Butterfly wins kite-flying contest

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 27, 2014) – These are part of the 56 huge colorful kites that dominated the sky as contenders of Palupad Tabanog (kite flying), another competition of Mahin Festival 2014, at Gumasa beach Saturday, April 26. First place is the butterfly design, 2nd place-black diamond design, and 3rd place-airplane design. Prizes are P3,000, P2,000, and P1,000 for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, respectively.(Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Horse-racing in the sand is fun

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 27, 2014) - Mahin Festival 2014 may not be complete without this yearly exciting activity, the Horse Racing Competition which forms part of Glan’s history as horse riding is the first settlers’ way of transportation. This year’s winners are White Castle rider Eric Ragados as 1st placer, Bentong rider Boy Tanap, 2nd placer, and Sumbang rider Tito Pontilar as the 3rd placer. The winners got a cash prize of P 4,000, P 3,000, P and 2,000, respectively. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mahin draws crowds

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 27, 2013) – Local tourists camp out to celebrate the 4th Mahin (Beach) Festival in Glan Friday, April 25. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon joined the tourists and interviewed them on their experience at the beach festival. Positive reviews were given. (Kim WIndell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Mahin hosts football finals

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 27, 2014) - Beach enthusiasts never missed the beach football championship played between “Glan all star” and “Ice breaker”. “Glan all star” won the game with cash prize of P3,000. Beach football is just one of the ball games played during the staging of the Mahin Festival 2014 on April 25-26. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Showcase of dances at Mahin

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 27, 2013) – Hinugyaw Dance Troupe of Koronadal performs during the opening of the 4th Mahin (Beach) Festival in Glan on April 25, Friday. Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, board members and local officials were delighted of their performance, showcasing a fine cultural treasure through dance. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Rep. Pacquiao opens Mahin Festival

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 26, 2014) – Rep. Manny Pacquiao signals the grand opening of Mahin Festival 2014 Friday, April 25. Also in photo are Mayor Victor James Yap, Sr. (extreme left), Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon (behind Rep. Pacquiao), Board Members Hermie Galzote and Virgilio Clark Tobias (fourth and third from right, respectively), Dr. Tranquilino Ruiz III (second from right), and Vice Mayor Vivien Yap (extreme right). Glan has become the most visited tourist destination in Region 12, according to Governor Solon. Mahin is a festival unique to the town of Glan which brings back traditional beach activities the townsfolk have been fond of doing since then like horse racing at the shoreline. Mahin is a Blaan word for "beach" signifying the tranquility, calmness, and mystery of water. During the festival, which runs from April 24-26, various advocacies and beach games are staged including the "Oplan Karagatan", a clean-up drive, mangrove planting and rehabilitation, beach ballgames, bancarera, jetski competition, Lumba Bugsay, Lumba Langoy, and others. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sec. Ona sees PPP scheme to run Sarangani provincial hospital

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 25, 2014) - Health Secretary Enrique Ona has vouched for the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme that top officials in Sarangani is planning to apply in running the tertiary provincial hospital under construction at the Capitol compound.

In an on-site visit Tuesday (April 22), Ona laid down a scheme to Rep. Manny Pacquiao and Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon on how to modernize the hospital operation where the local government need not always rely on subsidy from the national government.

Ona said partnering with the business sector is an option that could be taken advantage of and be considered.

The 200-bed capacity hospital facility that would cost P250 million to finish is financed primarily by the Department of Health and augmented by the local government funds.

DOH has already downloaded P50 million to build Phase 1 of the facility comprising the emergency room, clinical laboratory and nursing services that are now 95 percent complete. This phase, however, is only 20 percent of the total project cost.

The department also provided additional P20 million in 2011 from Health Facilities Enhancement Program for hospital equipment and another P5 million last year for the construction of a two-storey out-patient department and operating room foundation.

Dr. Arvin Alejandro, officer-in-charge of the provincial health office, said DOH is downloading counterpart funds yearly and has committed to provide another P75 million next year.

The provincial government’s counterpart this year was P5 million for the partial completion of the facility which is also known as Sarangani Medical Center (SMC).

SMC sits in a 3,500-sq. meter area inside the Capitol grounds. It is not only expected to improve health care services in the province especially for its poor constituents but it is also seen as an economic enterprise.

This means hospital services would not be not for free.

However, Governor Solon disclosed that the provincial government would set aside yearly budget for the Philhealth enrollment of the province’s indigents. This, he said, could guarantee payment whenever they may be admitted to the hospital.

Almost 97,000 families in the province or 89.8 percent out of 107,964 families have been enrolled in Philhealth. These figures are based on the 2014 DOH administered 539,822 population per National Statistical Coordination Board 2012 baseline. This costs DOH around P232 million for the Philhealth enrollment.

The provincial government also allocated P7 million for the 11 percent of households not covered by DOH’s fund.

Currently, the provincial government maintains patient referrals in adjacent General Santos City thru a memorandum of agreement with three private hospitals to cater to indigent patients from Sarangani. The provincial government spends an annual average of P20 million.

In 2013, admissions to these hospitals totaled to 2,605 costing the provincial government P23 million.

With SMC, Ona said the facility being constructed should have a “very strong out-patient services” to monitor and detect illnesses earlier to avoid further complications.

Currently, the existing three outlier infirmary hospitals in Kiamba, Glan and Malungon towns are being upgraded into Level 1 primary hospitals amounting to more than P112 million financed by DOH.

The department also transferred substantial amount for the construction, renovation and expansion of the rural health units in the municipalities. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Where is destination tour town?

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 25, 2014) – The local government of Glan launched its tagline “Destination Tour Town Glan” during the kick-off program of Mahin Festival Friday (April 25) that also signaled the beginning of summer fun in Sarangani.

According to municipal tourism officer Lodar Escobillo, the tagline summarizes the town’s potentials as well as the natural beauty and the cultural heritage that would make a good package for a tourism destination.

Consider these.

Glan is the oldest town in the region. It will celebrate its 100^th foundation anniversary on October 8.

Glan has century-old Hispanic houses in the poblacion.

Glan boasts of a peaceful community of Blaans, Muslims, Cebuanos and a mix of other tribes in-between.

Glan is home to “bahalina”, the so-called “poor man’s wine” from coconut. No wonder, Glan is also called the coco queen for being the top copra producer in the region.

Most of all, Glan is the only town in Sarangani that has long stretches of solitary white sand shores.

That’s why Glan hosts every month of May the Sarangani Bay Festival, the biggest beach party in Southern Philippines.

Currently, Escobillo said, the local government is intensifying its efforts to really promote tourism as an economic booster of the municipality. “We are taking medium to big steps to really improve.”

Resorts along Gumasa have been hosting SarBay Fest every summer which is luring more and more tourists, both foreign and local.

SarBay Fest is set on May 16 and 17 and resort owners confirmed room reservations in the area were already fully-booked as of last year. Sarangani’s tourism office said only the tent city is left to accommodate tourists for the beach fest next month.

In 2013, SarBay Fest had 70,000 tourists.

This time, the celebration for the April 25-26 Mahin Festival highlights cultural activities and presentation by the town’s local performing artists. Other water sports activities, parties and concerts are expected to draw even more people as well.

Escobillo disclosed the local government is planning to partner with the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources in coming up with a tour circuit to incorporate in their advocacy environmental conservation as an added feature in promoting Glan as a tourism destination.

She said DENR regional office already expressed interest in partnering with them in their eco-tourism community-based project because of the abundant marine life of Sarangani Bay which the DENR said is home to endangered marine life.

Escobillo targets to launch the tour circuit in May and would involve all resorts along the coastal areas starting from barangay Kapatan to Batulaki in Glan. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Glan’s Mahin fest begins Sarangani summer fun

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

GUMASA, Sarangani (April 25, 2014) – The summer season’s beach fun in Sarangani begins today with the opening of Glan’s beach festival called “Mahin” - a celebration of the economic upturn its white and black sand beaches have been generating.

The April 25-26 Mahin Festival opens up summer fun while Sarangani Bay (SarBay) Festival ends it with the annually anticipated “biggest beach party by the bay” in southern Mindanao. SarBay fest is slated on May 16 and 17.

Both are beach festivals but Mahin’s celebration centers on traditional beach activities that its townsfolk have been fond of doing since. Local officials claimed it to be distinct from that of SarBay.

Mahin is a Blaan word for beach. According to the town’s local Special Ordinance No. 19-05, its celebration signifies the tranquility, calmness, and mystery of water while the term was also conceived to compliment the first tribal inhabitants of Glan who are the Blaans.

Both the white and black sand beaches of Glan have created a niche in the local tourism industry and now placed as the second top revenue earner next to copra.

Vice Mayor Vivien Yap said “Glan has been endowed with interesting and potentially exceptional eco-tourism resources with the presence of its long stretch of both white powdery, soft and black, sparkling sands with pristine waters as well as its strong historical and cultural legacy earning its tagline destination tour town Glan, with tourism and coconut production as its core multiplier industries.”

Yap added the local government is pursuing its efforts to intensify recognition for Glan “as venue for vacation, leisure and recreation as well as host to eco-tourism adventures.”

Mahin fest in Gumasa resorts showcases fun-filled with cultural-inspired activities, exciting water sports, parties and concerts. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Reading instruction seminar for Grade 1 teachers starts

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 24, 2014) – “The enhancement of teaching techniques gives better quality education,” says Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon during the commencement of the Reading Instruction Seminar for 110 Grade 1 teachers from Alabel and Malungon. This project is part of the Quality Education for Sarangani Today and Tomorrow (QUEST2) under Sulong Karunungan of the Sulong Sarangani Development Program of the provincial government. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Will there be new Sarangani Bay swim record?

SARANGANI BAY (April 23, 2014) – In this May 20, 2011 photo by Cocoy Sexcion, Bonifacio Pagunsan of Koronadal City’s Sea Lions leads his team to win the 15-kilometer Swim-Across-Sarangani Bay in 3:41:42 hours. The race from Maasim to Glan takes place in open sea. The swim is the extreme sport of Sarangani Bay Festival, the biggest beach party in Mindanao held at Gumasa, Glan. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Will there be new Sarangani Bay swim record?

By JOY R. SEVILLA

GLAN, Sarangani (April 23, 2014) – Swimmers from General Santos City, South Cotabato, Sarangani and even from Manila and Cebu will display endurance and speed as they attempt to conquer Sarangani Bay in record time on May 16 for a 15-kilometer swim from Maasim to Glan.

Will the 2:34:21 hours record of Dadiangas Torpedoes be broken? – that’s the million-dollar question.

Nemrad Butil, of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) and organizer of the 9^th Swim-Across-Sarangani Bay Competition, said the teams who will join in the competition are also those who joined in the previous years. However, some members per team may have to be replaced.

He said a team from General Santos City has invited swimmers from Cebu and Manila to take the challenge.

Sarangani’s swim-across-the-bay is the longest swim in the country. The open ocean swimming race remains to be the much-awaited sports event of SarBay.

This is the longest open ocean marathon swimming competition probably in Asia.

“Kailangan talaga na may bagong swimmers kada-taon sa bawat team to give chance to other swimmers. This competition is limited to ten teams only,” explained Butil.

He added that the teams, composed of five members each, are from Polomolok, Lake Sebu, Koronadal City, Sarangani and General Santos.

Butil said “I Conquer Sarangani Bay” will be embedded in the winners’ medals.

“Pinalitan natin yung ‘Sarangani Bay Invasion’. Hindi kasi lahat naka-cross ng Sarangani Bay through swimming,” Butil said.

Organizers are looking forward for more competent and record-breaking swimmers this year.

Last year, 11 year-old Alyssa Damasco from Kabacan, Cotabato was the youngest swimmer. The fastest team finished the race an hour earlier than expected. An average team can finish the competition in four hours.

2013 champion Dadiangas Torpedoes team (2:34:21 hours) has been breaking its own record in the most grueling sport of SarBay Fest, the biggest beach party in Southern Philippines. It was in 2007 that the Torpedoes set their first championship record of 2:50:15.

Aside from medals and trophies, cash prizes are at stake for all participating teams. Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000) awaits the team to win first place; P35,000 for the second place; and, P25,000 for the third place. All finishers shall also be awarded with a medal of “Invaders” and consolation cash prize of P6,000 per team.

Butil added that all swimmers who participated and successfully swam across Sarangani Bay will be properly recognized. As a token of recognition, the names of all swimmers who have successfully crossed the finish line shall also be logged in the “Book of Invaders”.

“Hindi lang endurance ang iku-consider dito pero pati na ang speed,” he said.

Rolando Tuballes, provincial environment and natural resources officer, said the objective of the competition is to raise awareness in protecting and conserving Sarangani Bay aside from promoting eco-tourism in the province.

The 9^th Swim Across Sarangani Bay Competition, organized by the PENRO in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and the Provincial Governor’s Office is just one of the events that beach enthusiasts and party-goers look forward to every year in celebration of SarBay Festival. (Joy R. Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gov. Solon updates DOH Secretary on provincial hospital

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 23, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (extreme right) updates Health Secretary Enrique Ona (extreme left) on the ongoing construction of Sarangani Medical Center (SMC) or provincial hospital during a site visit of the project at Capitol compound Tuesday, April 22. The project funded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the local government is already assessed at 95% complete out of the P50M fund DOH initially allocated for the project. Also in photo are Rep. Manny Pacquiao (center) and OIC Provincial Health Officer Dr. Arvin Alejandro. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Rep. Pacquiao, Sec. Ona visit Sarangani Medical Center site

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 22, 2014) - Health Secretary Enrique Ona (extreme right, front row) talks with Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Health Regional Director Teogenes Baluma and Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon as they head off from an on-site visit Tuesday, April 22, at the Sarangani Medical Center (SMC) building (background). The P250 SMC or provincial hospital is ongoing construction at the Capitol compound. Also in photo is Board Member Elmer de Peralta. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sulong Tribu planning for IP women

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 22, 2014) – “Put God first in everything you do. Accept His blessings and there will be progress,” said Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon during the Indigenous People Women Strategy Planning Monday, April 21. It was spearheaded by the Sulong Tribu component of the flagship program of the local government, Sulong Sarangani, a development program backed by Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao. (Kim WIndell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

TARA sa Barangay Program rolls out

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (April 22, 2014) – Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon meets a beneficiary of the TARA (Transformative Action thru Reaching-out Activities) sa Barangay Program during the foundation anniversary of barangay Daan Suyan Monday, April 21. The TARA sa Barangay Program rendered medical check-up, prenatal check-up, operation tuli (in partnership with the AFP), hair grooming, dental services, Philhealth registration, family planning, information and education campaign on health promotion and many others. (Kim WIndell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Tree-planting highlights Earth Day

GLAN, Sarangani (April 22, 2014) – Some members of the Guardians-Glan Chapter participate in the “Adopt A Tree Program” spearheaded by the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Sarangani Federation led by Board Member Cyril John Rustico Yap in celebration of Earth Day. More than 50 people from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), members of Alpha Phi-Omega and some residents of Glan planted 500 seedlings of Mahogany, Palmera, Jackfruit and Marang. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

SarBay happens here on May 16-17

GLAN, Sarangani (April 22, 2014) - This beachfront in Gumasa comes alive with parties, sports and environmental drive on May 16-17 as SarBay Fest becomes the biggest beach party in Southern Philippines once again. Glan is 53 kilometers from General Santos City and 8 kilometers from Glan poblacion is Gumasa cove. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

SarBay Fest goers growing in number each year

By JOY R. SEVILLA

GUMASA (April 22, 2014) – The Sarangani Tourism and Investment Promotions Center (STIPC), the province’s agency responsible for building an image for Sarangani as an ideal tourism and investment destination in Southern Philippines, is targeting a 10 to 15 percent increase in tourist arrivals for this year’s celebration of the Sarangani Bay Festival (SarBay) scheduled on May 16-17.

This was bared by April Marjorie Rudes, tourism operations officer II of STIPC, saying that in 2013, there was a remarkable increase in the number of tourist arrivals for SarBay.

She said there was a total of 70,000 tourists recorded in 2013. The number is more than 30 percent compared to 2012’s record of only 52,000.

“We are overwhelmed by the results, 10 percent increase lang kasi ang target natin last year. Lahat positive ang feedbacks sa atin. This year, we still target at least 10 to 15 percent increase from the number in 2013,” Rudes said. She added the target percentage, on the other hand, is not restricted with what was already set.

It was learned that the number of tourist arrivals for SarBay is recorded by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and not by STIPC.

This year’s festival, party-goers and beach enthusiasts may look forward to three new events, namely: the Sarbay Triathlon for the Environment, the Paddle Board Clinic, and the Sarbay Jet Ski Competition, which is now a national competition.

The popular boy band Kamikazee will also be featured at the Concert at the Bay and Splash in the Sky event which will be held on the second day, May 17.

Rudes said the annual increase in the number of tourists that flood Sarangani for this festival could be attributed to the better implementation of the event every year.

“Pinaninindigan talaga natin na mas magaganda ang mga events every year, this is maybe why people keep on coming back at nagdadala pa ng mga friends nila. The ‘word of the mouth’ thing is powerful,” said Rudes.

The Tent City/Village will also be implemented this year. Camping tents are not anymore allowed in the Main Venue (between Rosal Beach and White Haven in Gumasa, Glan).

“We follow a tent city lay-out. This will be implemented para hindi na magulo at mabasura dun mismo sa main venue. Guests/tenants shall fill out a registration form and pay the corresponding fee before tents will be set up,” she said.

Rudes added that those who will register on May 15 or 16, shall pay the two-day rate, but those who register on May 17 shall only pay the one-day rate.

The two-day rate for a tent with four guests or less is placed at P300, while P500 is the rate for a tent with five guests or more. The one-day rate is placed at P150 and P250 for tents with four guests or less, and tents with five guests or more, respectively.

Rudes also pointed out that this year’s Sarangani Bay Festival will give more importance on environmental protection.

“We will give emphasis on environmental protection. Every year, ganito naman talaga pero paiigtingin pa this year. We will inspire the audience that they really need to be responsible especially sa waste disposal. This time, we will be more strict on this,” she said.

A meeting will be scheduled by the STIPC with the solid waste enforcers anytime this month. The STIPC, Rudes said, will also coordinate with the municipality of Glan regarding the matter. (Joy R. Sevilla/ SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Go Sarangani tour video

Planning your next adventure in a tropical paradise? Click HERE for this video of Go Sarangani.

Photo of Gumasa, Glan by Cocoy A. Sexcion

Congressman Pacquiao’s presscon

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (April 21, 2014) - Mommy D. briefly steals the show at the press conference of Sarangani Congressman Manny Pacquiao upon his arrival on Good Friday, April 18. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Hero’s welcome for Congressman Pacquiao

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (April 21, 2014) - Sarangani Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (right) leads the hero’s welcome for Congressman Manny Pacquiao who arrived on Good Friday, April 18, at General Santos City Airport. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

New police director for Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 21, 2014) – PS Supt. Emmanuel Baloloy Peralta (extreme right) assumes office as director of Sarangani Police Provincial Office with administering officer PC Supt. Lester Camba (third from right) on April 16. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (2^nd from right) assured the full support of the provincial government to SPPO. The governor said camaraderie is a must for the success of all the developments in Sarangani. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

New PNPA graduate from Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani(April 14, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon presents a new graduate of Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA)during the flag raising ceremony at Capitol Monday, April 14. Police Inspector Ian Marc S. Polestico (center), Mandilaab Class 2014 (Mandirigmang may Dangal at Isipan Laan sa Bayan), belongs to the top 10 of his class. He is best in Math and Sciences as well. Polestico is a product of Alabel National Science High School. At left is his mother, Marilou S. Polestico, a teacher at Alabel National High School. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani celebrates Rep. Pacquiao’s big win

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 13, 2014) – Cheers of victory erupt as Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao wins his fight against Timothy Bradley Sunday, April 13, shown live before a large crowd in a wide screen. Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (foreground) throws a towel in the air and cheers with thousands of spectators who filled Capitol Gym to the rafters. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Free Pacquiao-Bradley show at Capitol gym

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (April 11, 2014) – A TV crew interviews Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon with regards to the upcoming fight of Congressman Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao this Sunday. The local government of Sarangani will be giving a free pay-per-view screening of the Pacquiao-Bradley Fight at the Capitol gymnasium. Gov. Solon also stated that the welcome party for Congressman Pacquiao has already been prepared. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sulong Sarangani orientation

GLAN, Sarangani (April 11, 2014) – Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon speaks before residents of Barangay Burias during the orientation of the Sulong Sarangani Program Thursday, April 10. Gov. Solon targets to take Sarangani out of the top 10 poorest provinces of the Philippines by the year 2016 and out of the top 20 by the year 2020. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Provincial Police Strategic Management Unit breaks ground

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 11, 2014) - PSUPT. Jomar Alexis Yap Sr. (left), OIC-Provincial Director, and PSUPT. Ricky Rebua (right), PNP Deputy Provincial Director for Operations, welcome Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon Thursday, April 10, to the ground-breaking ceremony of the Provincial Police Strategic Management Unit at Sarangani Provincial Police Office. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Free immunization and prenatal check-up

GLAN, Sarangani (April 11, 2014) – Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon visits the immunization and prenatal check-up service in Barangay Burias Thursday, April 10. The recipients thanked Gov. Solon.  “You have given an opportunity for the less-fortunate people to avail such service,” a recipient said. (Kim Windell Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

QUEST2 scaling up reading skills, shaping careers

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) – Some 500 youths in Sarangani have shunned the typical school break loafing with friends to a more sensible summer by transforming failing readers to do better with comprehension.

Summer Reading is Fun of Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST) has been the usually anticipated activity of teenagers of this province during summer season to assist Grade I teachers in mentoring non-readers among incoming Grade II pupils.

Now, Quality Education for Sarangani Today and Tomorrow (QUEST2) emerged as the enhanced and expanded version which Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon explained to have been built "upon the original QUEST legacy by improving and enhancing it based upon the results from the program, plus the reassessed needs of the province today and tomorrow."

QUEST2, Solon said, is a continuing effort of the provincial government under the Sulong Karunungan program to "rescue children who have reading problems."

Education consultant Dan Evans pointed out the QUEST2 version is targeting known failing readers. "Our challenge here in Sarangani is both access to education and participation."

Currently, according to Evans, "less than half of our children are not even enrolling in school. The big challenge of the province is to get more children to school."

He cited a very low attendance in schools that declines from kindergarten to high school and only a slim percentage are going to college. To increase that candidate pool for college, he said, “participation in elementary and high school must be improved."

However, Evans assessed the quality of education in the province is "definitely improving" which he also credited to the efforts of the secretary of education which according to him have made great strides in improving the quality of education.

The summer intern program of QUEST2 will cover 15 days which ends on April 30. By deploying student volunteers into the summer schools, Evans forecast a “focus detention” on pupils who are known failing.

Therefore, he said the tutors will have a great opportunity to "impact the lives of small children of this province because most drop-outs are due to failing in reading. By focusing on that aspect, we will save some children from dropping out of school."

QUEST2 is piloting the project in 20 public schools all over Sarangani which have been identified by the Department of Education to have a large number of failing readers.

Aside from the summer intern program under the education component, QUEST2 likewise incorporates a broad-spectrum volunteer program including service in government offices and tourism sector.

Evans said the program gives the volunteers a hands-on experience and exposure either of the three tracks of QUEST2 specifically education, tourism, and government that could provide them the ability to make an intelligent decision in the future.

The government service and tourism opportunities are for young people who intend to go into public service, the legal profession, or the tourism industry. All of the intern positions provide excellent opportunities to experience the career choice early while contributing to the prosperity of Sarangani Province. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Road to Gumasa lights up when SarBay happens

By BEVERLY C. PAOYON

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) - Installation of streetlights along the road from poblacion Glan to Gumasa is underway.

This means the summer getaway in this part of Southern Mindanao will have a well-lit road during Sarangani Bay Festival on May 16-17.

The project will light up approximately four kilometers towards the SarBay site.

The provincial engineering office reported the installation of 52 units of streetlights has started to ensure the road is lighted before the biggest beach party by the bay happens.

The provincial government has earmarked P0.5 million to fund this project while the local government of Glan would counterpart to shoulder the electricity cost.

A ceremonial switch-on will be staged during SarBay, according to Region 12 Tourism Council chair Michelle Solon.

Solon is currently working with the provincial tourism office for SarBay where scores of innovations were planned to be introduced this time.

Gumasa, as a destination, has seen a growing tourism industry in Glan. Provincial tourism officer Larry Asparin pointed out Gumasa resorts have been drawing both local and foreign tourists.

With the increasing tourist arrival every year, Asparin said "this is an indication that we have to prepare the area for the tourists to feel comfortable and safe."

Gumasa caters to many Department of Tourism-accredited resorts along the seven-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand shores.  Native cottages and thatched nipa huts are lined along the beach for shelter to enjoy the view of Sarangani Bay. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Blaan kids bonding with Gov. Solon

MALUNGON, Sarangani (April 10, 2014)-“Let’s do a wacky pose,” says Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon as he bonds with Blaan kids during his visit at Lamlifew Village Museum Tuesday, April 8. The visit coincided with a media exposure trip for the promotion of tourism in Sarangani, recognizing local tourist spots and most especially the local culture. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Usec. Tan visits Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) - Undersecretary Nabil Tan, head of Mindanao Coordinating Office under the Office of the Executive Secretary, pays a courtesy call to Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon on April 7. Their discussions revolved around the recently signed peace agreement and expectations. Usec. Tan is holding a planning session in General Santos City and Sarangani. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sarangani conducts marine mammal stranding response training

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) - Professor Lemuel Aragones, University of the Philippines professor and president of the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN), gives a lecture to some personnel of the Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices and Office of the Municipal Agriculturists of the different municipalities of Sarangani during the first day of the Marine Mammal Conservation and Stranding Response Training-Workshop which runs from April 8-10 at the Kasfala Hall, Capitol Compound. The training aims to have a continuing advocacy drive down to the community level on survey and monitoring of marine mammal occurrence, and technical training, documentation and response on marine mammal stranding. The training is facilitated by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, in coordination with the Provincial Veterinarian's Office, the Sarangani Wildlife Protection and Response Team, DENR 12, and the PMMSN. Also in photo is Rolando Tuballes (extreme left), provincial ENRO. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani honors scholar-graduates

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) - Paaral Para Sa Sarangan (PPSS) scholars receive their certificate of recognition during a thanksgiving celebration Monday, April 7. In photo are Board Members Elmer de Peralta (extreme left), Virgilio Clark Tobias (2nd from right), Hermie Galzote (3rd from right), Abdulracman Pangolima (4th from right), and Glenda Revano (extreme right), PPSS coordinator. The scholars are Dr. Jec M. Pane (5^th from left) of San Roque, Malungon; Dr. Lormie M. Bermudez (6^th from left) of Datal Tampal, Malungon; Romel A. Zamora (4^th from left), one of the 30 Indigenous People scholars who graduated; Blanca  A. Marquez (3^rd from left), graduated as Magna Cum Laude with a degree of BSEd Major in English at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, from Kiamba; and Wishelyn A. Reyes (2^nd from left) of Alabel, academic awardee of BS-Entrepreneur from General Santos Foundation Incorporated. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sulong Karunungan backs PPSS scholarship program

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014) - "Because of your accomplishment, you have opened the opportunity out of poverty," Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon said as he congratulates the graduates of Paaral Para Sa Sarangan (PPSS) Scholarship Program Monday, April 7. PPSS started in 2002 to provide assistance to less fortunate Sarangans to support their studies in college. Now, PPSS is considered as a milestone of the Sulong Karunungan component of the Sulong Sarangani Program. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Scholars pledge to serve Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10, 2014)- Board Member Elmer de Peralta leads the scholars of Paaral Para Sa Sarangan (PPSS) as they take their pledge of commitment to serve Sarangani Province to the best of their ability. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Scholars vow to serve Sarangani

By JOY R. SEVILLA

ALABEL, Sarangani (April 10,2014) – There is no greater joy for the batch 2014 graduates of the Paaral Para Sa Sarangan (PPSS) scholarship program of the provincial government than to finish college after all the afflictions that they had gone through.

As a payback, the graduates of PPSS, a scholarship program under the Sulong Karunungan component of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon’s flagship program, the Sulong Sarangani, have taken their pledge of commitment to serve their community in the best way they can.

Glenda Revaño, PPSS coordinator, said this is the first time that PPSS scholars have taken a pledge of commitment after the program was implemented 12 years ago.

PPSS Scholarship Program was implemented through Executive Order No. 11 Series of 2002 under then Governor Miguel Escobar. Former Governor Migs Dominguez also implemented PPSS during his 2004-2013 tenure.

“Since it was implemented in 2002, wala pang nangyaring ganito, the scholars have taken the pledge of commitment at na-gather din sila for the first time,” Revaño said in an interview during the PPSS Graduates Thanksgiving celebration Monday (April 7).

Revaño said that for this year alone, there are a total of 110 PPSS college graduates also supported by different partners who were invited in the thanksgiving celebration. However, more than 50 graduates were only able to join the gathering.

“Ang iba kasi nag-change na ng number kaya hindi na nakarating at bakasyon na rin ngayon kaya hindi na na-gather lahat,” she explained.

From 2005 up to 2013, PPSS has produced a total of 289 graduates, 13 Cum Laudes, and 1 Magna Cum Laude. Taking account of the 110 graduates this year, PPSS has a total of 399 graduates since 2005.

Of the 110 PPSS scholars who graduated this year, 58 are from the regular program; 30 are from the off-campus program in Malandag (these graduates are all Indigenous People scholars and have finished their college for five years since they only attended classes thrice a week); others are sons and daughters of Sarangan Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) whose monthly income is only pegged at 400 dollars; and, some are scholars at the UP School of Sciences in Koronadal City.

Revaño said that 20 percent of this year’s graduates came from the disparity or poorest barangays of the province.

“Binigyan talaga ng priority yung mga nanggaling sa mga disparity barangays natin. PPSS is under the Sulong Karunungan, a component of the Sulong Sarangani Program of Governor Solon,” she said.

She added that Governor Solon just continued the gains of PPSS considering the impact it brings not only to the lives of Sarangans, but to the whole community as well.

PPSS Program has already produced three doctors, nine midwives and several graduates of Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, who are willing to serve their respective communities.

“Ang next challenge sa mga graduates ng education course ay ipasa ang kanilang board exam,” Revaño said.

This year, PPSS also produced the second Magna Cum Laude from the municipality of Kiamba.

Blanca Marquez, who graduated as Magna Cum Laude from the Notre Dame Dadiangas University, said that she is forever grateful to the people behind PPSS.

“Malaking tulong po ang allowance na natatanggap namin. Hindi kami ganito ngayon kung wala ang PPSS,” Marquez said.

Marquez also encouraged other PPSS scholars saying that education is not about grades, but attitude. It’s not about knowing it all, but about sharing what you have learned.

Marquez, Revaño said, will get a P5,000 cash incentive from the provincial government. Incentives, she said, are given to graduates with academic awards.

Meanwhile, Governor Solon stressed that the objective of the program is to really give opportunities to poor but deserving students to finish school and attain a degree.

“Education is very important that is why our battlecry is that every student in Sarangani should finish college. It has a lasting impact in the lives of the people and in the community because those who graduated and were able to work can serve their community in return,” Governor Solon said.

It is during Governor Solon’s administration that there is an increase of allowance of scholars under the regular program making it a significant component of his flagship program, the Sulong Sarangani.

“Dati, P1,200 lang ang allowance ng mga scholars every month, ngayon ginawa ng P1,500. As a coordinator, I am also thankful sa mga board members natin dahil sila yung nag-approve ng budget,” Revaño said.

She added that with the help and convergence of the officials of Sarangani namely, Congressman Emmanuel Pacquiao, Governor Solon, Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao and all the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, it is possible that partnership from other external donors could be forged so that the implementation of the PPSS program will be intensified in the coming years.

Today, PPSS external partners are the Phinma Foundation Inc., Alcantara Foundation Inc., University of the Philippines Koronadal, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Sagittarius Mines Inc., and the YACAP Party-list organization. (Joy R. Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)