Conference and service mapping by NGOs

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 28, 2014) - Dan Evans (standing), consultant of education program Sulong Karunungan under the flagship program of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, facilitates the Non-Government Organization Conference and Service Mapping held at Microtel Friday, June 27. It is to synchronize all the third-party organizations and individuals offering social services in the province to avoid duplication of effort and to establish the scale and scope of their efforts. The NGO conference is in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women, the Spanish Agency for International Development, and Provincial Social Welfare Development Office. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Communicators confer on climate change adaptation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 28, 2014) – The Philippine Information Agency and Department of Environment and Natural Resources conduct a Regional Climate Change Adaptation Communication Forum with the theme “Strengthening Partnership among Communities for Climate Change Adaptation” at Phela Grande Hotel on June 26-27. The forum was attended by some 200 public information officers or communicators from regional offices, provincial and municipal government units. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mayor Lopez, former governor at town anniversary

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 28, 2014) – Former Governor Migs Dominguez (left), one of the sponsors of the town’s festivities, drops by the office of Mayor Jojo Lopez (right) during the culmination of the 7th Kestebeng Festival and 42nd Foundation Anniversary of Maasim. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER for Municipality of Maasim)

Gov. Solon to fund Maasim projects

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 28, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon gestures to the crowd during the culmination of the 7th Kestebeng Festival and 42nd Foundation Anniversary of Maasim on June 21. Gov. Solon delivered his keynote speech and emphasized his and Mayor Lopez's endeavor in making Maasim an investment zone which has adopted the brand “Maasenso Maasim, asenso ang tanan.” It was pronounced that in the coming months the provincial government would be giving out projects worth P12 million. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER for Municipality of Maasim)

Maasim Mayor thanks town stakeholders

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 28, 2014) – Mayor Jojo Lopez expresses his gratitude to the stakeholders of Maasim for their support to the festivity during the culmination day on  of the municipality’s 42nd Foundation Anniversary and 7th Kestebeng Festival. The town also launched its tagline “Maasenso Maasim, asenso ang tanan”. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER for Municipality of Maasim)

Maasim street dance contest winners cry with joy

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 28, 2014) – Dancers from Aniceto Lopez Sr. Elementary School pour out their emotions after being declared champion in the street dance competition during the culmination of the 7th Kestebeng Festival and 42nd Foundation Anniversary of Maasim. (Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER for Municipality of Maasim)

WINDS holds planning workshop

MAITUM, Sarangani (June 28, 2014) - Charritie Duma, project division head, facilitates the two-day seminar on strategic planning with the members of Women in Development of Sarangani (WINDS), a fish processing cooperative at Barangay Old Poblacion on June 23-24. The seminar is under the Gal E’ Libun project of Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Residents in Sarangani observe Environment Month

By APRIL JANE UGSAD

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) — The provincial government organized a coastal clean-up drive in observance of the Environment Month at Barangay Ladol on June 26.

Ladol, recently inaugurated as the province’s newest or 141^st barangay, was formerly part of Alabel Poblacion.

The clean-up drive was organized by the Sarangani Transport Alliance for Reform and True Development (STARTeD) Incorporated and was participated in by some transport groups in the province.

The coastal area has been a problem to the barangay because residents bury their garbage in the sand.

Leah Ildefonso, organizer of the activity from the Provincial Governor's Office said "the people here themselves wanted a solution to their coastal garbage problem so we coordinated with the barangay if they needed help from the provincial government."

Residents were thankful and challenged at the same time as they saw people from other municipalities helping them out in cleaning the coast.

Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon also encouraged the residents not only in Ladol to continuously take part in cleaning and maintaining such activity.

"We have to protect our environment, especially our bay," Solon said.

"Lipay mi kay malimpyo na g'yud ang baybay, ug amo ning ipadayon para dili lang karong adlawa," said Ricardo Abalayo, a resident and a member of the Ladol Integrated Tricycle Drivers’ Association.

Ricardo Padernal, a retired police officer who is now one of the board directors of Malungon Gensan Transport Cooperative, took part in the clean-up drive in support to the program of the provincial government.

"Nagtabang mi para ma-encourage ang mga residente diri na limpyuhan ang ilang coastal area. Ang taga laing lugar nagtabang sa ila hinaot na sila pod maglihok para malimpyo ilang lugar," Padernal added. (April Jane Cagas Ugsad/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR'S OFFICE)

Volunteers grow trees at military camp

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) – Board Member Elmer de Peralta, Acting Vice Governor, talks before government and non-government workers during the tree-growing activity at 1002nd Brigade Camp Agaab in sitio Pulatana, Malandag on June 25. The activity was in partnership with the Provincial Government of Sarangani, Municipality of Malungon, DPWH, DENR and Philippine Army. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

PSEAS marks Environment Month

POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato (June 27, 2014) – Officers and members of the Public Sector Employees Alliance of Socsksargen (PSEAS)led by its president Bobby Saya-ang (center, smiling), who is also president of Sarangani Province Employees Union, take a break during the tree growing activity on June 20 at sitio Tinefulan, Barangay Maligo, in observance of the Environment Month. (Alma Gabuat/SARANGANI PROVINCE EMPLOYEES UNION)

Projects from PAMANA break ground in Maitum

MAITUM, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) - Municipal and barangay officials pose during the synchronized groundbreaking ceremonies of a water system each for Barangays Kiambing, Mabay, Old Poblacion, and Wali; and one box culvert for Barangay Pinol. From right are Mayor Pepito Catimbang, Barangay Capt. Arturo Desaville, Barangay Capt. Luisa Doctor, John Gamad of Department of Agrarian reform, Rolando Davin, Barangay Capt. Bello Valdez, and Barangay Capt. Thong Sapal. The projects were funded by DAR-PAMANA (PAyapa at MAsaganang PAmayanan or Peaceful and Resilient Communities). The synchronized groundbreaking ceremonies were done in Barangay Wali on June 23. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

PAMANA builds projects in villages

MAITUM, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) – Mayor Pepito Catimbang speaks to the recipients of a water system each for Barangay Kiambing, Mabay, Old Poblacion and Wali; and one box culvert for Barangay Pinol given by DAR-PAMANA (PAyapa at MAsaganang PAmayanan or Peaceful and Resilient Communities) program during the synchronized groundbreaking ceremonies at Barangay Wali on June 23. The mayor said "these projects will make your lives better, so take care of it." (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

More projects coming – DAR exec

MAITUM, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) – John Gamad of Department of Agrarian Reform provincial office encourages project beneficiaries to take care of the projects so that they can again avail of other projects in the next three years. DAR-PAMANA does not only give infra projects but also livelihood funds for the communities. The synchronized groundbreaking ceremonies for a water system each for Barangays Kiambing, Mabay, Old Poblacion, and Wali; and one box culvert for Pinol was done in Barangay Wali on June 23. (Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Coastal clean-up in Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) - Sarangani Transport Alliance for Reform and True Development Inc.(STARTeD), carries out a coastal clean-up at Barangay Ladol Thursday, June 26. The clean-up is one the highlights of Environment Month this June including efforts to protect Sarangani Bay under the flagship program of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, Sulong Kalikasan. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Board Members lead tree-growing trip

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 27, 2014) – Board Member Elmer de Peralta, Acting Vice Governor, talks before government and non-government workers during the tree-growing activity at 1002nd Brigade Camp Agaab in sitio Pulatana, Malandag on June 25. Also present were Board Members Cesar Nallos, Virgilio Clark Tobias, Hermie Galzote, Eduardo Paras and 1002nd Brigade Commander Col. Ronald Villanueva. The activity was in partnership with the Provincial Government of Sarangani, Municipality of Malungon, DPWH, DENR and Philippine Army. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Vino De Coco eyes Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 25, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon talks with George Paraliza (founder of Vino De Coco), a potential investor in Sarangani of coco wine on Monday, June 23. Vino De Coco is a company specializing on coconut wine founded by Paraliza and Tila Paraliza and was first established on August 2010 in Tacloban City. Vino De Coco plans to venture in Sarangani because of the province's richness in coconut. Vino De Coco is just one of the four investors that visited Sarangani on Monday. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Tourism director at Pakaradyan Festival

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 25, 2014) - Tourism Regional Director for Region XII, Nelly Nita Dillera, looks into graphical displays showcasing the treasures of Malapatan on June 21. Dillera attended the culmination of the 9th Pakaradyan Festival and the 45th Foundation Anniversary of Malapatan. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Prov’l gov’t to pour in P12M projects

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 25, 2014) - Mayor Jojo Lopez (2^nd from left) expresses his gratitude to Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, expressing his gratitude to the governor during the culmination of the 7th Kestebeng Festival and 42nd Foundation Anniversary of Maasim on June 21. Gov. Solon gave his keynote speech and emphasized his and Mayor Lopez's endeavor in making Maasim an investment zone. It was pronounced that in the coming months the provincial government of Sarangani will be giving out projects worth P12 million. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon delivers P1.3-M for resettlement project

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 25, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon turns over a P1.3 million check from the provincial government to Mayor Alfonso Singcoy on June 21 during the 45th Foundation Anniversary of Malapatan and the culmination of 9th Pakaradyan Festival. The check is for the resettlement project for San Roque, Malapatan. The LGU of Malapatan counterpart is P400,000 for the land purchase of 4.7 hectares resettlement site benefitting families affected by natural calamities and those living in danger zones. The amount was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on September 2013. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Malapatan: A rich tapestry of colors, cuisine and culture

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 23, 2014) - Tucked near the southern edge of Sarangani province is a small, sleepy town with a rich and colorful culture; whose richness is only matched by its equally beautiful mix of well-preserved tradition and reserved natural tourist destinations.

The town is named Malapatan, which means “mala” - pepper and “fatan” place in Blaan.

Malapatan’s unique culture is mainly borne out of the diversity of culture that is inherent in the place. It is inhabited by the three major cultural contributors namely the Blaans (first inhabitants), Maguindanaons (Muslim pilgrims) and the mostly Christian group of immigrants that first settled in the area during the land settlement years.

In its 45th foundation anniversary last June 21, the inhabitants of Malapatan showcased how all this colorful cultural contribution is now interwoven and integrated itself into what we now know as the unique festival called “Pakaradyan”.

“Pakaradyan means festivities,” said Mayor Alfonso Singcoy Sr.. “The five-day celebration features the richness of the culture of the town, highlighting efforts in its preservation in the light of pushing for grassroots-based development.”

Among the most unique and vibrant features of the Pakaradyan is the Guinakit Festival – a fluvial parade of colorful boats to commemorate the arrival of Shariff Kabungsuan in the 16th century to establish the first sultanate of Maguindanao and preach Islam in the Philippines.

Engr. Tita Suib, municipal planning officer and tourism officer, said they plan to expand the Guinakit parade by the sea so that all barangays of the town will have an entry in the coming Pakaradyan.

Aside from the Guinakit, the town also boasts of the tribal celebration during the Pakaradyan Festival – a special celebration where each tribe is given a whole day to showcase their culture.

In an interview during the culmination of the Pakaradyan Festival, Vice Mayor Jimmy Bagit said that they purposely have three tribal days so that all tribes can be proud of their unique contribution to the culture of the town.

Vice Mayor Bagit added that in the Pakaradyan Festival you can experience the different culinary delights of the tribes such as the Tinagtag of the Maguindanaon’s, the Palapa, Tangigue Steak and sweets laced with coco sugar.

And what Philippine tourist festival would be complete without the street dancing? In Malapatan, they call it the Kadindang sa Lalan or dancing in the streets.

In the end, the Pakaradyan Festival of Malapatan is much like the product of the famed Blaan "dream weavers" of the place who make sleeping mats based on designs they have dreamt off – from the dream of the early ancestors who made a pact to live separately as one in the place full of peppers; respecting each other’s culture and intricacies and silently build together a community where all is unique just like everybody else.

Perhaps Mayor Singcoy said it best in his culmination speech when he said that, “the secret of Malapatan is the mutual respect and reverence we show for other members of different tribes and religion. My father inculcated in us that Malapatan cannot grow without each other. United we stand, for the future of Malapatan.” (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sweet Maasim beauties win pageant

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) – Mutya ng Maasim 2014 Lynette Virtudazo (center), 1st runner up Elsa Mae Ligas (left) and 2nd runner up Angelique Verezrais wind up the pageant night Friday, June 20. The municipality of Maasim is celebrating its 42^nd Foundation Anniversary and 7th Kestebeng Festival. (Ruel D. Ampatin/Kiamba Info Center for Maasim)

The Mutya ng Maasim candidates

MAASIM, Sarangani (June 21, 2012) – Candidates for Mutya ng Maasim 2014 perform their production number during the pageant night Friday, June 20. The municipality of Maasim is celebrating its 42^nd Foundation Anniversary and 7th Kestebeng Festival. (Ruel D. Ampatin/Kiamba Info Center for Maasim)

Vice Governor’s Office trains students

MAITUM, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) – The project staff of Vice Governor’s Office conducts KIDDIE Gender Sensitivity Training for 30 selected Grade V students at Perrett Central Elementary School in Barangay Kalaong on June 20. The KIDDIE Gender Sensitivity Training is under the Gal E’ Libun project of Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao. (Marvin N. Soler/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

Vice Governor’s Office holds training

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) – The office of Vice Governor Jinkee Jamora Pacquiao conducts a two-day Gal E’ Libun Project: Leadership and Value Reorientation Training for 30 members of Sarangani Seaweeds Producers Cooperative (SASEPCO) at Barangay Kawas on June 18-19. Gal E’ Libun is a Blaan phrase which means “strong woman”. The training facilitated by Pastor Michael Sarsaba aims to strengthen new and existing micro-entrepreneur groups on the qualities and value style of an effective leader. Gal E’ Libun Project is in line with the component of Sulong Kasaganahan project of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon. (Quenny D. Dandan/VICE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sarangani police presents initiatives

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 21, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon expresses the initiatives of Sarangani to maintain peace and order and police enforcement during the Performance Governance System Certification on Initiation Stage at the Police Regional Office XII on June 17. Police Senior Superintendent Emmanuel Peralta, Sarangani Provincial Police Office Director, presented the initiatives and plans of SPPO where he was given acknowledgement from Gov. Solon and P/CSupt Edgardo Ingking, Acting Director of Directorate for Integrated Police Operations Western Mindanao, for his outstanding performance on his presentation as well as in his two-month long service as the provincial director of Sarangani. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Fight against TB continues

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 21, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon pledges together with Alabel Mayor Corazon Grafilo, Maitum Mayor Pepito Catimbang, Malungon Mayor Reynaldo Constantino and attendees of the SarangAN Laban sa TB Multi-Sectoral Alliance Strategic Planning Workshop on June 18 during the ceremonial oath-taking to symbolize their commitment and support to "Sarangani, Aksyon Na Laban sa TB" (SarangAN Laban sa TB). The planning workshop was organized by the Innovations& Multisectoral Partnership to Achieve Control of TB (IMPACT)- USAID, Philippine Business for Social Progress, Department of Health and the provincial government of Sarangani under Sulong Kalusugan. SarangAN Laban sa TB aims to increase the awareness and advocacy to fight TB. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon attends Malapateno Awards

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon congratulates the awardees of the Malapateno Awards during the employees’ night of Malapatan on June 18 in celebration of their 45th Foundation Anniversary and 9th Pakaradyan Festival. Also present in the occasion is former Governor Migs Dominguez. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Weavers showcase Blaan craft

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) - Blaan women showcase their mat weaving skills at the municipal grounds as Malapatan stages its annual Pakaradyan Festival. Pakaradyan means festivities which also features the richness of the culture of Malapatan. (Cocoy Sexcion for SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Malapatan crowns Mutya

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) - Mutya ng Malapatan Arlene Casi (center) of Barangay Lun Padidu poses with Queen Norshell Joy Marante Kagilak (left) and Henryieta Echaves Kong, 2nd and 1st runners up all from Barangay Poblacion, during the coronation night Friday, June 20, at the municipal gymnasium in celebration of 9th Pakaradyan Festival and 45th Foundation Anniversary of the municipality. (Cocoy Sexcion for SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Free grilled fish at Pakaradyan Festival

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) - Residents grill fish at the shore to be served to tourists and visitors for free as one of the sidelight events of Pakaradyan Festival. (Cocoy Sexcion for SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Boats parade by the sea

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (June 21, 2014) – Boats from different barangays moor at the shore of Barangay Tuyan for judging during the Guinakit Parade by the Sea Friday, June 20, as one of the highlights of Pakaradyan Festival and the town's 45^th Foundation Anniversary. Malapatan is known for boat-building and fishing. (Cocoy Sexcion for SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Stakeholders lead fight against TB

By JOY R. SEVILLA

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 21, 2014) – The Sarangani Provincial Governor’s Office has released Executive Order (EO) 27 Series of 2014, an order reconstituting the Provincial TB (Tuberculosis) Program Board in the province in support to the National TB Program (NTP).

During the Provincial Multi-Sectoral Alliance (PMSA) and Sarangani Aksyon Na (SarangAN) Laban sa TB Strategic Planning Workshop held recently at Greenleaf Hotel in General Santos, personnel from different government agencies, civil society groups and the private sector supported the Executive Order by taking a pledge of commitment as members of the re-organized Provincial TB Program Board.

The board is chaired by Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon.

Solon said the cooperation of everyone is needed to eradicate TB in the province, saying that it is not only the task of the health office alone, but the engagement of everyone to attain the goal of a TB-free community.

Based on the record of the Provincial Health Office, Sarangani has a Case Detection Rate (CDR) of 59 percent and a Cure Rate (CR) of 70 percent for TB in 2013. This rate is low for the 85 percent and 90 percent target set by the regional health office for CDR and CR, respectively.

Dr. Arvin Alejandro, provincial health officer, said this only manifests that the patient tracking in the province is very poor at the barangay level.

“Dapat maging masipag tayo, lalo na yung nasa barangay level na maghanap ng symptomatic patients. Hindi lang dapat masipag maghanap ng pasyente, pero dapat masipag ding mag-alaga ng pasyente para tumaas ang CDR at CR natin,” he said.

Governor Solon, on the other hand, said TB program is nothing new. It really needs to be pushed harder especially in the barangay level.

“We need to capacitate the people in the barangay to monitor not only TB but other diseases also. Whatever info we need to drive, the health workers in the barangay are the key in order for our info campaign to work,” said Solon.

To encourage the barangay health workers (BHWs) in the province, Solon said a P6-million budget was already approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for the additional honorarium of 1,000 BHWs in the province.

Each BHW will have an additional P500 honorarium starting July 1.

It was learned that BHWs receive a very minimal honorarium. In Barangay Bales in Maasim for example, a hired BHW receives P150 per month.

“BHWs are in fact volunteers to work in the community. The honorarium they get is intended for their fare. Hindi rin madali yung ginagawa nila, monitoring 20 households in the barangay per health worker kaya saludo tayo sa kanila,” Solon said.

Meanwhile, a resolution endorsing the Infomercial of Congressman Manny Pacquiao as an advocacy and communication tool to mobilize stakeholders’ support for TB control in the province of Sarangani was also launched during the activity.

The 32-second infomercial is a call for the government, both in the provincial and municipal levels, to fight TB.

The resolution was sponsored by Board Member Elmer de Peralta, chairman of the committee on health, and co-sponsored by Board Member Cornelio Martinez, Jr.

“TB remains to be the global health problem. It kills around 75 Filipinos every day and about 60 percent of TB deaths occur among the productive age group of 15 to 64 years old,” de Peralta said as he read the resolution.

He added that the TB Infomercial of Congressman Pacquiao will possibly be used not only by the municipalities in Sarangani but also by other provinces in the next coming days. (Joy R. Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

7 Sarangani barangays receive P2.1M projects

By APRIL JANE UGSAD

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 20, 2014) — Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon and OIC Provincial Agriculturist Jonathan Duhaylungsod have turned over seven Multi-Purpose Drying Pavement (MPDP)to seven barangays in the province amounting to P300,000 each.

Funds were sourced out from the Annual Investment Program of the province.

The barangays that received the project were Laguimit (Sitio Paco), Glan; Domolok (Purok 8), Alabel; Kihan (Sitio Kyondong), Malapatan; Amsipit (Sitio Lamlabong), Maasim; Malungon Gamay, Malungon; Zion, Maitum; and Katubao (Purok 4), Kiamba.

These barangays have already received rice and corn shellers and mini corn mills from the provincial government.

According to Philippine Center for Post-harvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), post-harvest needs are the usual problems experienced by farmers and it is becoming evident in some parts of the province.

With the help and support of Gov. Solon, Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao and Rep. Manny Pacquiao and the Sannguniang Panlalawigan members, drying pavements will be provided to reduce post-harvest losses.

Barangay Captain Francisco Garcia of Zion, Maitum said that the need for the dryers is a priority because farming is their community’s main livelihood.

“Naana mi aning dryer pero naguba na,” said Capt. Garcia. “Maong dako akong pasalamat, kauban sa mga tawo sa among lugar, kay Gov. Steve sa iyang tabang sa among komunidad.”

Gov. Solon and Duhaylungsod have also laid down their future plans to the recipients of the project like giving “hybrid solar dryer warehouse” to further improve agricultural production. (April Jane Ugsad/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Multi-purpose drying pavement project to boost agri sector

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 17, 2014) - Jonathan Duhaylungsod (extreme right), OIC provincial agriculturist; Barangay Captain Amina Trecero (3rd from right) of Katubao, Kiamba; and Barangay Captain Francisco
Garcia Jr. of Zion, Maitum show the distribution certificates for the construction of P300,000 multi-purpose drying pavement each barangay Tuesday, June 17. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Barangays get multi-purpose drying pavement

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 17, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon briefs on Tuesday, June 17, barangay captains receiving multi-purpose drying pavement costing P300,000 each under the Annual Investment Program 2013 of the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office. The recipient barangays are Malungon Gamay in Malungon; Kihan, Malapatan; Laguimit, Glan; Amsipit, Maasim; Katubao, Kiamba; Zion, Maitum and Domolok, Alabel. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sulong Kapayapaan rolls out

GLAN, Sarangani (June 17, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon attends a forum of the Haggai for Peace Project under Sulong Kapayapaan held in barangay Mudan. The three-day Haggai for Peace project aims to preserve peace and development of the community through advocacy on culture of peace and values formation. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Retiree gets P98k “pabaon”

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 17, 2014) - President Anacleto “Bobby” Saya-ang (left) of Sarangani Province Employees Union (SPEU) gives a P97,800 “pabaon” from the union to retiring Capitol employee Teofilo Adana (center). Adana also received a P1,000 birthday gift check from the union during the flag raising ceremony retirement tribute Monday, June 16. Adana, 65, served the provincial government of Sarangani as ticket checker under the Provincial Treasurer’s Office. Also in photo is Baby Mae Butohan, SPEU treasurer. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tribute for Sarangani retiree

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 17, 2014) – Teofilo Adana receives a plaque of appreciation from the provincial government thru OIC-Provincial Administrator and concurrent Provincial General Services Officer Mariter Sayson (center) and Sittiehawa Marohomsalic (left), assistant department head and Human Resources Management Officer, during his retirement tribute Monday, June 16, at Capitol. Adana served 21 years in the provincial government as ticket checker of the Provincial Treasurer’s office. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Shrimp seen as prime product of Sarangani

By APRIL JANE UGSAD

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 16, 2014) — The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) sees Sarangani as an excellent producer of shrimp, next to the sea-caged milkfish, in the country.

According to OPAG provincial fisheries coordinator Faith Villanueva, Sarangani is a promising location for shrimp growing in Sarangani Bay area.

“As of now, we are encouraging aquafarmers and potential shrimp farmers to invest in the shrimp growing industry,” said Villanueva during the 1st Business Opportunities in Growing L. vannamei Shrimp seminar.

Guest growers Allan Mirasol and Arlin Aguillar rented a farm in Baliton, Glan, just recently. Construction in their farm has been going on for two weeks now.

Aguillar said that shrimp growing is a new opportunity for her since her previous business in Davao slowed down.

“We considered the land area here in Sarangani and it is fit for shrimp farming specifically vannamei,” Mirasol said. “We’re here to learn more about how to farm shrimps more effectively. We need to learn quick because demands are increasing.”

Meanwhile, OPAG has tied up with Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) Philippines Corporation to introduce to growers the technology, which small time farmers can adapt in their shrimp farming.

Marjun Villanueva, general manager of Shrimps and Feed Sales of CPF Phil. Corp., and his team are willing to help the small time shrimp growers in the province to properly farm shrimp.

“Shrimp growing can help depressed areas in Glan and Malapatan to improve their livelihood,” added Villanueva.

Inviting more investors to put up businesses in the province is one of the priorities of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon as investments would help boost the economic activity in Sarangani. (April Jane Ugsad/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon cites vital role of volunteers

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 16, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon meets volunteers who attended the Integrated Barangay Defense Force (IBDF) Training closing program in far-flung barangay Panamin on Friday, June 13. "You play a big and important role in your community, being the first responders in times of natural and man-made calamities,” the governor told them, and gave emphasis to the importance of volunteerism in the development of the community. The government of Sarangani will also give livelihood, intelligence, and agricultural training in the coming years to barangay Panamin. IBDF falls under Sulong Kaligtasan of Sulong Sarangani Program. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PPROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Sulong Tribu educates villagers on IPRA Law

MALUNGON, Sarangani (June 16, 2014) - Edcel Pontong, project coordinator of Sulong Tribu, one of the pillars of Sulong Sarangani Program of Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, educates at least 250 barangay residents about IPRA Law during the Integrated Barangay Defense Force (IBDF) closing program in barangay Panamin on June 13. The IBDF activity, which was scheduled from June 11-13, aims to train villagers on law and defense. (Tres Besana/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani celebrates 116th Philippine Independence

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 12, 2014) - Capitol officials and employees together with the Department of Education and Philippine Army commemorate the 116th Anniversary of Philippine Independence with the theme “Pagsunod sa Yapak ng mga Dakilang Pilipino, Tungo sa Malawakan at Permanenteng Pagbabago” (Following the Footsteps of Great Filipinos, Towards Widespread and Lasting Change). (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Independence Day in Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 12, 2014) - Provincial officials and employees offer flowers at the Rizal Monument in celebration of the 116th anniversary of Philippine Independence. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani hurdles DILG assessment

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 12, 2014) - The Provincial Government of Sarangani receives positive feedback from the DILG Regional Assessment Team (RAT) on Tuesday, June 10. According to DILG RAT, LGU Sarangani has shown good performance and developments. The assessment is under the Seal of Good Local Governance program of DILG. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Capitol has no noon break

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 12, 2014) - Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon inspects one of the offices at the Capitol to make sure that the "No Noon Break Policy" (R.A. 9485 - Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007) is being implemented. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Gov. Solon leads sanitation drive

ALABEL, Sarangani (June 10, 2014) - Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon dances with performers during the mini concert of the "Unli-Asenso 'Pag May Inidoro" drive on June 6. The Water and Sanitation Program is funded by World Bank. This campaign is aligned with Sulong Kalusugan that aims to improve proper sanitation in some barangays of Sarangani. The project is supported by the provincial government, municipal government of Alabel, and the Department of Health. (Kim Windell V. Tiblani/PROVINCIAL GOVERNOR’S OFFICE)

Mayor to BHW and BNS: Update barangay captains

KIAMBA, Sarangani (June 10, 2014) – Mayor Raul Martinez calls for Barangay Health Workers (BHW) and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) to update their respective barangay captains on the real health situation in every barangay to resolve the malnutrition problem in Kiamba during the Municipal Nutrition Summit Monday, June 9. Councilor Jose Huliganga, who chairs the Committee on Health, challenged the barangay captains to focus on malnutrition as Kiamba rates number 1 in whole Sarangani with more malnourished children. (Ruel Ampatin/KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Villagers receive chicken for livelihood

KIAMBA, Sarangani (June 9, 2014) – Mayor Raul C. Martinez gives native chicken for livelihood from Department of Agriculture at purok Bocay-Il in Barangay Nalus on June 6. (Marlon A. Martinez for KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Mayor eyes Bocay-Il Falls as new tourism site

KIAMBA, Sarangani (June 9, 2014) – Mayor Raul C. Martinez visits Bocay-Il Falls on June 6 with clean-up drive by municipal employees. Bocay-Il falls will soon open as new tourist destination of Kiamba. (Marlon A. Martinez for KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Gov. Solon snorkels at Tuka Marine Park

KIAMBA, Sarangani (June 9, 2014) – Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon snorkels at Tuka Marine Park on June 5. The protected Tuka Marine Park has four coves facing the Celebes Sea. Tuka features fine white sand beach and an awesome coral garden just a few meters away from the coast making it perfect for snorkeling and diving. (Marlon A. Martinez for KIAMBA INFO CENTER)

Sarangani to be filariasis-free by 2018

By JOY R. SEVILLA

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (June 10, 2014) – There is no reason for Sarangani Province not to achieve the goal of filariasis-free by 2018.

This was bared by Dr. Teogenes Baluma, regional director of the Department of Health (DOH) in Region XII, during the Consultation Workshop on National Filariasis Elimination Program (NFEP) and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) held in General Santos City recently.

Filariasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by blood-feeding arthropods, mainly black flies and mosquitoes.

“We target that all provinces in the region be filariasis-free by 2018. Sarangani Province can achieve this goal even before 2018,” Baluma asserted.

Baluma said the provinces of North Cotabato and South Cotabato have been declared filariasis-free by the DOH in 2011 and 2013, respectively. In the region, Sarangani Province and Sultan Kudarat are on the process of conducting Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in both public and private schools.

“Pinakamadaling i-eliminate ang filariasis at kumpleto tayo sa gamot kaya walang rason na hindi natin ma-achieve yung goal,” he said.

On the other hand, Royfrextopher Boholst, regional filariasis coordinator, said that Sarangani will conduct its last MDA in July this year. MDA is conducted every year within five years span. After the last MDA, a transmission assessment survey (TAS) will be conducted by the health office.

“The micro-filaria should be less than one percent in each site. The micro-filaria in five out of seven municipalities in Sarangani is already less than one percent. So, there is a big possibility for Sarangani to be declared as filariasis-free before 2018,” Boholst explained.

One of the criteria of the health office to conduct a transmission assessment survey (TAS) is for a province to have at least five good MDAs. An MDA is considered good if its coverage is equal to or more than 65 percent, which is set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“We have the medicines, it’s ready. We just need to have a close coordination with the provincial and municipal health officers and coordinators so that we will definitely hit the target,” Boholst said.

During the past years, medicines for filariasis are taken from the WHO. However, recently, it became available for there is already a local (Philippine-based) manufacturer of such medicine.

He added that Sarangani Province would first be declared filariasis-free than the province of Sultan Kudarat.

“We are hopeful that Sultan Kudarat will also meet the 2018 target,” Boholst said, adding that the province still needs to implement and monitor its MDA.

According to Boholst, the World Health Organization has a goal for global filariasis elimination by 2020. He added that the Philippines targets filariasis elimination two years earlier than the WHO target.

The WHO global filariasis elimination by 2020 means that by the end of 2020, 70 percent of countries worldwide are verified free of filariasis, and 35 percent has stopped MDA.

Records show that 53 countries are implementing MDA since 2011 including the Philippines where 44 provinces were endemic for the disease in 12 regions. 

Meanwhile, the Provincial Health Office is grateful with the support given by the local officials, from Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao, and all the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, in the implementation of programs that grant free health services to the people in the community. (Joy R. Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)