Saturday, January 18, 2025

Category: News

Lantapan LGU provides communication skills training, empowers LGBTQIA+ as change agents

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY (January 7, 2025) — To empower LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other identities) as catalysts for change, the local government unit (LGU) of Lantapan conducted training in Malaybalay City on December 18-19

The workshop focused on social media management, news writing, and broadcasting, emphasizing the media’s power to amplify marginalized voices and shape public discourse.
Participants delved into the intricacies of social media platforms and guided participants in crafting impactful content, building strong online communities, and effectively combating misinformation.
The training empowered LGBTQIA+ members to harness the power of social media to raise awareness about their rights, promote inclusivity, and foster meaningful dialogue on critical community issues.
These skills are crucial for empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals to share authentic stories that challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and bring attention to the issues impacting their community.
Beyond technical skills, the workshop emphasized the participants’ ethical responsibilities, encouraging them to approach content creation with integrity and respect for all individuals.
By combining technical expertise with a strong advocacy foundation, the program ensures that LGBTQIA+ members are not only skilled communicators but also effective agents of change.
This initiative by the Lantapan local government underscores the significance of inclusive governance and active participation in societal discourse. By equipping LGBTQIA+ members with valuable media skills, the LGU fosters a more informed and empowered community, ready to take on leadership roles and advocate for positive change.

LGU’s Support

Lantapan Mayor Ernie Devibar acknowledged the LGBTQIA+ community as an integral part of the locality.
“In Lantapan, we actively include our LGBTQIA+ community in our initiatives and programs. Every June 12, during the Independence Day celebration, we organize events for our LGBTQIA+ community, where they can showcase their talents through pageants and other activities. This reflects the Lantapan local government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society where the voices of all its citizens, including the LGBTQIA+ community, are heard and valued,” the mayor said.
Dem Alfonso, 19, thanked the Lantapan local government for this valuable opportunity.
“I am grateful to the Lantapan LGU for facilitating this seminar-workshop. We learned so much,” Alfonso said. (Bernadith G. Epan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

OCD equips regions with water filtration, communication systems for emergencies

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (August 20, 2024/PIA) — The Office of Civil Defense enhances its disaster preparedness and response capabilities by investing in water filtration systems and reliable communication technologies

According to OCD-10 Director Antonio Sugarol, these initiatives are part of a broader strategy of OCD’s Administrator, Usec. Ariel Nepomuceno, to modernize and equip the organization with the resources necessary to effectively address emergencies.

He said OCD has initially equipped its regional offices with water filtration units, recognizing the critical role of clean water in emergencies.

The regional director also shared plans to acquire additional units similar to those used by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) that can rapidly purify contaminated water, providing a vital lifeline to affected communities.

“At the moment, we have two mobile water filtration systems. It is in our office,” he stated.

Sugarol said the OCD has also implemented a regional collaboration policy that allows neighboring regions to share resources during emergencies.

“For example, in Region 10, we can anticipate that Region 9, Region 12, and Region 11 will contribute their mobile water filtration systems to the OCD Region 10,” he explained.

In addition to water filtration, the OCD addresses the equally critical need for reliable communication channels. Sugarol said the recent experience in Misamis Occidental, where cellular networks were disrupted following a shear line, underscored the importance of alternative communication systems.

To augment the communication capabilities of local government units, the OCD is working in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to provide satellite phones and VISAT systems. These technologies will ensure uninterrupted communication during disasters, facilitating coordination between local governments, government agencies, and emergency responders. (Apipa P. Bagumbaran/PIA-10)

P29K worth of marijuana plants uprooted in Valencia

Posted on by Heber Quinco

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – A total of 295 marijuana plants were uprooted in the hinterlands of Sitio Migtulod, Brgy. Mt. Nebo, Valencia City, Bukidnon, on August 21, 2024

BUK-PDEU personnel worked alongside Buk-PIU, Valencia CPS, and PDEA Bukidnon to uproot the marijuana plants.

The Bukidnon Police Provincial Office (BPPO) said that the uprooted marijuana plants weigh approximately 7.8 kilograms and had a market worth of ₱ 59,000.00 (₱ 200/hill).

The uprooted plants were destroyed and burned at the scene in the presence of witnesses.

Samples of the uprooted marijuana plants were sent to the Valencia City Police Station for documentation and then turned over to the PNP Provincial Forensic Unit in Malaybalay City for laboratory testing. (melbmadera)

NPA combatant killed in Bukidnon

Posted on by Melchor Madera

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – An alleged New People’s Army (NPA) combatant was killed during an encounter with 8th Infantry Battalion personnel in the hinterland of Sitio Bendum, Brgy. Busdi, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on August 19, 2024

In a statement, the military identified him as Norbet Sarinao Lipanda @Omar, squad leader of Squad 2, Headquarters Force NEO of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

The 8IB also recovered an M16 assault rifle, a bandolier with three (3) magazines loaded with live ammunitions, a bag, communication devices, and other subversive materials.

Charlie Company of the army’s 8IB was involved in a 15-minute skirmish with around four NPA rebels, including Lipanda.

Before the aforementioned armed clash, the local population notified 8IB about the presence of an armed group performing extortion, food foraging, and coercing farmers to facilitate their food supplies.

Due to this threat, the unit immediately conducted intensified military operations in the area.

The 8IB expressed gratitude to the residents who reported suspicious activity to local officials and law enforcement agencies.

Lt. Col. Marc Bien Stevens J. Deslante, commander of the 8IB, stated that the 8IB will always be “dependable partners” in ensuring peace and order in the province of Bukidnon. (melbmadera)

Hedcor turns over ₱5.1M royalty shares to Bukidnon IP communities

Posted on by cmn

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (December 29, 2024) — Hedcor, the renewable energy asset manager of AboitizPower, has turned over ₱5,140,167.01 in royalty shares to Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in Bukidnon for 2022-2023. These funds directly benefit the host communities of Hedcor’s Manolo Fortich 1 and 2 hydroelectric power plants, advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development

Five Indigenous Peoples (IP) organizations received their royalties, signifying progress for their communities. The Santiago Tribal Community (SANTRICO), Inc. and Impakibel, Apo Man Asilan Tribal Association were each awarded ₱1,401,529.47. Meanwhile, the Lumikapaw Ka Guihean Tribal Council of Elders and Guilang-Guilang Apo Datu Nanikunan Association, Inc. each received ₱935,578.60. The Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc. was granted ₱465,950.87. These funds embody a commitment to empowering and uplifting Indigenous communities, going beyond mere financial support.
The funds will be used for initiatives identified by the IP communities themselves, including livelihood assistance, skills training to strengthen economic resilience, scholarships for Indigenous youth, and elder care programs.
The projects will also help empower women entrepreneurs, preserve traditional practices, and advance environmental efforts such as reforestation.
Bae Priscilla Cariaga, President of Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc., expressed gratitude for the turnover.
“Ang pagtinabangay uban sa Hedcor nagpalambo sa among komunidad. Ang mga pondo makatabang sa pagpreserba sa among kultura, pagtubag sa mga kinahanglanon, ug paghimo og mga oportunidad para sa umaabot nga henerasyon,” she said.
(Working together with Hedcor has developed our community. The funds help preserve our culture, address our needs, and create opportunities for future generations.)
Implemented closely with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 10, the program ensures that projects align with cultural preservation and ancestral domain protection.
“Through joint efforts, we achieve meaningful progress for Indigenous Peoples, safeguarding their heritage while promoting development,” said lawyer Dexter B. Precioso, NCIP regional legal officer.
Hedcor Vice President for Corporate Services Noreen Vicencio said the giving out of royalty shares underscores Hedcor’s zeal to collaborate with IP organizations to enhance community well-being.
“This turnover is more than just meeting our obligations—it reflects our commitment to a meaningful partnership. We are honored to support the IP organizations’ efforts to advance livelihood, education, and cultural heritage.
By working side by side, we help ensure a lasting, positive impact that strengthens their communities and enriches their future,” Vicencio said.
She reiterated that by returning these royalty shares to the communities, Hedcor continues to advance renewable energy while strengthening communities, protecting cultural identities, and fostering long-term growth and opportunity. (Hedcor-AboitizPower/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

Bukidnon aims to be PH’s Arabica Capital with coffee roadmap

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY (August 28, 2024/PIA) — “Bukidnon’s coffee beans, renowned worldwide for their quality, have elevated the province as a global coffee destination. We have world-class coffee beans right here in our backyard. It’s time to unleash their full potential,” declared Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque

Despite this international acclaim, the governor emphasized that the local coffee industry remains weak and underdeveloped. However, he believes the province’s coffee industry is on the cusp of a transformation.

To achieve this revitalization, Roque aims to establish Bukidnon as the “Arabica Capital” of the Philippines. In a recent state-of-the-province address, he referred to the coffee potential as a hidden treasure, underscoring the untapped opportunities.

He said that with the right strategies and investments, Bukidnon can become a shining example of how to turn agricultural resources into economic prosperity.

To turn this vision into reality, the provincial government has established a technical working group (TWG) dedicated to crafting a comprehensive coffee roadmap.

This collaborative effort brings together farmers, processors, sellers, café owners, baristas, and coffee enthusiasts to chart a course for the industry’s growth.

The roadmap will prioritize improving coffee quality and marketability using advanced processing techniques.

Bukidnon seeks to boost its local economy and generate new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs by reinventing raw coffee beans into high-value products like roasted and ground coffee.

“We want to add value to our coffee beans. We aim to increase farmers’ income and establish Bukidnon as a leader in the global coffee market,” Roque said.

He explained that the newly created TWG is a significant milestone for Bukidnon’s coffee sector because the expertise and experience of various stakeholders could develop a sustainable and profitable coffee industry that can compete globally.

Bukidnon envisions a future where local products, including coffee, are celebrated domestically and internationally.

As the province embarks on this pursuit, the successful implementation of the Coffee Roadmap could serve as a model for other regions seeking to harness their unique agricultural products for economic development. (Bernadith G. Epan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

Demo farm showcases drought-tolerant hybrid rice variety in Buk’non upland area

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — A demonstration farm in Sitio Incalbog, Can-ayan, featuring the hybrid rice variety TH-82 NSIC Rc350H, has showcased resilience amid the El Niño phenomenon, highlighting its potential to thrive within an upland ecosystem

This was underscored during a culmination program of the techno demo on August 22 in the said city.

This was led by the Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-10) in partnership with the Bukidnon Tagoloanon Mulahay Ha Kabukalagan Agriculture Cooperative (BUKTAMACO), Bukidnon province and Malaybalay City agriculture offices, and SeedWorks Philippines, Inc.

Chona H. Nacalaban, DA-10’s Rice program focal person, emphasized the importance of introducing the hybrid rice technology in upland conditions and engaging members of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), especially in their ancestral areas with limited rice cultivation.

Launched last February 8, the planted rice variety was initially expected to be harvested by the third week of May, but faced a 58-day delay in maturity due to a significant lack of rainfall from March to May, albeit yielding 2.2 tons per hectare based on crop cut results after receiving rainfall in June.

For his part, Emmanuel F. Piñol, former DA Secretary and an early supporter of the initiative, lauded the demo farm’s success as a significant milestone for Philippine agriculture.

“The ability of this rice variety to survive drought and continue growing, despite a delayed maturity period, underscores its potential to revolutionize rice production in upland areas,” Piñol remarked.

“This breakthrough could allow us to cultivate rice in areas previously reliant on irrigation,” he added, while further noting that it is pivotal in easing the reliance on rice imports and addressing the need to feed the growing population by expanding and improving available tribal areas of the country for rice production.

The demo farm, covering 3,000 square meters, is a precursor to developing the 300 hectares within the BUKTAMACO ancestral domains, which overall seeks to implement sustainable farming practices tailored to upland environments, at the same time bolstering food security in the region. (BJCE)

Agri-10 rolls out P2.934-M fuel subsidy to Valencia City farmers

Posted on by cmn

VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon – The Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-10), helmed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, rolled out about P2.934 million (M) in fuel subsidies to farmers who own or rent functional agricultural machinery for food production

On August 19, some 978 eligible farmers received their fuel assistance allocation worth P3k each, which was loaded into the DA Intervention Monitoring Card (IMC), issued in partnership with the Universal Storefront Services, Corp.

Per implementing guidelines of the Fuel Assistance to Farmers Project for FY 2023, the fuel subsidy aims to temper the farmers’ brunt on fuel expenses, which forms part of the important operating costs in farming; thereby, enhancing their resiliency and cushioning the impact of the surge of oil price hikes in the agricultural sector.

Eligible recipients are either individual farmers or farmer-members of a Farmer Cooperative Association (FCA) with proof of machinery ownership or rental agreement uploaded in the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Management Information System (ABEMIS), and further, they must be listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).

Valencia City Mayor Azucena P. Huervas, a staunch supporter of the local farming community, has been instrumental in facilitating the provision of fuel assistance from the national government through the DA. Her efforts are particularly noteworthy given the challenges that farmers in the locality are facing, such as the El Niño-triggered effects on their planting and other farm operations.

DA-10’s partner on the ground in the validation of farmer-beneficiaries, the city agriculture’s office of Valencia headed by Connie L. Dalangan, congratulated the farmers to have been granted intervention by the government, as the fuel assistance will help mechanize and modernize their agricultural production systems.

“I hope that you have felt the presence and sincerity of the government, that through this gesture [of providing fuel subsidy], it may serve as an inspiration [to all our farmers] to work even harder to augment their yield and income.” the city agriculturist remarked.

Spearheaded by the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division of the DA-10, the agency is set to cap off this week’s fuel assistance distribution tomorrow, August 20, in Kitaotao town, where P1.212-M will be dispensed to 404 farmers in the said locality via their DA IMC. (JLO)

NCIP, LGU Manolo Fortich ink MOA on P226.9M FMR in Kalugmanan

Posted on by cmn

The drafting and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the concreting of the farm-to-market road in Sitio Balakbakan, Barangay Kalugmanan, took place on August 19, 2024, at the Barangay Kalugmanan covered court

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the Local Government Unit of Manolo Fortich signed the agreement.

The project involves concreting a 7.8-kilometer Farm-to-Market Road (FRM) under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), with a budget of 226,992,990 million pesos from the Department of Agriculture.

The road concreting will begin at Sitio Balakbakan and continue to Kalugmanan proper.

This project aims to assist farmers in Barangay Kalugmanan by facilitating the easier transportation of their farm produce to the Municipal Public Market in Barangay Tankulan.

Municipal Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño was present during the MOA drafting and signing. He expressed his enthusiasm for infrastructure programs, particularly road projects.

“Matod pa, himoon nato ni nga dako nga kalipay nga ang atong karsada gikan didto sa Café by the Ridge, musangko dinhi sa atong tulay, pasubida paingon sa ila ni Mr. Perrine, ug gani naa pay sobra nga budget, I think nga e-semento pa paingon diri. Nindot na kaayo mga programa nato mga roads section sa atong lungsod sa Manolo Fortich. Including ang atong Sankanan road, ang atong gi-plano nasad ang Lindaban paingon sa Dahilayan atong sementohon, so nangita tag budget para ana,” Mayor Quiño stated.

Farmer Sirapin Buyoc, 67 years old, from Zone 2, Kalugmanan, expressed his gratitude for the road project, which has made transporting their agricultural products easier.

“Ang ako lang, nga makadugang benepisyo niining muabot ang dalan nga kami di nami maglisod sa among mga produkto, sama sa mga mais, cassava, mga utanon, daghan mi mga utanon diha sa Ilaya. So sayon ra gyud kaayo ang pag-deliver sa produkto paingon sa atong market ug sa Cagayan,” said Buyoc.

Also in attendance were Municipal Administrator Engr. Joie Caesar M. Gaid, Sangguniang Bayan Member IPMR Coun. Alex Payangga, NCIP Regional Legal Officer Atty. Dexter Precioso, the Barangay Council of Kalugmanan, and Indigenous Peoples (IP) community members, including the Higaonon, Talaandig, and Bukidnon tribes.

Heads of offices and representatives from focal departments of the Local Government of Manolo Fortich, such as the Municipal Agriculture Office, Municipal Engineering Office, Municipal Assessor’s Office, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, and Municipal Planning and Development Office, also attended the MOA signing. (PR)

Malaybalay buys P11.96M new garbage trucks

Posted on by Heber Quinco

The City Government of Malaybalay recently conducted a turnover and blessing ceremony for four brand-new garbage compactors purchased to enhance the city’s waste collection and management capabilities

The event took place on Monday, August 19, 2024, at the New City Hall Grounds in front of the Commission on Audit Office.

Key city officials, including members of the Sangguniang Panglungsod, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) led by its head, Ms. Jessie G. Suson, and Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, attended the ceremony.

The four garbage trucks, valued at a total of Php 11.96 million, were acquired as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve waste management services.

“These trucks will play a crucial role in ensuring more efficient and timely garbage collection,” Mayor Pabillaran stated during the event.

He emphasized the importance of responsible waste management, saying, “Kauban sa paglambo nato ang basura, busa responsibilidad nato kini (with progress comes waste, so it’s our responsibility to manage it).”

He also reminded the operators of the new vehicles to maintain them well, as they are vital to keeping the city clean.

Ms. Jessie Suson, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, expressed her gratitude during the turnover ceremony.

She assured the public that the CENRO would remain fully committed to fulfilling its responsibilities in maintaining a clean and healthy environment for the people of Malaybalay.

The acquisition and blessing of these new garbage trucks underscore the city’s dedication to strengthening its waste management infrastructure and its broader commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable Malaybalay City for all. (City ENRO-NADA)