Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Category: News

4 NorMin cops who tested positive for drug use face dismissal

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The chief of the Police Regional Office in Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) on January 18, vowed to dismiss police officers who tested positive for illegal drug use.

Brig. Gen. Lawrence Coop PRO-10 director, said four police officers are set to be dismissed for illegal drug use, the latest of whom is assigned to Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

“We recorded this in 2022, and they will also face administrative charges,” he said during a media forum here, referring to the erring police officers.

Coop said most of the administrative cases in the region are related to the use of illegal drugs following the series of random and unannounced drug testing.

Drug testing will continue for this year, he said, noting that it has always been part of the internal operations of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“The community wants to see a truly transformed PNP; a police service that is highly capable, effective, and credible; and a police force that can always be counted on at all times,” Coop said.

Coop also urged all key officers to exert more effort in the fight against all forms of criminality, especially illegal drugs and terrorism. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

5 NorMin, Lanao Sur execs among ‘top performers’ in 2022

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Five public officials in the Northern Mindanao region and Lanao del Sur province were named among the “Top Performers” in local governance during the second half of 2022 after the national and local elections.

A statement from the data analytics firm RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) on Jan. 15, said they are Misamis Occidental 2nd District Rep. Sancho Fernando Oaminal, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto-Adiong, Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental Mayor Henry Oaminal Jr., Misamis Oriental Gov. Peter Unabia and Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal Sr.

Rep. Oaminal placed fifth among top performers in the House of Representatives with a 90 percent rating, while Adiong placed 10th with a 78 percent rating.

“Para na sa inyoha, mga pinalangga namong Misamisnons! Padayon ang atong pagpaningkamot para sa #AsensoOzamiz (This is for you, our beloved Misamisnons! We continue to strive hard for the #AsensoOzamiz development agenda),” he said in his Facebook post, reacting to the results.

Oaminal Jr. placed in the 9th spot for top-performing city mayors with 80 percent, and both Unabia and Oaminal Sr. placed sixth in the governor’s category with an 85 percent rating.

Dr. Paul Martinez, the focal person of RPMD, said these public officials who excelled in “constituent service” and service to the nation should be congratulated for their exceptional performance.

The independent and non-commissioned “Boses ng Bayan” national performance evaluation survey for the year 2022 was done from Nov. 27 to Dec. 2, 2022.

Among the 65.75 million registered voters between 18 and 70, a total of 10,000 respondents were selected. The sample employed a plus-or-minus 1 percent margin of error and a degree of confidence of 95 percent.

Martinez said respondents were chosen randomly, and the number of respondents was distributed proportionally based on the number of registered voters in each area. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

LPA leaves 7 dead, P22-M worth of damage in NorMin

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The two-week rains caused by a low-pressure area (LPA) in Northern Mindanao affected 59,000 individuals, left seven dead, and damaged more than PHP22 million worth of properties.

 

In the initial report by the Region 10 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC-10) on January 15, 15,812 families experienced flooding.

In evacuation centers throughout the region, only 4,432 individuals or 1,227 families have remained as of Sunday out of the 31,353 individuals or 8,621 families who sought shelter within the two weeks period.

The seven dead were from the provinces of Lanao del Norte, four; Misamis Oriental, two; and Misamis Occidental, one.

RDRRMC-10 also recorded five injured and two missing persons.

The initial estimate of damaged houses reached PHP2.1 million, damage to infrastructures PHP20.8 million, and damage to agriculture PHP63.7 million.

Department of Agriculture-10 (DA-10) will provide PHP5,000 in financial assistance to rice farmers in February, to be sourced from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.

“We will (also) be distributing the fertilizer discount vouchers for the whole region, which total around PHP192 million. And for the RFFA (Rice Farmers Financial Assistance), we have PHP96 million to be disbursed and the funds are already deposited with the DBP (Development Bank of the Philippines) account,” DA-10 executive director Carlene Collado said during the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Jan. 11.

Marcos directed the Department of Public Works and Highways to review flood control measures.

Gratitude

Heavily affected Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental experienced a repeat of nature’s wrath that submerged parts of the provinces on Christmas Eve last year.

Victims of the twin calamities were relieved to receive government aid.

“I am glad about the help extended to us, especially since we almost had nothing (salvaged from the flood),” Erminia Bernaldes said in the vernacular during the distribution of PHP5,000 in cash assistance and food packs in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, led by President Marcos.

Rolly Egoc of Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental, said his house in Barangay Talic was washed away on Dec. 26, 2022.

“We don’t have a house anymore, so we went to the barangay for refuge. I am now 55 years old and it is only now that I experienced this flood,” he said.

Given a chance to talk to the President, he said he would request assistance to rebuild his house. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Portion of Davao del Norte-Bukidnon highway collapses

Posted on by cmn

DAVAO CITY – Drivers of public utility vans, buses, cargo trucks, and multi-axle trucks bound for Bukidnon from Davao del Norte or bound for Davao del Norte from Bukidnon are advised to take the Davao City-Bukidnon route instead as a portion of the highway in San Fernando town in Bukidnon collapsed due to continuous heavy rains.

The travel advisory was issued last January 14 by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Davao region.

It said a portion of Talaingod (Davao Del Norte)-Valencia (Bukidnon) road, particularly in Sitio Balacayo in Barangay Kalagangan, “is currently one-lane passable to LIGHT VEHICLES only due to road collapse.”

“Motorists are advised to take necessary precautions while traveling due to the prevailing weather conditions,” it said.

In San Fernando, Bukidnon, the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) on its Facebook page said the DPWH in Bukidnon and the local government unit are working on the repair. The LDRRMO called on the public not to pass this way “kay dilikado pa gihapon” (because it is still dangerous).

Travel time between Davao del Norte and Bukidnon is shorter via this route compared with the Davao City to Bukidnon route. (MindaNews)

Army Reservist from Bukidnon wins Miss Star Continental International 2023 in Vietnam

Posted on by cmn

Ms. Meriam Campong, an Army Reservist from the small town of Kibawe in Bukidnon, Philippines, was crowned Miss Star Continental International 2023 on January 7th, 2023.

The pageant, held in Vietnam, saw 35 contestants from 20 countries vying for the crown.

Contestants competed in a series of challenges; including talent and formal wear competitions, as well as interviews with the judges.

Ms. Campong, who has been a reservist of the 1003rd Community Defense Center, 10th Regional Community Defense Group, Reserve Command, Philippine Army, was elated to be crowned, saying, “This experience has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I was surrounded by amazing contestants from all over the world, and to be chosen as the winner is truly an honor.”

Ms. Campong’s victory was especially meaningful as it marks the first time that a Philippine Army Reservist has ever won the title. Her win is being celebrated across the Philippines and beyond, as it is a testament to the strength and determination of those serving in the military.

Ms. Campong’s win is also a sign of hope for the future of the pageant world, as she hopes to use her newfound platform to inspire other young women to pursue their dreams, no matter their background or circumstance. (10th RCDG)

Pabillaran, Sangalang selected to adhere Health Leadership, Governance Program

Posted on by cmn

Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran with CHO Dr. Dennis Sangalang is one of the 12 LGUs in Northern Mindanao selected to participate in the Health Leadership and Governance Program. They attended the Virtual final selection on January 5, 2023.

Mayor Pabillaran presented the Health Profile of Malaybalay City to the DOH and UP Panelist. A ceremonial learning contract was signed by Mayor Pabillaran and CHO Dr. Sangalang during the activity.

The HLGP is a joint project of the Department of Health (DOH) and Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) with the UP College of Public Health as the academic partner.

The 18-month training program consists of three four-day modules and is anchored on the Bridging Leadership Framework with focus on developing practical leadership and management skills and Primary Health Care.

The purpose of the program is to have better health outcomes by improving local health systems.

The health outcomes referred to are lowering Infant Mortality Rates (IMR), Maternal Mortality Rates (MMR), Malnutrition Rates, and incidences of Communicable and Non-communicable Diseases by enhancing leadership and governance capabilities of local chief executives and local health officers. (PR)

Miss Barangay Tugaya crowned as Miss Valencia 2023

Posted on by Diego M. Hidalgo

Miss Barangay Tugaya, Mary Gwyneth Perez has been crowned as Miss Valencia 2023, besting other 18 contestants on the coronation night at Valencia City Gymnasium and Cultural Center, last January 9, 2023.

Based on the LGU’s Bulletin, Mary Gwyneth Perez is an editorial writer, and an honor student during her junior and senior high school years.

She also joined Miss Teen Valencia 2022 and won the third place.

She is expected to represent Valencia City for Laga Ta Bukidnon 2023.

The other candidates who made it to Miss Valencia 2023 Top 5 were: 1st runner up – Natasha Bajuyo, Miss Barangay Batangan; 2nd runner up – Fhamel Castillo Detomal, Miss Barangay Lourdes; 3rd runner up – Unica Carpentero Oro, Miss Barangay Lumbo; and 4th runner up – Kylla Clarece Gubat, Miss Barangay Mabuhay. (Diego M. Hidalgo)

AFP sees more rebel surrenderers in NorMin

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expressed confidence that more communist rebels will give up arms and surrender in Northern Mindanao in the coming weeks.

In a statement Thursday, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, Eastmincom commander, said the death of Jose Maria Sison, co-founder of Communist Party of the Philippines, has affected the morale of its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).

“With this situation, we expect more of their comrades to surface and lay down their arms,” Almerol said.

Almerol also called on remaining NPA combatants “to surrender without hesitation as the freedom and benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) are waiting upon their return.”

Almerol’s statement came after the surrender of eight NPA leaders on Jan. 3 in Lantapan and Pangantucan towns, Bukidnon.

The following day, the surrenderers led the government troops to the location of three arms caches in Barangay Tikalaan and Barangay Miarayon in Talakag, Bukidnon, resulting in the recovery of several firearms and medical supplies.

Meanwhile, the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office presented five former rebels who surrendered early this week.

“It was a good decision I surrendered, because I want my children to continue going to school,” a former rebel was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the police. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Bukidnon’s Jerusalem wins world boxing title in Japan

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY – The Philippines has a new boxing world title holder after Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon-born Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem knocked out reigning WBO Minimumweight champion Masataka Taniguchi last January 06, in Osaka, Japan.

Jerusalem, 28, knocked out the Japanese defender in the second round. The Filipino boxer now has won 20 of his 22 fights, with 11 knock outs.

According to inquirer.net, aside from his World Boxing Organization’s (WBO) minimum weight title, Jerusalem is No. 2 in the World Boxing Council (WBC), No. 3 in the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and No. 5 in the World Boxing Association (WBA).

His family in Manolo Fortich has celebrated his victory.

”Thank you Lord, our brother is now a world champion,” his brother Aljon said in a video posted on Youtube.

Bukidnon Vice Governor Clive D. Quińo also shared his joy on Jerusalem’s victory describing him as “the pride of Manolo Fortich”.

”In this time of difficult challenges to our country, your victory is a source of inspiration to all Filipinos,” he said in a post on social media on January 6, sharing it with Bukidnon Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque.

Jerusalem, who went to Manolo Fortich National High School, is promoted by Sanman Boxing and now resides in Cebu City.

”Nagmaya ang tibuok lalawigan sa Bukidnon ug nasud sa imong kadaugan (the whole province and nation rejoice in your victory),” Quińo, former mayor of Manolo Fortich, added. (BukidnonNews.Net)

 

Local-intended House bills from Buk reps focused on education, local govt, health

Posted on by cmn

MALAYBALAY CITY – In 2022, Bukidnon’s four members in the House of Representatives have filed 27 bills with local significance among 166 they have filed as principal authors.

Representatives Jose Manuel F. Alba (1st District), Jonathan Keith T. Flores (2nd District), Jose Ma. R. Zubiri, Jr (3rd District), and Laarni Lavin Roque (4th District), filed the “locally significant” bills, which covered a total of 11 themes, with the highest number of bills focused on education, local government, and health, among other themes, as shown by reports posted in the House official website as of January 4, 2022.

Education

There were six locally significant bills filed for each of education and local government, including the proposal to create a south schools division of the Department of Education, filed by Rep. Zubiri on September 19, 2022. The bill was referred and remains pending in the Committee on Basic Education and Culture as of September 21. Rep. Roque also co-authored the bill.

Based on the bill, a new DepEd schools’ division is proposed to spin-off from the mother Division of Bukidnon. The proposed new division, to be based in Maramag Bukidnon, will house the 10 schools districts belonging to the towns under Bukidnon’s third and fourth legislative districts. Each of Bukidnon’s two cities already has separate DepEd schools divisions.

Rep. Zubiri also filed a bill proposing the conversion of the satellite campuses of Bukidnon State University in 12 Bukidnon towns into regular campuses of BukSU. The campuses are located in Talakag, Baungon, Libona, Malitbog, Impasug-ong, Cabanglasan, San Fernando, Quezon, Kitaotao, Damulog, Kadingilan, and Kalilangan. The House approved the bill on Nov. 28 and has been transmitted to the Senate as of Nov. 29, 2022.

Zuburi also filed bills proposing to establish a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority training and accreditation center each in Kibawe and Don Carlos, Bukidnon. Both bills are pending at the committee level as of December 5, 2022.

Local Government

In local government, Rep. Alba also filed on July 27, 2022 a bill proposing to convert the Municipality of Manolo Fortich into a component city. The bill is pending in the Committee on Local Government as of August 3, 2022.

Rep. Flores also filed a bill declaring Sept. 1 every year as “Araw ng Bukidnon” as a special non-working Holiday in Bukidnon. The House approved the bill in November 2022 and transmitted it to the Senate.

Rep. Roque has filed a bill on July 13, 2022 proposing to re-district Bukidnon’s current four legislative districts to five legislative districts. Rep. Zubiri also filed a bill on November 9, 2022 proposing to reapportion the Province of Bukidnon into five regular districts.

Rep. Roque has also filed a bill on June 30, 2022 proposing to subdivide Valencia City’s lone Poblacion Barangay into four distinct and separate barangays. The current Barangay Poblacion has a population of 35, 793 as of the 2015 census. Roque has also proposed to create a new barangay from the current Brgy. Banlag.

Health

In health, House representatives proposed the creation of new medical facilities or conversion of existing ones to higher capacity.

Rep. Zubiri filed two bills proposing to establish a National Kidney and Transplant Institute and an oxygen production facility, also in Maramag.

Rep. Flores also filed on September 5, 2022 a bill converting the Bukidnon Provincial Medical Center in Malaybalay City into Bukidnon Regional Hospital from 150-bed to 300-bed capacity.

Rep. Roque also filed a bill in August 22, 2022 proposing to establish a specialty research hospital in Valencia City to be called Teodoro N. Pepito Farmers Research and Medical Center, later amended as “Bukidnon Farmers Research and Medical Center”. She noted in her bill that the city and neighboring towns in the 4th District needed a government hospital to attend to the health needs of the population.

Tourism

Rep. Roque also filed three other bills focused on tourism, including the proposal to declare Lake Apo in Brgy. Guinoyoran, Sagumata Falls in Brgy. Lourdes, and Mount Anahawon in Brgy. Banlag as eco-tourism zones to encourage the responsible and sustainable use as well as for the preservation and conservation of natural resources.

Justice

Another bill from Rep. Flores also proposed the creation of an additional branch of the Municipal Trial Court (MCTC) in Cities to be stationed in Malaybalay City.

Rep. Zubiri also filed a bill proposing to create an additional branch of the Regional Trial Court (RTC)-10 in the Municipality of Maramag.

He also filed a bill proposing to create three additional branches of the Regional Trial Court to be stationed in Valencia City. This bill, HB 06586, filed on December 12, 2022, has substituted an earlier version, HB 00477, which was originally filed by Rep. Roque on June 30, 2022. According to the latter’s House web page, HB 06586 substituted HB 00477 with the mother bill “pending with (the Committee on) Rules”.

Public Works and others

Rep. Roque also proposed in two separate bills the creation of a fourth district engineering office and renumbering the DPWH engineering districts corresponding to the number of the legislative districts.

Rep. Roque also filed separate bills proposing to establish a rehabilitation center for child and youth with special needs and indigenous training center in Valencia City.

Most of the bills filed were reported to be pending in the committee level as of January 4, 2023.

Sponsorship and committee alignment

Rep. Flores filed 37 bills as principal author and 23 bills as co-author. He is the only representative from Bukidnon who chairs a committee, the Committee of Government Re-organization and sits as vice chair of three committees; housing and urban development, justice, and suffrage and electoral reforms. He is also a member of 13 other House committees.

Former Bukidnon Governor Zubiri, who reprises his role as representative of Bukidnon’s third district, has filed a total of 55 bills where he is the principal author and six others as co-author. He is vice chair of the committees of appropriations, poverty alleviation, and indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples. He is also a member of seven other House committees.

Rep. Roque filed 62 bills as principal author and four others as co-author. She is vice chair of the committee on Persons with Disability, member to eight other committees, and as Asst. Majority Leader in the Committee on Rules.

Rep. Alba filed as principal sponsor a total of 12 bills and co-authored three others. He has been assigned to be Vice Chair of the Committee on Sustainable Development Goals and as member of five other committees. (BukidnonNews.Net)