Friday, May 17, 2024

Category: News

303 micro rice retailers in Bukidnon received cash subsidy

Posted on by cmn

A total of 303 micro rice retailers from the cities and municipalities of Bukidnon have received Php15,000.00 cash subsidy from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-10

In collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Economic Relief Subsidy (ERS) cash aid was successfully distributed to the eligible beneficiaries.

In accordance with Executive Order No. 39 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., this economic assistance aims to support retailers who abide by the government’s mandated rice price cap.

During the Consumer Welfare Month press briefing last October 2, DTI Bukidnon Provincial Director Famelah Raquel Villanueva stated that the DSWD has already released financial assistance in Bukidnon amounting to P4,546,00.

On October 4, 2023, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that he lifted the price cap on rice, almost a month after its implementation.

In a report from CNN Philippines on the same day, according to a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) official, micro rice retailers who have not yet received the government’s 15,000 cash aid will continue to receive the subsidy even though the price cap on rice has been lifted.

On September 5, Marcos, who currently heads the nation’s agriculture department, issued Executive Order (EO) 39, which established price caps on regular and well-milled rice throughout the whole country.

In response to rising commodity prices, the president has set a price ceiling for regularly milled rice at P41 per kilogram, while the price ceiling for well-milled rice at P45 per kilogram.

On October 4, the Manila Bulletin reported that despite the lifting of Executive Order No. 39, the DTI promised that the one-time cash aid distribution would continue until each beneficiary of the Sustainable Livelihood Program-Economic Relief Subsidy (SLP-ERS) listed by the DTI received P15,000.

With this year’s theme “Gen S: Generation on Sustainable,” Junar Merla, Chief of the DTI Bukidnon Consumer Protection Division, highlighted the significance of celebrating Consumer Welfare Month in accordance with Presidential Proclamation (PD) 1089 series of 1997, which aims to increase consumer awareness by disseminating pertinent information to both the public and private sectors. (MG Mayumi B. Madera)

DTI-10, BJMP-10 launch RESTART project for PDLs

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-10 and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-10 have linked arms and launched a project to help persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) lead productive lives while in detention

The project dubbed “RESTART” was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by the DTI-10 Regional Director Ermedio J. Abang and BJMP-10 Regional Director JCSupt. Cesar M. Langawin on Sept. 19.

Abang said the partnership institutionalizes their support to equip the PDLs with relevant skills and knowledge to foster their employability, enabling them to contribute to the communities’ social and economic growth.

Under the MoA, DTI-10 will capacitate PDLs through skills training and product development. It will also collaborate with local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to identify suitable job opportunities for PDLs upon their release, thereby, promoting their reintegration into the workforce.

Similarly, DTI will capacitate 21 BJMP livelihood program officers across the region, particularly on entrepreneurship so that the PDLs will also be taught how to run their livelihood as business enterprises.

Aside from the capacity building, Abang said DTI will help promote and market the PDLs products through regional and provincial trade fairs and e-commerce.

“This is an affirmation of the belief that every person deserves a fresh start and a chance to rebuild their lives. By providing the PDLs with access to livelihood, training, and sustainable employment prospects, we are not only empowering them but also enabling the business community as a whole,” he said.

On the part of the BJMP, it will identify livelihood program officers who will participate in the capacity-building program as well as the PDLs eligible for training and reintegration efforts.

BJMP-10 is also responsible for gathering data profiles to assess the skills and capabilities of to-be-released PDLs. Moreover, it would establish entrepreneurship and livelihood centers within its premises.

“The signing of the memorandum of agreement represents more than just ink on the paper. It symbolizes our dedication to providing PDLs with opportunities for redemption, growth, and a path towards successful reintegration into society,” said Langawin.

Accordingly, the initiative will not only contribute to the personal growth and development of the PDLs but will also provide economic opportunities upon their release from detention.

A second chance at life

BJMP-10 continues to forge partnerships with relevant government agencies to implement programs that would give PDL a second chance at life.

“We already had memorandum of agreements with TESDA, DepEd, and DAR. Naglevel-up na tayo (we have leveled up). We don’t just leave our PDLs in their cells. Tinutulungan natin sila upang sa gayon ay kahit na nakakulong sila sa ating mga piitan, kumikita pa rin sila ng pera (we are helping them so that even though they are in detention cells, they still earn money). These people who are behind bars are also the bread winners of their family, so kung tutulungan natin ang isang PDL, tinutulungan din natin ang kaniyang pamilya (so if we help a PDL, we are helping his family),“ Langawin said.

He affirmed that BJMP’s work is not only about watching the PDLs inside the jail facilities but also helping them become productive citizens.

“Binibigyan natin sila ng pagkakataon upang madevelop pa ang kanilang mga skills sa pamamagitan ng paggawa ng mga products. Yunghindi naman nakapag-aral, inienrol natin sila sa literacy program at yun namang nakapag-aral at gusto pang magtuloy ang kanilang pag-aaral we also have alternative learning system. Sa skills training naman, we have a MOA with TESDA na pwede natin silang turuan (ng skills) upang sa gayon ay paglabas nila, if they will be later fortunate na makalabas at makajoin uli sa ating community, ay meron silang skills na pwedeng gamiting upang sila ay makatrabaho,” he said.

(We allow them to further develop their skills by making products. For those who have not studied, we enroll them in the literacy program, and for those who have studied and would want to continue their studies, we also have an alternative learning system. As for skills training, we have a MOA with TESDA that we can teach them skills so that when they are out of jail, they will be later fortunate to get out and rejoin our community, equipped with skills for employment).

Langawin said their rehabilitative and reformation programs are one way of easing the boredom of PDLs while inside the jail facility and encouraging them not to return to their old vices in case they go out.

The regional jail director meanwhile urged the public to help sustain the livelihood projects of the PDLs.

He stressed that by buying the products of PDLs, the public is also helping the families of PDLs. (APB/PIA-10)

DA revs up FMR project implementation in NorMin

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – To enhance dynamism and efficiency in implementing Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) projects, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) through its Regional Agricultural Engineering Division (RAED), spearheaded the FMR Network Planning on September 19-22, in this city

The activity was conducted in consonance with Joint Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2023, which mandated government agencies implementing FMR projects – DA, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), to work in convergence for the formulation, implementation, and updating of the National Network of FMRs.

In partnership with the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE), DA-RFO 10 through Regional Executive Director Carlene C. Collado convened its partner agencies and stakeholders for a multilateral dialogue on the regional FMR road map.

Essentially, the planning workshop is an avenue to apprise the city and municipal agriculturists, agricultural biosystem engineers, and the DPWH district engineers on GEOAGRI.

The GEOAGRI is a web-based Management Information System portal jointly developed by BAFE and Caraga State University to consolidate, store/manage, process, and analyze data of FMR projects implemented by National Government Agencies (NGAs) and Local Government Units (LGUs).

As advanced by BAFE, the system is part of the government’s effort to promote transparency, maximize resource allocation, and minimize duplication and overlapping of FMR projects.

FMRs have been regarded as imperative interventions to address agricultural supply chain problems by connecting production areas to markets.

This enables farmers and fishers to broaden their reach and command better prices for their products.

In her message, DA- RFO 10 Regional Technical Director for Operations, Carlota S. Madriaga DA, LGUs, and DPWH to come to a consensus in crafting remedial measures to address challenges encountered on the ground, for effective FMR implementation in the region.

Since 2015, DA-RFO 10 appropriated P4.56 billion in funds for the implementation of 452 FMR projects across the five provinces in Northern Mindanao, in partnership with DPWH and the LGUs.

Criteria such as estimated road influence area, number of farmers/fisherfolk beneficiaries, agricultural potential indicators, present road condition, climate change adaptation, and average daily traffic are determinants in prioritizing and funding FMR projects.

In support of the FMR implementation and monitoring activities in the region, BAFE turned over two laptop and mobile phone units to DA-RFO 10 RAED during the planning workshop.# (ATTalib)

DA invites firm to bid for coffee supply on expanded projects

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) on September 21, 2023, invited a multinational firm and other companies to bid for coffee supply as it gears toward the sustainability and expansion of the agency’s projects

In a press briefing, DA-10 Technical Director Carlota Madriaga said they are looking for suppliers of certified-grade Robusta coffee plantlets for distribution to farmer-beneficiaries in the region.

Madriaga said Nestle Philippines, which operates the Bukidnon Integrated Coffee Center (BICC), is one of the main growers of certified Robusta coffee plantlets.

“There were many coffee players who used to bid before including Nestle but in the recent call for bidding there were no parties showing interest, so there was a failure to bid,” she said.

For parties to become qualified bidders, they must undergo training and accreditation from the Bureau of Plant and Industry.

Art Baria, Nestle’s agri-services head, said they will look into bidding requirements, noting that “it takes time to grow these plantlets, and we will make sure we can provide the needed number.”

Other than a direct source for the processing of its coffee products, Nestle’s BICC is also a certified training school for Coffee Production Level 2 for farmers and students. It is accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and DA’s Agriculture Training Institute reviving the coffee industry.

Meanwhile, DA-10 Director Carlene Collado spoke of a “coffee industry renaissance,” pointing to the previous achievements of farmer groups who have gained a reputation for providing high-quality coffee.

“From 2017-2018, DA-10 was able to procure certified Robusta coffee from Nestle worth 1.65 million pieces,” he said.

Madriaga reiterated that DA-10 and its allied stakeholders are committed to the Philippine Coffee Industry Roadmap (PCIR).

The PCIR has a 2023 to 2027 timeframe with objectives and action plans related to enhancing the growth of the coffee industry.

A five-year data from DA-10 showed that from 2016 to 2020, Robusta coffee had the highest yield in Northern Mindanao with an average of 5,000 tons; Excelsa variety coffee had 266 tons, while Arabica coffee dwindled from 334 to 198 tons. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Aggie dept showcases promising corn cultivars in Dangcagan town

Posted on by cmn

BARONGCOT, DANGCAGAN, BUKIDNON – The agriculture department of Northern Mindanao (DA-10) helmed by Regional Executive Director Carlene C. Collado in partnership with private seed companies stages the first in the series of its Corn Derby Field Day for this year’s wet season, showcasing promising hybrid corn cultivars here on Friday, September 22

Seated at about a 1.9-hectare portion of DA-10’s Research Center for Upland Development (RCUD), 16 different corn varieties from seven companies were exhibited, to gauge their performance and adaptability in a low elevated area.

“Mapuslanon ni siya [technology showcasing] para sa atong mga mag-uuma,” Carlota S. Madriaga, DA-10 regional technical director for operations, in her message to about the 150 farmers and agricultural extensionists participating from the towns of Dangcagan, Damulog, Kibawe, Don Carlos, Kadingilan, Kitaotao, Maramag, and Kalilangan of Bukidnon province.

Yellow corn varieties along with their corresponding package of technologies include NK6410BGT, NK6130BGT and NK6505BGT from Syngenta Philippines, Inc.; DK8131S and DK8899S (Bayer Crop Science Philippines); H101G and B9909G (BioSeed Research Philippines, Inc.); and AH SUPREME 5150 RRYYG and J505 RRYG (Asian Hybrid Seed Technology Inc.).

Rounding up the list of yellow corn varieties exhibited are P3582YHR and P3530YHR (Corteva AgriScience); EVO 9815 (Evo Gene Seeds, Corp.); and MAIS SWERTE and MAIZE D30, and MAIS-TISA, a white corn variety from Vigour Seeds Development, Inc.

Importantly, the crop cut results were presented, factoring in agronomic and yield components such as number of plants, ears, and yield per plot; garb incidence; total cob and kernel weights; shelling recovery; field moisture content; yield and weight of grains; population density; ear length and diameter; number of kernel line and kernels per ear.

She likewise underscored the significance of conducting corn derbies over the years with the private seed companies.

“Labaw na sa amoa na kami [department] karon nga gi-manduan sa national government pinaagi sa atong President [Marcos] na mao atong [DA] secretary na tagaan og dakong pagtagad ang agrikultura,” RTD Madriaga remarked.

Generated results show that the corn varieties employed yielded the highest at 10.03 tons per hectare at 14% moisture content (MC) to the lowest at 5.69 tons/ha at 14% MC.

As the agency through the Corn Program will procure P281 million of hybrid corn seeds, comprising GM hybrid yellow corn seeds and hybrid white corn flint seeds next year, Dir. Madriaga highlighted that the corn derby results would form part of the basis of the department’s procurement of seeds.

Moreso, DA-10 is set to procure P19.7 million worth of GM hybrid yellow corn seeds and hybrid white corn seeds to serve as buffer stocks, in case of disasters and calamities.

As the techno demo displayed different corn varieties and planting protocols to augment farmers’ productivity and earnings, the DA-10 official also urged the farmers to form corn clusters to attain economies of scale.

This will enable them to greatly trim down their cost of operations, reap bountiful harvests, link to large-scale buyers, and earn bigger incomes.

“Dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa DA-10 sa ilang gipahigayon nga programa sa mga ka-mais, diin adunay bag-ong mga technology nga gi-showcase nga milangkob sa low ug high elevation nga corn cultivars ug magdepende sab ang performance sa klase sa yuta gikan sa mga nagkalain-laing kompanya sa mais,” conveyed Lilibeth P. Galandez, president of the Narukdukan Kisanday Banana, Cassava, Coconut, Corn Farmers’ Association (NAKBACCCOFA) of Maramag town.

Following said corn derby, DA-10 is slated to conduct the same activity at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex in Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, and Research Center for Hillyland Development in Lanise, Claveria, Misamis Oriental in early October, this year.

Also supporting the event were Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Cora A. Dumayaca, Provincial Operations Center of Bukidnon chief Janet D. Lopez, DVM, RCUD chief Catalino S. Soriano, Jr. and other DA-10 staff. (DA RFO-10)

Turnover, Blessing of new city gov’t vehicles, motorcycles held

Posted on by cmn

The City General Services Office (CGSO) hosted the “Blessing for Newly Acquired Vehicles and Motorcycles of the City Government of Malaybalay” ceremony on September 21, 2023, at the City Hall’s parking lot. City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, along with esteemed officials from the Sangguniang Panlungsod, graced the occasion, marking another important event in the city’s public service

Mayor Pabillaran expressed his appreciation for the arrival of a new fleet of government vehicles, acknowledging the late Mayor Florencio Flores for initiating this significant move. He shared his hopes that these newly acquired vehicles would enhance and expand the services offered to the city’s constituents.

The event, attended by various department heads and distinguished guests, witnessed the blessing of 14 service vehicles and 11 motorcycles. Father Mariano Chia officiated the blessing ceremony.This milestone underscores Malaybalay City’s commitment in improving public services and fulfilling its mandate. The new vehicles and motorcycles are expected to enhance government efficiency, furthering the city’s mission of providing better and more accessible services to its constituents.

The breakdown of vehicle allocations is as follows:

Toyota Hilux Pick-up Trucks (5 units) are allocated to the City Agriculture’s Office, City Engineer’s Office, Office of the Building Official (OBO), Philippine National Police (PNP), and TMC.

Mitsubishi Strada Pick-up Trucks (4 units) allocated to the City Assessor’s Office, CDILG, City Veterinary Office, and Malaybalay City Government Water Supply System (MCGWSS); Toyota Innova designated for the City Administrator’s Office; Mitsubishi Montero SUV assigned to the City Health Office; Toyota Hi-Ace Transport Commuter Van turned over to the Barangay Government of Sto. Niño; and Toyota Avanza (2 units) allocated to SP Flores and SP Orquia.

Motorcycles were also distributed to various city offices: Honda CFT 125 (5 units) for OBO; Honda XR-150 (4 units) City Treasurer’s Office; Honda CRF to MCGWSS; and Honda Click to Parole and Probation Office. (LGU Malaybalay)

NPA rebel killed, 8 firearms seized in Bukidnon, Agusan del Sur

Posted on by cmn

ANOTHER member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with soldiers, who also seized eight firearms in two focused military operations in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur, on Sept. 22 and 24, 2023

The military identified the slain rebel as Madagi Tumanan, a resident of Barangay Eureka, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

Accordingly, soldiers of the 26th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Sandy Majarocon, under the operational control of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, clashed with more or less five communist terrorists in Barangay Guibonon, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur on Sept. 24, which resulted in the death of Tumanan.

Major Francisco Garello Jr., 4th ID spokesperson, said the soldiers also captured an M16 rifle.

Majacorom said the remains of the rebel would be turned over to the police and eventually to the nearest funeral parlor in Gingoog City.

“We will reach out to the family so that the dead CNT will have a decent burial,” he said.

“We remain committed to the respect of human rights and highly value the sacredness of a body of human beings, contrary to the communist terrorist group’s (CTG’s) criminal actions in abandoning their dead comrade as if it’s nothing after using and pushing him to his grave,” he added.

Meanwhile, on Sept. 22, troops of the 8th Infantry Battalion under commanding officer Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus captured two firearms after an encounter against at least seven rebels in Sitio Kamaca, Barangay Bontongon, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

A thorough search and clearing at the nearby creek of said encounter site resulted in the discovery of an arms cache containing an M16 rifle, M203 Grenade Launcher, Cal .30 M1 Garand rifle, and Cal .22 Semi-Automatic Pistol.

Captured items during the encounter include an M1 Garand rifle and Caliber 45 pistol, magazines with ammunition, an anti-personnel mine with a fuse and a detonating cord.

Bacus said residents reported the presence of rebels last week, prompting a military offensive.

“We wanted this criminal group to realize the futility of using violence as a means to advance an agenda. Your soldiers in Bukidnon won’t stop until the CTG criminals will yield and give our people a community free from threat and chaos,” Bacus said.

403rd Brigade Commander BGen. Michele B. Anayron Jr. said they are going after the remaining members of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCRMC), responsible for numerous acts of violence and extortion in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.

In addition, they also coordinated with other government agencies and the local government unit in Agusan del Sur and Misamis Oriental for some assistance to his family.

Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, said they remain resolute in neutralizing the CTG criminals by reducing their capabilities, disrupting their networks, and preventing their resurgence in the communities.

“We in the 4ID continue to encourage our fellow Filipinos to support our intensified efforts together with our partner agencies under the Task Force to end local communist armed conflict in order to maintain peace and security in the regions. With this, we reaffirm our resolve to combat criminalities and insurgency, ensuring that the people can live free from fear and in an environment conducive to growth and prosperity,” Cuerpo added. (Rhoda Grace Saron/Mindanao Times)

Malaybalay City hosts 1st region-wide swine artificial insemination training

Posted on by cmn

The first region-wide training on Swine Artificial Insemination (AI) reached its successful conclusion on September 22, 2023, at the Veranda in Casisang, Malaybalay City. The event brought together a total of 27 participants hailing from various localities within Region 10, making it a significant milestone for the local livestock industry

Key participants in this initiative included the City Veterinarian, the City Veterinary Office Livestock Production Section, and the Administrative Training Committee. Also in attendance were Regional and Provincial AI Coordinators, as well as members of the ATI Training Management Team.

This event exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders, charting a brighter future for the region’s agricultural sector. Dr. Michele C. Miquiabas, the City Veterinarian, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead this endeavor and recognized its potential to enhance the regional livestock sector.

Dr. Omar T. Cahanap, Livestock Veterinarian, took pride in the fact that Malaybalay City was the first in the Philippines to host an entire region, generously sharing its technical expertise. He stated, “Indeed, Malaybalay City is a catalyst of change. Saka Ta Malaybalay,” underscoring the city’s commitment to pioneering advancements in the industry.

Alexis I. Flores, A.I. Center Chief of Malaybalay, emphasized their dedication to extending knowledge beyond the city’s borders, asserting that knowledge should know no boundaries. Phil Rae M. Bonngo assured the participants of their support, saying, “We are here to help you and will guide you in establishing your own swine artificial insemination breeding centers.”

Jeric L. Cabatac, a Training Specialist from the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), emphasized that this marks only the beginning of numerous future collaborations between ATI and the City Veterinary Office of Malaybalay, highlighting their enduring commitment to advancing regional livestock practices.

Regional A.I. Coordinator Johnson Petalcurin highlighted the critical role that artificial insemination technology plays in addressing food sufficiency challenges posed by animal diseases. He stressed that this training would significantly contribute to improving food production and ensuring a secure food supply for the region. (LGU Malaybalay)

SP Bukidnon urges BIR to refund BSKE registration fee

Posted on by cmn

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Bukidnon is urging the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to refund the Php535.00 collected registration and official receipt booklet fee of the candidates for the October 30, 2023, Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election (BSKE)

On September 26, the 27th SP during its 59th regular session unanimously passed the resolution on the purpose upon motion of SP member Nemesio B. Beltran Jr.

In a statement, the Provincial Government of Bukidnon (PGB) said that the SP considered the resolution as urgent.

The SP also resolved that copies will be sent to the Revenue District Office (RDO) – 99 of the BIR based on Malaybalay City and to all its field offices in Bukidnon and other concerned government agencies for their information and reference.

Earlier, the SP passed a resolution upon motion by Beltran urging the BIR and Commission on Elections (Comelec) to hold in abeyance the requirement of registration by the BSKE candidates pending appropriate information campaign by the BIR legally acceptable answers to the valid and legitimate queries and concerns of the citizens of the province of Bukidnon. It also sought the swift intervention and assistance of Senate President Juan Miguel F. Zubiri.

The previous resolution came out in response to the implementation of the Memorandum Circular No. 22-2022 dated February 21, 2022, requiring all candidates to submit duly accomplished BIR forms and payment of the Annual Registration Fee (ARF) within 30 days after filing their Certificate of Candidacy (COC) with the Comelec.

Beltran said that the memorandum caused undue confusion among the BSKE candidates in Bukidnon as they are caught off-guard with these requirements due mainly to the lack of a substantial and appropriate information dissemination campaign on the part of the BIR.

On September 20, 2023, the Comelec through the Deputy Director for Operations timely issued an Urgent Advisory to all Regional Election Directors and Provincial Election Supervisors nationwide, to notify all candidates in their respective jurisdiction by whatever means possible that “BIR registration and payment of the corresponding BIR registration of candidates are not required for filing of a certificate of candidacy nor are they prerequisites for continuing as candidates”.

As disclosed by the SP, based on the Comelec list, there are more than 15,000 candidates who are vying for the BSKE positions from the 464 barangays in the province.

As of press time, the Central Mindanao Newswatch is seeking comments from RDO-99 regarding the issues. (MG Mayumi B. Madera)

25 delegates from Mindanao to join international expo in Sabah

Posted on by cmn

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 13 Sept)—A total of 25 delegates from Mindanao and Palawan will join the Sabah International Expo from September 22 to 24 in Malaysia in the hopes of increasing trade exports to countries in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, and official of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said

During the “Wednesdays Media Forum at Habi at Kape,” Anelyn G. Binancillan, Investment Promotion Division development management officer IV, said that delegates would showcase the strength of Mindanao, particularly agricultural and tourism products and services, during the international expo at Sabah International Convention Centre.

She said they hope to generate interest from business counterparts for the various goods offered by companies in Mindanao, which remains a net importer of goods from its neighbors in the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

Binancillan said it has always been their objective to promote Mindanao-produced goods and make them more visible in the markets across Southeast Asia.

“Overall, how are we faring in terms of trade? We are more on imports rather than exports,” she said.

She said among the companies participating in the expo are Hijo Resources, Bioskin Tech Laboratories Inc., Treelife, DusitD2 Davao, and Aleson Shipping, but added that there are more companies from Western Mindanao and Northern Mindanao who are interested to join the delegation.

She said the delegation also includes different government agencies, chambers of commerce from Zamboanga Peninsula, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and Palawan.

Romeo L. Castañaga, assistant regional director of the Department of Trade and Industry-Davao, said that exhibitors from across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Middle East have also been invited to the international expo.

He said around 20 countries will join the expo.

Binancillan added that Mindanao-based companies are expected to hold business-to-business matching sessions with their counterparts.She said that the products that will be exhibited include banana-based products like chips and flour, coco-based products like sugar and other derivatives, chocolate products, abaca bags and home decor, skincare, and tourism packages.

Binancillan said there is a direct sea link being serviced by a passenger vessel of Aleson Shipping from Zamboanga City to Sandakan in Malaysia.

She said they are supporting the move of the autonomous Bangsamoro government to put a cargo vessel along this route to promote trade between these areas since Malaysia is geographically closer to the Zamboanga Peninsula and BARMM. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)