Coalition blesses headquarters

By Judys G. Cogo

Pagadian City (Philippines)—The Liberal Party-Nationalist Party Coalition blessed its headquarters last December 22 in this city and followed the 

Christmas Bonanza at the City Commercial Center that same day.

 Dominador "Jun"Jalosjos who speech on Stage 

Estimated more than twenty thousand people who witnessed the blessing which is attended by leaders of the different municipalities in Zamboanga del Sur.

A 2013 election candidate for Governor Dominador “Jun” Jalosjos which one of the guests gave his message but leave immediately due to threat of arrest by member of the Philippine National Police.

Dominador Jalosjos in his massage he expressed sympathy over the support of the people of Zamboanga del the Sur to his candidacy.

He said he is willing to die for the sake of the people of Zamboanga del Sur.

Cayetano pushes for immediate passage of FOI bill – an empowerment tool to make every Filipino a graft buster

 “The Best Christmas gift we can give to Filipinos is the passage of the FOI!”

Senate minority leader Alan Peter Cayetano called on the government to enact the Freedom of Information (FOI) in order to help President Aquino curb graft and corruption in the country.

He made the appeal in his sponsorship speech for Senate Bill 3208 last Tuesday.

He said the FOI would help remove the power of government information from a few and give it to the public and help eliminating monopolies in the market, anomalies in the construction of infrastructure, and other similar activities that take away the ordinary Filipino’s ability to earn his living.

LP-NP to inaugurates headquarter tomorrow

Alimarlou Dagpin, chief of staff during the interview

By Judys Cogo

ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, MINDANAO (Philippines) — The Liberal Party-Nacionalista Party coalition will inaugurates its headquarters tomorrow December 22 at the City Commercial Center in Pagadian City.

The occasion is followed by a Christmas Bonanza to be participated by twenty six leaders from the 26 towns in this province.

Philippines: ICRC scales up effort to help typhoon victims

Davao Region looks like a dead city after was hit by 

Typhoon "Pablo" (Photo provided)

Geneva/Manila (ICRC) – Typhoon Bopha (locally known as Pablo) has destroyed more than 90% of the infrastructure in the eastern half of the southern Philippines, with severe consequences for over a hundred thousand people. More than 900 deaths have already been confirmed. In response, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), together with the Philippine Red Cross, is scaling up its operations on the ground. To meet the most critical needs of some 200,000 people, the ICRC is launching a preliminary appeal for P433 million (10 million Swiss francs).

GSIS grants emergency loan to members hit by ‘Pablo’ in Visayas and Mindanao

MANILA, December 10 - The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has announced the grant of emergency loan for more than 345,000 GSIS members in Visayas and Mindanao who were adversely affected by typhoon Pablo.

Emergency loan will be made available to GSIS members living or working  in  the following areas in Mindanao and Visayas:  Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Zamboanga del Norte, Camiguin, Surigao del Norte, Siargao, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Province, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Samal Island, Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental, North Cotabato, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Maguindanao, Bohol, Siquijor, Southern Cebu, Southern Negros Oriental, Southern Negros Occidental, Southern Leyte, Antique, Iloilo, Camotes Island.

2 NPA Bandits killed, 1 Wounded in Zamboanga del Norte clash

By KIT KAIMO

DIPOLOG, ZANORTE –  Two still unidentified NPA bandits were killed and another wounded in a clash with the Tabak troopers on security patrol in Sitio Napolan, Brgy.Tinuyop, Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte Wednesday about 3:00 p.m.  December 5. The clash also resulted the recovery of one assault rifle (M16) from the bandits’ side and one trooper wounded on the government side.

10^th Infantry Battalion (10^th IB) Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Taharudin P. Ampatuan said that his troops went to the area to respond reports from residents who were victims (requested not to be identified) of NPA extortion activities in the area about the presence of the said bandits once again conducting the same among the residents. “These bandits belong to the extortion unit of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC)” Lt. Col. Ampatuan said.

Urban poor ask space for settlements, calls for passage of the National Land Use Act

By Angelica Katheryn Carballo

0915-9260371/akcarballo@gmail.com

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - In a forum held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Makati City, urban poor groups demand that sufficient space be allocated for their settlement, and that they should be included in long term land use and development plans of the government.

Representatives from Urban Land Reform Movement, Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Samahan sa Kanayunan, and other affiliated urban poor groups attended the forum entitled “Planning for Urban Settlements and Development - Will there be SPACE for the Urban Poor through the National Land Use Act?”

Joining them is Nathaniel von Einsiedel, EnP, urban planner and president of Consultants for Comprehensive Environmental Planning, Inc. who talked about the current situation and probable solution to the problematic set-up of urban settlements.

No Casualty in two Lanao Provinces brought by Typhoon Pablo

By JONG CADION

KUTA SANG-AN, LABANGAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR – At least 6,052 families in the 11 municipalities of Lanao del Norte were affected by the typhoon Pablo brought about by the continues rainfall with strong winds since Tuesday noon December 4. Some of the villagers suffered in the 2 feet high water which forced them to proceed to designated shelters (School Buildings and Gymnasiums) while others just stayed at their houses.

According to the Provincial Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) of Lanao del Norte, more or less 200 families within the province are still at their respective shelters as of this afternoon but will return to their homes later.

Disaster Rescue and Relief Operations (DRRO) teams under the 2^nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade joined with the teams from the Provincial DRRMC as well as to the teams at the municipal level in the preparation, evacuation, and rescue & relief operations to the affected families in the province. As of this report no reported casualties due to typhoon Pablo.  

Improvised Bomb killed Soldier, one hurt

BASILAN  -  An improvised bomb exploded along the circumferential road in Brgy.Cabangalan, Ungkaya, Pukan, Basilan Province Monday morning wounding two soldiers belonging to the 3^rd Scout Ranger Company who were on security patrol in the area. Casualties were given immediate first aid by the unit’s medical team however Cpl. Mark Dandin M. Gomez later died while Pfc John S. Garde was rushed to Camp Navarro, General Hospital in Zamboanga City thru Philippine Air Force Helicopter.

DENR-9 Observes the Global Warming and Climate Consciousness Week

DENR-IX RED Arleigh J. Adorable

deliver his message during the

special convocation program on

Climate Change Consciousness

Week. (Photo provided)

PAGADIAN CITY  - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 9 headed by Regional Executive Director Arleigh J. Adorable supports the observance of the Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness (CCC) Week from November 15-19, 2012 through the conduct of relevant activities focusing on the theme:” Climate Change Pilipinas:  Naghahanda sa Pagbabago Ng Klima”.
This weeklong event is in compliance with the Memorandum Circular No. 35 signed on 14 August 2012 by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr., authorized by President Benigno C. Aquino III pursuant to Proclamation No. 1776 series of 2008.

DILG-CODE-NGO partners in improving governance in LGUs

Citizen participation is key to government’s Bottom-Up Budgeting program - Roxas

By Angelica Katheryn Carballo

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas III announced on Wednesday that the promise of the President Benigno ‘Noynoy” Aquino III of a more transparent and participative government will be realized through the Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) process that is already being implemented in pilot  municipalities in the Philippines.

Speaking in front of around 250 non-government organizations during the 5^th Congress and 20^th year anniversary of the Caucus of Development NGO Networks (CODE NGO) held at the Ateneo de Manila University, Roxas said that citizen-government partnership should be encouraged through constructive engagement.

Israel and the occupied territory: ICRC concerned about plight of civilians

The ICRC is concerned about the rise in the number of civilians killed or injured by hostilities in Gaza and Israel. “In recent days, intense fighting has had serious consequences for civilians in both the Gaza Strip and Israel,” said Juan-Pedro Schaerer, who heads the ICRC delegation in Israel and the occupied territories.

According to reports, hundreds of rockets have been launched from the Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties among Israeli civilians and the destruction of property.

Attempt to Rob Bank foiled, Suspect killed

By Jong Cadion

The Scene of Crime Operatives (SOCO)

found out lone guns shot wound at the

head of one of the two suspects identified

as Guilbert Macaranas who was lying at the

right side of the exit gate near the guard

house of PNB after he was accidentally hit

by the bullet of caliber 45 pistol from his

companion. (Photo by JONG CADION)

PAGADIAN CITY – One of the two suspects was killed after their plan to rob the Philippine National Bank (PNB) Rizal Ave. Balangasan Branch was foiled after the security guard was able to defend himself during the attack at about 6:00 o’clock early evening, November 4, 2012.

In the initial police investigation said, it was brown out that time when a certain Guilbert Macaranas, a former security guard and armored van driver of PNB asked permission to the security guard on duty identified as Joel Buhian to enter the premises of the guard house but the first request was not granted, after insisted several times the later was granted because they were also friends.

Four Criminals Surrendered with their Four High Powered Firearms

By JONG CDION

MALABANG, LANAO DEL SUR – The 4 suspects who were responsible for killing Subuh Adulharim, Brgy Chairman of Lumbac, Bayang, Lanao del Sur on October 31, 2012 in the morning at Brgy Bago-ingud, Bayang, Lanao del Sur peacefully surrendered to the composite elements of Alfa Coy of the 51^st IB led by 1LT Emil Charlie B. Jaudian and PNP of Bayang led by P/Insp Balido at about 9:30 in the evening on the same day.

3 DEAD IN BUS-MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY

By ELY DUMABOC

PAGADIAN CITY – A Motorcycle driver and his two back rider passengers were died after colliding with Mindanao Rural Transit Bus (MRT Aircon) along the intersection of national highway of Brgy. Kauswagan in Diplahan town Zamboanga Sibugay. 

PA Torch Poultry Farm for Extortion

CPT ALBERTO C CABER (INF) PA                  October 26, 2012

Chief, DPAO

0917-7210-049                                     

           Kuta Sang-an – Armed NPA extortion unit of the Mindanao Regional Party Committee razed two poultry farm buildings in Brgy. Dalaon, Molave, Zamboanga del Sur Friday at 12:30 a.m. Said farm is  owned by Mr. Onyx Go.

According to one farm contract grower Mr. Vicente Capuno, seven armed rebels, with an amazon wearing a bonnet, entered the compound at about midnight last night, frisked the workers and collected their cellular phones while other armed men poured gasoline on the buildings. Thirty minutes later, the said buildings were ablaze. The extortionists fled away after the incident.  

Army Truck Losses Control, 5 Soldiers Injured

(Provided Photo )

CPT ALBERTO C CABER (INF) PA                  October 26, 2012

  Chief, DPAO 0917-7210-049

Kuta Sang-an – At least five soldiers were seriously injured when their KM-450 troop carrier went wayward in Brgy Malo-ong San Jose, Lamitan, Basilan while heading for the Headquarters of the 104^th Infantry Brigade in Brgy. Tabiawan, Isabela City Friday noon time.

The said soldiers were about to show up for the Brigade’s anniversary. However, the truck initially went into a transmission failure locking its gears and sending it to turn full circle causing the soldiers inside to fell to the road pavement.

Co files COC for congressional bid

Judys Cogo

City Mayor Samuel Co last October 5 filed his certificate of candidacy with the Commission on Elections and formalized his bid for 1st district representative in Zamboanga del

Mayor Samy Co, with First Lady Ilang ilang show his COC.
(Photo by Judys G. Cogo)

Co, his last term as mayor of Pagadian City, is seeking his bid for a congressional seat for the 16th Congress of the Philippines next year.

He had said he is seeking seat in Congress to continue the implementation of projects (he has started in the city) that focus on education, peace and order, health care and infrastructure.

Program for peace and order, improved medical and other social services, and infrastructure are importance to economic growth, he had said.

Dinas LP-NP-APP Official Candidate

BY JUDYS G. COGO

(from left) VM candidate  Marilou Vidad and incumbent Mayor  

Basilio Vidad of Dinas showing their COC. (Photo by Judys G. 
Cogo)

The Mayor Basilio “Eking” Vidad is very much confident to win the coming election on May 2013 after he files his Certificate of Candidacy together with his group in the Sangguniang Bayan on October 4, 2012 under the line-up Dominador "Jun" Jalosjos for Governor.

These are the line up under Mayor Eking Vidad, for vice Marilou “Bebie” Vidad Abrenica, councilor Melvin “Tata” Calaor Alicos, Camaroden “Ukol” Salicula Maulana, Jamil “Jay” Maulana Andi, Mosnain “Mo” Engcang Diwa, Sumandag “Sit” Salinding Mangual, Henry “Dodong” Caliso Magsayo, Diosdado “Eddie” Rosios Alota, Casan “San” Donde Ambol.

Lugus Town Mayor pushes Development

By Judys Gano Cogo

Mayor Al-Zhudurie "Den"Asmandun

SULU—Mayor Al-Zhudurie “Den” Asmadun of Lugus town, this province pushed livelihood program on fishing, agal-agal (seaweed) and coconut farming for a sustainable income of the residents.

The mayor disclosed this statement before reporters from Zamboanga City and Pagadian City who visited the place last July 10.

Strength from God

By Judys G. Cogo

IN PSALM 28:7, the Bible says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my hearts trust in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy. And I will give thanks to Him in song.”

January 2012 God give me first trials to face the situation that never happen in my entire life, arguing someone for my right, with the help of our Almighty God who love me and save me from the bandage of the sin, everything is fine.

Destroying Credibility

By Judys Cogo

PSALM 37:3-9, said “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the down, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. 

Do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked scheme. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret-it leads only to evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the Land.”        

Europian to grant P312M for IDPs livelihood in Mindanao

QUEZON CITY - The European Union is providing P312 million to boost the livelihood recovery of some 50,000 families or 300,000 persons displaced by past conflicts in Central Mindanao.

In a statement, Thelma Gecolea, EU Delegation to the Philippines, said that the grant is under the project dubbed "Enhancing the Resilience of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Central Mindanao by Strengthening Livelihoods."

House members and CSO Coalition call on Senate to pass the Land Use Act

By Angelica Carballo 
Mobile: 0927 2877 264
email:  akcarballo@gmail.com

Senate Committee on Agrarian Reform chairman Senator

Gringo Honasan showed his support for the passage of the

National Land Use Bill when he attended the High-level

Discussions on Land Use and its Impact on Food Security,

Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction

last October 18, 2012 at the Mandarin Hotel in Makati City.

The event was organized by Campaign for Land Use Policy

Now! (CLUP Now!), a group of people's organizations (POs)

 and non-government organizations (NGOs) who push for

the passage of the National Land Use Bill. (By Angelica

Carballo)

MANILA - The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations will be frustrated again on their campaign if the author of National Land Use Bill still fails to submit some recommendations from High-level Discussion today; they need to wait for another series of meetings for additional inputs so that the senate can come up in their final version.

“This is the mother of all plans that cuts across landscapes and generations. We need to pass this Bill NOW as our legacy to our children and children's children.”

ICRC assists families displaced by clashes in Maguindanao

A SSISTING THE DISPLACED IN MAGUINDANAO.

At a madrasah in Ampatuan municipality,

families displaced by recent fighting in Central

Mindanao receive cooking, hygiene and shelter

items as part of ICRC's emergency humanitarian

response. The ICRC, a neutral and impartial

organization that assists victims of armed conflict,

reached 468 affected families in four evacuation

sites in Maguindanaoon Aug. 15. (Photo credit: E.

Birraux / ICRC)

Manila (ICRC)–Nearly 2,200 people who fled areas affected by the recent hostilities in Central Mindanao today received essential household items as part of the emergency response from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The ICRC, together with the Philippine Red Cross, distributed cooking sets, hygiene kits and shelter items to four evacuation centres in Ampatuan municipality, which was affected by the fighting beginning last week.

"During our assessment on the ground over the last few days, it was clear that although these families were in evacuation centres, they still faced difficulties to cover themselves from the rainy weather. When they fled, these families left behind most of their possessions and are still unable to return home, fearful of the insecurity," said Christoph Polajner, head of ICRC’s office in Cotabato City.

Can LAND USE PLANNING really help achieve food security and climate change adaptation?

MAKATI CITY – The High Level Discussion on National Land Use and Its Impact on Food Security, Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change will be scheduled on Thursady October 18, 2012 at 9:00am-12:00nn in Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Makati City.

Can LAND USE PLANNING really help achieve food security and climate change adaptation? These are one of the possible questions to be discussed tomorrow with Senator Gringo Honasan, Chairman, Senate Committee on Agrarian Reform.