Ailyn Salungasing of Baguio City; Jasmin Castillejos of Benguet; Neil Kent Agliam, Francis Cordova and Justin Mae Pan of Kalinga; Jayhart Ramirez of Ifugao, and  Ralphy Jun Luzada of Mountain Province.

For the EDSP, the new scholars are  Gustan James Calza, Trisha Ann Fernandez, Kathryn Dennis Kollin, Maria Louise Lim, and Jeremy Ngade of Baguio City; Jessa Fe Dulnuan, Rhex Lee Backian, DurielTimatim and Dravey Ronald Vivencio of Benguet, and Zerrick Finch Luna of Mountain Province.

CMWSP is a House of Representative- funded OWWA scholarship program that is being offered to OFWs (below 45 years old) or OFW dependents  who  want to study Science and Technology related courses.

The EDSP is an OWWA scholarship offered to dependents of OWWA active members.

Each scholar is entitled to P60,000 educational grant per year or P30,000 per semester (for two semester per academic year, or P20,000 per semester for a tri-mester college/university)

Laranang said they are still accepting scholars under the ODSP or OFW Dependent Scholarship Program on a first-come, first-served basis. This is open  to children/dependents of OWWA-active OFW members whose salary is $400(US) and below or to its equivalent Philippine peso value.

OWWA’s ODSP has 12 slots for every Cordillera province. --Carlito Dar

Citizen’s arrest law to lessen Baguio crimes     

BAGUIO CITY – A proposed ordinance giving power to ordinary citizens to apprehend any person committing a crime or violating any law or ordinance in this mountain resort will soon be tackled in the city council here.

The Citizen’s Arrest Ordinance in the City of Baguio which adopted the provisions of the rules of court specifically the rules on criminal procedure was proposed by Councilor Leandro Yangot, Jr.

The said ordinance strengthens the citizen’s authority in the apprehension of criminal offenders or lawless elements within the territorial jurisdiction of Baguio.

The ordinance seeks to put an end to rampant violations of existing laws, local ordinances and other issuances and criminal offenses and criminal offenders, as per the draft ordinance seem to fearless in committing crimes.

“Due to limited number of the local police force and other law enforcers, various criminal offenses and even simple transgressions are committed even in broad daylight and in public view and the perpetrators are scot-free,” Yangot said.

“The private citizen’s active role and participation is very much needed in the apprehension of criminal offenders in pursuit of the maintenance of peace and order and protection of the citizenry,” he said.

Yangot added, “the Local Government Unit (LGU) may validly enact such legislative measure designed to promote peace and order, safety and the general welfare of its constituents in the exercise of its police powers.”

“While citizen’s arrest is embodied in Rule 113 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure of the Rules of Court of the Philippines, majority of the people are not cognizant of this provision, he said, hence the need for an ordinance to adopt the same.”

Yangot said, “enacting the ordinance is but proper in order to strengthen the citizen’;s authority in the apprehension of criminal offenders or lawless elements.”

Section 3 of the proposed ordinance states a private person or citizen may lawfully effect Citizen’s Arrest even without a warrant of arrest provided the circumstances are; 

When in his presence, the person to be arrested has committed, is actually committing a crime, or is attempting to commit an offense; or when an offense has just been committed and he has probable cause to believe based on personal knowledge of facts or circumstances that the person to be arrested has committed it, and when the person to be arrested is a prisoner who has escaped from a penal establishment or place where he is serving final judgement or is temporarily confined while his case is pending, or has escaped while being transferred from one confinement to another.

The proposed ordinance will be tackled in the city council soon.-- Paul Rillorta