The Ilocos Times

Ceremonial Opening led by Ilocos Norte governor Imee R. Marcos and other Guests—Engr. Fe Rebancos, GM John Teodoro, Dir. Zenaida Mariano, Dir. Rodrigo Pagtulingan, Dir. Nicetos Campos, Dir. Norman Rabago, Dir. Ameurfina Respicio and BM Jan Joseph Sta. Barbara.

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

PrimeWater Ilocos Norte, in partnership with the Ilocos Norte Water District (INWD), made another great stride as the joint venture celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony of the pipelaying project at Brgy. Buyon, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte on January 16, 2018.

This project is a 2,200-meter Pipelaying of 350mm diameter pipe along the national highway, from Sitio Tamucalao to Sitio Liwliwa, Brgy. Buyon in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. Bacarra.

The project will benefit the people by providing an increased pressure of water, availability of water supply to 5,000 concessionaires of Laoag and Bacarra, and availability of water supply during the hot summer season.

Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos led the groundbreaking ceremony.

Joining her were other government officials including Engr. Nestor Pasion of the DPWH Ilocos Norte District 1; Dingras Water District general manager Corazon Guira; Batac Water District general manager Maria Dohna Sagun; and Sarrat Water District general manager Florence Gelacio.

INWD and PrimeWater officials were also in attendance during the said event: chairperson Zenaida Mariano of the INWD Board of Directors, together with Dir. Norman Rabago, Dir. Ameurfina Respicio, Dir. Nicetos Campos, Dir. Rodrigo Pagtulingan; INWD general manager John Teodoro; Engr. Fe T. Rebancos, President of PrimeWater; Engr. Olim Gusi, PrimeWater Senior Consultant; and Engr. Jan Joseph Sta. Barbara, PrimeWater Ilocos Norte Branch Manager.

Guests of the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the 2,200-meter pipelaying of 350mm Diameter Pipe at Brgy. Buyon, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. (from left) Engr. Jan Joseph C. Sta. Barbara, Mr. John Teodoro, Engr. Fe. T. Rebancos, Hon. Imee R. Marcos, Chairperson Zenaida Mariano, Dir. Ameurfina Respicio, Engr. Nestor Pasion

Ms. Marcos said she is grateful to the INWD-PrimeWater partnership for its efforts in improving the water supply and services of Ilocos Norte. According to her, finally after some years, these cooperative efforts of both partners can now assure the people of Ilocos Norte of a more progressive and improved quality of water service, which in turn translates to a better quality of life.

This project is an initiative of the partnership that makes crystal clear its dedication of providing quality and sustainable water supply and services to its concessionaire. With this enterprise, and the future projects in line, the INWD and PrimeWater are enthusiastic that their partnership will be a huge success and will be for the benefit of the people of Ilocos Norte.

On November 2017, the INWD commenced partnership with PrimeWater. As front-runners of robust economic development and growth, the partnership envisaged to provide standard based water supply and services and to balance the future water supply and demand requirements, as well as septage management services, of the Province of Ilocos Norte.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Burgos, Ilocos Norte—Gamet, a pricey seasonal seaweed that grows on sharp and slippery coral stones in the coastline of this town continues to sustain the livelihood of residents here.

From November to March, seaweed pickers brave the cold breeze and strong waves to collect gamet akin to a Japanese nori. Ilocano salad, soups and omelet dishes often feature gamet.

For Burgos town residents, they consider this a “black gold” as it commands a high price in the market. A square foot size when dried costs an average of PHP500. Because of its nutritious content and light weight, mostly balikbayans and tourists buy this for take-home or pasalubongto friends and relatives.

For 58-year-old Natividad Parica of Brgy. Bayog, she said gamet picking has already been a way of life for her family.

Mrs. Parica recalled that at the age of 10, she already started joining elders to pick gamet to help earn a living.

During the gamet season, she and her husband would go to the coastal rock formations where gamet grows.

At one time, she recalled a huge wave crashed down on her almost dragging her to the sea her while picking gamet.

Though many consider gamet gathering as “death-defying”, the Parica couple acknowledged it helped them a lot in sending their children to school.

“We are thankful for having this gift of nature. We were able to send our children and finished a degree in college because of gamet,” said Mrs. Parica.

Another gamet picker, Gelacio Vila, 57, also shared how gamet picking improved his family’s lifestyle.

With nine growing children, Mr. Vila said it was through gamet picking that his children were able to finish college.

Now, the Vila couple enjoys traveling abroad courtesy of their children.

As a tribute to this town’s ‘black gold’, the Brgy. Poblacion government led by barangay chairperson Joegie Jimenez annually celebrates gamet festival every end month of December as a way of thanksgiving.

One of the major highlights of the festival is to recognize the “skills and expertise” of gamet pickers which have uplifted the economic condition of residents in the area.

According to Mr. Jimenez, the gametindustry forms part of the rich culture and tradition of the Burgos townsfolk hence, it is just fitting to recognize the gametpickers for their immense contribution to the local economy.

The Laoag City government welcomes the pilgrim relics of St. Therese from Lisieux, France. The visit is part of the St. Therese’s four-month visit to the Philippines. (Doms dela Cruz)

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Hundreds of devotees swarm the pilgrim relics of St. Therese as they offered prayers and roses to venerate the saint.

Touching down at the Laoag airport on January 15, 2018 via military plane, a crowd of local government, school, church and religious leaders welcomed the relics on its fourth visit to the Philippines.

Enclosed in a golden reliquary some bone fragments of St. Therese, personnel of the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office carried the relics while members of the Knights of Columbus helped in crowd control.

From the airport, organizers conducted a motorcade all the way to the St. William Cathedral in downtown Laoag.

On the same day, Monsignor Leo Ruiz led the concelebrated welcome mass, attended by hundreds of Catholics, mostly from Laoag and its neighboring towns.

The pilgrim relics also made stops in front of the Laoag City Hall, Ilocos Norte Provincial Jail, and at the Provincial Hospital.

Record shows that she is one of the most popular Catholic saints. As a doctor of the church, she is the subject of much theological comment and study, and as an appealing young woman, whose message has touched the lives of millions, she remains the focus of much-popular devotion up to this day, said in a primer of the pilgrim relic’s visit.

For Rosita Macalipis of San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, she said the life of St. Therese as a nun when she was still alive inspired her “to live simply with great devotion to God amidst all trials.”

From Metro Manila, the pilgrim relics will be in the Diocese of Laoag until January 18 and to over 40 dioceses from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao until May 31.

After an overnight stay and veneration at the Carmelite Monastery on the evening of January 15, 2018, Father Rey Magus Respicio reported the pilgrim relics’ transfer to the Mary Cause of Our Joy College Seminary in neighboring Bacarra, Ilocos Norte on January 16, 2018 for an overnight vigil with the seminarians and then at the Capuchin Monastery before moving it to Baguio City.

The pilgrim relics of St. Therese have visited the country in 2000, 2008 and 2013.

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, also called Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, was born on January 2, 1873, in Alençon, France. She died at the age of 24.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Solsona, Ilocos Norte—Students and visitors entering the Solsona National High School will have a renewed spirit the moment they are out of the school campus in Brgy. Manalpac in this town.

Nestled at the foot of the mountain overlooking a green corn fields, the SNHS offers a breath a fresh air with its clean environment, well-kept rooms akin to a 21^st century school with wide and flat screen television sets, cheerful students, and a model of recycled plastic and tin materials converted into pocket vegetable gardens and ornamental plants.

As an alumna of this school, Rose Baja says her face always lit up every time she visits her school with so many improvements now since she graduated 30 years ago.

Ms. Baja said she takes pride of her alma mater for nurturing its students and for caring the planet.

Inside the enormous compound of the school are beautiful landscapes of potted and hanging plants that adorn the pathway.

Inspiring and catchy signages that advocates call for saving Mother Earth are on flowering trees of the school’s front lawn.

Here are just some of the statements that ring a bell to every visitor when entering SNHS. “We heal the earth, we heal ourselves”, “The call is urgent, Save Mother Earth,” and “It is our duty to save environment’s beauty.”

At the back and sideways of the school, green leafy vegetables such as pechay, radish, malunggay, ampalaya and string beans among others fill the area.

They also planted Dragon fruit plants in between concrete posts including a greenhouse of assorted plants. The school also maintains vermiculture project for their own composting of biodegradable materials which they convert into organic fertilizer.

The healthy plants are being well-maintained by its students and teachers as each classroom takes charge of their own yards.

After a school tour, Guillerma Bareng, SNHS head teacher reported their school placed second in the regional search for sustainable and eco-friendly schools in Region 1.

Initiated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the search aims to encourage academic institutions to become more actively involved in environmental issues and to develop skills and understanding among students and employees on proper waste management, paper conservation, energy efficiency and conservation, pollution prevention and greening program.

Apart from the award, Ruby Paguyo of Brgy. Bagbag shared her happiness and gratitude to her former teachers and classmates at SNHS for molding her spirit of volunteerism and for inspiring her as a steward of nature where ever she may go.

“My alma mater taught me everything about the importance of caring for the only planet we live in and I would gladly pass this on to the younger generation,” she said beaming with smile.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte–The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) intensified the monitoring of stray dogs in this town to control rabies.

Dr. Loida Valenzuela, PVO chief said one patient here diagnosed with rabies recently alerted them.

According to Ms. Valenzuela, Ilocos Norte is eyeing a “rabies-free province” declaration; however, with this recent case, the declaration will likely not come yet.

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) through the Provincial Rabies Control Council (PRCC), in partnership with the PVO and international organization Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), has eradicated rabies cases for the past three years.

Rabies is a viral disease that causes acute inflammation of the brain in humans and warm-blooded animals, with dogs being the most commonly involved. Early signs include fever and tingling at the bite site, usually followed by violent excitability, a fear of water, paralysis in some parts of the body, or loss of consciousness. Once symptoms appear, the disease is nearly fatal. They usually show one to three months after the bite.

The PRCC record shows that from nearly 20 canine rabies cases in 2011, cases of both human and canine rabies have been at zero standstill since 2014.

As of this posting, the PVET has tapped the Bantay Rabies sa Barangay Volunteers (BRBV) organized since 2015 to monitor such cases.

Ms. Valenzuela reiterated to residents to care for their pets properly and ensure that they are free from stressful situations such as exposure to hot daytime temperatures or confinement to a leash or cage all day.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Following the upgrading of facilities at the Laoag International Airport (LIA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has granted the released of about PHP128 million for its expansion and improvement.

Provincial legal officer, Atty. Herme Labayog confirmed this as he said the Ilocos Norte government represented by Governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” Marcos and the DOTr represented by Undersecretary for legal Affairs and Procurement, Atty. Reinier Paul Yebra already signed a four-page memorandum of agreement.

After the MOA signing, Mr. Labayog reported that they expect the release of at least 15 % of the total amount at the soonest possible time to kick-off the Laoag expansion project.

As cited in the MOA, the DOTr shall fund the acquisition of affected lots and the improvements found in the area including administrative costs, disturbance compensation, assistance to displaced people, transfer and registration of land titles, procurement of the services of an independent property appraiser or a government financial institution and for purposes of property appraisal.

Meanwhile, the Ilocos Norte government shall facilitate the acquisition of affected lots and resettlement with the affected persons in support of the national government project.

To conform with the International Civil Aviation Organization Standards and Recommendation Practices and with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Manual of Standards for Aerodromes, the national government included the Laoag airport development among its priority projects of the for this year.

Two years ago, LIA officials increased rental fees of stall occupants at the Laoag airport to infuse more funds for various improvement projects of the airport.

Ronald Estabillo, Civil Aviation Authority terminal manager for the Laoag airport earlier said the existing rates for the developed and undeveloped portions occupied by stall owners here were very minimal considering that the last increase was during the latter part of 1990s.

From a rental fee of PHP20 per square meter for undeveloped parts outside the Laoag airport and PHP30 per square meter for stalls occupying inside the airport, the rental fees increased by more than a hundred percent.

PrimeWater Ilocos Norte employee repairing the leaking meter set up.

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

The dedicated partnership of PrimeWater Ilocos Norte and the Ilocos Norte Water District (INWD) launched its first ever Grand Walk the Line (GWTL) activity on December 29, 2017.

This activity is an intensified street-by-street leak detection program aimed to combat non-revenue water (NRW). Around 25 employees from both PrimeWater Ilocos Norte and the INWD walked along the water main lines to check for any irregularities relating to water services: from leaks to illegal connections, which form part of the partnership’s NRW.

The partners held the GWTL activity on a designated “Supply Zone 5”, which covers the southern part of Laoag: Brgys. Nangalisan A & B, Buttong, Darayday, Raraburan, Tangid, Nalbo, Bengcag, Cabungaan A & B, Araniw, Zamboanga, Gabu Norte & Sur, Cavit, Mangato, Balatong and Balacad. They found a total of five leaks, one illegal connection, and 56 for meter standardization during the said activity. The partnership then immediately applied appropriate actions to each of the findings.

NRW is the water loss due to variety of factors but is mainly attributable to leakages. These NRW were supposed to be consumed by the concessionaires in the served areas, however, lost mainly because of leaking pipelines. The aforesaid GWTL Activity greatly helped the partnership not only in identifying leaks but also in identifying other irregularities pertaining to its water services, which are all crucial in combatting NRW.

The result of low-level of NRW, which is the aim of the above said activity, are increased water supply and higher pressure in the served areas of the partnership. This, in turn, will benefit the people of Ilocos Norte. The partnership also plans to continue the conduct of this walk the line activity in order to address NRW.

PrimeWater Ilocos Norte and the INWD employees who participated in the

Grand Walk the Line Activity, at Brgy. Gabu, Laoag City.

With this initiative, and all the future projects in line, PrimeWater Ilocos Norte and the INWD are optimistic that the partnership will be able to achieve its goal of providing quality and sustainable water supply and services to its service areas, all for the betterment of life of the people of Ilocos Norte.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is partnering with the Provincial Library under the Ilocos Norte government to share more information with Ilocanos on money matters.

The BSP program known as Knowledge Resource Network (KRN) aims to enhance the public’s understanding of economic and financial concepts and issues. By reaching out to the LGU libraries, more stakeholders will be able to appreciate more what is economic development and how it can bring in opportunities to local communities.

To formalize this undertaking, members of the Ilocos Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) unanimously approved Draft Resolution No. 2017-11-121 on January 15, 2018, authorizing Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos to enter a memorandum of understanding with the BSP for the implementation of the KRN.

Senior SP member Matthew Joseph Manotoc said BSP publications such as books, reports, guides, manuals, primers and brochures, as well as online publications and research assistance services are now available to the public in a small corner of the provincial library located at the Centennial Arena, this city.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Batac CITY—Rare collections of bonsai plants, high-quality furniture products, creative crafts and souvenir items including processed food products among others are on display on January 18, 2018 at the Garden show and trade fair held at the open grounds of the state-run Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Batac City campus.

With a theme, “Transforming Concepts into Products,” the month-long exhibit participated by public and private stakeholders of MMSU is one of the highlights of the university as it commemorates its 40^th foundation anniversary.

As a premiere university in the country, MMSU president Shirley Agrupis took the lead in empowering the lives of Ilocanos through research innovations and knowledge-driven global economy.

Over the years, residents of Ilocos Norte are grateful for having the university as it opened doors of opportunities for them not only in achieving quality education but also on research and extension services.

Agnes Asuncion, a former domestic helper turned farmer entrepreneur is now enjoying the fruits of her labor as she was a recipient of various seminars and training workshops of MMSU such as on soap and fruit wine-making among others.

“I am thankful for MMSU because of their tireless commitment to improve the life of others. I learned a lot of things from them,” said Ms. Asuncion as she is among the regular exhibitors of the university, selling essential oils, dragon fruit soap, and fruit wines.

As part of promoting the milestone achievements of the university, the garden show and exhibit features unique goods and commodities MMSU had helped improved through the years.

(From left) Bosung Powertec Co. president Lim Jae Hwang, INEC general manager Engr. Felino Herbert P. Agdigos, NEA administrator Edgardo R. Masongsong, KEPCO president Go, Jae Han, INEC board president Reynaldo M. Lazo show the terms of references they signed for the INEC project. (INEC photo)

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

Dingras, Ilocos Norte—The Korean government through the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) officially awarded a grant for a distribution voltage upgrading project to the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC).

KIAT formalized the grant in a signing ceremony for the “Terms of Reference” between the Philippines and Korea on January 22, 2018 at INEC’s Dingras main office.

National Electrification Administration (NEA) Administrator Edgardo R. Masongsong, representing the Philippines being the supervisory agency of the project, signed the document with KIAT Vice President Park Sang-Yi, representing Korea.

Also joining the signing were INEC Board President Reynaldo “Rey” M. Lazo and INEC General Manager Felino Herbert P. Agdigos, representing INEC, the implementing agency.

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) President Go, Jae Han and Bosung Powertec Co. President Lim, Jae Hwang, were also on hand during the ceremony.

In his message, Mr. Masongsong highlighted the importance of the project by providing the highest quality of service to the coop’s member-consumers.

He also commended INEC for consistently achieving AAA Category or the highest category of NEA’s yearly performance evaluation.

“This is a product of your good performance and the Korean government wants you to be more effective and more efficient,” he stressed.

The grant totals 3.5 billion Korean won, or PHP150 million if converted to the local currency. The grant represents the industrial cooperation and exchange of industrial technology in the electricity sector between the Korean and Philippine governments.

The project mainly aims to provide support in the engineering, procurement and construction for the voltage upgrading of distribution lines in the northern part of Ilocos Norte from 13.2kV to 22.9kV of distribution feeders 2C and 2D of the Burgos Sub-station of INEC.

The approximately 70 kilometers of existing distribution line supplies the areas of the municipalities of Burgos, Bangui, Dumalneg, Pagudpud except Brgys. Pancian and Pasaleng; and Brgys. Davila and Dilavo of Pasuquin.

Mr. Agdigos said that the project is set for a period of two years.

The Ilocos Times learned that experts have surveyed the project. They inspected and evaluated the project in June, 2017, followed by a 10-day training for INEC engineers in Korea in December 2017.

Relative to this, Mr. Agdigos said INEC already started the preparation of staging and storage area for equipment and materials needed.

He added that the grant is not in cash but materials for the upgrading. This includes the replacement of the existing lines to accommodate higher voltage and the need for the replacement of insulators, sub-station, porcelain, wires, posts and others.

INEC is the 1^stelectric cooperative beneficiary in the Philippines to receive such a grant from the Korean government. INEC will pay for the import duties and taxes for the materials for the project. This serves as INEC’s counterpart funding for the project.

INEC records show that the project areas, which are located at the coastal areas of the province facing the West Philippine Sea frequently experience voltage fluctuations and unscheduled power interruptions due to the vulnerability of the distribution system to corrosion caused by the salinity of the wind in the area.

“Addanto la pannaka-affektar dagiti member-consumerstayo inton i-transfertayo diay old lines into new lines. Actually, dayta iti agdama nga ad-adalenmi tapnu mai-minimize kuma tapnu addanto kuma latta korienteda uray madama iti trabahoda kasi adunto tiinterruptionsna. Uray ta kalpasanto met daytoyen ket napintasto ti epektona kaniadan ta pumintasto tay boltahe ti korientedan ken puminpintas iti serbisio,” Mr. Agdigos said.

Mr. Agdigos expressed his deepest gratitude to the Korean government through the KIAT for granting this big project and to NEA for endorsing this project to the Korean government and choosing INEC to be the beneficiary.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Currimao, Ilocos Norte—Long queue of tourist buses, van operators, tricycle drivers, tour guides and vendors occupy the seaport of Currimao every time a cruise ship docks here twice a month.

Now on its third winter call to the Philippine waters, Superstar Virgo arrived at the Omnico Natural Resources Inc. Port on February 7, with 917 crew members and 1,268 passengers.

Angel Lao, owner of a travel and tour company said the growth of cruise tourism in this northern gateway of Luzon create a huge economic impact on the local community particularly on job creation and livelihood.

“As a travel operator, we help and gather all suppliers of tourism to serve our tourists. There are three identified major cruise destinations in the country such as Manila, Boracay and Ilocos Norte and we look forward to welcoming other cruise lines booked with us for 2018 and 2019,” said Ms. Lao.

This year, Superstar Virgo has 18 port calls to the Currimao seaport along with other cruise lines such as M/V Diamond Glory and Costa Cruise among others.

“We are indeed beyond blessed. It's not luck, but we know it's miracle,” said Bradley dela Cruz, a tour coordinator from Laoag City.

To entertain the arrival of guests, cultural dancers from the municipality of Badoc performed in front of the visitors, mostly composed of Chinese tourists and some from the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, Norway and France.

From Shanghai, China, the passengers visited some tourist destinations in the province leading to their next port in Manila then back to China.

Earlier, the Department of Tourism Laoag sub-office assisted 15 travel agents for Costa Atlantica cruise ship to conduct ocular inspection on the different tourism facilities and major tourist destinations in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.

Araceli Salem of DOT Laoag said the Costa Atlantica cruise ship arrived on February 10, for its maiden voyage at the Currimao seaport managed by the Philippine Ports Authority.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The unabated burning of cogon grass along the Padsan River in this city has reached the attention of local authorities here after residents from neighboring San Nicolas town sought their help.

In a resolution addressed to Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos through the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), members of the Sangguniang Bayan of San Nicolas led by San Nicolas vice mayor Marlon Valdez requested the higher officials to take appropriate action on this.

During the month-long celebration of Laoag’s Pamulinawen Festival every February, there are carnival occupants and vendors under the Gilbert bridge. It is also during this season that residents report massive cogon grass burning along the Padsan River, just a few meters from the bridge.

As this developed, SP member Mariano “Nonong” Marcos II, chairperson of the committee on environment proposed that they conduct a joint committee hearing along with the committee on laws and the city government officials of Laoag to resolve the burning of cogon grass at the Padsan river.

At press time, the SP have yet to announce the date of the hearing.

According to Provincial Councilor’s League president Domingo Ambrocio who is also an incumbent Sangguniang Bayan member of San Nicolas, the burning of cogon grass at the Padsan River has been a long-time problem hence, the need to come up with a measure to put an end.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The Revenue District Office (RDO) here is appealing to all Ilocanos to give the new tax reform law a chance.

While discussing the main features of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) in a local press conference here, Ruby Retamal, group supervisor under the assessment section of the RDO Laoag City said the simplified value-added tax system aims to reduce poverty from 26% to 17% of some 10 million Filipinos.

Under the Duterte administration, the TRAIN is a priority reform of the national government. Through TRAIN, every Filipino contributes in funding more infrastructure and social services to eradicate extreme poverty and reduce inequality.

For some Ilocos Norte residents who are earning an average income, the implementation of TRAIN is beneficial to them as they enjoy paying less personal income taxes.

But for others who requested anonymity, the new tax reform law is just a “pain in the “ss’ citing the cost of living also increased due to higher prices of commodities including fuel.

Ms. Retamal, however, explained the impact of the new tax reform law is “long-term”.

For now, she said the Filipinos will not feel the immediate effect cannot yet but in the next few years, change will become more evident for the common good.

“Let us give TRAIN a chance. The change in tax administration means reform. It means higher budget for education, better employment viability, it attracts investors and there will be higher budget for health, social protection, welfare and employment and stronger workforce,” she said as she urged residents here to help in making the Philippines move forward.

To sustain the “build, build, build” program of the national government, the TRAIN will reportedly fund the concreting of the 14,187-kilometer national roads, provision of road access to 7,834 isolated barangays and 23,293 sitios and to irrigate 1.3 million hectares of land among others.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—A Manila-based Buddhist school is reaching out to the province of Ilocos Norte to offer full scholarship grants to interested students here.

Valerie Talamayan, education program specialist II of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte said in a press conference that the Guang Ming College is opening its doors to all student-applicants who wants to pursue a degree in theater, performing arts and Buddhist Studies.

Established in 2014 in Malate, Metro Manila, GMC is the fifth member of Fo Guang Shan International University Consortium. As a pioneer Humanistic Buddhist College in the country, it is open to students of all faiths willing to learn in an environment of mutual respect of other’s customs.

According to Ms. Talamayan, selected students will get full scholarships, board and lodging, books, uniforms and school supplies, travel and international student exchange opportunities as part of the Fo Guang Shan University Consortium based in the United States, Australia and Taiwan.

GMC is known as an advocate of the so-called three acts of goodness namely: Do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts. “These three acts affect our day-to-day interaction with people and surroundings mold our character and improved our well-being,” Ms. Talamayan said.

For inquiries, interested parties may contact Valerie Talamayan of the Ilocos Norte Schools Division Office.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Currimao, Ilocos Norte—Local authorities from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Provincial Fisheries and the local government unit of Currimao will intensify the information and education campaign to protect endangered marine animals here.

This came after environment advocates and netizens freaked out upon seeing a video posted on social media of a helpless hammerhead shark fighting for life on the street while some residents are watching and making fun of the creature.

Though the video posted on January 15 did not show it, authorities learned that the shark eventually died.

“They say sharks or different kinds of sharks are the most dangerous species of the sea... No! Humans are! He’s bumping his head on the floor for help. He wanted to go home. He's distressed,” commented a disgruntled netizen Anne Mendoza upon seeing the video.

Based on initial investigation, Arthur Valente of the Provincial Fisheries Office said they believe the incident happened at Brgy. Victoria here, a coastal barangay.

Mr. Valente said he had already coordinated the matter with Currimao mayor Gladys Go Que and the Municipal Agriculture Office to conduct an information drive to the coastal residents of Victoria.

The Movement Against Pollution which posted the video in social networking sites said ignorance of the law is not an excuse not to penalize the perpetuators.

Wildlife crime is a serious offense based on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora but apparently, authorities do not always pursue them.

Under the law, it states that upon a summary finding of administrative liability, the offender shall have a fine equivalent to three (3) times the value of the species, or PHP300,000 to PHP3,000,000, whichever is higher, and forfeiture of the species.

Upon conviction by a court of law, the offender faces imprisonment of five (5) to eight (8) years and a fine equivalent to twice the administrative fine and forfeiture of the species.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The association of mango growers and the provincial government is on alert after a report of cecid fly infestation in Ilocos Norte.

Cecid fly resembles a bigger mosquito that attacks mango trees at night. They leave circular black marks on the mango fruit when they lay their eggs. Its larva soon goes inside the fruit and eventually destroying it.

To prevent its spread, Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos immediately approved the allocation of some funds to contain this mango disease that has been affecting the productivity of mango farmers in the Ilocos region.

Though the total amount was not publicly announced yet, Ricardo Tolentino, president of the Ilocos Norte Mango Growers Federation said they are thankful for the provincial government through the governor for responding immediately to their concern.

As of this posting, mango traders in Ilocos Norte are monitoring the possible entry of “kurikong”, a damage caused by cecid flies in green mangoes.

In previous years, kurikong has affected some parts of the province’s second district but the mango farmer’s vigilance contained it.

Mr. Tolentino reiterated to fellow mango growers that when they notice infestation, he advised farmers to gather all damaged mangoes and burn it.

“Please don’t bury them in soil because it’s where they came from,” said Mr. Tolentino as he explained the spread of the disease is very easy since it only takes five days when a cecid fly larva turns into adult.

Piddig mayor Georgina Guillen with treasurer Ofelia Ventura and accountant Victor Pascual receives the check from DSWD representative Elizabeth Aquino. (Berong Ver)

By Bernard Ver

Contributor

PIDDIG, Ilocos Norte—The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 1 turned over PHP1 million fund from Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program to the municipal government here.

The DSWD through its Protective Services Program places emphasis in ensuring that the government provides indigent and vulnerable individuals with the necessary assistance thru AICS to help them cope during crisis situations.

Under AICS, the DSWD provides educational, medical, burial and of transportation assistance to persons/families in crisis situations, specifically those belonging to the informal sector, indigenous group and other marginalized, vulnerable, and differently-able individuals.

"Maagap at tuloy-tuloy na serbisyo para sa bawat Piddigueño," said Piddig mayor Georgina Salazar-Guillen during the simple turnover.

Witnessing the turnover were Piddig government department heads including treasurer Ofelia Ventura and accountant Victor Pascual.

Elizabeth Aquino represented the DSWD.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Laoag City—For bringing honor to the province and inspiring their fellow youth to harness their world-class talents and skills, the Ilocos Norte provincial government recognized at least 326 young Ilocanos in front of the Provincial Capitol building on Friday evening, February 16, 2018.

The annual event is still a part of the continuing bicentennial anniversary celebration of the province where outstanding residents of Ilocos Norte received a commendation courtesy of the Ilocos Norte government.

Citing active youth participation as a vital component for inclusive growth and sustainable development, senior Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Matthew Joseph M. Manotoc who led the awarding ceremony, said “It is high time to recognize Ilocos Norte youth who standout” in their respective fields of endeavor.

As youth leaders and achievers, Mr. Manotoc urged the Ilokano youth to continue inspiring others for the future.

According to Weenter Ventura, Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office executive director, the Sirib Youth Awards aims to recognize young Ilocanos aged 7-30 years old who brought prestige to the province through their participation in various national and international competitions from January to December 2017.

The awardees, categorized as individual and group excelled in academics, leadership, sports, journalism, culture and arts.

Along with certificates, medals and trophies, the awardees also received cash incentives from the provincial government. They also recognized coaches and teachers for sharing their expertise to the learners.

Leading this year’s awardees is a Pasuquin lass, Hazel Achuela who ranked 9^th in the country’s Agriculture Board Examination in November last year. Ms. Achuela graduated at the Mariano Marcos State University in Batac City.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

PAOAY, Ilocos Norte—A brand new pay loader, mini-back hoe and a tractor were the new equipment the municipal government here recently acquired.

Paoay mayor Jessie Galano said they acquired those through a soft loan from the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) in support of the agri-modernization program of the government.

According to Mr. Galano, the municipal government acquired the pay loader and mini-back hoe for a total of PHP13.4 million, while they obtained the tractor obtained from the Department of Agriculture.

The mayor said this is a dream come true for the zanjera groups here as they had been longing for serviceable heavy equipment.

“There had been other suggestions on what to purchase on our existing loan with the LBP but our farmers need the new farm equipment most,” Mr. Galano said citing the town’s old pay loader is damaged and they have yet to repair it.

Attended by village chiefs and the different farmers’ organizations here, the municipal government conducted a simple inauguration followed by blessings of the equipment.

Last year, they also distributed other farm machineries courtesy of the DA to several zanjera organizations here to boost their productivity.

Manila—2nd Lt. Catherine Mae Gonzales recently became the first female aviator from the Philippine Air Force selected for the Aviation Leadership Program (ALP), a United States Air Force scholarship program which provides undergraduate pilot training to select officers from other nations’ air forces.

Ms. Gonzales, who was among the top ten members of her graduating class at the Philippine Military Academy, will attend the program from February 2018 to May 2019. During the program, she will receive 164 hours of flight training in the T-6A Texan II aircraft, as well as 239 hours of flight operations ground training. Gonzales says she is excited to learn how to fly a new aircraft, as well as to experience American culture.

Ms. Gonzales’ inspiration to become a pilot stems from witnessing the important role aviation assets played during the 2013 Zamboanga Siege, which took place in her hometown.

“Since then, I started to dream of becoming a pilot,” Ms. Gonzales said. “During those times, I really felt a great eagerness to defend my hometown, and I thought I could be of great help to that mission from above, since insurgents are vulnerable from this point.”

Ms. Gonzales is honored to serve her country, and feels proud that the Philippine Air Force selection board chose her to attend the ALP.

She explained, “Serving my country as a female officer shows how the military profession has matured and opened for great changes by allowing us, female officers, to lead.”

The US Air Force designed the ALP to build relationships between future leaders of the United States Air Force and other participating air forces, as well as increase overall cooperation and partnership between countries. (US Embassy news)

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