Women celebrate Eid al-Fitr

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – Women prepare to offer prayers outside the municipal hall Monday, July 28, on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Yellow Bus plans Gensan–MAKIMA route again

KIAMBA, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – A courtesy call to Mayor Raul Martinez (right) together with Councilor Edwin Alonzo (2nd from right), Committee on Transportation chair, is made by Yellow Bus Line Inc. operations staff Monday, July 28, before having a public hearing at Sangguniang Bayan Office. YBL plans to reopen its Gensan–MAKIMA (Maasim-Kiamba-Maitum) route after a decade of surrendering its franchise to LTFRB. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Police holds anti-illegal drugs drive in school

KIAMBA, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – PO1 Mae Pearl Apolinar, PNCO- Crime Incident Reporting System (CIRS) of Kiamba Municipal Police Office, informs students of Kiamba National High School the negative effects of using illegal drugs during the Drug Abuse Resistance Education forum Monday, July 28. The police supports the program of Mayor Raul Martinez in eliminating illegal drug pushers and users in the municipality. Mayor Martinez was also given a certificate of appreciation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for his full support to the anti-illegal drugs campaign. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Eid al-Fitr prayers in Maitum

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – Muslims offer prayers in front of the municipal hall Monday, July 28, on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE

Board Member Martinez thanks JLC National Trade School

KIAMBA, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – Board Member Cornelio Martinez, Jr. confers gratitude to the teachers and students of James L. Chiongbian (JLC) National Trade School for successfully implementing the project that he gave to the institution. Board Member Martinez also thanked his brother Mayor Raul Martinez for the building construction of JLC National Trade School salon located at Lourdes Park in poblacion Kiamba. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Parent volunteers for Brigada Eskwela

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) - Alma Billones, a parent from Perrett Central Elementary School in Barangay Kalaong, lends her time beautifying the school in preparation for the validation day on July 30 for the Brigada Eskwela national competition. Perrett Central Elementary School is one of the national finalists as regional entry in Brigada Eskwela 2014 under the small school category of the Department of Education, representing the only entry from Sarangani Province. This entry to the national level manifests the collaborative efforts and full support of the parents, teachers, students, local officials and private sector to bring and ensure the future of the children, better classrooms and quality education. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon and the rest of the provincial officials thru the Sulong Karunungan component of the Sulong Sarangani flagship program have extended assistance to the school.  (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

National Brigada Eskwela finalist from Maitum

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 31, 2014) – The Perrett Central Elementary School in Barangay Kalaong is one of the national finalists as regional entry in Brigada Eskwela 2014 under the small school category of the Department of Education, representing the only entry from Sarangani Province. This entry to the national level manifests the collaborative efforts and full support of the parents, teachers, students, local officials and private sector to bring and ensure the future of the children, better classrooms and quality education. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon and the rest of the provincial officials thru the Sulong Karunungan component of the Sulong Sarangani flagship program have extended assistance to the school. During the Brigada Eskwela last May, Capitol officials and employees were deployed at the different schools in the province to help the parents and teachers fix the classrooms before the start of classes. Inset, teachers of Perrett Central Elementary School do their cleaning during the pre-judging day. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Free paragliding ride winners

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (July 31, 2014) – Fly for free! Ten (10) registrants during the press conference of the first-ever International Paragliding Accuracy Championship (IPAC) 2014 won free paragliding ride tickets Sunday, July 27. Together with the lucky winners are Nelly Dillera, regional director of the Department of Tourism Region 12; Ian Mar Tan, chairman of Sarangani Paragliding Club; Buko Raymundo, president of Air Sports Adventure Philippines and some members. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Basics of paragliding

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (July 31, 2014) – Ian Mar Tan (left), president of Sarangani Paragliding Club (SPC), shows the basic paragliding techniques Sunday, July 27, during the press conference of the first-ever International Paragliding Accuracy Championship (IPAC) 2014 to be held at the paragliding site in Siguel, Barangay Tinoto, Maasim on August 22-24. IPAC was organized by the Air Sports Adventure Philippines headed by Buko Raymundo, in cooperation with the Sarangani Bay Paragliding Club, supported by the Department of Tourism Region 12, Provincial Government of Sarangani and Gensan City Government. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

All set for International Paragliding Accuracy Championship

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (July 31, 2014) – Sarangani Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon shares insights during the press conference on Sunday, July 27, at SM City Gensan for the first-ever International Paragliding Accuracy Championship (IPAC) 2014 to be held at the paragliding site in Siguel, Barangay Tinoto, Maasim on August 22-24. Gov. Solon, as one of the sponsors, gave away free passes for the early registrants to witness the event. Ten participants will experience flying for free during the competition. Pilots from more than 11 countries are expected to join the competition. IPAC was organized by the Air Sports Adventure Philippines headed by Buko Raymundo, in cooperation with the Sarangani Bay Paragliding Club, supported by the Department of Tourism Region 12, Provincial Government of Sarangani and Gensan City Government. For Gov. Solon, this will be a great chance to promote Sarangani to other countries. In extreme right is Maasim Mayor Jojo Lopez. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

School execs sign MOA

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 26, 2014) - Left to right: Dr. Tanedo, Sarah Edralin, Romarico Tanedo, Florlie Mallare, Dr. Donna Panes-ASDS, Mayor Pepito Catimbang and Mario Donio with Jimmy Guiang and Barangay Captain Pedro Rocapor (at the back) during the MOA-signing for Senior High School Early implementation cum Launching  DREAM Program (School in a garden Developing Realistic Environment Agripreneurial Malalag) and Nutrition Month Culmination Friday, July 25. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

DREAM launched in Maitum

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 26, 2014) - Dr. Donna Panes, assistant schools division superintendent, gives her message during the MOA-signing for Senior High School Early implementation between Malalag National High School and Edenton Mission College, Inc. and launching of DREAM Program (School in a garden Developing Realistic Environment Agripreneurial Malalag) cum Nutrition Month culmination and GPTA/HPTA Induction Friday, July 25. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Agreement to lessen school expenses

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 26, 2014) – Mayor Pepito Catimbang expresses his appreciation to the parties involved saying this will be a big help to the parents to lessen their expenses with the MOA-signing for Senior High School Early implementation cum Launching of DREAM Program (School in a garden Developing Realistic Environment Agripreneurial Malalag) Friday, July 25. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Vice Governor’s Office equips coop with financial management skills

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 25, 2014) – Members and officers of Women In Development of Sarangani (WINDS) fish processing cooperative apply  the strategies of the books of account such as planning, budgeting, recording and preparation during the workshop in Gal E’ Libun: Financial Management and Documentation Training at Barangay Old Poblacion on July 22-23. Already on its third run, the training was facilitated by the Vice Governor’s Office. (Quenny D. Dandan/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

Sarangani Munato Festival gears up

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 25, 2014) – The Sarangani Tourism & Investment Promotion Center conducts the 1st Munato Festival 2014 preparatory meeting Thursday, July 24, with all the department heads of Sarangani Capitol for the conceptualization of the program and activities for the event. (Martin Fernando E. Bernad Jr./STIPC)

Sarangani hosts Pabuka in Muslim communities

GLAN, Sarangani (July 25, 2014)) - The provincial government of Sarangani, through the leadership of Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, organizes an Iftar (Pabuka) around Muslim communities of Sarangani in observance of the celebration of Ramadan, through the Sulong Sarangani program of Gov. Solon in partnership with Cong. Manny Pacquiao, Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao and the board members. The 6^th Grand Iftar was celebrated last week in Sarangani gymnasium in the presence of Sec. Yasmin Busran-Lao of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Pabuka sa matag munisipyo

GLAN, Sarangani (Hulyo 25, 2014)- Sa pagsaulog sa bulan sa Ramadan sa mga kaigsoonang Muslim sa Probinsya sa Sarangani, gimugna sa provincial government nga gipanguluhan ni Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon ang Iftar o pabuka sa matag munisipyo.  Ang pabuka o breaking of the fast matag alas 6 sa gabii ang malipayon kining ginaselebrar sa mga kaigsoonang Muslim diin salu-salo sila nga ginasaw-an ang panihapon.  Nakapahigayon nag pabuka sa munisipyo sa Maitum, Alabel, Malapatan og Glan, ang ubang munisipyo sa sunod nga mga adlaw.  Nalipay og dako ang pasasalamat sa katawhan kay gihatagan sila og importansya og pagtagad sa gobernador, pinaagi sa Sulong Sarangani program ni Governor Solon, kauban sila Congressman Manny Pacquiao, Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao, ug mga board members.(Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon takes part in Pabuka

GLAN, Sarangani (July 25, 2014) - Despite the bad weather, Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon reached out to the Muslim community in the far-flung barangay of Pangyan to take part with their Pabuka in observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Pabuka (Iftar) or breaking of the fast is celebrated every 6 o’clock in the evening where dinner is shared together. The provincial government of Sarangani gave out Pabuka to Muslim communities around Sarangani, through the Sulong Sarangani program of Gov. Solon in partnership with Cong. Manny Pacquiao, Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao and the board members. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Students pledge to remain pure until marriage

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 22, 2014) – During the True Love Waits seminar at Barangay Tamban on July 17, some  selected high school students of Tamban National High School pledge to remain sexually pure until marriage.(Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Students exchange commitment rings

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 22, 2014) - “Believing that true love waits, take this ring as a symbol of your commitment to sexual purity… until marriage,” third year students of Tamban National High School profess to each other during the True Love Waits Seminar at Barangay Tamban on July 17. The seminar is under the Gal E’ Libun Project of the Vice Governor’s Office. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Second round of “True Love Waits” seminar runs

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 22, 2014) - Thirty selected high school students listen as Bro. Junius Ramirez shares his insights during the True Love Waits – “Early Pregnancy Prevention for Youth” Seminar at Tamban National High School on July 17. The seminar, already the second of the 14 seminars to be conducted with selected poorest secondary schools in Sarangani, is initiated by the Office of Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao under its Gal E’ Libun Project. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Grade school pupils proudly declare “I am a Gender Sensitive Kid!”

GLAN, Sarangani (July 22, 2014) – With understanding and gratitude, about sixty four (64) students in Congan Elementary School declare “I am a Gender Sensitive Kid” during the Gal E’ Libun:  Kiddie Gender Sensitivity Training at Congan, Glan on July 18. The training was facilitated by the Vice Governor’s Office. (Quenny D.Dandan/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Grade 5 kids join Kiddie GST workshop

GLAN, Sarangani (July 22,2014) – About sixty four (64) Grade 5 pupils of Congan Elementary School participate in the workshop of identifying the gender differences between boy and girl during the Gal E’ Libun: Kiddie Gender Sensitivity Training on July 18. The training was facilitated by the Vice Governor’s Office. (Quenny D. Dandan/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Kalihim ng National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, pinuri si Gov. Solon

ALABEL, Sarangani (Hulyo 22, 2014) - Matagumpay muli ang pagsasagawa ng Sarangani Province ng ika-anim na taon ng Grand Iftar dinner nitong ika-18 ng Hulyo sa Provincial Capitol Gym.

Dumalo rito ang daan daang Muslim employees ng kapitolyo, religious at community leaders, Azatids, Imams, mga ka-partner sa pagpapalaganap ng kapayapaan, mga lider ng mga munisipyo, barangay, at maging ng mga panauhin mula sa iba’t ibang lugar kagaya ng kalapit na Syudad ng Heneral Santos.

Bago nagsimula ang Iftar o “breaking of fast,” sabay sabay munang nagdasal ang mananampalatayang Islam para ipagpasalamat ang mahalagang okasyon.

Napakinggan din ang mga mensahe mula sa mga taga tagapagsalita.  Naging makabuluhan ang mensahe ng keynote speaker na si National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Secretary Yasmin Busran-Lao.  Ayon sa kalihim, hindi kailangang magarbo ang paggunita ng Ramadhan.  Hindi ito panahon kung kailangan dapat maging enggrande ang ihahain sa hapag-kainan.  Sa halip, aniya, isaisip at isapuso ang tunay na diwa ng pag-aayuno.  Maliban sa pagdarasaI, dapat umanong maging tapat sa sarili sa mga nais baguhin sa sarili para sa kabutihan.  Pero ayon kay Lao, hindi lang tuwing panahon ng Ramadhan ito ginagawa kung hindi araw-araw.

Sa pagpapatuloy ng kanyang mensahe, binigyang diin ni Secretary Lao ang mga mabubuting ginagawa ngayon ng probinsya sa pamumuno ni Sarangani Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon. Hinahangaan niya ang direksyong nais tahakin ng gobernador na maging isang “God-centered” ang pag-unlad ng probinsya. 

Sabi pa ni Lao, hindi raw siya nagdalawang isip na tumugon sa imbitasyong maging tagapagsalita sa Grand Iftar ng probinsya dahil sa magaganda umano ang kanyang naririnig tungkol sa mga ginagawa ng gobernador.

“Bihira para sa isang lider na maging sensitibo sa mga pangangailangan ng magkakaibang pangkat ng tao sa isang lugar.  Ang inyo pong gobernador, ay nakikinig sa inyong mga pangangailangan at gumagawa ng mga hakbang sa pamamagitan ng mga proyektong tiyak na makatutulong sa mga komunidad,” ayon kay Lao.

Ang Sarangani ay may iba ibang lahi at tribung nakatira.  Sa mga naririnig umano ni Lao, mapa-Muslim man, Lumad o Kristiyano, ramdam umano ng mga tao na kaisa nila ang gobernador at kabilang sa kanilang pangkat.

Dahil napapanahon, inihalimbawa ang pagsuporta ni Gov. Solon sa Madaris Program ng buong probinsya.  Sa kasalukuyan, nasa tatlong libo at limang daang piso ang honorarium ng bawat madaris facilitator.  Nasa isang daan at dalawampu’t lima ang kanilang bilang.  Ang Madaris facilitators ang siya ring tawag sa Madrasah teachers.  Pero may hakbang na muli para madagdagan pa ang pondo para sa programa, na suportado nina Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao, Congressman Manny Pacquiao, kabilang na ang lahat ng board members ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Matatandaang sa unang pagkakataon din, nabuo ang Province of Sarangani Muslim Employees Association o PROGSARMEA para sa kapakanan ng mga empleyadong Muslim sa probinsya.  Nanumpa ang mga ito noong 2013.

Ngayon, nais ni Gov. Solon na maituloy naang pagbuo ng Azatids federation para mas maging matibay pa ang programa ng Madaris ang masustena ito. (Charito Ansagay/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Secretary Lao is Grand Iftar speaker

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 21, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon warmly welcomes the guest speaker, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Secretary Yasmin Busran-Lao, during the 6th Grand Iftar in Sarangani on July 18. Iftar means breaking of fast during the Holy Month of Ramadhan.  Sec. Lao is known for her advocacy and her valuable contribution to peace and development, good governance and gender rights.  The secretary praised Governor Solon for his support to the tri-people in Sarangani. She said that not all leaders are sensitive to the needs of his people especially where there are different tribes living. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sarangani conducts AEC Integration 2015 Caravan

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (July 21, 2014) - Department of Trade and Industry (DTI Sarangani) conducts Asian Economic Community Integration 2015 Caravan for public officials, private partners and the business sector of Sarangani at Sydney Hotel on July 16. The Asean Economic Community Integration by 2015 is conducting extensive information campaign to educate clientele and counterparts in Sarangani in appreciating the opportunities and potentials that will be brought about by the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) entered into by the Philippines. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

PROGSARMEA hosts Grand Iftar

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 21, 2014) – The Provincial Government of Sarangani Muslim Employees Association (PROGSARMEA) and Sulong Kapayaan or Kalinaw Sarangani program of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon host the 6th Grand Iftar with the theme “Discover the Treasures of Ramadhan” held at Capitol gymnasium Friday, July 18. The Grand Iftar was participated in by Muslims elders and Madaris facilitators and to observe the social value of fasting. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Officers of Sarangani Madaris Federation and PTA installed

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 21, 2014) – Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon facilitates the oathtaking of the officers of Sarangani Madaris Federation and Parents-Teachers Association from each municipality during the 6th Grand Iftar on July 18. They pledged to be part of the development of the Muslim community in Sarangani as well as the Madaris program. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Governor Solon joins 6th Grand Iftar dinner

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 21, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon acknowledges Muslim elders during the 6th Grand Iftar dinner held at Capitol gymnasium Friday, July 18. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gov. Solon to Azatids: Form federation

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 21, 2014) - "We will continue to work hard to support the Madaris program of the province," said Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon in his message during the celebration of the Grand Iftar in Sarangani on July 18. The governor added that it is important to sustain this project that is why Solon is pushing the Azatids to form a federation the soonest possible time. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Malungon marks founding day

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 17, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Cong. Manny Pacquiao, along with Sarangani Board Members were entertained by presentations prepared by LGU-Malungon during the 45th Foundation Anniversary of Malungon on July 15. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE) 

LandBank opens ATM in Malungon

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 17, 2014) - Cong. Manny Pacquiao, Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon and Mayor Reynaldo Constantino lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the newly-installed LandBank of the Philippines Automated Teller Machine (ATM) in front of the Municipal Hall.  The ceremony was held after the formal program of Malungon’s anniversary on July 15. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon lauds Malungon officials and residents

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 17, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon congratulates the officials and residents of Malungon for the successful celebration of their 45th Foundation Anniversary on July 15. In his foundation anniversary message, Gov. Solon shared the verse "Those who wish to be first, must be willing to be last and a servant of all" expressing the true spirit of leadership and gave recognition to the pioneers who stood as the pillars of Malungon. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sulong Karunungan in countryside

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 11, 2014) - More than 200 elementary pupils and Grade 7 students of Kinabalan Integrated School proudly show the bags with school supplies they received Wednesday, July 9, from the Cherry Mobile Foundation, Sarangani’s partner for education bannered by Sulong Karunungan. Elementary schools in sitio Baliton and sitio Osmena of Malungon also received new bags and school supplies from CMF. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Pupils, parents thank Cherry Mobile Foundation

MAASIM, Sarangani (July 11, 2014) – With gratitude, pupils and parents of Bongo Elementary School in barangay Amsipit pose with the Cherry Mobile Foundation (CMF) staff after the distribution of bags with set of school supplies donated by CMF Thursday, July 10. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Cherry Mobile Foundation distributes school supplies

MAASIM, Sarangani (July 11, 2014) - Leah Lopez (in red shirt), Corporate Social Responsibility manager of Cherry Mobile Foundation,  and Mariafe Gomez (in black shirt), project manager of Sulong Karunungan program of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, lead the distribution of 177 bags with set of school supplies at Bongo Elementary School in barangay Amsipit Thursday, July 10. The foundation also conducted free medical mission to pupils from kindergarten to Grade 6. Also in photo is Barangay Captain Helario Kaka (extreme left). With four hours of trip by land transport from Maasim proper, sitio Bongo is one the town’s farthest communities. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

“Be Cool in School” with Cherry Mobile

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 11, 2014) - "We aim to uplift the quality of education in Sarangani," Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon tells school children Wednesday, July 9. The governor attended the Barangay Cherry Mobile: Cherry Mobile Foundation's "Be Cool in School" Project in partnership with the Department of Education and the Sulong Sarangani Program in Kinabalan Elementary School that gave out school supplies to students. This is part of the Sulong Karunungan component of the Sulong Sarangani Program of Sarangani headed by Gov. Solon in partnership with Cong. Manny Pacquiao and Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao. Solon inspired and encouraged the pupils to strive hard for their studies to attain their goals and ideals in life. Cherry Mobile Foundation also conducted the same event in Bongo Elementary School in Amsipit, Maasim on Thursday, July 10. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Cherry Mobile supports Sulong Karunungan

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 11, 2014) - Parents and students of Kinabalan Elementary School warmly welcome Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon on Wednesday, July 9, during the Barangay Cherry Mobile: Cherry Mobile Foundation's "Be Cool in School" Project. Kinabalan Elementary School is one of the recipients of the project in partnership with the Provincial Government’s Sulong Karunungan of Sarangani's Sulong Sarangani with the Department of Education. Hundreds of students received school supplies. Simultaneous with the distribution, Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation also conducted check-ups, DepEd led the deworming for some students, parents underwent mentoring, Hearts and Brains, Inc. with PGO conducted games for the kids and feeding by the Provincial Vice Governor’s Office. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Vice Governor’s Office trains SNBP coop

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) – Theofanny Joy Cabanda, speaker and trainer, facilitates a discussion of the members of Samahang Nayon Banate Producers Cooperative during the Project Management Training at barangay Banate on July 4. The training is under the Gal E’ Libun Project of Vice Governor Jinkee Jamora-Pacquiao which is in line with the Sulong Kasaganaan component of Sulong Sarangani project of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Producer’s coop receives training from Vice Governor’s Office

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (July 10, 2014)- A member of the Sapu Masla Taliawid Producers Cooperative (SMTPC) reports on the results of the workshop during the Project Management Training facilitated by the Vice Governor’s Office at Barangay Sapu Masla on July 3. The training is under the Gal E’ Libun project of Vice Governor Jinkee J. Pacquiao. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Provincial government built Kamdaat Bridge

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) - Kids watch beside the newly inaugurated Kamdaat Bridge in barangay Kiblat. Residents were also thankful the bridge was finally completed. Kamdaat Bridge's construction started in the year 2011, a part of the Provincial Development and Investment Plan for 2011-2013. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sulong Imprastraktura completes P186-M worth of projects

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon extends his gratitude to Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Cong. Manny Pacquiao and Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao, in their unending support to the Sulong Sarangani Program. Gov. Solon inspires the people of barangay Kiblat to unite to have a successful society. Since July of 2013, infrastructure projects amounting to more than P186 million have already been completed under Sulong Imprastraktura. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon leads Kamdaat Bridge inauguration

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, with Malungon Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias, Board Member Cesar Nallos, and barangay officials inaugurate Kamdaat Bridge in barangay Kiblat on July 7. Kamdaat Bridge was completed last April 21, 2014 with the support of the Sulong Sarangani Program of Gov. Solon in partnership with Cong. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao and Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

The big difference

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) - It's an answered prayer for the residents and farmers of sitio Kamdaat in barangay Kiblat when the bridge was finally completed. According to the farmers, they used to load their farm products in a motorcycle and pass through the old, rotten bridge (right). The delay in transportation caused damages to their products. With the newly built Kamdaat bridge (left), people will no longer worry. Fresh farm products will reach the markets on time. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR'S OFFICE)

Transporting of farm products made easy

By APRIL JANE CAGAS UGSAD

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) — Thousands of residents in barangay Kiblat rejoiced as Kamdaat bridge was formally opened to the public just this week. The bridge serves and connects the seven barangays of Kiblat, Kibala, Alkikan, Datal Bila, Datal Batong, Malabod, and Barrio Blaan.

Farmer Samuel Calanao said “pasalamat ko kay naa na ang tulay. Dali na mapadala ang mga mais ug gulay padulong sa GenSan tungod sa tulay.”

Another farmer, Job Aranguez, even said that the delay in transporting their products from farm to market caused damages, especially when there is constant rainfall.

Some reported that farm products sometimes fall off from motorcycles while carrying them to the other side of the river.

Residents and neighboring barangays can now transport and deliver their products from one place to another without getting stranded. Commuters can now quickly cross the river especially when emergencies arise.

Barangay health worker Mae Itang, a local resident, said “maayo kay nakumpleto na g’yud ang tulay kay mas safe na ang mga residente sa pagtabok sa suba lalo na sa mga bata.”

“It took some time but it’s finally completed,” said provincial engineer Jerry Belbider.

A total of P10.2M completed the bridge under the Sulong Imprastraktura of Sulong Sarangani Program.  This was due to the concerted efforts of the Provincial Governor’s Office, Sanggunian Board Members, Provincial Engineer’s Office, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, and Malungon Municipal Mayor’s Office.

Mayor Reynaldo Constantino proudly stated, “Inumpisahan ng isang Chiongbian, tinapos ng isang Chiongbian.”

Governor Solon, with Mayor Constantino, Board Members and barangay officials led the inauguration.

Solon urged every resident and neighboring barangays to work together to take care of the bridge and said that there will be no room for delays in project implementations especially in the present administration. (April Jane Cagas Ugsad/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

P6M to support Barangay Health Workers in Sarangani

By APRIL JANE CAGAS UGSAD

ALABEL, Sarangani (July 10, 2014) - The provincial government of Sarangani recognizes the efforts and sacrifices of hundreds of barangay health workers (BHWs) all around the province.

To support the BHWs, Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon pushed to give additional allowances. 

“I think this is one milestone for Sulong Kalusugan.  We allotted P6M and we plan to add an amount for their incentives,” Solon said.

Two hundred fourteen BHWs from different barangays of Malungon attended the quarterly meeting and oath-taking ceremony at the municipal gym just recently.

Earlier, 64 BHWs from Maitum also took their oath at the Malalag Central Elementary School, and on Friday, July 11, another batch will take oath.

The governor, along with the other officials, salutes every BHW in both municipalities for volunteering to help their community respond to accidents and fight illnesses.

BHWs from various municipalities accredited by the Department of Health committed themselves to do their jobs even before the promise of receiving an honorarium from the provincial government.

Volunteer health worker from Malungon, Estela Cataluña, feels fulfilled to help people in need in their community.

“Okay ang maka-bulig mi sa katawhan. Bisan ginagmay lang, pasalamat mi kay Gov. Solon kay naa mi madawat,” Cataluña added.

Project officer of Barangay Emergency and Resiliency Team (BHERT) program, Beng Mosqueda, said that the BHWs will be given more training initiated by the provincial health officer, Dr. Arvin Alejandro. 

“We’ll also coordinate with Red Cross to receive training about first-aid,” Mosqueda added.

“More than the honorarium and additional incentives, gusto namo mo, together with Cong. Emmanuel Pacquiao, Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao and the board members, na tabangan para madugangan inyong kaalam ug training sa first-aid, emergency and disaster response, and such,” adds Gov. Solon.

Gov. Solon said BHWs should never be neglected because they are the ones helping the community regarding their health.

Moreover, the provincial health office will give flu shots to all BHWs for their own health protection. (April Jane Cagas Ugsad/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Governor Solon opens Kamdaat Bridge

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 8, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon speaks during the inauguration of Kamdaat Bridge in Barangay Kiblat Monday, July 7. Governor Solon said, "magtambayayong ta kanunay para sa atong development diri sa atong barangay kay 100 percent suporta gikan sa atong probinsya". This P10.2-million bridge built under the Sulong Imprastraktura of the provincial government leads to six neighboring barangays namely Kibala, Alkikan, Datal Bila, Datal Batong, Malabod, and Barrio Blaan. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Kamdaat Bridge officially opens

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 8, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon talks with the press in the background as motorists cross Kamdaat Bridge in barangay Kiblat which was inaugurated Monday, July 7. This P10.2-million bridge built under the Sulong Imprastraktura of the provincial government leads to six neighboring barangays namely Kibala, Alkikan, Datal Bila, Datal Batong, Malabod, and Barrio Blaan. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Officials inaugurate Kamdaat Bridge

MALUNGON, Sarangani (July 8, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (center) and Mayor Reynaldo Constantino (in red shirt) lead the ribbon cutting ceremony with Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias (in brown polo shirt), Board Member Cesar Nallos Jr. (in blue shirt) and local officials at the inauguration Monday, July 7, of Kamdaat Bridge in barangay Kiblat. This P10.2-million bridge built under the Sulong Imprastraktura of the provincial government leads to six neighboring barangays namely Kibala, Alkikan, Datal Bila, Datal Batong, Malabod, and Barrio Blaan. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mayor with Barangay Nutrition Scholars

KIAMBA, Sarangani (July 8, 2014) –  Mayor Raul Martinez (3rd row) poses with Municipal Health Office staff and Barangay Nutrition Scholars Monday, July 7, in line with the celebration of July as Nutrition Month. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Vitamins for public school pupils

KIAMBA, Sarangani (July 8, 2014) – Mayor Raul Martinez (2nd from right) hands over a pack of vitamins to DepEd Kiamba District Supervisor Mamerto Tolentino (2nd from left) Monday, July 7, in line with the celebration of July as Nutrition Month. Also in photo are Dr. Ethelyn Valendez (right), municipal health officer, and nurse Annie Balanag (left). (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Provincial government leads Tutok Buntis in village

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 7, 2014) – Board Member George Falgui speaks in behalf of the provincial government which carried out a Tutok Buntis activity during the medical and dental mission and Dumanon Kailian (outreach) at barangay Mabay on July 4. The activity is part of the Sulong Kalusugan program of Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Officials join dental mission

MAITUM, Sarangani (July 7, 2014) – Dentists Vice Mayor Jeanne Ablog, Dr. Marielyn Silauso, Board Member Cornelio Martinez Jr. and Dr. Laudencio Mendoza of the provincial health office attend to hundreds of patients during the medical and dental mission and Dumanon Kailian (outreach) at barangay Mabay on July 4. Dumanon Kailian provides residents with free basic services. Student from Golden State College of General Santos City volunteered as aides. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)