Welcome address

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 28, 2011) - In his welcome address, Governor
Migs Dominguez expresses his thanks to the Development Bank of the
Philippines for another grant given to the province for the expansion
of DBP forest in barangay Paraiso in Alabel Monday, March 28. He also
encourages other private partners to take part in the reforestation
project. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Remarks for environment

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 28, 2011) - As Sangguniang Panlalawigan chair
of the committee on environment, Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit
suggests to intensify the information-education campaign on how
destructive the slash-and-burn farming system is to the environment in
her closing remarks Monday, March 28, at the launching of the
expansion program of DBP forest. Saguiguit also stressed that the
people who are against the construction of a coal-fired power plant in
Maasim should know that the massive charcoal production in the
province is destructive and contributes more pollution to the
environment. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

MOA signing

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 28, 2011) - From left, seated, Jesus Boja
PENRO-DENR Alabel, Alabel Mayor Corazon Grafilo, Board Member Eleanor
Saguiguit, Governor Migs Dominguez, DBP Senior Vice President Brillo
Reynes and Nelito Tingzon, DBP Gensan branch manager, sign the
memorandum of agreement between the provincial government and
Development Bank of the Philippines for the rehabilitation of Calminda
Watershed Monday, March 28. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION
OFFICE)

DBP courtesy call

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 28, 2011) - Development Bank of Philippines
executives headed by their Senior Vice President Brillo Reynes (3rd
left) pay a courtesy call to Governor Migs Dominguez Monday, March 28,
at the Governor’s Office. The delegates later attended the launching
of the expansion of DBP forest project and signing of memorandum of
agreement along with provincial officials. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI
INFORMATION OFFICE)

Turnover

KIAMBA, Sarangani (March 27, 2011) - Vice Mayor Regino Valle (2nd from
left) receives the communications equipment from Deputy Governor
Aniceto Lopez Jr. with Kiamba municipal administrator Marie Jess M.
Ancheta (extreme left), Maasim councilor Roy Benito (2nd from right)
and Kiamba councilor Danny Martinez (extreme right). (Ruel D.
Ampatin/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Inventory

KIAMBA, Sarangani (March 27, 2011) – Deputy Governor Aniceto Lopez Jr.
receives the communications equipment for distribution to MAKIMA
(Maitum-Kiamba-Maasim) area to monitor and combat piracy and ensure
the safety of fishermen in the province. (Ruel D. Ampatin/SARANGANI
INFORMATION OFFICE)

Communications equipment

KIAMBA, Sarangani (March 27, 2011) - Deputy Governor Aniceto Lopez Jr. inspects the GPS equipment turned over to the Municipality of Kiamba. The turnover of communications equipment to the MAKIMA (Maitum-Kiamba-Maasim) area is intended to monitor and combat piracy and ensure the safety of fishermen in the province. (Ruel D. Ampatin/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Coffee planting demonstration

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 27, 2011) – The staff of Provincial Agriculturist’s Office and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office demonstrates how to make a seed bed in planting a coffee bean and the way of proper planting, caring and maintaining coffee to coffee growers of barangay Nomoh during their coffee care
and maintenance seminar. This activity is in partnership with the Office of Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon. (Bon-Bon Quiño / SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Coffee care and maintenance seminar

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 27, 2011) – Jeffrey Bactong of the Provincial
Agriculturist’s Office shows a coffee bean to the participants of
coffee and care maintenance seminar at barangay Nomoh. This seminar is
in partnership with the offices of Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian
Solon and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources which aims to
assist coffee farmers. (Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Military denies human rights violations, slams CLANS

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (March 26, 2011) – Civilian and military authorities yesterday denied that government troops have perpetrated “human rights violations” in a hinterland village where a non-government organization (NGO) purportedly working for the interest of the indigenous people (lumad) has established a learning center and micro hydro power project.

Officials of barangay Upper Daan Suyan disclosed that the allegations of the NGO known as CLANS were mere black propaganda aimed at destroying the peace and development program of the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Upper Suyan.

Major Adolfo Espuelas Jr., battalion commander of the 73rd IB, Mayor Alfonso Singcoy and barangay officials called a press conference Friday (March 25) in reaction to CLANS’ statement alleging that soldiers perpetrated the violations “from November 4, 2010 to March 17, 2011.”

Espuelas said what CLANS or Center for Lumad Advocacy and Services was circulating thru the internet and the media was untrue.

“Ako karong ginasulti nga dili tinuod ang tanang gipang sulti nila. Walay bisan isa nga tinuod sa ilang gipangsulti, gusto lang siguro aning mga grupo nga muhawa ang atong mga sundalo sa maong mga sitio kay kung naa ang mga sundalo didto dili makalihok sa ilang mga gusto nga buhaton (I tell you what they are claiming is not true. Those are all lies. These groups just want to oust our troops from the sitios because they cannot do what they want if we are around),” Espuelas said.

In its statement, CLANS said elements of the 73rd IB arrived and camped in sitio Datalnay on November 4, 2010. “Sitio Datalnay is one of the project areas of CLANS. The soldiers who were in full battle gear stayed in Datalnay until December 15, 2010. The 27 Blaan families, including their children, and the teachers and staff of CLANS were disturbed and in fear, disturbing the day to day activities of the community,” according to CLANS.

Akong isa-isahon kining mga allegations kay seryoso man kini. Unfair man sad sa atong mga kasundaluhan, nga sila butang-butangan nalang. Sila nag sakripisyo, naghatag tinuod nga serbisyo sa katawhan, ni-antos ug kamingaw sa pamilya unya butang-butangan lang ug sala (I want to tackle these allegations one by one. It’s unfair on the part of our soldiers who sacrificed themselves for the community by giving them their services away from their families just to be victims of these lies),” Espuelas said.

The officer said they invited sitio leaders and tribal leaders to tell the truth and disprove CLANS’ allegations.

In its statement, CLANS alleged that 73rd IB soldiers had interrogated repeatedly nine individuals; forcibly placing a boy inside a sack and forcing a 10-year old Blaan boy to don a chain of sub-machine gun bullets on his shoulder, and carry an M-16 rifle and his picture was taken to show that he is a child soldier.

Instead of peddling lies, Espuelas called on CLANS to coordinate with the authorities about their presence in the area.

For his part, Mayor Singcoy said the municipal government should have known first the violations if they were true. “So far, sukad pa kaniadto hantod karon, wala man pud koy nakita nga mga lakang, binuang, mga tinunto nga binuhatan sa atong mga sundalo. Number one gyud kaming makahibalo (Since then, I have not seen any abuse or wrongdoings of soldiers. We will be the first to know if ever.)”

Singcoy lamented that CLANS used his constituents’ poor condition to build a P100,000 project in the village with a P60 million funding from a foreign source.

Espuelas said authorities would not make a legal action but they were questioning the supposed P60-million micro hydro electric power project to energize the barangay and a rice mill. “Pero kana nga plano wala na hantod karon, tulo ra daw ka bombilya sa staff house nila kanang gipuy-an nila anang maestro nga maoy gapasimuno aning reklamo mao nay atong ginatuki karon. (But that plan was not realized until now. There are only three light bulbs at the staff house owned by a teacher where they are staying and who initiated this complaint. That is what we are now trying to investigate).”

A village official disclosed that until now, CLANS has not shown any formal document about its existence or any coordination with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Sarangani gets 133 teacher slots, more funds from DepEd

MAITUM, Sarangani (March 22, 2011) – The Department of Education (DepEd) has allotted beginning this school year 133 slots for new teachers, the largest number of items given to Sarangani, according to local DepEd officials.

In addition, a P61-million fund will be given for the construction of additional school buildings, P3 million for class furniture, and procurement of texbooks.

Schools Division Superintendent Deborah Adrales made the statement during the first quarterly joint Provincial School Board and Local School Board (PSB-LSB) meeting here attended by provincial, local and DepEd officials Monday (March 21).

“133 items will be given by the DepEd for Sarangani for elementary school teachers,” Adrales said.

Adrales said the big number of teachers’ items for Sarangani was the result of the department’s national planning conference last December in order to establish its road map for 2011.

At the PSB-LSB meeting, Governor Migs Dominguez, in his State of the Sarangani Education, stated the present status of elementary and high school education in the province and urged local and DepEd officials to harmonize concerns and set its direction.

“Let us start investing on our people to fight against poverty, overpopulation, and lack of government resources. We cannot expect employment from the government forever,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez reported at present, Sarangani schoolchildren’s performances fall far from what they have to achieve per Education For All (EFA) standards in terms of participation rate (75% versus 95% EFA standard), completion rate (49% versus 81% EFA standard) and achievement rate (65% versus 86% EFA standard).

“We are still a long way… the future of Sarangani will be bleak if we don’t do something for the education of our children,” Dominguez said.

The early enrolment at the province in January helped in determining the need for more teachers this school year, according to Adrales.

Adrales said the province’s actual need for teachers reaches to 1,027 excluding teachers for the new integrated high schools among remote communities.

With at least 18 new integrated high schools in remote areas, Sarangani’s educational innovation through the province’s Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST) in partnership with the DepEd, hopes to improve its completion rate for students to reach college.

Given the said ratio, Adrales said it is now up to the joint PSB-LSB meeting to address the need for more teachers in the province.

The meeting took up challenges confronting district performances, and strategies that would meet the EFA goals for the next three years. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Governor’s time

MAITUM, Sarangani (March 21, 2011) - “The future of Sarangani will be bleak if we do not do something” is Governor Migs Dominguez ‘s challenge to participants as he delivers the state of Sarangani education Monday, March 21, to open the 1st joint Provincial and Local School Board meeting at Pearl Garden in Poblacion, Maitum. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Gov. Migs with health workers

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 21, 2011) - Anecita Neirra, barangay health workers preceptor, introduces her workers to Mayor Jose Zamorro and Governor Migs Dominguez Monday, March 21, infront of the Municipal Hall. The governor joined the municipal employees in a flag raising ceremony and later turned over a P1.5 million check to Mayor Zamorro as counter part of the provincial government for the KALAHI-CIDDS scale up project for the province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Check for poverty alleviation program

MAITUM, Sarangani (March 21, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez, Mayor Elsie Perrett and Gemma Rivera, DSWD XII assistant regional director, are joined by (left to right) Barangay Captains Linda Narte of Kalaong; Elizabeth Villanueva, representing Arturo Desaville of Wali; Maria Doctor of Kiambing; Diokno Kilam of Batian; Oscar Pascua of New La Union and Sebastian Paralejas of Upo in a photo opportunity during the ceremonial turn over of check amounting to P1.8 million as the provincial government’s counter part for the construction of poverty alleviation projects of above mentioned barangays as part of KALAHI CIDDS’s scale up project for the Province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Check for construction of school buildings

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 21, 2011) - Mayor Jose Zamorro thanks Governor Migs Dominguez, social welfare officer Hermelo Latoja and DSWD XII assistant regional director Gemma Rivera during the turn over of check amounting to P1.5 million as a counter part of the provincial government for the construction of school buildings for barangays Poblacion, Malbang, Lumatil, Lumasal, Kanalo and Amsipit as part of the KALAHI-CIDDS scale up project for the province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

KALAHI- CIDSS scales up projects for Sarangani

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 21, 2011) – Based on poverty incidence and effective project implementation, Sarangani’s four municipalities are recipient of its scale up project.

On Monday (March 21), Governor Migs Dominguez turned over a P1.5-M check as provincial counterpart for the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) scale up project here.

Dominguez, who attended the flag raising ceremony in Maasim, proceeded to Maitum town for another turn-over of check worth P1.8-M to Mayor Elsie Perrett.

The province’s 70 percent share is counter parted by the municipality by 30 percent.

Maasim, Kiamba Maitum, and Malungon are Sarangani municipal recipients of KALAHI-CIDSS’s continuing project.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) KALAHI-CIDSS project and the national government’s poverty alleviation flagship project through transparent and community-oriented projects have identified 16 municipalities nationwide for its expanded projects.

Provincial social welfare and development officer Hermelo Latoja said the plan was initiated early last year. A memorandum of agreement was signed in May.

The project is intended for the construction of school buildings in barangays poblacion, Amsipit, Malbang, Lumasal, Lumatil, and Kanalo.

“We want to see more professionals in Maasim,” Dominguez said.

The governor said Maasim schools have the lowest in terms of educational attainment and that they need interventions.

KALAHI-CIDSS projects in Maitum cover construction of school buildings, water systems, solar driers, and health centers.

“The project is based on poverty incidence in the community,” Emercita Dizon, KALAHI-CIDSS’ regional project coordinator, said.

In Maitum, Wali, Kiambing, Upo, New La Union, Kalaong, and Batian are the recipient barangays of the project.

Dizon said KALAHI-CIDSS will provide financing for Kiamba project, while Makamasang Tugon, anoher component project, will be implemented in Malungon town.

The total cost of the sub-projects is P5.7 billion of which P3.9 billion are in the form of community grants from the national government while P1.8 billion are counterpart funds of local government units and the communities. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Checks for YACAP scholars

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 14, 2011) - Board Member Virgilio Clark
Tobias, assisted by Governor’s Office Chief of Staff Pio Velasco and
YACAP’s political affairs officer for Mindanao Kye Montemayor, hands a
check to Kimberly Revaño, a 2nd year BSHRM student of STI, in a turn
over of checks amounting to P2,500 per check to 50 scholars of YACAP
party list in Sarangani Monday, March 14, at the Capitol during the
flag raising ceremony. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Kalilangan Festival 2011 photo contest winners

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 12, 2011) - Kalilangan Festival 2011 photo contest winners pose after the awarding ceremony March 8 at Zhestah Chicken House. From left: Dondon Pagusnan representing Ric Samanion from Marbel, consolation prize winner; Dong Pading consolation prize winner; Carlito Flores consolation prize winner; Ronald Velasquez, 3rd prize winner; Noel Nacion, 1st prize winner; Cocoy Sexcion, consolation and 2nd prize winner; and Aaron Zerna, consolation prize winner. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE/Photo courtesy: Gensan Camera Club).

Sarangani youth finishes US scholarship program

By Russtum G. Pelima, MA Ed

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) – United States’ English Access
Microscholarship Program graduated Wednesday (March 9) 50 poor but
deserving students from Colon and Lumasal high schools in Maasim town.
Two years ago, students from the two high schools were screened by the
province’s Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST) to avail of
the scholarship as one of the initiatives of the United States Embassy
in the Philippines in partnership with Synergeia Foundation.
“What I developed most to myself is my leadership skill because we
were taught and trained all the time to take the lead,” top student
Adrian Ladres said.

Ladres was granted a youth exchange and study program to the U.S. and
met other English access scholars from other countries.

“What I remember most was our barbeque party in San Diego when we had
the chance to meet all our mentors,” Ladres said.

“I still remember how my son dreamed to see the world and suddenly his
dream came true,” Maria Gaudiosa Ladres, mother of Adrian, said.

While Adrian tops the other scholars, his parents were among the
hundreds of fisher folk in one of Maasim’s coastal communities.
“We are so grateful for the U.S. Embassy for
giving this scholarship
to Sarangani children,” Mrs. Ladres said.
“You are 50 among the other English Access scholars from 70 countries
throughout the world,” United States Ambassador to the Philippines
Harry Thomas said in a video message.

“We would like to thank Governor Dominguez, the Sarangani leadership
for helping us find new ways to help,” U.S. Embassy’s Assistant
Cultural Affairs Officer Najlaa Abdus – Samad said.

“I would like to thank the U.S. Embassy, the local officials, and the
Department of Education for partnering with us in this endeavor,”
Synergeia Chief Executive Officer Milwida Guevarra said.

“While you use the future tense, I am using the present tense – we are
very, very proud of you. We see the bright future of Sarangani in
you,” Guevarra told the students.

For his part, Governor Migs Dominguez thanked the Department of
Education and private partners for inspiring the province to do
better.

“We would like to thank the parents who are responsible for making
their children eager to study and dream big,” Dominguez said.
Dominguez asked the students to sign up to continue their scholarship
to college but he himself will strictly monitor the students’
performances to become the best and excellent scholars.

The students received leadership trainings, writing workshops and a
one-hour after class and summer intensive instructions in English for
the two-year program.

“I taught them community service and we did hands on most of the
time,” teacher Harisa Saidina said.

“We see the improvement of the students in general from English usage
to interpersonal relationships,” grammar teacher Victoria But-ay said.
English Access Microscholarship Program also aims to develop the
capability of teachers in using creative pedagogy in teaching English
in regular classes.

QUEST reported improved academic performance of the scholars, enhanced
teaching abilities of teachers, and developed leadership skills and
stronger civic improvement of students. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI
INFORMATION OFFICE)

Token from scholar

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - A scholar gives a token to Ms.
Najlaa Abdus-Samad, US Embassy’s assistant cultural affairs officer,
as Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez looks on during the culmination
of English Access Microscholarship Program Wednesday, March 9, at
Phela Grande Convention Center. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION
OFFICE)

Token from a parent

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - A parent of one of the scholars
expresses her gratitude to Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez and Ms.
Najlaa Abdus-Samad, US Embassy’s assistant cultural affairs officer,
during the culmination of English Access Microscholarship Program
Wednesday, March 9. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Synergeia Foundation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - “We see the future in Sarangani
in you,” Dr. Milwida Guevarra, president and CEO of Synergeia
Foundation, tells scholars during the culmination of English Access
Microscholarship Program Wednesday, March 9, at Phela Grande
Convention Center. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Governor’s message

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) – Sarangani Governor Migs
Dominguez expresses his thanks to parents of scholars for making their
children eager to learn and study during the culmination of English
Access Microscholarship Program Wednesday, March 9. (Cocoy
Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Finale presentation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - Scholars perform their finale
presentation during the culmination of English Access Microscholarship
Program Wednesday, March 9, at Phela Grande Convention Center. (Cocoy
Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Certificate of completion

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - Ms. Najlaa Abdus-Samad, US
Embassy’s assistant cultural affairs officer, assisted by Maasim
Mayor Jose Zamorro and Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez distribute
the certificate of completion to scholars during the culmination of
English Access Microscholarship Program Wednesday, March 9. (Cocoy
Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Assistant cultural affairs officer

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 10, 2011) - Ms. Najlaa Abdus-Samad, US
Embassy’s assistant cultural affairs officer, expresses her
appreciation to the leadership of Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez
for helping the US government find ways to help in her keynote address
during the culmination of English Access Microscholarship Program
Wednesday, March 9, at Phela Grande Convention Center. (Cocoy
Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ribbon cutting

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 8, 2011) – Mayor Jose Zamorro (left)
and Vice Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan lead the cutting of ribbon as local
officials and employees along with a PNP official and religious
leaders join the offshore launching and blessing of "Bantay Dagat"
patrol boat at Barrio Site in Barangay Colon Monday, March 7. (MAASIM
NEWS CENTRAL/Abner P. Arzaga)

Patrol boat

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 8, 2011) – The P460,000-“Bantay Dagat” patrol
boat is blessed and launched at Barrio Site in Barangay Colon Monday,
March 7. Mayor Jose Zamorro believes that this boat would address the
issues against illegal fishers, piracies, and other related maritime
drawbacks along the coastal town of Maasim. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner
P. Arzaga)

Bantay Dagat

MAASIM, Sarangani (March 8, 2011) – Mayor Jose Zamorro
(6th from right) and Vice Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan (5th from right) and
legislators along with municipal department heads, and religious
leaders of Islam and Christian faith and a PNP official pose for a
souvenir shot as they join the blessing and offshore launching
ceremony of "Bantay Dagat" patrol boat at Barrio Site in Barangay
Colon Monday, March 7. (MAASIM NEWS CENTRAL/Abner P. Arzaga)

Morning exercise

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 7, 2011) - Manuel Almoroto, a local stage comedian, leads his co-employees in a morning exercise during the flag raising ceremony Monday, March 7, at the Capitol. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Equal opportunity

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 7, 2011) - “Everyone has the right to equal opportunities”, Governor Migs Dominguez tells provincial employees during the flag raising ceremony as the province joins the international month-long women’s celebration Monday, March 7, at the Capitol. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Women’s month celebration

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 7, 2011) - Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit urges her co-legislators to pass a resolution subjecting all female employees of Sarangani to a free cervical cancer vaccination in her message during the flag raising ceremony Monday, February 7, as the province joins the International Women’s Month. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Soldiers in pawikan sanctuary

MAITUM, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) - Members of the 73rd Infantry Battalion assigned in barangay Pinol led by PFC Vogart Pecato, look at the newly-hatched pawikan. Two weeks ago, these men found eggs on the shore. They buried them. When the eggs hatched, they immediately reported this to the tourism staff. (Arnelito Ramirez/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Courtesy call

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) – The Military Information Support Team (MIST) from the US Army pays a courtesy call on Governor Migs Dominguez in his office at the Capitol Friday, March 4. The MIST supports AFP, PNP, LGUs and NGOs. They specialized doing printed information products, radio broadcast support and handing out certain novelty items. (Romina Rabina/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Community excited as Rep. Pacquiao, local legislators polish issues on coal-fired power plant

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) – A Legislative Forum on Power Generation and Sustainability was held Thursday (March 3) among local legislators to seek majority opinion on Conal Holdings’ proposed 200-megawatt coal-fired power plant in barangay Kamanga, Maasim.

“We want assurance from Conal on the environmental impact of the project,” Rep. Manny Pacquiao said. Pacquiao said he doesn’t want to impose on what he wants but a decision by the majority.

As Pacquiao, Governor Migs Dominguez, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members and barangay councilors met, some community leaders and participants expressed excitement as to when the plant will start its construction.

“The purpose of the forum is to provide an avenue to listen to stakeholders and to know the regulations for the protection of the environment,” Board Member and committee chair on Natural Resources and Environment Eleanor Saguiguit said.

At the forum, Saguiguit was sworn into office by Governor Dominguez as member of the National Board of Directors of the Lady Local Legislators League of the Philippines.

“Building the power plant in our place is no longer an issue,” Ben Donato, municipal tribal chieftain of Maasim said. “The question is when the company is going to start the construction,” he said.

“You see, it’s us who shall be the first victims if the project will fail, but now they’ve come to realized there is nothing wrong with the project at all through continued dialogue and information drive,” Umbra Macagcalat said.

Macagcalat is former member of the Sangguniang Panalalawigan. He said he tried to convince his former colleagues not to further delay the project because the community has fully understood the purpose of the project that does not necessarily risk their lives.

“It’s our own families and properties on the line but we concede.”

Conal’s SM 200 Project is said to address power shortage in Mindanao that will serve primarily the South Central Region as a huge increase of investments is eventually seen here.

Sarangani Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Cherrilyn Marie Espinosa said businesses always seek for a reliable and affordable power source to support their investment.

In 2008, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines projected an estimated 500-megawatt power shortage in Mindanao.

With the inevitability to buy and acquire additional energy from hydro power sources in Mindanao, South Cotabato Electric Cooperative-II general manager Rodolfo Ocat assures reliability of energy source because of its proximity, and affordability since coal is cheapest among all other power generating sources.

Environmental critiques fear most of the environmental threats that the coal-fired power plant can create.

In October 2008, Conal had acquired its Environmental Compliance Certification from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“The use of modern technological equipment for the project assures you that we are well below the pollution control limit set by the government,” Conal’s vice president for business management Jose Nocos said.

In addition, he said there is a continuous monitoring of the multipartite monitoring team that can recommend for the closure of the company operation at anytime it violates what the government requires.

At the open forum, Maasim municipal councilors urged Nocos to make a comprehensive presentation of the Conal project among environmental critiques who are members of the Diocese of Marbel.

Late last year, parishioners led by parish priest Romeo Cathedral expressed their opposition to the Conal project.

Nocos assures legislators safety measures with the use of modern technology and monitoring system will be in place as the company starts its construction of the project July this year. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Women behind

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) – Governor Migs Dominguez talks to Liza Ugay, coordinator of Mindanao Peoples Caucus-Civilian Protection Component (MPC-CPC); Cynthia Petrigh, European Representative-International Monitoring Team; and to MPC Secretary General, Atty. Mary Ann Arnado during the launching of Mindanao Peoples Caucus in partnership with the Civilian Protection Component and all women contingent of the International Monitoring Team at Capitol gymnasium on February 28.(Romina Rabina/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Madaris-PTCA officials

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) – Sarangani provincial officials take a photo shoot with the Madaris PTCA officers and Madrasah student government presidents from 47 Madrasah centers located at Alabel, Malapatan, Glan, Maasim, Kiamba and Maitum on their first mass induction at Capitol gym on February 28. Sarangani has 110 asatids who now serve as madaris facilitators. (Romina Rabina/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICER)

Kalinaw team leader

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 4, 2011) – “Socio-cultural sensitivities must be properly addressed to eliminate cultural conflicts and institute a culture of peace” says Sarangani-Kalinaw Project coordinator Jocelyn Lambac-Kanda during the launching of Mindanao Peoples Caucus in partnership with Civilian Protection Component and all women contingent of the International Monitoring Team at Capitol gym on February 28. MPC is one of the four non-government organizations that the GRP and MILF agreed would spearhead the humanitarian protection work of the International Monitoring Team headed by a Malaysian contingent. (Romina Rabina/SARANGANI INFORAMTION OFFICE)

A challenge to Mindanao leaders

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) - Rodolfo Ocat, general manager of South Cotabato Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO), challenges leaders to attract investors to put up power plant especially in Southern Mindanao to address the ongoing power shortage. Ocat made a power point presentation during the legislators forum on power generation and sustainability Thursday, March 3, at A Montana Resort. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Conal Holdings VP for Business Management

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) – Conal Holdings’ vice president for business management Joseph Nocos gestures as he gives a presentation to guests and participants of legislators forum on power generation and sustainability Thursday, March 3, at A Montana Resort. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Lady Legislators League of the Philippines

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez administers the oath of office to Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit as member of the national board of directors of the Lady Legislators League of the Philippines during the Legislators Forum on power generation and sustainability Thursday, March 3, at A Montana Resort. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Legislators Forum

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) - Congressman Manny Pacquiao delivers his speech during the Legislators Forum on power generation and sustainability Thursday, March 3, at A Montana Resort. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Why coal?

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) - Joseph Nocos explains to guests and participants why Conal Holdings Corporation chose coal as fuel in its proposed power plant to be constructed in barangay Kamanga. Nocos made a power point presentation during the Legislators Forum on power generation and sustainability Thursday, March 3, at A Montana Resort. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Chief Justice Corona opens 5 new RTCs in Sarangani

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 3, 2011) – Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato
Corona led the groundbreaking ceremony and signing of the Deed of
Usufruct Wednesday (March 2) for the two Regional Trial Courts (RTCs)
at the Capitol complex.

Three other RTCs will open each in Glan, Malungon, and Kiamba.

In November 30, 2010, the Supreme Court en banc issued a resolution
for the creation of the five additional RTC branches, implementing RA
10123, and create new positions and transfer existing positions to
conform with the approved staffing pattern of the Regional Trial
Courts.

“Finally, the wheels of justice continue to run fastest in Sarangani,”
Governor Migs Dominguez said.

Dominguez recalled steady complaints in the province for the
twice-a-year hearing of cases and the overcrowded provincial jail when
he took office in 2004.

Dominguez said the government is always ready to intervene and assist
and urged everyone to stop pointing fingers to the Supreme Court
“because we are all concerned”.

Corona arrived at the Capitol Wednesday morning with Court
Administrator Midas Marquez, Deputy Court Administrator Jesus Edwin
Villasor, Assistant Court Administrator Thelma Bahia, members of the
Integrated Bar of the Philippines, judges and personnel.

Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel Pacquiao said provincial officials will put
their acts together in building the five new RTCs.
“We stand by our commitment to respond immediately to the call of
public duty,” Pacquiao said.

Pacquiao committed a P3-million initial fund for the project.

Pacquiao commended the implementation of the Justice Enhancement and
Empowerment Program (JEEP) in Sarangani.

A Small Claims Law Orientation Seminar and Validation Workshop
Dialogue were also held at the Capitol during the day.

Before his fight with Mosley in May, Pacquiao announced groundbreaking
for the other three branches will take place.

Mayors of the seven municipalities committed to donate land where the
RTCS will be built.

“We are bringing justice closer to the people,” Vice governor Steve
Chiongbian Solon said.

Solon said the provincial government has been building the mediation
skills of community leaders. “Justice is not a trickery only in favor
of the strong,” Solon said.

“This is a project borne out of union between the province and the
Supreme Court,” provincial legal officer Arnel Zapatos said.

“When justice was low if non-existent, the Supreme Court did not
hesitate to assist, turning the wheels of justice to the people’s
doorsteps,” Zapatos said.

Sarangani has the only locally operated Justice on Wheels (JOWS) in
the country. It has reduced the number of inmates at the provincial
jail by 64 percent from 600 inmates in 2008 to only 216 in 2010.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Finance, Budgeting,
Appropriations and Ways chaired by Board Member Eugene Alzate
sponsored Resolution No. 2011-7-002 creating a task group for the
implementation of RA 10123 and providing funds thereof.(Russtum G.
Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Welcome address

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Vice Governor Steve Solon who will turn 40 on Thursday (March 3) delivers his welcome address during the ground breaking ceremony of additional Regional Trial Courts for Sarangani province Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol complex. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Signing of the Deed of Usufruct

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Supreme Court administrator Jose Midas Marquez and Governor Migs Dominguez sign the deed of usufruct as Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Chief Justice Renato Corona look on Wednesday, March 2, during the ground breaking ceremony of additional Regional Trial Courts for the province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Rationale of the project

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Provincial legal officer Atty. Arnel Zapatos reads the rationale of the project during the ground breaking ceremony of additional Regional Trial Courts for Sarangani province Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol complex. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Photo opportunity

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Supreme Court administrator Jose Midas Marquez, Chief Justice Renato Puno, Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Governor Migs Dominguez in a photo opportunity after the ground breaking ceremony of the additional Regional Trial Courts for the province Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol complex. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Orientation and dialogue on small claims cases

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez delivers his message to participants of orientation and dialogue on small claims cases Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol gymnasium. The event was organized by the Provincial Legal Office and participated in by barangay captains and women’s group of the province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Ground breaking

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Chief Justice Renato Corona leads the laying of the capsule as his wife Cristina, Supreme Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez, Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Governor Migs Dominguez look on during the ground breaking ceremony for the additional Regional Trial Courts for the province of Sarangani at the Capitol complex Wednesday, March 2. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Dialogue and validation workshop

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Chief Justice Renato Corona speaks before the presiding judges of all the first level courts and the clerks of court of the ARMM and SOCSARGEN during the validation workshop Wednesday, March 2, at the Kasfala Hall. Also in photo are, from left, Supreme Court administrator Jose Midas Marquez; Cristina Corona, wife of the Chief Justice; and Michelle Solon, wife of Vice Governor Steve Solon. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Cong. & Gov.

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Governor Migs Dominguez shares a light moment with Congressman Manny Pacquiao during the ground breaking ceremony of additional Regional Trial Courts for Sarangani province Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol complex. Congressman Pacquiao in his speech committed an additional fund of three million pesos for the completion of the project. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Chief Justice

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Chief Justice Renato Corona delivers his message to participants of the orientation and dialogue on small claims cases Wednesday, March 2, at the Capitol gymnasium. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Chief Justice with Capitol employees

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Chief Justice Renato Corona with wife Cristina are welcomed by provincial employees upon their arrival at the Capitol to lead the ground breaking ceremony of the additional Regional Trial Courts for the province and deliver messages to the orientation and dialogue on small claims cases and validation workshop for first level courts in ARMM and SOCSARGEN Wednesday, March 2. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Arrival of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

ALABEL, Sarangani (March 2, 2011) - Chief Justice Renato Corona (7th right) with wife Cristina, Supreme Court administrator Jose Midas Marquez (9th right) and Congressman Manny Pacquiao (8th right) pose with Governor Migs Dominguez (5th right), provincial legal officer Arnel Zapatos (extreme right), Judge Jaime Infante (4th right), Board Member Nene Saguiguit (8th left), Judge Oscar Noel (7th left), Atty. Armando Clarin (5th left), Michelle Solon (4th left), and officials from PNP and AFP upon their arrival at the General Santos City International Airport Wednesday, March 2. Corona arrived to lead the ground breaking ceremony of the additional Regional Trial Courts at the Capitol complex. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Partners come together for reforestation

MAASIM, Sarangani (February 28, 2011) – Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) with private partners RD Foundation, Inc.; Gensan Shipyard, Inc. and Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI) came together to “A Date With Nature” to reforest a denuded area in Kyumad Monday (February 28).

It is a five-hectare initial land area owned by Dominador Fernandez now being leased by Conal Holdings Corporation for its reforestation project.

“This is a TESDA-wide activity to help reforest our denuded areas as we are directed by the national government to participate,” Nora Guiloreza, TESDA provincial director, said.

The group planted 500 rubber seedlings in the grassland owned by Fernandez. Conal Holdings has a 7,500 hectare carbon sink project covering the highlands of barangays Amsipit, Seven Hills, Kablacan and Kamanga. Kyumad is a small community in Amsipit, home to the indigenous Blaan.

“With our nursery of rubber seedlings here, we can plant as many as we can, and we would like to thank you all for taking your part in protecting our environment,” Noli Cajutol of Conal Holdings carbon sink project said.

The nursery has 50,000 rubber seedlings as of now ready for planting.

CLAFI executive director Richlie Lyndon Magtulis led his staff and the team to the planting site. He hoped to see the hills in Amsipit and neighboring barangays planted with trees.

“We join the tree planting activity as part of our commitment to caring for the environment,” Magtulis said.

“This year, CLAFI’s endeavor is to join, to lead and be involved in more environmental protection programs for Sarangani’s forests and the bay. We have to care for Mother Nature from ridge to reef,” he added.

CLAFI has been giving assistance to Sarangani’s environmental and educational initiatives and making linkages with its partner non-government organizations.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office launched the International Day of Forests in February 2 with a planting activity in Langaran of barangay Kablacan.

Maasim has a total of 14,000 hectares of watershed areas that need rehabilitation. (Russtum G. Pelima/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

CLAFI

MAASIM, Sarangani (February 28, 2011) - Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI) personnel headed by Richlie Lyndon Magtulis (2nd left) joins TESDA’s “A date with nature” tree planting activity Monday, February 28, at CONAL Holdings Corporation’s rubber seedlings nursery for carbon sink project in sitio Kyumad. Residents and RD Foundation staff also joined the event. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Briefing

MAASIM, Sarangani (February 28, 2011) - CONAL Holdings Corporation consultant for carbon sink project Noli Cajutol briefs participants on techniques and proper handling in planting rubber seedlings in a tree planting activity Monday, February 28, in sitio Kyumad. This event is part of TESDA’s “A date with nature” requiring all of its employees to plant trees to help save the environment from future effect of climate change. The activity is supported by CLAFI (Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc.), RD Foundation, and CONAL Holdings Corporation by providing rubber seedlings and area for planting. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)