Friday, December 9, 2011

Rep. Pacquiao builds Sarangani covered court


MALAPATAN, Sarangani (December 10, 2011) - Congressman Manny Pacquiao leads the ground breaking of a multi-purpose covered court at San Juanico Ville, Lun Padidu. The project was funded thru the Priority Development Assistance Fund of the congressman. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph. (Michael Bren M. Evangelio/SARANGANI CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE)

Rep. Pacquiao visits Sarangani barangay


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 10, 2011) - Congressman Manny Pacquiao takes time to consult barangay officials of Pag-asa and break ground for a multi-purpose covered court. The project was funded thru the Priority Development Assistance Fund of the congressman. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph. (Michael Bren M. Evangelio/SARANGANI CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE)

Rep. Pacquiao breaks ground for Sarangani covered court


MALAPATAN, Sarangani (December 10, 2011) - Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Barangay Captain Alexander Figuracion lead the ground breaking ceremony of a multi-purpose covered court at San Juanico Ville, Lun Padidu. The project was funded thru the Priority Development Assistance Fund of the congressman. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph. (Michael Bren M. Evangelio/SARANGANI CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE)

“Builders of peace”, Sagip Kapamilya help Sarangani village

By COCOY SEXCION

MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 10, 2011) - A two-classroom school building was inaugurated and formally turned over Friday (December 9) to the community of Lamlifew, a Blaan village.

It was also the launching of a 120-day feeding program for the pupils of Lamlifew Elementary School.

The projects were carried out through the concerted effort of the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the National Development Support Command (NADESCOM), ABS-CBN Foundation’s Sagip Kapamilya “Gusto kong mag aral” program, Municipal Government of Malungon, Department of Education and the Provincial Government of Sarangani.

The P800,000 school building for Lamlifew Elementary School and another school building in barangay San Jose in General Santos were part of the 12 school buildings completed nationwide by soldiers from NADESCOM, said Capt. William Rodriguez, public affairs officer of Sarangani-based 1002nd Brigade.

The turnover was witnessed by Major General Carlos Holganza, commander of NADESCOM; Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya; Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Vice Governor Steve Solon, Congressman Manny Pacquiao’s chief of staff Bren Evangelio, and other stakeholders who contributed for the completion of the project.

General Holganza thanked the community for the support given to the construction soldiers. “Without you, we will not be here. I hope we will be able to continue our relationships in this way. We are here to serve and we will continue to serve,” Holganza said.

“From managers of wars, our soldiers now are builders of peace,” Holganza added.

Vice Governor Solon lauded the efforts of the community for effectively managing the community-based living museum.

“The governor put in assistance initially, and it was the community itself that is running the museum and the tourism aspect of the community,” Solon said.

Sitio Lamlifew was officially declared as living museum of Blaans during its launch in November 2008.

“In behalf of the province, maraming salamat to Sagip Kapamilya,” Governor Migs Dominguez told the crowd.

“Ngayong araw na ito, meron isang makasaysayang nangyari sa inyong lugar. Nagkaroon ng isang dalawang classroom at ito ay itinayo ng mga taong nagmamahal sa inyo. (Today, a historic event happened. A two classroom building is constructed in your place by people who loves you),” said Tina Monzon Palma.

Palma said that part of the event is the launching of a 120-day feeding program for the pupils of Lamlifew Elementary School through the Bantay Bata 163.

Palma also promised to give rewards to pupils who will gain weight of at least five kilograms after the feeding program. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Turn over of symbolic key for Sarangani school


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya and Bantay Bata 163, turns over the symbolic key to Grade VI pupil Cheann Taguse during the inauguration of one unit two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Token of appreciation from Sarangani


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Tina Monzon Palma is delighted as she receives an authentic hand-woven malong (tube skirt) from Malapatan as a token of appreciation of the provincial government during the inauguration of one unit two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. Looking on are Governor Migs Dominguez, Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit, Vice Governor Steve Solon and Mayor Reynaldo Constantino. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ribbon cutting for Sarangani classroom


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, head teacher Romeo Bogador, Board Member Nene Saguiguit and Tina Monzon Palma lead the cutting of ribbon Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gifts from ABS-CBN Foundation to Sarangani


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Soldiers help out in the distribution of gifts for Lamlifew children from ABS-CBN Foundation Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gift giving for Sarangani kids


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Major General Carlos Holganza, commander of the National Development Support Command, and Tina Monzon Palma, program director of ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya and Bantay Bata 163, lead the gift giving to children of Lamlifew Friday, December 9, during the inauguration of a two-classroom building and launching of feeding program for Lamlifew Elementary School from ABS-CBN Foundation. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


Builders of peace in Sarangani


MALUNGON, Sarangani (December 9, 2011) - Soldiers from the National Development Support Command who constructed the two-classroom building for Lamlifew Elementary School from Sagip Kapamilya of the ABS-CBN Foundation are given due recognition at the inauguration ceremony Friday, December 9. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

RDC 36th regular meeting


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 7, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez (center) stresses a point at the 36th Regional Development Council meeting Wednesday, December 7, at A Montana Resort where regional issues and concerns were discussed. Also in photo are Ulysses Quinto (left), planning officer of Cotabato province, and Governor Arthur Pingoy (right) of South Cotabato. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Governor Migs welcomes district supervisors


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 8, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez tells district supervisors: "To all educators, you are not alone, we are all here trying to make a difference." The governor welcomed delegates Wednesday, December 7, during the 10th Philippine Schools District Supervisors Association annual national convention at the Capitol gymnasium. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

District supervisors national convention in Sarangani


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 8, 2011) – Dr. Allan Farnazo, Sarangani schools division superintendent, leads his teachers in a contemporary dance to welcome participants of the 10th Philippine Schools District Supervisors Association annual national convention Wednesday, December 7, at the Capitol gymnasium. The convention seeks to strengthen the district supervisors’ roles and functions towards effective and quality instruction. For more news and updates about Sarangani, please visit www.sarangani.gov.ph (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Police, military uncover terrorist group


CAMP LIRA, General Santos City (December 7, 2011) – Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez answers a question from a reporter in a press conference Wednesday, December 7, about the arrest of Baserin Tongan alias “Palos”, a suspected bomber of the convoy of the governor in April 2010. With the arrest, police and military authorities discovered the existence of Bansamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway of a Moro Islamic Liberation Front cell involved in extortion and bomb-making activities. Authorities said it was the first time evidence is recovered pointing to the BIFF being a terrorist organization. Also confiscated in a raid in two safehouses on December 3 were a firearms cache, improvised explosive device (IED) components and bomb-making paraphernalia. (Cocoy Sexcion/ SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Monday, December 5, 2011

Deployment of Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 5, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez, PHIVOLCS director Renato Solidum and South Cotabato Provincial Administrator Isidro Janita sign the Memorandum of Agreement for the provision and training on the use of the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System software from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The agreement was signed Monday, December 5, at the opening day of a five-day training at A Montana Resort. REDAS training participant were from the municipal and provincial government units of Sarangani, South Cotabato and General Santos City. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

REDAS implementation training opening ceremony


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 5, 2011) - Govenor Migs Dominguez tells training participants “to make sure that whatever output we have here, we must be able to learn to inform and create believers out of the different chief executives in the region. Kailangang maintidihan ng mga mayors ito. We must be strict in enforcing and regulating whatever policies we decide.” The governor also signed Monday, December 5, the Memorandum of Agreement for the provision and training on the use of the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS) software from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Sarangani Medical Center, Partners for Health


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 4, 2011) – Governor Migs Dominguez and Rep. Manny Pacquiao sit down with Partners for Health consultants and key Capitol department heads to lay down details for the construction and management of Sarangani Medical Center, the first Private-Public Partnership (PPP) hospital in the country. PPP in Health is a program implemented by the Development Bank of the Philippines with support from the Asian Development Bank. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Sarangani Caiptol Ground MunaTo Concert Pictures







Photos courtesy of Ariel Decena

Mountaineers advocate tourism, education, and environment

By ARIEL LALISAN

ALABEL, Sarangani (December 1, 2011) – In the early morning of November 26, more than a hundred people gathered at the James L. Chiongbian Provincial Capitol building.

That day was a big day for Sarangani Province as it celebrates its 19th Foundation Anniversary and 9th MunaTo Festival.

But those who gathered at the Capitol lobby that morning did not come for the festivities. They came for three important causes: tourism, education, and environment.

From as far as Davao and North Cotabato and from the neighboring cities of General Santos and Koronadal and the province of South Cotabato, mountaineering enthusiasts participated in the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek to Atnayan Waterfalls in sitio New Canaan, barangay Pag-asa in Alabel.

The sun shone brightly as we rode three dump trucks from the Capitol compound.

Looks like God answered our prayer, I told myself. Our biggest fear is for heavy rain to pour down because, as per experience, when it rains, the water level in the river can rise in no time and begin to inundate the riverbanks. So it was a blessing that the sky was clear that morning.

The mountaineers couldn’t hide their excitement as we started rolling. They got even more spirited as we were nearing barangay Pag-asa, where their eyes feasted on a panoramic view of the valley. They even enjoyed it when the trucks started to cross the river, thus the ride became all bumpy.

After more than an hour of balancing stunts, we reached our jump off point for the trek. The books and seedlings were distributed to each participant. The books were wrapped in plastic to prevent them from getting wet.

God had been very good to send us low-lying clouds when we started the trek. All through the trek, it did not get very hot for the trekkers.

The participants crossed the river 23 times and traversed hills to reach sitio New Canaan. Not only did they have to endure the distance and the difficult trail, each of them carried additional weight due to the books and the seedlings.

Three-and-a-half hours later, we were already at sitio New Canaan, where the mountaineers built a tent city at our camp site. After which, we started planting the seedlings we brought.

There were Acacia, Mahogany, and Spanish cedar.

We did not want our efforts to go to waste; we chose an area where the locals can take care of the newly-planted trees.

Barangay Kagawad Diansing Sampayon of Pag-asa assured us that he will see to it that the trees we planted will survive.

During the welcome night, representatives from each participating mountaineering group were very thankful to have been given the chance not only to visit a new place but to also serve others by delivering books to the school and by planting trees.

They said that they found the activity very meaningful.

When I and my fellow Team Bundol Mountaineers conceptualized the activity, we emphasized that it should not just be a trekking to see the Atnayan Waterfalls. My team wanted to do a sort of an outreach activity.

So, we set our objectives that included promoting tourism, supporting the National Greening Program, and the Karunungan Kontra Kahirapan program of the local government of Sarangani, and eventually, facilitating progress in the area.

The 1st MunaTo EcoTrek was hosted by Team Bundol Mountaineers, in cooperation with Madyaw Alabel Mountaineers Association (MAMA), and Magu Sarangani Mountaineers.

It was almost an impossible dream for Team Bundol Mountaineers to organize such an activity given our limited resources, skills, and connection.

We are thankful to MAMA, under the leadership of Narciso Grafilo IV, for rendering service by setting up the trail, acting as marshalls, and providing security and safety for the participants, and to Magu Sarangani Mountaineers, led by Alma Corazon Gabuat, for linking us to the MunaTo Festival organizers and for helping provide transportation and logistical support.

The activity turned out to be an overwhelming success.

Furthermore, we owe a lot from Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QuEST) for providing the books. We are also indebted to the provincial government of Sarangani, tourism office, office of the provincial engineer, environment and natural resources office, and the municipal government of Alabel, especially to Vice Mayor Vic Paul Salarda.

If there is only one way to measure the success of the activity, it would be the mountaineers shaking hands with you and personally telling you how grateful they are to have been involved in the activity.

For me, there is not greater success than to inspire others to also start doing good things for the Earth and for other people. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
(ARIEL LALISAN is a faculty member and information officer-designate of the Alabel National Science High School, the Regional Science High School for Region XI. He is also the vice president of Alabel National Science High School Alumni Association and an a alumnus of Ayala Young Leaders Congress)

Opening remarks for Provincial Youth Summit


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 1, 2011) – Hermelo Latoja, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer, speaks before participating out-of-school youth of the Provincial Youth Summit organized by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office Thursday, December 1, at the Capitol gymnasium. The summit aims to promote the social and economic development of each participant through engaging in various activities such as food production, volunteer community service, health and nutrition, population awareness, protection and conservation of natural resources and improvement of natural environment. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Oath-taking of newly-elected youth officers


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 1, 2011) - Board Member Benedicto Ruiz administers the oath to newly-elected Pag-asa Youth Association Federation Officers-Sarangani chapter Thursday, December 1, at the provincial gymnasium during the Provincial Youth Summit. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


Lighting of friendship torch


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 1, 2011) - Youth association chapter federation presidents light the torches for friendship at the opening of the two-day Provincial Youth Summit Thursday, December 1, at the Capitol gymnasium. One objective of the summit is to heighten the social awareness of the out-of-school youth through development forum to identify emerging issues affecting them and their corresponding solutions. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Climate change adaptation awareness campaign


ALABEL, Sarangani (December 1, 2011) – Bong Tuballes, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, asks a question from a participant of Provincial Youth Summit as he gives a presentation on the climate change adaptation awareness campaign Thursday, December 1, at the provincial gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Trekkers promote eco-tourism


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 29, 2011) – Trekkers promote eco-tourism by exploring Sarangani’s potential tourist spots at the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek last weekend. They also advocate the protection of the province's natural resources and drumbeat sustainable development in the local community. The trek was participated in by 13 mountaineering clubs and freelancers from Kabacan, Cotabato; Tupi, South Cotabato; Koronadal City, General Santos City and Sarangani. A total of 80 mountaineering enthusiasts conquered Atnayan Falls during the weekend. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tree-planting highlights eco-trek


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 29, 2011) - Mountaineers listen as Carmela Lumantas of Madyaw Alabel Mountaineers explains how the tree-planting activity was to be carried out. They planted acacia, mahogany, and Spanish cedar saplings at sitio New Canaan, barangay Pag-asa as part of the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek during the weekend. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mountaineers on tree-planting activity


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 29, 2011) – Mountaineers plant acacia, mahogany, and Spanish cedar saplings at sitio New Canaan, barangay Pag-asa during the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek over the weekend. The eco-trek aimed to promote eco-tourism, advocate the protection of the province's natural resources and drumbeat sustainable development in the local community. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


Mountaineers for education


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 29, 2011) - More than a hundred mountaineers from Sarangani and nearby provinces and cities crossed rivers and traversed hills to deliver books for the pupils and students of New Canaan Integrated School as part of the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek last weekend. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Atnayan Falls attracts mountaineers


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 29, 2011) – Mountaineers rest at their final destination, the Atnayan Falls, after a tree-planting activity during the 1st MunaTo EcoTrek. The trek was participated in by 13 mountaineering clubs and freelancers from Kabacan, Cotabato; Tupi, South Cotabato; Koronadal City, General Santos City and Sarangani. A total of 80 mountaineering enthusiasts conquered Atnayan Falls during the weekend. (Ariel Lalisan/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani, a legacy of JLC

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 28, 2011) – Vice President Jejomar Binay unveiled on Friday (November 25) the marker naming the main Provincial Capitol building into Congressman James L. Chiongbian (JLC) Capitol Building in honor of the province’s founder.

The unveiling was made in time for the 9th MunaTo Festival and 19th Foundation Anniversary.

Provincial Ordinance No. 2011-7-049 naming the JLC Capitol Building was jointly sponsored by Board Members Eugene Alzate, Cornelio Martinez, Elmer de Peralta, Alexander Bryan Reganit, Hermie Galzote, Eleanor Saguiguit, Virgilio Clark Tobias, Limuel Gacula, Benedicto Ruiz II, Abdulracman Pangolima, George Perrett, Arman Guili and Victor James Yap Jr.

The ordinance noted the world-class coastal highway and the Provincial Capitol Building as among infrastructure developments Chiongbian initiated under his leadership.

Rep. James L. Chiongbian, who passed away in 2004, was first elected during the special election for the lone district of South Cotabato in 1967. He was reelected in 1969 and served until Congress was abolished by the declaration of Martial Law in 1972.

From May 1987 to June 1992, Chiongbian represented the 3rd District of South Cotabato in Congress as Assistant Majority Floor Leader.

When Sarangani Province was created in 1992, Chiongbian represented the Lone District of Sarangani as Assistant Majority Floor Leader and member of 10 committees up to 1998. He was succeeded by eldest son Erwin as Sarangani congressman in 2001.

Incumbent Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao recognized the “pioneering effort” of Chiongbian as “we look back in the legacy of the man who laid the foundation of Sarangani province.”

Pacquiao reminded constituents “to carry on the legacy of our founding leaders.”

As Sarangani turned 19 this year, Pacquiao anticipated “greater things are yet to happen, greater opportunities are coming our way.”

“With the strong foundation of history, with the blessings of our unity and harmony, and with the presence of our God, let us be excited to move forward,” Pacquiao added.

Sarangani was created in 1992 as a new province from the then 3rd District of South Cotabato by the landmark legislation of the late Rep. Chiongbian, Republic Act No. 7228, which spurred unprecedented development in the area.

On March 16, 1992, through RA 7228, the authority to create Sarangani was signed into law.

Thru majority of votes cast in a plebiscite on May 19, 1992, Sarangani was established as an independent province. Henceforth, it observed May 19 as the Charter Anniversary Day to commemorate its proclamation.

In 2002, a Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution reset Sarangani’s Provincial Foundation Anniversary from May 19 to November 28.

“Upon its creation, its corporate existence only commences upon the election and qualification of its chief executive and a majority of the members of the Sanggunian,” according to the resolution.

“The process of creating the Province of Sarangani, as in a birth cycle was consummated, when the first duly elected provincial officials were sworn into office by His Excellency President Fidel V. Ramos on November 28, 1992,” the resolution stated. “Symbolically, foundation or birth anniversaries must be based not on the day of its conception but on the day of its birth.”

Thus, the foundation anniversary was reset to November 28 “in order to create greater impact and significance and sounder legal basis to the celebration. However, May 19 shall be commemorated as Charter Anniversary.” (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Villagers thank World Bank for Bangka Project


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 28, 2011) – Barangay Kabatiol Chairman Noel Tapan extends his appreciation being the recipient of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) Bangka Project. The Kabatiol Fishermen’s Association received six new motorized bangkas worth P250,000 funded by World Bank, the Department of Agriculture thru MRDP and the Local Government of Maasim Monday, November 28. Fishing is the main livelihood of the barangay. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner Arzaga)

Turnover of basic medical equipment


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 28, 2011) – Maasim Mayor Jose Zamorro, barangay Amsipit Chairman Allan Muyak, municipal health officer Jeileen Millar, barangay Lumasal chairman Eduardo Paras and Mahintana project manager Jobe Tubigon during the turn-over of basic medical equipment and supplies worth P300,000 for barangays Amsipit and Lumasal Monday, November 28. The project was funded by the European Union and implemented by the Mahinatana Foundation Inc. thru the Health and Economic Alternatives (HEAL) Project. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner Arzaga)

“Bangka Project” beneficiaries told, be responsible


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 28, 2011) – Mayor Jose Zamorro reminds the Kabatiol Fishermen’s Association of the responsibilities that bind them being recipients of six brand new motorized bangkas worth P250,000 funded by World Bank, the Department of Agriculture thru Mindanao Rural Development Program and the Local Government of Maasim Monday, November 28. Fishing is the main livelihood of the barangay. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner Arzaga)

Thursday, December 1, 2011

MunaTo Festival 2011 Street Dancing Showdown






ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – The best street dancers from Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato vie for the total cash prize of at least P237,000 in the MunaTo Festival street dancing showdown watched by thousands of spectators at the Capitol grounds Saturday, November 26. The 1st placer gets P100,000; 2nd -75,000; and 3rd – P50,000, with P12,000 for consolation prize. MunaTo Festival is a celebration honoring the first people and leaders of Sarangani. MunaTo was derived from the native vernacular meaning “unang tao” or “first people”, the early inhabitants of Sarangani who passed on a rich cultural heritage. MunaTo also refers to the makers of the 2000-year old anthropomorphic burial jars discovered in Maitum that are now in the National Museum. As a tribute to the pioneering leaders of the province, MunaTo is a celebration of their efforts to spur development in Sarangani which is sustained up to this day. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Binay turns over P2M for senior citizens center in Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – Vice President Jejomar Binay ceremonially turned over a P500,000 check each to Glan, Maitum, Malapatan, and Maasim yesterday (November 25) to fund for the construction of senior citizens center in these municipalities.

Binay graced the second day celebration of the 9th MunaTo Festival and 19th Founding Anniversary of Sarangani Province.

“Karamihan sa mga matatanda ay napapabayaan at nagmistulang walang silbi sa ating lipunan,” Binay lamented. He also pointed out the reality where the elderly are left with no choice but to beg for alms to support their medication needs while others were totally abandoned by their own families.

“Kaya naman isa sa aming mga proyekto sa Tanggapan ng Pangalawang Pangulo ay pagpapatayo at pagpapakumpuni ng lahat ng mga senior citizens center sa buong bansa,” Binay said.

“Ginagawa po namin ito upang isulong at itaguyod ang importansya ng nakakatanda sa pagtataguyod ng ating bansa,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Binay noted the distress that the general populace of indigenous peoples in the country experience particularly in Sarangani Province where he disclosed his desire to provide assistance thru housing program.

“Hangarin ko rin na lahat ng mga indigenous peoples o ating mga katutubo sa bansa ay ating matulongan kasama na po ang Tboli, Manobo, Kalagan at Muslim dito sa lalawigan ng Sarangani. Tutulungan po natin sila,” Binay said.

“Hangarin natin na matugunan ang kanilang mga pangangailangan lalong-lalo na sa pabahay. Kaya naman ho inilunsad natin ang indigenous peoples’s housing program na pakikinabangan ng katutubong Pilipino kasama sila sa mga naghihirap nating kababayan,” he also said.

“Kaya po kami ay gumawa ng paraan para itong katutubong kababayan natin ay magkaroon ng kanilang sariling pamamahay,” Binay added.

Sarangani is a home to diverse tribes with distinct culture they succeeded to preserve and are living in co-existence with one another peacefully. (Beverly C. Paoyon/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Battle of the Bands 2nd placer


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – Members of “Earth Fusion” band join guest performer Eric Gancio after winning the 2nd place in the Battle of the Bands competition for the 9th MunaTo Festival at Capitol grounds, with P10,000 cash prize. Also in the photo (first from left) is Jomar Jalos, event organizer. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Battle of the Bands champion


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – “Hail Stone” local band from General Santos City is grand champion in the Battle of the Bands competition (with ten competing bands) for the 9th MunaTo Festival at Capitol grounds. The band received P15,000 cash prize. (Russel Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

1st Congressman’s marker unveiled at Capitol


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – Vice President Jejomar Binay (center) leads the unveiling of the late Rep. James L. Chiongbian’s (JLC) marker Friday, November 25, as the province names the Sarangani Capitol building after him. Together with Binay are former Governor Priscilla Chiongbian (2nd left), wife of the late Congressman Chiongbian, Governor Migs Dominguez (3rd left), Congressman Manny Pacquiao (2nd right) and Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (right) at the JLC building lobby. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Bon-Bon Quiño)

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Pearl of Sarangani 2011


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – (L-R) Second runner-up Chariz Layne Carbon of Malapatan, 2011 Pearl of Sarangani Lara Edenel Robles of Alabel and first runner-up Mariane Angelique Herrera of Maitum wind up the pageant Friday, November 25. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Abner Arzaga)

Pearl of Sarangani 2011 candidates


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – The candidates for Pearl of Sarangani 2011 from the municipalities of Maitum, Kiamba, Maasim, Alabel, Malapatan, Malungon and Glan during the pageant night at the Capitol grounds Friday, November 25. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner Arzaga)

Dingdong Dantes serenades Pearl of Sarangani candidates


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 26, 2011) – GMA talent Dingdong Dantes serenades the candidates during the Pearl of Sarangani pageant night in celebration of the 9th MunaTo Festival Friday, November 25. GMA is one of the major sponsors of the 9th MunaTo Festival celebration. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Abner Arzaga)

Rochelle Pangilinan dances


ALABEL, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – GMA talent Rochelle Pangilinan excites the audience with her dance number during the 2011 Pearl of Sarangani pageant night Friday, November 25. GMA is one of the major sponsors of the 9th MunaTo Festival celebration. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Abner Arzaga)

Turnover of assorted fish fingerlings for restocking of Sarangani Bay


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – (From left to right) Vice Mayor Utto Salem Cutan, Governor Migs Dominguez, Tomas Alcantara - president and chairman of Alcantara Group, a representative from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, DENR regional director Datu Saikol, Alex Alcantara - Alsons Aquaculture Corporation executive vice president and Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias pose for the ceremonial release of assorted fish fingerlings to Sarangani Bay Friday, November 25, as part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the 200 megawatt coal-fired power plant in Kamanga. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Secretary Domingo tree


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo plants a tree at the construction site of the 200 megawatt power plant of Sarangani Energy Corporation before its groundbreaking Friday, November 25, in barangay Kamanga. Domingo is assisted by Noli Cajutol (left), SEC consultant for its carbon sink project, and Joel Aton (right), SEC project assurance manager, as Thomas Alcantara, Chairman of Alcantara Group, looks on. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Secretary Domingo press conference


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) – Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo meets the press Friday, November 25, before the groundbreaking ceremony for the 200 megawatt coal-fired power plant of Sarangani Energy Corporation at the plant construction site in barangay Kamanga. Joining him as panelists are (left to right) Jan Ced, president of General Santos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Rudy Ocat, general manager of SOCOTECO II; Trade Undersecretary Merly Cruz; DTI XII regional director Ibrahim Guiamadel; Nenita Barroso, DTI Sarangani provincial director and Rey Billena of Sarangani Chamber of Commerce and Industry. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

SEC School building


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez exchanges pleasantries with the performing drum and lyre band during the turnover of a two-classroom building donated by Sarangani Energy Corporation and Alcantara Foundation for the integrated school of Mangelen in barangay Kamanga Friday, November 25. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ribbon cutting ceremony


MAASIM, Sarangani (November 25, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez (right), Tirso Santillan (2nd right) - CEO of Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC), Mayor Jose Zamorro (5th right), Rosie Dominguez (7th right) - president of Alcantara Foundation and Joel Aton (9th right) - project assurance manager of SEC, are joined by teachers and barangay officials in a ribbon cutting ceremony during the turnover of a two-classroom building for Mangelen Integrated School. The school building was donated by SEC through Alcantara Foundation. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)