Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Bukidnon approves historic IP Code to protect rights, promote cultural growth

MALAYBALAY CITY (July 15, 2024/PIA) — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved the Bukidnon Indigenous Peoples (IP) Code on its third and final reading on July 2

The provincial legislators carefully examined the provisions, weighing the potential impacts on the province’s seven tribes and considering various perspectives.

Their rigorous discussions and debates during the first and second readings ensured that the ordinance aligned with constitutional rights, resulting in a consensus emphasizing the importance of protecting and fostering the cultural development of Bukidnon IP communities.

Championed by Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) lawyer Arbie Llesis, the ordinance aims to protect and foster the cultural development of the seven tribes by establishing mechanisms to preserve their traditions.

“The newly approved ordinance focuses on empowering IPs in the province through several key elements: First, it grants rightful ownership and control of ancestral domains, recognizing their deep connection to the land. Second, it promotes social justice by ensuring equitable treatment and opportunities for these communities. Third, it preserves cultural heritage by protecting languages, traditions, and customs essential to their identity. Lastly, it safeguards IP rights, ensuring they are respected and upheld across all aspects of society,” he said.

Officially known as Ordinance No. 052-2024, or An Ordinance Providing for the Comprehensive Indigenous Welfare and Development Code in the Province of Bukidnon, it represents an advancement in aligning local governance with the mandates of the United Nations, the Philippine Constitution, and national laws concerning IPs.

Llesis clarified that the ordinance aims to create an inclusive environment by honoring IP traditions, empowering them to shape their future, recognizing their vital role, and ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive.

“The IP Code addresses historical exclusion faced by Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing their land rights and culture preservation while promoting self-determination. It supports development programs and ensures Indigenous communities have access to government resources,” he added.

Former IPMR Richard Dinlayan Macas emphasized the importance of the IP Code, aligning it with the tribes’ aspirations.

“It embodies the dreams of our ancestors, who yearned for recognition of their rights. We are all thankful for its approval as we collectively work towards the province’s progress,” Macas said.

Datu Migketay Victorino Saway, chair of the provincial tribal council, underscored the code’s broader implications.

“The IP Code strengthens our commitment to peace and order, promoting IP recognition and cultural identity. As a community, standing together to support the IP Code uplifts not only Indigenous Peoples but the entire province of Bukidnon,” he said. (Jessa M. Cleopas/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

DOLE-Bukidnon updates over 300 entrepreneurs on labor laws

MALAYBALAY CITY (May 27, 2024/PIA) – To stay informed about the most recent labor laws, more than 300 small business owners in Malaybalay City participated in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Bukidnon’s TAV (Technical and Advisory Visit) program on May 17

The labor department conducted a series of TAVs to assist small business owners with self-evaluation and compliance with documentary requirements.

These sessions provided valuable insights and guidance, offering a platform for business owners to voice their concerns and engage in face-to-face discussions with DOLE representatives.

Key topics included statutory monetary benefits, types of leave, social welfare, and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programs.

Video presentations explained various aspects of labor laws, such as the General Labor Standards and the TAV Action Plan.

Ma. Elna Seguiro, a senior DOLE-Bukidnon labor officer, emphasized that the TAVs align with DOLE’s new developmental approach outlined in Department Order No. 238. This approach underscores the enforcement of labor standards mandated by the Philippine Labor Code and Republic Act No. 11058.

“The TAVs mark an impactful step towards engaging with a wider range of establishments, from small businesses to larger companies, fostering a culture of compliance, and promoting fair and ethical labor practices,” Seguiro said.

Niña Cosmod, a supervisor at Biaños Pizza Bukidnon, expressed her gratitude for the initiative.

“We thanked DOLE for conducting this TAV orientation. It allowed us to review what is lacking in our establishment that we must comply with and follow,” she said.

Through these initiatives, DOLE-Bukidnon prioritizes workers’ safety and fair treatment by supporting local industries and ensuring their adherence to labor laws, benefiting both workers and businesses.

“The TAVs go beyond educating business owners. It encourages implementing best practices that create a win-win situation for employees and employers, ultimately enhancing Malaybalay’s overall labor landscape,” Seguiro explained. (BGEpan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

Focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis administered in Barangay St. Peter

MALAYBALAY CITY (May 22, 2024) – The City Health Office (CHO) conducted focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter, a non-schisto-endemic area

This demonstrates a commitment to preventive healthcare and addressing potential health risks before they become significant problems.

By conducting such interventions, they’re not only protecting the health of individuals in Barangay St. Peter but also working towards preventing the spread of schistosomiasis to other areas.

Individuals aged 5 to 65 years old were administered a single dose of Praziquantel (40mg/kg) on a full stomach.

This intervention followed Malacological and Parasitological surveys by the City Health Office, which identified the presence of schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter.

During the malacological survey, the snail Oncomelania quadrasi, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, was found.

In a subsequent parasitological survey, 100 stool samples were examined using the Katokatz method, revealing that less than 1 percent were positive for schistosomiasis and soil- transmitted helminthiasis in the place.

In response, the Department of Health Center for Health and Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) provided Praziquantel, the preferred drug for treating schistosomiasis.

Following health advisories, a mass treatment approach was adopted, providing prophylactic treatment to the entire eligible population, regardless of infection status.

By treating everyone within the eligible age range, the intervention aims to prevent new infections and reduce the overall burden of the disease in the community. (CHO-NADA/melbmadera)

LANDBANK opens first offsite ATM and CDM Center in Mindanao

DAMULOG, Bukidnon, Feb. 26 (PIA)— The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) recently launched in Damulog, Bukidnon, its first-ever offsite Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and Cash Deposit Machine (CDM) Center in Mindanao.

LANDBANK Don Carlos Branch Head Grace C. De Leon and Damulog town Mayor Melino L. Buro led the official inaugural ceremony of the said banking facility that will cater to communities in the southern part of Bukidnon and North Cotabato areas, as well as other municipalities under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“This ATM and CDM Center aims to further strengthen LANDBANK’s presence in the unbanked and underserved municipalities by offering access to innovative and convenient banking services,” De Leon said.

She said the ATM and CDM Center was established through the local government unit (LGU) support, which constructed the building that houses the terminals and granted free use of space and utility provision for the next 20 years.

As of 15 February 2021, LANDBANK has a total of 2,316 ATMs and 168 CDMs nationwide.

For more updates, please Follow, Like, and Share the official LANDBANK Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube accounts (@landbankofficial), Twitter (@LBP_Official), and join our Viber community (@LANDBANK), or visit the LANDBANK website www.landbank.com. (LBP/PIA Bukidnon).