Zamboanga del Norte News October 2015

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Zamboanga del Norte - Archived News
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Seal of Zamboanga del Norte
Interactive Google Satellite Map of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines
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Provincial Capitol of Zamboanga del Norte

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

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Saint James Cathedral in Dapitan City
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City Hall of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte
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Situbo Falls, Zamboanga del Norte

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
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Statue of Christ, Pangalalan, Sindangan
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Our lady of the most Holy Rosary, Estaka
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Manukan Mini Museum Landmark

Comelec sets general voters' registration in Zambo Norte town

By Michael Bueza (Rappler.com)

Qualified voters in Sibuco town have to register and undergo biometrics again, following reports of discrepancies in the town's voters' list in 2013

MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to conduct a general voters' registration in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte, following discrepancies in the town's voters' list in the run-up to the 2013 midterm elections.

In a text message to Rappler on Monday, October 26, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez confirmed the activity, but said details would be released at the proper time.

The Comelec promulgated 4 resolutions on October 15 in connection with the general voters' registration in the said town. Copies of these resolutions are available on the poll body's website.

Comelec Resolution numbers 10006, 10007, and 10008 deputize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, including police agencies, and the Department of Education, respectively, for the general registration of voters in Sibuco from November 5 to November 9.

Meanwhile, Resolution 10009 requests the concurrence of President Benigno Aquino III in the said deputations.

Comelec Chairman Andy Bautista and 4 commissioners signed all 4 resolutions. However, there was an added note below Commissioner Christian Robert Lim's signature that reads, "No Part."

Commissioners Al Parreño and Sheriff Abas were on official business.

Meant to clean up the voters' list, a general voters' registration calls for all qualified voters in an area to register and undergo biometrics again. It's the same as what happened in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 2012.

A Comelec source told Rappler that Sibuco's book of voters had been annulled effective September 29.

The source added that the general registration "initially started" on Monday, but law enforcement agencies and government officials would be deputized in the last 5 days of the registration period. This is to augment local security forces there, in response to an expected influx of voters.

Padded voters' list?

In April 2013, Rappler reported that Roberto Uy, then the Liberal Party (LP) gubernatorial bet in Zamboanga del Norte, had filed a case before the Comelec to get "legal relief" before the polls that year with regards to the voters' list in Sibuco.

Uy argued that the number of registered voters in the town was "just slightly below [its] population." Another LP candidate there said that this indicates "huge and massive number of flying voters." (READ: LP: Voters’ list in Zambo Norte town padded)

The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) also reported in May 2013 about the apparent disparity.

Comparing the figures in Comelec's Project of Precincts for the 2010 elections to the population in each barangay (village) in Sibuco in that same year's census, the PCIJ found that 10 in 28 barangays "have voting populations that were way beyond the headcount of individual villagers."

According to the 2010 census, Sibuco has a population of 31,982. In that year's elections, the town had 25,065 registered voters. For the 2013 midterm polls, 30,985 registered voters were recorded.

Curiously, only 14,332 voters actually voted on election day in 2010 for a 57.2% voter turnout. Meanwhile, only 15,379 voters actually voted in 2013, for a turnout of 49.6 percent.

Uy eventually won as governor of Zamboanga del Norte in the 2013 polls.

Cops, PDEA nab pusher in Dapitan City

By Bong Garcia

COMBINED police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) have arrested a suspected known drug pusher in an anti-drug operation in Dapitan City, the police reported Thursday.

Chief Inspector Rogelio Alabata, Zamboanga Peninsula Police Office (PRO) information officer, identified the arrested suspect as Joel Rayos, 40, of Sicayab, Dipolog City.

Alabata said Rayos was arrested in a drug bust operation around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday in the village of Dawo, Dapitan City.

He said the arresting team confiscated from the possession of Rayos the following: a sachet of suspected shabu; two mobile phones; two "marked bills" of P500 denominations; P1,480 believed to be proceeds money; and other prohibited drug paraphernalia.

He said the suspect was detained while appropriate charges are set to be filed against him.

NAPC spearheads poverty reduction confab

By Alfonso T. Ruda (FPG/ATR/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

SIAYAN, Zamboanga del Norte, Oct. 29(PIA) - In observance of the “National Week for Overcoming Extreme Poverty,” the different line agencies as well as the six “BAKAS” municipalities in region 9 have converged here last week to strengthen their commitment to addressing poverty in the area.

Undersecretary Patrocinio Jude Esguerra III of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has traveled all the way here to attend the said gathering, which was participated in by the representatives of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Interior an Local Government (DILG), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

These agencies took turns presenting their respective programs and projects that aim to bring down poverty incidence in the six BAKAS towns, which comprise the municipalities of Sindangan and Siayan of Zamboanga del Norte and Dumingag, Mahayag, Midsalip and Sominot of Zamboanga del Sur.

Dumingag town mayor Nacianceno Pacalioga Jr. led the BAKAS alliance members in recognizing the sincerity of the different agencies, hoping for a sustained implementation of the programs and projects in their respective municipalities.

On the other hand, the representatives from the various agencies have also signed the statement of commitment for convergence to ensure a smooth implementation of anti-poverty programs and projects.

BAKAS is a Cebuano word, which means cooperation or co-ownership that promotes strong alliance for the development of the local economy and empowering resilient communities.

The alliance of the six municipalities principally aimed to reduce poverty among vulnerable sectors of the society, develop local economy and improve constituents’ quality of life through sustainable agriculture, empowered citizenry, transparency in governance and conservation of the richness of biodiversity and culture.

It could recalled that on December 14, 2014,Dumingag Mayor Nacianceno M. PacaliogaJr,Midsalip Mayor Leonida A. Angcap, Mahayag Mayor Lorna S. Espinaof Zamboanga del Sur,Siayan Mayor Flora Villarosa and Sindangan Mayor Florentino Z. Sy of Zamboanga del Norte signed a Memorandum of Agreement establishing the Sustainable Organic Agriculture Economic Corridor.

Top 10 most wanted person falls

By Bong Garcia

A MILITIAMAN listed as one of the most wanted persons was arrested in a police manhunt operation in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Police Regional Office information officer Rogelio Alabata identified the arrested militiaman as Edgar Dancac, alias Dodong, 31, of the village of Raba, Godod, Zamboanga del Norte.

Dancac was nabbed around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday in the village of Dawa-Dawa, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay. He has been listed as the number 10 most wanted person in the town of Godod in Zamboanga del Norte.

Alabata said that Dancac has a standing warrant of arrest for the crime of murder and attempted murder with no recommended bail issued by a court in Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

Policeman falls in anti-drug operation in Dipolog City

(PNA), FFC/TPGJR

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 27 (PNA) -– Combined police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives have arrested a policeman in an anti-drug operations in Dipolog City.

The Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) report identified the arrested suspect as PO1 Marlon Candidato, who is assigned with the Regional Police Holding and Accounting Unit (RPHAU) in this city.

The PRO-9 report said that Candidato was arrested in a buy-bust operation around 1:30 a.m. Monday at a restaurant in Barangay Minaog, Dipolog City.

The police said that the arresting team confiscated from the possession of the suspect PHP500 “marked money;” two heat-sealed plastic sachet of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride local known as shabu; a motorcycle; a sunglass; a cellular phone; identification cards; and prohibited drug paraphernalia.

The police said the suspect was detained at the police headquarters in Dipolog City while appropriate charges are set to be filed against him.

Joint RDC-RPOC 9 meeting held in Dipolog

By Alfonso T. Ruda (FPG/ATR/PIA9-ZN)

DIPOLOG CITY, Oct. 26 (PIA) – A joint meeting of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-9 and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-9 was recently held at the Boulevard Complex here with the different national government agencies as well as the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Drugs Enforcement Agency (PDEA), some city/municipal mayors in attendance.

The meeting centered on certain issues affecting the peace and order condition in the region and the implementation of some major infrastructure projects in the area.

Speaking on behalf of Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, Councilor James P. Verduguez said the lady mayor hoped that the joint meeting would result in the formulation of policies aimed at addressing the threats to the region.

Zamboanga del Norte governor and RPOC-9 chair Roberto Y. Uy also appealed for cooperation among RPOC members to sustain peace and harmony in the region.

Moreover P/SSupt. Cleve Taboso of PNP-9 presented the peace and order situation of the region including some updates on the kidnapping of an Italian businessman, Rolando del Torchio who was abducted last Oct. 7 at 6:50 p.m. by 11 armed men right at his establishment at Andres Bonifacio College complex this city. Rescue operations for the safe recovery of the victim are still going on.

PNP-9 has also recorded 14,876 crime incidents from January to September this year compared to 24,876 cases recorded during the same period last year, adding the region has 17,000 loose firearms and 6,000 of these belong to the local government units (LGUs).

Regional Director Joseph Ladip of PDEA-9, on the other hand, gave the participants some updates on the proliferation of illegal drugs in the region, including the probable entry points and mode of transporting it into the region.

The day’s activity culminated with the ceremonial signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) of the Zamboanga West Coast Road between and among the LGUs of Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco and Baliguian, Governor Uy, third district congressman Isagani Amatong, the PNP and AFP. This 175- kilometer national road project is worth P3.9 billion.

In the same meeting, DILG-9 Regional Director Abutazil also handed over the P7- million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) check as the prize of Zamboanga del Norte for winning the “ 2015 Seal of Good Local Governance Award.”

Man rapes, impregnates own daughter

By Bong Garcia

POLICE arrested a 42-year-old man for allegedly raping and impregnating his own daughter in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Police Regional Office information officer Rogelio Alabata identified the arrested person as Reynaldo Sabanal, of San Miguel village, Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

Sabanal was arrested Friday evening after his 18-year-old daughter filed a complaint with the police.

Alabata said that based on investigation, the suspect had been allegedly sexually molesting his daughter since she was 11 years old. The latest incident happened in the evening of October 22.

He said the victim became pregnant and "gave birth to a son by his own father."

He said the suspect, before his detention, was brought to Liloy Integrated Health District Hospital for medical examination.

Appropriate charges are set to be filed against Sabanal.

Col. Manangquil induct “Media 101”

By Alfonso T. Ruda (ALT/ATR/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte)

DIPOLOG CITY, Oct. 23 (PIA)--- To promote public awareness and strengthen cooperation with media entities in its area of responsibility, the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade based in Barangay Del Pilar, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte recently organized media personalities in the province including Misamis Occidental.

The newly-elected officers known as Media 101 were officially installed into office over the week-end.

In a simple oath-taking ceremony held at Malindang Hall, 101st Brigade headquarters, Commanding Officer Col. Jesus A.Mananquil Jr., officially inducted Ms. Elena T.Pelare as President of Media 101.

Other elected officers include Mr. James Tremedal, Vice-President for Misamis Occidental and Dipolog City Information Officer Mr. Lorenzo Aseniero II, Vice-President-Zamboanga del Norte; Rosemarie P. Miranda, Treasurer; Joy Engoc, Auditor; Zorayda Eva Mostaril, Secretary; and Mr. Alfonso T. Ruda, PIA-Zamboanga del Norte, Board of Director.

Pelare expressed her gratefulness for the trust bestowed upon her by colleagues to lead Media 101 and vowed fairness in news reporting and to be responsible mediamen.

In his message, Col. Manangquil lauded the media’s desire to help in its information and dissemination campaign especially on medical outreach programs and other civic services apart from its anti-insurgency campaign.

BIR: Yuletide, election seasons to boost tax collection

By Bong Garcia

A TOP official of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is optimistic that the tax collection will increase during the yuletide seasons and election period in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Newly-installed BIR Regional Director Manuel Mapoy said he foresees an increase in public spending during the yuletide season and this would redound to payment of higher taxes by owners of business establishments.

Mapoy said there will also be high spending during the election period, as candidates and their supporters are expected to purchase materials to be used during the campaign period.

He said the expenditures during the yuletide season and election period will help boost the local economy and will be helpful to the revenue collection agency.

The BIR central office has tasked Mapoy's office to collect P6.57 billion in revenues this year. His jurisdiction covers the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga City.

1 dead, 4 hurt in vehicle accident in Zamboanga del Norte

By Bong Garcia

ONE person died while four others were wounded when the vehicle they were riding turned upside down as they fell into a ravine in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported Monday.

Chief Inspector Rogelio Alabata, Zamboanga Peninsula Police Regional Office information officer, Alabata identified the victim, who died on the spot, as Ruben Musa, 30, resident of Miputak village, Dipolog City.

Wounded were identified as Rio Delfin Jr., Shan Basegil Flores, Lemonne Shayne Flores, and Roselito Flores.

Alabata said the incident took place around 3 p.m. on Sunday in the village of Sinaman, Dipolog City.

Alabata said the victims were aboard a Toyota Hilux driven by Delfin that fell into a ravine after the driver lost control of the steering wheel while traveling to the town of Polanco.

Cop losses cash, valuables to burglars in Zambo Norte

By Bong Garcia

A POLICEMAN lost cash and valuables to burglars while he was on duty in the municipality of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported Wednesday.

Chief Inspector Rogelio Alabata, Zamboanga Peninsula Police Office (PRO) information officer, named the victim policeman as Senior Police Officer 3 Miguel Bermejo, 48, of Sindangan Police Station.

Alabata said investigation showed that Bermejo’s wife, Gina, 44, and her three children were asleep when unidentified burglars barged into to their house Tuesday evening in the village of Disud, Sindangan.

He said the burglars carted away Bermejo’s electronic gadgets, Rig belt, handcuff, and wallet his wife containing P3,400 cash and identification card.

The total estimates valuables and cash taken by the suspects were more less P35,000. The suspects gained entry by destroying the jealousy window at the back of the house.

Alabata said Bermejo discovered about the incident around 4 a.m. when he went home coming from his tour of duty.


2 HPG-9 men lauded for getaway van owner’s arrest

By Allen Abastillas

Sr. Supt. Joel R. Dimaano, Highway Patrol Group-9 chief, has commended the HPG Zamboanga del Norte Team led by Insp. Ariel Yogyog and PO2 Ronald Aldojesa for the arrest Amante B. Sagario, owner of the getaway car used by kidnappers of Italian restaurant owner Rolando Del Torchio in Dipolog City last October 7.

The getaway vehicle, a Mitsubishi L300 van with plate number TMY 490 was registered under Sagario’s name.

Sagario was arrested by Yogyog and Aldojesa around 2:30 in the afternoon on October 9 at the vicinity of Asialink Finance Corp. along the highway in Pagadian City.

The suspect was turned over by Yogyog and Aldojesa to the Dipolog City Police Station.

Dimaano said that his office is evaluating on what awards to be given to Yogyog and Aldojesa for the arrest of the suspect.

Pagasa to acquire 5 more Doppler radars

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is acquiring five more Doppler radars next year to further upgrade its weather forecasting network.

Based on budget documents submitted to the House of Representatives appropriations committee, the five additional radars would be installed in Zamboanga del Norte, Palawan (Busuanga town), Bohol, Camarines Norte and Pangasinan.

This would bring to 18 units PAGASA’s radar infrastructure.

Thirteen radar systems have been installed or are being installed in Aparri in Cagayan, Guiuan in Eastern Samar, Baler in Quezon, Baguio City, Subic, Tagaytay, Cebu, Virac in Catanduanes, Basco in Batanes, Quezon in Palawan, Iloilo, Tampakan in South Cotabato, and Hinatuan in Agusan del Sur.

Weather agency officials said the Doppler radars are capable of measuring rainfall.

The big reduction will be in its capital outlay or infrastructure funding, from P2.5 billion this year to P343.7 million in 2016.

Reached for comment, Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab said, “I do not have the documents they have submitted to us, but offhand, the huge reduction would be due to non-recurring expenses, like those they have spent for Doppler radars this year.”

“We have been supporting PAGASA with the funding it needs so it can better forecast and warn the public about weather conditions, including rainfall and possible flooding. If people have noticed, the agency is now able to do that,” he said.

Erring Motorist in Salug Arrested for Bribery

with report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Salug, Zamboanga del Norte - Personnel of Salug MPS conducted a round-the-clock checkpoint operation in relation to the recent abduction incident in Dipolog City at RPSB COMPAC along the national highway in Barangay Mucas at about 11:30 AM on October 11, 2015.

This led to the interception of one Blue Honda Wave bearing plate no. 6056- JI, with chassis no. KWY00164243, certificate of registration no. 12056256-2 dated June 30, 2011, engine no. KWY00E164246, owned and driven by Jayed Muloc y Gumandol, 46, residing in said barangay. The offender was flagged down for driving without helmet. Upon verification, said suspect failed to present his driver’s license and has an expired CR/OR. Said motorcycle was brought and impounded at Salug MPS and issued impounding receipt. Likewise a TOP was also issued to the above-mentioned driver for same violations. At about 4:50 PM of same date, said driver appeared at Salug MPS and committed an offense of Corruption of Public Official by offering Php 500.00 as bribe to the Officer-in-Charge, Salug MPS, in exchange for the automatic release of his impounded motorcycle. Arrested suspect is temporarily detained at Salug MPS pending the filing of appropriate case in court.

Teen Robbery Suspect Caught in Sibutad

with report from PO2 Jonas D. Macasa Jr. (RPIO9)

Sibutad, Zamboanga Del Norte - Elements of Sibutad Municipal Police Station conducted a manhunt operation based on a tip from an EIB member at Purok Uno of Barangay Magsaysay at about 12:20 PM on October 10, 2015.

The operation resulted in the arrest of Mark Loui Mandol, 18, a resident of said place. Subject person was nabbed at his residence by virtue of warrant of arrest for Robbery docketed under Criminal Case Number 19904 issued by Presiding Judge Victorio Lacaya Jr. of RTC 9th Judicial Region, Branch 9, Dipolog City, dated August 26, 2015, with bail bond set at ₱180,000.00. Arrested wanted person is now detained at said police station for proper disposition.

17 fishermen arrested for illegal fishing

By Bong Garcia

AUTHORITIES have arrested 17 fishermen and confiscated 16 motorboats in anti-illegal fishing campaign in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported Thursday.

Chief Inspector Rogelio Alabata, newly-installed Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula information officer, said the fishermen were nabbed around 1 a.m. Wednesday in the municipal waters of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

Arrested were Lusanito Devila, 56; Richard Degamo, 46; Julito Ferolino, 48; Edmar Badajos, 31; Roel Reyes, 26; Esteban Baflor, 56; Jerry Soriño, 39; Joselito Abadilla, 23; Cesar Briones Sr., 53; Cesar Briones Jr., 24; Jonel Santillan; Cesar Briones Sr., 26; Elmer Labajo, 45; Rolando Bagaan, 33; Cesar Quilar, 39; Ivelle Fernandez, 29; and Rogelio Bagaan, 56.

The fishermen were caught illegally fishing when the police conducted seaborne in the municipal waters of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

They were detained for appropriate action, Alabata said.

Crime volume in ZamPen dips

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

DIPOLOG CITY, Oct. 15 (PIA) – A decrease in crime volume has been noted in Zamboanga Peninsula, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO)-9.

In a special meeting held here recently by the members of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-9, PSSupt. Jose Chiquito M. Malayo of PRO-9 reported that the crime volume in the region for January to September 2015 had accounted for 12,995 from 15,591 of the same period last year.

Malayo also disclosed that the crime solution efficiency (CSE) in the region had increased to 20.19 percent and the crime clearance efficiency (CCE) to 21.87 percent.

CSE refers to the crimes solved with the suspects arrested while CCE means the suspects have been identified but not arrested.

Moreover, Malayo also reported that four bombing incidents happened in the region from January to September this year and all these occurred in Zamboanga City.

Zamboanga del Norte Governor Roberto Y. Uy, RPOC-9 chair, called for a special meeting following the kidnapping of an Italian national, Rolando del Torchio, in Dipolog City last Oct. 7.

The victim, who runs a pizza parlor, was forcibly taken by the suspects who allegedly belong to the kidnap-for-ransom group operating in the area.

Hot pursuit operations against the suspects to rescue the victim are still going on.

DAR-9 targets to complete land distribution program in June 2016

(PNA), FPV/TPGJR/R.G. ANTONET A. GO

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 14 (PNA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is targeting to complete its land distribution program here in Region 9 before President Benigno Aquino III steps down from office in June 2016.

Eng’r. Felix Aguhob, DAR regional director, told the Philippines News Agency that there are still 5,000 hectares of land to be distributed to agrarian reform beneficiaries here in the region.

Aguhob said the 5,000 hectares are located in the following provinces: 2,600 hectares, Zamboanga del Norte; 1,800 hectares, Zamboanga del Sur; and, 600 hectares, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Aguhob said the 5,000 hectares of land are targeted to be distributed to 2,500 farmer-beneficiaries.

He said they are targeting to distribute around 44 percent or a little over 2,000 of the 5,000 hectares of land to the identified farmer-beneficiaries by the end of this year.

Meanwhile, he said they have requested Congress through DAR central office to enact a law for the extension of notice of coverage since 1,000 of the 5,000 hectares do not have coverage notice.

He said a notice of coverage is needed to be able to distribute the lands to the farmer-beneficiaries.

He said DAR has around 128,000 farmer-beneficiaries here in Region 9. The beneficiaries are members of the different Agrarian Reform Communities.

ZAMPEX 2015 caps livelihood techno demo

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy (FPG/EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – Aside from showcasing the best and finest products of Zamboanga Peninsula, the four-day Zamboanga Peninsula Trade Exposition (ZAMPEX) 2015 also featured series of free livelihood technology demonstration for existing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and those interested to venture into business.

The techno demo, which is a collaborative effort of the SME Core Group and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-9, as its lead agency, hopes to encourage more people become entrepreneurs and help spur economic activity and generate employment in Zamboanga Peninsula region.

There are a total of eight demonstrations mainly on fruit, vegetable, and fish processing conducted by the different government agencies.

The Department of Agriculture (DA)-9 conducted the first demo on fruit and vegetable processing on October 8. This was followed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-9 with a demonstration on fish product processing like Fishball with Squash, Kikiam and Tempura and chocolate molding in the second day of the event.

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA)-9 demonstrated Abaca handmade paper making while the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) conducted Sardines Pinangat (ZAMPENangat) and fish spread making.

With a maximum of 50 persons participating in each session, the free livelihood technology demonstration has benefitted some 400 persons composed of students, entrepreneurs and other interested individuals.

DOH conducts media forum

By Grace Montallana (FPG/ATR/Grace Montallana/PIA9-ZN)

DIPOLOG CITY, Oct. 13 (PIA) - “We are appealing to the media people to support our program,” Ms. Virgie Galaretta, health education promotions officer of the Department of Health (DOH)-9 told the press in a forum held Friday at the Top Plaza Hotel here.

Galaretta also said the forum was conducted to give the media practitioners accurate information about the programs pursued by the DOH especially on its deworming and immunization activities.

The investigation result on the last mass deworming activity in schools was also presented in the forum.

As reported, several students complained of stomach pains and difficulty in breathing after taking the deworming tablets. This, Galaretta said, affected the School-based Immunization Program (SIP) for grades 1-7 students that ensued days after the deworming activity.

Galaretta reported that a decrease in the number of students immunized during the conduct of immunization of Measles Containing Vaccines (MCV) and Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) for Grade 1 and Measles Rebulla (MR) and Td for Grade 7 was observed.

The DOH is now tapping the media to help publicize its immunization program to encourage the students and the parents actively participate in the October 16, 2015 immunization program.

Galaretta assured the students that the medicines to be given to them are safe.

Provincial Sanitary Inspector Restie Kyamko, on the other hand, underscored the importance of cleanliness in the surroundings and homes to prevent dengue and other diseases caused by mosquito bites like filariasis, which would result in the enlargement of extremities and lymph nodes especially in end-stage cases. This disease can only be determined 5 to 10 years after a person got infected.

Persons suffering from filariasis can avail of free operations, medicines and laboratory, Health Education Promotions Officer Wilma R. Bulahan of the Provincial Health Office said.

Suspect in Italian kidnapping nabbed

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

Police have arrested the owner of a van that was tagged as the vehicle used in the kidnapping of a former Italian missionary in Dipolog City.

Police Regional Office-9 information officer Insp. Dahlan Samuddin said on Saturday that security forces had turned over to Dipolog City Police Station Amante Sagario y Bagain, 49, of Balangasan, Pagadian City.

Samuddin said the suspect had been positively identified as the owner of a metallic Mistubishi van found abandoned following the kidnapping Wednesday of Italian businessman Rolando del Torchio, a former Roman Catholic priest, in Zamboanga del Norte.

Del Torchio was seized from his pizzeria in Dipolog City by unknown gunmen and dragged into a waiting van Wednesday night, according to police. The van reportedly owned by Sagario was later found abandoned near the coast of Miputak village.

Del Torchio had come to the Philippines in 1988 as a missionary with the Vatican’s Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions in Muslim-majority Sibuco town before moving to Dipolog city in 1996.

Samuddin said that two of the 10 suspects in the kidnapping had been identified based on security camera footage from the restaurant as their faces were clearly visible.

Sagario remains under custody of the Dipolog City Police Station for further investigation.

Authorities have yet to determine whether the suspects are members of kidnapping syndicates operating in the south who hand over their captives to the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group to negotiate for a ransom that, if paid, is shared.

Rear Admiral Primitivo Gopo, commander of regional Joint Task Group Zambasulta, said search and rescue efforts are concentrating on coastal villages of Zamboanga del Norte.


Dengue cases in Zamboanga drop in September

By Bong Garcia

AN OFFICIAL of the Department of Health (DOH) said they recorded a decline by 399 in the cases of dengue from January to September this year compared to the same period last year in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Dr. Sitti Nurussamsi Amilasan, DOH regional coordinator for mosquito-borne diseases, said the cases of dengue dropped to 4,720 from January to September this year compared to last year’s cover the same period with 5,119 cases.

Amilasan said the main contributory factor to the decline in the number of dengue cases is the awareness of the public on the need to keep their surroundings clean.

Amilasan said the maintenance of cleanliness is most effective way to eliminate if not minimize cases of dengue as clean community denies breeding grounds to mosquitos carriers of dengue.

She urged the public to continue to maintain clean surroundings to further minimize occurrence of dengue in the region.

Zamboanga’s sardines industry can expand to ASEAN market through economic community

By Kris M. Crismundo

MANILA, Oct. 9 (PNA) -- Zamboanga Peninsula’s sardines industry is urged to expand its market to other Southeast Asian countries through the economic community of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) taking place by the end of the year.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba said Zamboanga Peninsula or Region-9 has comparative advantage to supply the sardines demand in ASEAN.

“Our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are ready to participate in the global value chain. A good example is sardines, for which the Zamboanga Peninsula is known for,” said Aldaba.

“We have the fish stocks, because of conservation efforts in the region, and the facilities to process,” she added.

The DTI official stressed the benefit of the AEC which offers free flow of trade in goods among ten ASEAN member countries.

“To reach the 600 million strong consumers of ASEAN, we need to work together to craft a local roadmap aligned with national policies. The local roadmap will identify the visions of the region for the industry as well as gaps including needed policy interventions to grow,” Aldaba said.

“The economy of Zamboanga will benefit from ASEAN integration as it shifts from an agro-based economy to an agro-processing economy,” she said.

Currently, average manufacturing growth of Region-9 posted at 4.5 percent and contributing 27 percent of its gross regional domestic product. (PNA) LGI/BNB/KMC

Task force activated to address ex-Italian priest abduction in Zambo Norte

(PNA), JMC/TPGJR/DENNIS C. BAGUIO

DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, Oct. 8 (PNA) – Authorities have activated Task Force Rolando and a Crisis Management Committee (CMC) to address the abduction case of a former Italian priest seized by seven gunmen late Wednesday in this city.

The task force and the CMC were activated during an emergency meeting called by Gov. Roberto Uy who is also the chairman of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC).

Supt. Redentor Retusto, provincial police director, has been designated as the task force head while Mayor Evelyn Uy as CMC chairperson.

The victim, Rolando Del Torchio, 56, an Italian national and a former priest, was seized by seven gunmen around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday from his Pizza house--UrChoice Bistro Café--in Barangay Miputak.

Del Torchio was dragged to a waiting gray van with plate number TMY-490 that sped to the boulevard.

The gunmen abandoned the van and transferred Del Torchio to a motorboat and sped to the high seas.

Retusto and Supt. Ranie Hachuela, city police chief, are spearheading the pursuit operations to possibly rescue the victim.

Blocking forces, to include the “bantay dagat” forces, were immediately established in the towns of Sibuco, Sirawai, Siocon and Baliguian.

These areas are known as haven of lawless elements to include kidnap-for-ransom-groups (KFRGs) in the province.

The authorities believed the abductors, along with their hostage, are still within the territorial jurisdiction of the province.

Del Torchio, who was ordained priest in 1984, was a missionary of the Pontificio Istituto Missioni Estere (PIME).

Del Torchio was born in Angera, a town located in the province of Varese, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.

He was assigned in 1988 in the nearby town of Sibuco and has stayed in that municipality until 1996. He moved to this city and worked with a non-government organization that provide assistance to farmers.

He left priesthood few years later and settled in this city until he opened UrChoice Bistro Café.

83 exhibitors to display best products, services in ZAMPEX

By MICHAEL VINCENT D. CAJULAO (MVC/DTI-9)

A total of 83 exhibitors from all over the region will be bringing their finest products and services to the four-day Zamboanga Peninsula Exposition (ZAMPEX) 2015 from October 8-11 at the Garden Orchid Hotel.

Of the 83 exhibitors, 61 are micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs, 18 are members of the Industrial Group of Zamboanga, Inc. (IGZI), and four are institutional partners and sponsors. Forty one (41) of which have non-food products, while 38 are food products. The four institutional partners and sponsors will be showcasing their programs and services for the MSMEs.

For food products, the exhibitors from Zamboanga Sibugay Province are Ipil Market Vendors Multipurpose Cooperative (IMAVEMCO), Jocel Star Food products, MFC Food Products, Nazareth Women’s Association, Phesalabuhan Subanen De Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay High Value Crops Marketing Cooperative, Charles and Charlies, and Daves88 Food Products.

From Zamboanga del Norte, GASO Food Products, Ate Bang’s Delicacies, Alfredo Food Industry, DTI-CARP-Zamboanga del Norte, Dipolog Seaside Women’s Association, Cassava Growers and Processors Association, and the In-glass Sardines of Dipolog Association (ISDA). Food exhibitors from Zamboanga City include Alavar Food Products, Bakers’ Field Enterprise, Kingland Hopia Factory, Lav’s Bakeshop, Eco Bottling Enterprises, Sotto’s Delicacies, LB Supermarket Panda Bihon, NJB Farms, Ric and Remy’s Bakeshop, Euro Mexicana, Sugar and Ice Confections, Chinito’s, Chano’s Dried Fish, and Edna’s Farm Products.

Finally, Zamboanga del Sur food exhibitors are Royal Quality Agro Resources, Nutribooster Foods Philippines, D 4S’s Industries, Petros Paulos Food Products, Deli Foodline, and Golda’s Cakes and Pastries.

Of the 18 exhibitors invited by the Industrial Group of Zamboanga Inc. (IGZI), five are food producers. These are Century Pacific Food, Inc., Permex Producers and Exporter Corporation, Mega Global Corporation (Mega Fishing), Zamboanga Universal Canning Corporation, and Seacoast Top Choice Foods Corporation.

The 41 non-food product exhibitors are Goodyear Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries MPC (GARBEMCO) and Rockwood Sash and Furnishings of Zamboanga Sibugay Province; Lordan Gapnod Craft, Nelia’s Designs and Creations, MENLELALA SEG Bulawan, Ilaya Weavers’ Association, Arcelz Sculpture and Woodcraft, Alfonso’s Arts and Crafts, Millennium Herbal Products, La Kapitana Shell Crafts, and Polyfruits, Inc., from Zamboanga del Norte.

Angie’s Yakan Cloth, EM Buena Vida Foundation, KGD infinite Fashion, Mayette’s Creations, Tugbungan Ayudahan Livelihood Association, Tita’s Handicraft Designs, DSWD-Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center III, Zamboanga Producers MPC, Mothers for Peace reusable Shopping Bags, Basilan Integrated Livelihood Producers Association, and Sheridan Marketing are non-food exhibitors from Zamboanga City and Isabela City; while the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority, Danlugan Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative, Non-Formal Education Beneficiaries MPC, and Dumingag Handicrafts comprise the Zamboanga del Sur non-food exhibitors.

IGZI-invited non-food exhibitors are AJAT Marketing and Trade Services, Dynamic Power and Marine Industrial Hardware, Inc. and Dynamic Castings, Gensan Shipyard and Machine Works, Sanyoseiki Stainless Steel Corporation, Azumi Corporation, Compress Tech Resources, Inc./CompressAir Center, Inc., Propmech Corporation/PALEENO, Inc., Power Systems, Inc./Scan Marine, Inc., Southern Philippines Deep Sea Fishing Assoc., Inc. (SOPHIL), National Fisheries research and Development Institute, Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, and the Bureau of Aquatic Resources. IGZI will also be one of the exhibitors.

The remaining four are the partners and sponsors who will be exhibiting their services and programs are Zamboanga City Government, Zamboanga City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Smart Communications, and Pepsi Cola Bottlers Philippines.

Products to be showcased during the exhibit range from fresh and processed foods; organic and natural products; jewelry and fashion accessories; furniture and furnishings; gift, toys, and housewares; raw materials components; ornamental plants and cut flowers; arts and crafts; and holiday and Christmas decors.

The Department of Trade and Industry-9 is inviting the public to take part in ZAMPEX 2015 and see the finest products Zamboanga Peninsula has to offer. Show hour starts at 9:00 am until 8:00 pm with NO entrance fee.

Zamboanga del Norte tourism gets boost

(PNA), SCS/PR/EBP

MANILA, Oct. 6 (PNA) -- Two thriving high-end establishments in Zamboanga del Norte have become the newest additions to the growing list of quality tourist hubs in the country.

This was after Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz awarded Dakak Park Beach Resort in Barangay Taguilon, Dapitan City, and Ariana Hotel in Airport Road, Minaog, Dipolog City, their respective Certificates of Compliance (COC) for passing the general labor and occupational safety and health standards assessment.

“Dakak Park Beach Resort’s earning its certificate of compliance will give further credence to Dapitan City’s distinction as the ‘The Shrine City’, and will complement its claim of being a community with rich culture and history. Meanwhile, Ariana Hotel now strategically stands as a model establishment in a city that is touted as the ‘Gateway to Western Mindanao and Zamboanga Peninsula.’ We are happy to note these developments unfolding in Mindanao. This will reinvigorate the island's tourism industry which is a vital generator of employment,” said Baldoz during the awarding of COCs on Sept. 25.

Eujane Joy Elumba Doque, manager of Ariana Hotel, received the COC award from Secretary Baldoz and DOLE Region 9 Director Sisinio B. Cano, together with Undersecretary Rebecca C. Chato, NCMB Executive Director Shirley M. Pascual, and NWPC Executive Director Criselda P. Sy.

Doque said the establishment of Ariana Hotel supports and complements the advocacy of its owner, former Transportation and Communications Secretary Jesus B. Garcia and Consul Armi Lopez Garcia, “to provide education to the less fortunate and crossover from poverty, and to provide employment to the underprivileged.”

Doque also assured the DOLE officials that "they will not short-change their employees."

"Since the hotel opened in December 2012, my management system has always been a family-oriented and team style approach. Rest assured that our employees are in good hands. Thank you for acknowledging us with these certificates of compliance. We will continue to live by the standards given by DOLE,” Doque said after receiving the citation on behalf of the hotel's management and staff.

Baldoz commended the hotel management for their assurance to sustain their labor laws compliance standards. “I support your commitment and work philosophy. Sumusuporta ako sa sinabi ninyo na hindi pwedeng i-shortchange ang mga empleyado,” the Secretary said, adding that the human resource is the most valuable asset of a company.

Baldoz also cited the hotel’s performance assessment of its staff as vital to the compliance to Tier II wage system, or the performance or productivity-based incentive program.

“The two-tiered wage system is a reform that maintains the mandatory minimum wage, under R.A. 6727 or the Wage Rationalization Act, as the Tier I; complemented by a voluntary productivity-based pay scheme as the Tier II,” explained Baldoz.

In Tier 1, the minimum wage rates are determined by factors such as poverty threshold, prevailing wage rates as determined by the Labor Force Survey, and socioeconomic indicators (i.e. inflation, employment figures, Gross Regional Domestic Product, among others), which ensures better workers protection.

In Tier 2, the over and above minimum wage is the voluntary productivity-based pay, which encourages workers and enterprises to become more competitive and productive by rewarding employees supplementary pay based on the quality of their performance.

For Dakak Park Beach Resort, Rossini Montecalvo, resort manager, received the Labor Laws Compliant Resort award from Secretary Baldoz and Regional Director Cano.

The two establishments underwent Joint Assessments spearheaded by the DOLE, along with the representatives of the employers and the employees, to ensure full compliance to the labor laws compliance system. Specifically, the DOLE Regional Office No. 9, through its Zamboanga del Norte Field Office, had an almost one year engagement with Dakak Resort to correct deficiencies in general labor and occupational safety and health standards.

Baldoz assured the two establishments’ management and staff that the DOLE will always be ready to provide technical assistance to their compliance needs, emphasizing that the establishment’s request and willingness to undergo compliance evaluation and joint assessment is a good sign of their proactive response to the labor laws compliance system.

“Ito ay ebidensiya na una, maayos po ang inyong pananaw sa Department of Labor and Employment na matutulungan kayo para masigurado na kayo ay tumutupad sa batas paggawa. At iyon nga, hindi kayo natatakot, kasi joint assessment ang proseso. Kaya sana po, yung prosesong ginawa ninyo, ariin po ninyo iyon, and for you to appreciate na hindi naman pala mahirap mag-comply sa mga batas paggawa kasi nandiyan ang Department of Labor na handa po kayong tulungan,” said Baldoz.

The Secretary also underscored during her talk with the management and staff of the hotel and the resort the need to activate and promote the Labor Management Cooperation Council, (LMC) Convergence of Programs at the plant level to facilitate compliance with labor laws and sustain sound employee-employer relations.

“Under the LMC Convergence of Programs, all plant-level DOLE programs and services are delivered through one plant-level structure,” said Baldoz.

The converged programs in the Labor Management Cooperation Council are the productivity, occupational safety and health, family welfare, grievance, and most importantly, the plant-level bipartite compliance committee.

The joint assessment and occupational safety and health investigation under the Labor Laws Compliance System addresses decent work deficits, foster harmonious labor-management relationships and industrial peace, and increase productivity and competitiveness of enterprise.

Cop injured in collision in Zamboanga del Norte

By Bong Garcia

A POLICEMAN was injured when the motorcycle he was driving bumped a farm equipment along the highway in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported.

Zamboanga Peninsula's police spokesperson Dahlan Samuddin identified the victim as Police Office 3 Genaro Sogurjano, 53, who is assigned in Gutalac, Zamboanga del Norte.

Samuddin said the highway collision occurred at 7:06 p.m. on Friday in the village of Osukan, Labason, Zamboanga del Norte.

Samuddin said Sogurjano was driving a motorcycle on the way to the village of Osukan, Labason coming from Gutalac when he accidentally bumped at the rear portion of the rice thresher pulled by a farm tractor while traveling on the same direction.

He said the tractor operator, Jerry Pasculado, 28, and his five companions were unscathed.

He said Pasculado's companions were the following: Junrey Pasculado, 20; Jomar Taipang, 20; Elvis Villacastil, 20; Junifer Pasculado, 18; and, Jerom Abenalis, 20.

He said Sogurjano was admitted at the Zamboanga del Norte Medical Center.

2 Pushers Caught in L. Postigo, Sta. Maria Drug Bust

By Police Inspector Dahlan T Samuddin with report from PO2 Radzben S. Jul (RPIO9)

Leon Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte - MAIDSOTG members and intelligence operatives of Leon Postigo MPS conducted buy-bust operation in coordination with PDEA9 in Barangay Poblacion, at about 12:30 PM on September 26, 2015. Arrested suspect was identified as Roland Bailloces Lañohan, 39, resident of abovementioned place.

Confiscated from him were two small sachets of suspected shabu, ₱300.00 marked money, and a black wallet containing jewelry, drug paraphernalia, and various ID cards. The suspected drug pusher is temporarily detained at Leon Postigo MPS while confiscated items are placed under their custody for proper disposition.

Zamboanga City - ZCPS7 SAIDSOTG (Sta. Maria) conducted a buy-bust operation at a compound in Gov. Ramos Ave., Brgy. Sta. Maria at about 1:45 AM on September 26, 2015. The operation resulted in the arrest of Anthony Paulo Potenciano Mandin, 35, of Arcillas St., Brgy. Mercedes, for violation of R.A. 9165. Confiscated from him was a small sachet of suspected shabu as buy-bust item, one medium-size sachet of same substance, various shabu paraphernalia, Php 200.00 marked money, a yellow/black Honda XRM 125 motorcycle bearing plate no. 1126 JK. Suspect is now under the custody of said station for filling appropriate charges in court.

FFS graduation, harvest festival held in Dipolog

BY Alfonso T. Ruda (FPG/ATR/PIA9-ZN)

DIPOLOG CITY (PIA) - A total of 28 farmers from the different barangays of this city graduated on Tuesday from a six-month training given by the East-West Seed Company, Inc. dubbed “Farmer’s Field School (FFS)” on high-value vegetable production using natural farming system.

In her message, Mayor Evelyn T. Uy urged the graduates to sustain their efforts, continue using the natural farming technology, and refrain from using chemicals in their farms.

The lady mayor assured the farmers of the market for their produce saying “ the City Agriculture Office (CAO) will buy their products and they will be given a space at the city market.

Uy also reiterated that the city government programs with DAR are now reaping dividends. “The city government gave 50 percent as its counterpart to all the ADB-funded projects implemented by DAR,” she declared.

The 28 graduates were composed of 17 males and 11 female farmers from barangays San Jose, Gulayon, Sangkol, Diwan, Sinaman, Galas, Punta, Olingan, and Cogon.

The six-month training was administered by East-West Seed Co, Inc., headed by Technology Transfer Manager Dr. Roberto Acosta.

For his part, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Mohammad Dassan J. Adju of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-Zamboanga del Norte expressed his gratitude to the provincial and city governments for providing counterpart funds to the projects implemented by the department in the province.

Ms. Enone Realiza, one of the graduates, challenged the other graduates to be proud of being a farmer and to apply what they have learned during the training. She also appealed to the buyers to buy their produce at a reasonable price.

To ensure the market of their products, City Agriculturist Kerr Porlas said a Memorandum of Marketing Agreement will be inked between the farmers and the city government for the provision of a space at the city market for vegetables and other agricultural products produced through natural farming system technology.

The top 5 graduates are Edgar V. Flores of Sinaman with the rating 92.5%, Edilito J. Murro of Sinaman-89.5%, Espedita J. Cadano of Sangkol-87.5%, Rey S. Abequivel of San Jose-86.5, and Jovito S. Ganta of San Jose 80.75 %.

The agencies joining hands in implementing the project are DAR-ADB ARCP 2; EAST-West Seed Co. Inc., (Phils) headed by its technology transfer manager, Dr. Roberto Acosta and city government.

DOLE extends P1-M livelihood assistance to Sirawai farmers/fisherfolks

By Alfonso T. Ruda (FPG/ATR/PIA9-ZN)

DIPOLOG CITY, Oct. 2 (PIA) -Farmers and fisherfolks from Zambonga del Norte’s third district have benefited from a livelihood assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recently.

In a simple turnover ceremony held at Dipolog City Boulevard here, DOLE Secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz handed to Al Hadaya Farmers and Fisherfolks Association President Mr. Benjamin P. Yahiya two fishing boats complete with accessories worth P453 thousand and another fishing boat worth P223,400, also complete with accessories was given to Balubuan Farmers and Fishing Association through its president, Bolleng M. Bontong.

The fishing boat was made of hard wood and powered by a 2-horse engine with 1,800-meter fishing nets.

Apart from the fishing boat, Balubuan FFS also received four goats comprising of 1 billy and 4 nannys for its livelihood from the provincial government of Zamboanga del Norte.

Al Hadaya FFS, which has been in operation for two years has more than 50 members.

Both Al Hadaya FFS and Balubuan FFS thanked the government for the assistance and vowed to repay it by taking care of the fishing boats and to help in the maintenance of peace and order in the community by running after illegal fishing activities. However, no piracy and illegal fishing activities have been monitored in the area lately, Yahiya reported.

Governor Roberto Uy, on the other hand, assured Secretary Baldoz that the recipients would take care of the boats and used these “as an instrument for change.”

The turnover ceremony was attended by Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn Uy, DOLE-9 Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano, DOLE-Zamboanga del Norte Field Office head Lourdes B. Amores, provincial and city officials and employees as well as representatives from the military.

Bantay Dagat/Kalikasan Task Force gets P2.5-M patrol boat

By Franklin P. Gumapon (FPG/PIA9)

LABASON, Zamboanga del Norte, Oct. 1 (PIA) – To ward off attacks by lawless elements operating in the coastal towns of Zamboanga del Norte’s third district, a patrol boat has been turned-over recently to the Bantay Dagat/Kalikasan Task Force led by the 21st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army (PA) based in the area.

Speaking during the patrol boat launching held at Barangay Osukan here, Col. Jesus Mananquil Jr., commanding officer of the 101st Infantry Brigade, PA, emphasized that the goal of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) “is to promote peace and order in the whole of Mindanao.”

“With this patrol boat, the Bantay Dagat/Kalikasan Task Force which is composed of the army, police, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA), local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders, will now be able to run after illegal fishing, piracy, kidnapping, extortion and other forms criminalities perpetrated by the lawless groups in the province’s third district,” Mananquil said.

The P2.5-million patrol boat was acquired through the congressional office of Congressman Isagani S. Amatong, representative of the third district.

On behalf of Congressman Amatong, his chief of staff, Adrian A. Amatong said, “no single agency of the government can solve the problems of illegal fishing, piracy or extortion activities,” as these need collective efforts among government agencies.

For his part, Engr. Joseph Florig, assistant regional director of BFAR-9, expressed his gratitude to all agencies and organizations, which take part in protecting the seas and the marine resources saying “BFAR before acted alone and it was a lonely job.”

“Ang dagat problema kay daghan man ang tag-iya dili sama sa yuta nga kadtong lamang adunay titulo maoy manag-iya (The sea is a problem because a number own it, unlike the lands that only those with land titles owning them),” Florig explained.

The BFAR official also hoped that the involvement of the different agencies in the fight against illegal fishing would continue.

Moreover, Vice Governor Senen O. Angeles also said “the unified movement for Batay Dagat/Kalikasan is a very good move in the protection against piracy, terrorism, kidnapping and illegal fishing that would redound to the protection of our environment.”

Nine of the 13 municipalities of Zamboanga del Norte’s third district have coastal barangays facing the Sulu Sea that stretches up to Zamboanga City.

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