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The Ilocos Times’ Hawaii columnist is Quirino awardee

March 31, 2018, 10:08 pm
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An ordinary farm boy whose first love is writing fiction and non-fiction from Tapao, Sinait in Ilocos Sur and with his strong inclination and interest in a “tagnawa system” is among this year’s President Elpidio Rivera Quirino (PERQ) awardees.



Amado I. Yoro, The Ilocos Times’ columnist based in Hawaii, USA, is a community service organizer. He first organized the Tapao Youngsters Organization and served as founding president. A grandson of a 1926 Sakada who worked at the sugar plantation as an oiler helper. He is a son of an immigrant and a watercress worker.



Amado came to Hawaii on July 30, 1971 as an immigrant. He first worked as utility field worker at Oahu Sugar Company with a US$2.10 per hour salary. 



A simple beginning in Amado’s more than 46years in Hawaii, he is involved with the Lions Club International and Gumil Hawaii and other organizations and served in various capacities and activities—community organizing, volunteer works asides from his regular work as a warehouseman, delivery boy, timekeeper, movie projector operator to personnel clerk to middle management: housing coordinator  to personnel director, labor union officer with ILWU; employment specialist and employment consultant with the Hawaii State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations; and organizer/business representative with the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA)-. He is very much active as a volunteer in church, community after his retirement as employment consultant and labor organizer with his strong management and leadership skills.



His parents are Fructuoso Yoro, Romana Ilar. He is married to Gloria Campos Paguirigan, a retired Responsive Caregiver of Hawaii employee. They have one daughter Cheryl Lei Maria Yoro-Balcita, who has three children: Cameron Jay Agullana; Angelia and Josiah Balcita. Cheryl is married to Abraham Balcita, Jr.



The President Elpidio Rivera Quirino Award is a biennial event that recognizes outstanding Filipinos who come from Ilocos Sur, and who have called Hawaii their home, for their excellence and accomplishments in their field of expertise, as well as civic mindedness and sustaining service to the community-at-large. The sixth president of the Republic of the Philippines, Elpidio Quirino, a native of Vigan, inspired the award. He was a barrio schoolteacher, an orator, a debater, a painter, a constitutionalist, a statesman, and a lawmaker. (MTE)
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‘Open Capitol’ features junior officials

April 5, 2018, 12:29 am
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By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter



LAOAG CITY—Officials and employees of the Ilocos Norte government welcomed about 6,000 primary school children from the entire province of Ilocos Norte during the “Open Capitol” held February 14, 2018.



With the selection of junior officials representing the incumbent leaders of the province from governor, vice governor, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members and mayors of the 21 towns and two cities of the province, the participants toured the different departments of the Provincial Capitol building where each department came up with their own exhibit presenting what it was like to live in the province over the past 200 years.



A quick tour at the bicentennial edition of the ‘Open Capitol’ presents old photographs, letters, type writers and other old office equipment, traditional farming equipment, old kitchen utensils and many others. Other national government line agencies such as the Philippine Rice Research Institute, Bureau of Fire Protection, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority including private organizations and the academe also set up their own exhibit at the Capitol auditorium and at the back of the provincial Capitol to familiarize visitors of their services.



Ten-year old Airish Abygaelle Guillermo of Catalino Acosta Memorial Elementary School in Batac City said she had wanted to have a photo with the governor whenever she visits Batac but she never had any chance before.



On that day, Ms. Guillermo did not only have a photo with the governor and other local officials of the province, she also had the chance to look and act like the governor when she led junior officials at the Capitol.



“I am very happy to represent the governor. I feel so lucky and blessed for having this rare chance to speak on behalf of my fellow children,” said Ms. Guillermo.



The presentation of the “Little Ilocos Norte Government Officials” was an added excitement to the program wherein several elementary pupils auditioned in Capitol on February 9 to act as the junior counterparts of the provincial officials and mayors here.



For eight years now, the Open Capitol program initiated under the Marcos administration is meant primarily to familiarize Ilocos Norte children about the various offices of the provincial government, the services and programs offered and how it runs as an organization led by the governor, vice governor, provincial board members and the department heads and staff among others.



Other activities during the Open Capitol included a mock session with the Little Sangguniang Panlalawigan members and display of Ilocos products for sale.



Other public and private stakeholders also provided free taste of their products, including free blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring.
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Ilocos Norte gears up to sell new summer destinations

April 5, 2018, 12:31 am
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By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter



Laoag City—With the onset of the summer season, the Ilocos Norte government is gearing up to promote new summer destinations here.



According to Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos, nature has gifted the province with natural attractions and there are a lot of unexplored beaches and mountains where tourists may go.



“It’s not official summer yet but the temperature is getting hotter,” said Ms. Marcos citing that they expect more tourists to visit northern Luzon following the partial shutdown of Boracay island.



“We are trying to identify more beaches na pwedeng puntahan at ibenta. We are also considering to promote ‘new Baguio’ like sell the Solsona-Apayao road, the Pasuquin highlands, the Mount Sicapo in Nueva Era and other places,” Ms. Marcos added.



Based on tourism records, foreign and domestic tourists flock to the province during the summer season.



During last year’s Holy Week alone, Ilocos Norte welcomed a total of 472,989 day-visitors. Compared to previous years, tourist arrivals in the province has more than doubled with 232,678 arrivals in 2015.



Among the top 10 tourism destinations include the Bangui windfarm, the UNESCO-world heritage site of San Agustin Church in Paoay, Batac City Empanadaan and Immaculate Concepcion Paris, the Blue Lagoon of Pagudpud, Badoc Gateway, La Virgen Milagrosa Shrine and Chapel in Badoc, Malacañang of the North, Madongan dam of Dingras and the Santa Monica Church of Sarrat.



This year, the Ilocos Norte Tourism office will focus on promoting the eastern part of Ilocos Norte to encourage returning visitors and to sustain the dynamic growth of tourism in Ilocos Norte. 



In the neighboring towns of Solsona and Nueva Era towns, both municipalities in partnership with private investors continue to develop eco-tourism sites as alternative destinations this summer.



Ms. Marcos also expressed her concerns for the impact on ecological tourist attractions despite the obvious economic gains for tourism stakeholders, in particular the beach resorts in the northern town of Pagudpud known for white-sanded shores.



“Simula’t sapul alam na nating magigingeco-tourism spot tayo, so we were always aware na we are a destination for mass tourism. We have a fragile environment; yung weight if we have busloads or truckloads of people, hindi natin kaya. Masisira yung sand dunes, masisira ang mga beach, yung mga limestone natin,” she explained.



“Kaya naman simula pa lang hindi langslogan ang‘clean and green’ pati na rin ang renewable energy sa Ilocos Norte, but rather a real policy. We want very much to offer quality and sustainable tourism to our visitors,” she added.



Noting the cases of environmental sanitation violations in Boracay Island, Aklan Province, Ms. Marcos initiated an inspection by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to strengthen ongoing efforts to get local resorts and beachside sites to comply with the province’s environmental codes.



She shared, “Ayaw naman nating magaya sa Boracay na unti-unting nasira at ipinasara na.”



DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu, along with the governor, also cautioned the Pagudpud government regarding surplus of tourist arrivals in the next few months.



Ms. Marcos thus reinforced her vow to ensure implementation of environmental sanitation and preservation laws, namely the Solid Waste Management Act and the Philippine Clean Water Act, both of which Mr. Cimatu prescribed to Pagudpud officials.



She added that they should also take the same precautions for the Solsona-Apayao Road, a mountain trail bordering the town of Solsona and Apayao province’s town of Calanasan.



The site had recently gone viral on social media, resulting to an increased number of visitors and later reports of littering and unsanitary practices of tourists in the area. (With a report from PGIN-CMO)
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PDEA conducts surprise inspection on LC jail

April 5, 2018, 12:46 am
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BJMP-Laoag Operation Greyhound. Representative from the PDEA regional office inspects belongings of an inmate after he discovers a plastic pill dispenser containing white crystalline substance with a net weight of 0.1493 grams. The 2 K-9 dogs stayed on said belongings prompting the PDEA agent to inspect further. They later sent the discovered items to the PDEA regional office for laboratory testing, which later turned out “negative” for drugs. Law enforcers conducted the surprise inspection on February 20, 2018 at the Laoag City Jail. (Doms dela Cruz)


By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

Laoag City—As it continues its war on drugs, the Region I Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted a surprise “Operation Greyhound” at the Laoag City Jail on February 20, 2018.

The surprise inspection yielded a “white crystalline substance”, which the PDEA laboratory later said was “negative” of any illegal drug content.

The PDEA agents found the substance in one of the detainees’ belongings, after two of the K9 dogs remained in front of it.

They later discovered a blue plastic pill dispenser containing the white substance with a net weight of 0.1493 gram.

The PDEA agents requested members of the local media, as well as the owner, to witness the opening of the dispenser.

They then questioned the detainee about the substance. The detainee said the substance was salt used to cure his lips. He did not elaborate on what ailed his lips.

The PDEA sent the substance to their regional office for laboratory testing. The test result said the substance dies not contain any dangerous drugs under RA 9165.

PDEA regional office chemist II Aroma I. Mamaradlo, RCh of the PDEA laboratory section examined the substance and chemist III Lei-Yen V. Ganat, RCh, approved the result.

Bureau of Jail Management and Penology assistant regional director for administration (ARDA) J/Supt. Florante Nisperos said the “Operation Greyhound” was unannounced in line with the ‘Oplan Linis Piitan ng BJMP’ and Oplan PAWD or “Panatilihing Walang Droga sa Loob ng Piitan”.

Mr. Nisperos assured that they will visit all BJMP in the region quarterly.

He explained that if there will be a confiscation during the searches, they will immediately examine the substance and if it is “positive”, PDEA will investigate the owner and file appropriate charges.

BJMP-Laoag J/Chief Insp. Herminigildo Rivera said that they also conduct their own weekly unannounced “Operation Greyhound” in coordination with the Laoag police.     

“Mostly iti metlang sagpaminsan a makit-kita mi ket kutsara ken toothbrush kasi madi mabalin nga dagitay atitiddog ken natangken iti pagiggaman na a mabalin da a pagtariden ken agbalin nga armas”, Mr. Rivera explained.

As of press time, there are 233 detainees at the city jail, with around 220 of them facing drug-related cases.
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Ket naisurotkami met iti ISAH medical mission idiay Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur

April 7, 2018, 4:07 am
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Lidlidda medical mission. (From left) Ben Cabreros, Lidlidda Mayor Benilda Tawali, ISAH president Danny Villaruz, Ilocos Sur vice governor Jerry Singson, Amado Yoro, ISAH co-organizer/adviser.



No awan padas; awan saritaen. Kunatayo pay: Aramid ti pakakitaan.


Saan a gapu ta maysakami kadagiti President Elpidio R. Quirino Awardee 2018, adda man ken awan ti kastoy a pammadayaw, kaniak kas community organizer ken volunteer, aramidek latta kas nayon ti panagserbi, pannangted ken pannakitinnulong.


Adda napatpateg nga immayanmi iti Filipinas. Ti 200 Years Ilocos Sur Bicentennial Celebration- Ilocos Sur Experience.



Nabayagen a nairugi ti Ilocos Surian Association of Hawaii (ISAH) medical mission and Homecoming nanipud pay kadagiti tawen ti 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015.



Disiembre 2017 koma ngem agsipud iti pannakaangay ti “INTAYON 2018 Sure Ilocos Sur” mainaig iti Ilocos Surian global reunion ken ti Ilocos Sur Experience, a pannakaangay ti maika-200 nga anibersario ti probinsia ti Ilocos Sur kalpasan ti panagsina ti Norte ken Sur manipud iti Ylocos manipud Bangui iti amianan, ken iti Namacpacan, Luna, La Union idi Pebrero 2, 1818 kas iti naisangsangayan a selebrasion, isu a nairaman nga aktibidad ti 2018.



Pebrero 3, 2018—Sabado. Maika-11 nga aldawen ti kaaddak iti Filipinas. Lidlidda Medical Mission ita nga aldaw kas naituding nga aramiden ti ISAH ken panagtinnulong ti medical mission nga iturturong ni bise gobernador Jerry Singson, iti Ilocos Sur.



Lugar a pagdadanonan ti grupo dagiti volunteers. Sango ti Vigan Plaza Hotel. 



Alas siete idi makasangpetkami iti Vigan Plaza Hotel iti nagluganak a Toyota a kaduak dagiti kakabagiak.  Nakitak da Felipe P. Abinsay, Jr. (Jun) ken Danny Villaruz a kasda la agpadpadaan.



“Addakamin,” nagpadlawak.



“Aw-awagandaka,” kinuna ni Danny. “Apagisu ti oras”



“Aglugankayo ditoy bus, manong”, intudo ni Jun ti dakkel a lugan.



“Saanen. Surotendakayon; adda luganmi”, kinunak. Kaduak da Wally, Michelle, Isagani.



Napanak nag-CR, idi makaruarak, nagsabatkami ken ni Mrs. ISAH Adeline Quines.



“Yan ti CR manong, madi ti tianko”



“Dita, agpakannigid- marka seniorita,” impatuldok.



Ni Adeline ti kagagetan kadagiti amin a Mrs. ISAH a naam-ammokon. Kadagiti aktibidad iti feed the homeless, adopt a highway, panagfundraising, panagatendar iti regular a miting ti Ilocos Surian, kameng pay iti Vigan Assn of Hawaii & Associates.



Iti sango ti Vigan Plaza Hotel, nakitak da Mr. ken Mrs. Renato ken Maria Etrata iti kolor asul a van ti luganda.  Maysa met kadagiti Quirino Awardee 2018 ni Mrs. Etrata. Dadduma nga awardee da Diputado DV Savellano iti 1st District, Ilocos Sur ken dati a gobernador Luis Chavit Singson. Enero 31, 2018 ti seremonia ti pammadayaw iti Plaza Maestro Convention Center, Vigan City.



7:30 ti bigat,  nagrubuaten ti bus 1118,



“Saanmon a sinaan toy dakkel a bus barok”, kinunak ken ni Wally, ti drayber.



Limmusoten ti bus 1118 iti Bantay, simreken iti Quirino Bridge. adda latta ti luganmi a Toyota iti likudan.



Iti sakup ti Santa, simmingit ti puraw a lugan. Bombo Radyo ti markana.



Labsanmin ti Paraiso ni Juan iti Narvacan. Adda kano mangngalap, napattog ti bilogna, impukkawna—nalba kan.



PAPALIIW: Nasayat, natalged ti kalsada ken ti igid ti kalsada.  Adda dagiti maikalkalawa a kalsada, adda dagiti maingatngato a rangtay. Agtartaray latta ti lugan, dua, tallo wenno maysa ti bumabaet kadakami iti bus 1118.



8:20 iti bigat, addakamin iti boundary ti Narvacan ken Sta. Maria.



Sta .Maria ditoyen addakami manen ti ipus ti bus 1118, awan baet.



Nalabsanmi ti arko ti Suso Beach. Adda lagip ditoy iti Abril 1997. Ditoy ti lugar ni Ari ti Mannaniw Ilokano (poet laureate) ken naggobernador ti probinsia Dr. Godofredo S. Reyes. Nagpresidente pay iti Gumil Filipinas. Maysaak kadagiti hurado iti Miss Gumil Filipinas iti pannakaangay ti pasalip iti daydi naatendarak a kombension ken komperensia ti Gumil Filipinas. Isu pay met ti nangyawatak ti gunggona dagiti nangabak ti sarita daydi immuna a pasalip ti AMMAFLA.



Kadagiti kandidata ti Miss Gumil Filipinas, mayat man dagiti pamuyaan ti pammagi ken lapsat, isem ken lung-ay dagiti siam a kandidata.



Maymayat manen idi addada iti nalinak ken pagatsiket  a danum ti aplaya sada medio sumang-at iti takdang.



Kumpet a kumebkeb dagiti swim suit-da.



Ditoy met ti nakaipasdekan ti saan a mailepleppas a balay Gumil, aginggana ita ket awan pay nalawag a resultana.



San Esteban. Kaalsongan, kunada man.



8:52 iti bigat, naginayad ti lugan. Simrek ti Bus 1118 a nagpakannigid. Sinurotna  ti kalsada nga itudtudo dagiti sinanpana a mangiturong iti Banayoyo, Lidlidda, San Emilio. Sursuroten latta ti luganmi a Toyota.



Nabuldag dagiti letra ti karatula ken arko ti Banayoyo ti masungadmi.



Nateng ken mais iti agsumbangir iti kalsada. Adda sumagmamano a baka iti talon.



Daytan ti arko ti Lidlidda: Umalikayo, Lidlidda.



Iti bakras ti bantay, estimado, pulido la ketdi nga ima ti nangaramid ti naistimar ken napintas ti buldag a letra a kastoy: I Love Lidlidda (love-nalabaga a sinan puso).



Agpadakami ken ni Wally nga agdadamo nga umay ditoy a lugar a kunada nga Upland, wenno interior town. Kunada pay a taga  I-Daya.



Saanen nga agdadamo da Michelle ken Gani gapu ta immaydan ditoy a lugar no agatendarda iti youth leadership training wenno seminar/workshop iti simbaan a pagkamenganda.



9:10 ti bigat idi agtagari ni Isagani: “San Emilio ditoyen”,  indillawna.  



Iti masanguananmi, nagsardeng ti bus 1118, ne, napukawen, nayaw-awanen ti drayber ti bus 1118,” kinunami.



Agpayso. Nagbuelta ti dakkel a lugan a nagluganan dagiti agarup 50 a volunteers. Nagbuelta met ti luganmi. Sinurotmi manen ti bus 1118.



Nagsublikami iti check point a nalabsanmi itay.



9:22 iti bigat, iti check point, dimsaag ti lalaki manipud iti bus 1118. Kas panangidalan ti nakauniporme a polis, sinakayanna ti scooterna, simmurot ti BUS 1118.



Paliiw: adu ti nakauniporme iti patig kadagiti masnop nga igid ti dalan. Peace and order ngata ti makagapu, banag a kasta ti napaliiwmi. Nupay akikid ken killokillo ti kalsada, sementado ketdi.



Ditoy ili ti Lidlidda, iti ISAH medical Mission sadiay idi Pebrero 3, 2018, maysa ni Mrs. ISAH Adeline Quines kadagiti kameng ken volunteers. Iti sango dagiti adu ken nadumaduma a medisina, kasarsarita ni Ms Quines ti maysa kadagiti pasiente---naangay ti medical mission iti sango ti munisipio ti Lidlidda iti sirok ti dakkel ken nalawa a covered court. Indauluan ni Apo vice governor Jerry Singson ti Mission ken da appo Felipe Felipe Palma Abinsay Jr. ken Danny Villaruz ti nasao a medical mission.



Damok ti maisurot ti ISAH medical mission ita a tawen. Awan ti kas ti pudno a padas ken panaritaan. Idi Abril 2017, immayak met simmurot ti Sinait Medical Mission a naangay idiay ilimi a Sinait nga inesponsoran ti Annak Ti Sinait Iti Hawaii ken Sinait Alumni ken ti Sinaitenians of California. Nakoronaan ni Namnama Guirnalda Baptista a Mrs. Sinaitenians International 2016 iti Sinait Auditorium iti Balikbayan Night.



Mainaig iti dayta a bakasion, napiliak a Balikbayan Vice Mayor idinto a Mrs. Balikbayan ni Mrs. Gloria Yoro idiay Tapao.



Apay a Lidlidda ti pinili ti ISAH a tulongan ita a tawen? Gagangay, dagiti laeng koma kameng ti ISAH-Hawaii ti serbian ti Medical Mission. Nupay saan pay a kameng iti ISAH, aggapu iti puso, nagsurat ken nagkiddaw ti mayor ti Lidlidda iti president ti ISAH. Lidlidda ti pinili ti ISAH para ita a 2018.



Fifth class municipality ti Lidlidda, segun ti sensus 2015, addaan 4,647 a populasion.



Masasao ti ili a Lidlidda Protected Landscape, a protected area situated in the municipality's watershed.



Adda met bukod a pakasaritaan ti Lidlidda.  Addaan met ti bukodna a gobierno local. Addaan ti Lidlidda 11 a barangay.



Adda isem ken raniag ti rupa dagiti nasungadanmi nga agindeg ditoy.



Baket, baro, balasang, lakay, ubbing, dagiti agpakita kadagiti nakasagana a volunteers. Naidusar dagiti medisina. Adda met regregalo para kadagiti ubbing. Sinelas, ay-ayam ti ubbing. Kendi ken dadduma pay.



Naam-ammok da Femalyn Luga, Flores Diga, Mary Jane Banua, agpapada a kameng ti PNP. Kaduami ida a nagmonitor ti linia ken mangiturong kadagiti tao iti naurnos ken naannayas a linia.



Nawarasankami iti naluom a saba a naglaon iti dakkel a biago nga insaggaysa nga inwaras ti maysa a lakay. Nayon kano ti laklakona kas iti natnateng ken bungbunga.



Kaduami ditoy a mission dagiti adu a volunteers a pakairamanan da Mrs. ISAH Adeline Quines, Tessie Aganon, Maria Etrata, Renato Etrata, Danny Villaruz, Emmie Villaruz, Jun Abinsay, Emi ken Rudy Etrata. Roger ken Editha Tapat, Alice Castaneda, Bert Castaneda,  Josefina Takamoto, Salvador Obaldo,  Elena Gaspar,   grupo da Dr. Charlie Y. Sonido iti Ohana Mission ken dadduma pay.



Nagsarita ni Apo bise gobernador Jerry Singson. “adda ditoy kakabsat a taga Lidlidda dagiti kameng ti ISAH agmedical mission. Dakayo a Taga Lidlidda, sumalogkayon”



Nagsarita met ni Danny Villaruz. Kasta met a nagsarita ni Mayor Benilda Tawali iti Lidlidda. Agyamyaman. Ad-adu koma ti tao ita ngem gapu ta Sabado ken aldaw ti panaggagatud ngamin isu a bassit.



Kalpasan ti mission, nayawis ti nabaknang a pangaldaw iti pagatengan dagiti agassawa a Rudy  ken Emerita Etrata, maysa kadagiti opisial ti ISAH, ken maysa kadagiti adu a volunteers.



Naipaneknek manen ti makunkuna a community service ken humanitarian spirit iti panagserbi ken pannulong iti pada a tao.
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Batac council authorizes mayor for sports complex talks

April 7, 2018, 4:18 am
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By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

Batac City—The Sangguniang Panlungsod here has authorized Batac mayor Albert D. Chua to negotiate with landowners for lots intended for use of the proposed Batac sports complex.

Batac officials tabbed a location at Brgy. Nauirangan here for the said edifice.

The delay in the authorization approval stemmed from issues concerning landowners. In an earlier document, the owners numbered 17; the council, however discovered that the proposal affects four additional landowners.

Batac assistant city assessor Felicitas Quidilla shed light on the issue by confirming that there were indeed 21 lot owners affected.

Batac councilor Joel Garcia, who chairs the committee on laws, laws, ethics and privileges, also verified that the names submitted if they still exist and if these lots are all cleared in terms of real property taxes payment.

After threshing out all issues, the council approved the measure. Batac councilor Mary Columbia Cajigal, however voted against it.

Ms. Columbia said she voted against the measure because she found out only 10 out of the 21 lots have titles.

She reiterated that she is not against the measure and the proposal. She said she will vote for it if the city will acquire the 10 titled lots first, with the others to follow. The council turned down her proposal.

Mr. Garcia, who sponsored the measure, clarified that the resolution simply gives the mayor the authorization to negotiate with the landowners.

Mr. Chua, for his part, thanked the city council for approving the measure giving him the first step towards the establishment of the Batac sports complex.

The mayor added that the resolution is just an authorization for him to negotiate with the landowners regarding the proposed sports complex. He stressed the authorization does not include land acquisition.

“Diak met ibaga nga awan karbengan da [SP] ta they also have the right to ask ngem kitaen da kuma met diay urgency na ta gumaw-gawawa tayo iti napintas ken adda kabukbukudan tayo a pagay-ayaman dagiti ubbing ken adda met kuarta a nailatang a mausar,” Mr. Chua noted after a couple of delays for its approval.   

“And there will still be a time for them to talk because there will still be a negotiation in the identification of the real owners and calling their attention for a meeting, advantageous if the city government, acquisition/purchasing and others,” he added.

According to the mayor, the city government has a continuing allocation of around PHP20 million purposely for the acquisition of lots of said project this year.

The project will have an Olympic-size swimming pool, track oval, quarters, basketball court, and other athletic or sports facilities.

The mayor also mentioned that the project aims to give chance to the city athletes for better training with better equipment and facilities.

Initially, the project proposal calls for a 5-hectare lot.
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Sporty & luxurious: Isuzu introduces latest variants of D-MAX and mu-X

April 7, 2018, 4:22 am
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Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) recently launched two new limited-edition variants to add excitement to the existing line-up of its Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu mu-X models.

On February 23, IPC displayed the latest edition of the Isuzu D-MAX X-Series which serves as the model’s offering to the younger market segment; alongside is the new mu-X Luxe which as the name suggests is the most well-appointed mu-X variant to date.

“Keeping our line-up fresh is the key to the very demanding market, especially for the pick-up and SUV segment. To keep up with the competition, we are offering two new variants designed to exude the more aggressive and luxurious side of the D-MAX and mu-X models,” said IPC president Hajime Koso.

2018 D-MAX X-Series
Dressed to be more edgy, the 2018 edition of the D-Max X-Series now has a black radiator grille with red Isuzu logo, a front and rear skirt lined with a deep red accent which not only adds to its looks but also assist in the vehicles over-all aerodynamics.

More on the exterior, the X-Series also has a color-keyed sleek cargo spoiler, matte black roof rails and red fog lamp garnish. To top off its look, the X-Series now has a black 18-inch alloy wheels with a matching red lip accent.

Inside the cabin, the X-Series has a rocker plate with illuminated red Isuzu logo and additional multiple USB ports for driver and passenger convenience.

New mu-X ‘Luxe’
Meanwhile, the mu-X also sees a new addition to its line-up with the new mu-X ‘Luxe’ which brings together superior features that delivers a statement and status of a premium SUV.

Isuzu equipped the luxury edition mu-X with Power Lift Tailgate which opens and closes with a touch of button—for a hassle-free cargo loading. For added styling, Isuzu installed light gray fender flares which doubles as a protective feature to deflect rocks and debris away from the vehicle’s body.

Adding to its already premium interior, mu-X Luxe has a new blue illuminated scuff plate and 3D surround sound system to complete the over-all luxurious experience while driving or riding the new mu-X Luxe.

Engine, color and pricing
Available only on a 4x2 drivetrain, both the D-MAX X-Series and mu-X Luxe runs on the ever-reliable 4JJ1-TCX 3.0L Blue Power Diesel engine that is EURO 4 complaint and is capable to produce 177 PS maximum power and 380 N-m maximum torque. (ADVT)
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IT April 9-15, 2018

April 9, 2018, 2:59 am
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Laoag gov’t names best barangays for 2017

April 9, 2018, 3:03 am
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By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

Laoag City—In line with the Oplan Dalus Code of the City of Laoag, the city government honored seven barangays as the “Cleanest, Greenest, Most Productive and Safest” barangays for 2017 during the Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) Night held at the City Hall’s Multi-Purpose Hall on February 25.

For the urban category, Brgys. 23 San Matias, 15 San Guillermo and 3 Nra. Sra. De Consolacion took the top honors; while Brgys. 50 Buttong, 55-C Vira, 57 Pila and 52-A San Mateo took the top prize for the rural category.

The first placers received cash prizes of P75,000, trophy and certificates of appreciation each.

Brgys. 12 San Isidro, 20 San Miguel and 21 San Pedro for the urban category; and Brgys. 53-Rioeng, 55-B Salet-Bulangon and 45 Tangid for the rural level won second place. They received cash prizes of P50,000, trophy and certificates of appreciation each.

Meanwhile, Brgys. 43 Cavit and 30-B Sta. Maria for the rural category; and Brgys. 13 Nra. Sra. De Visitacion, 5 San Pedro and 14 Sto. Tomas for the urban division got third place. They took cash prizes of P30,000, trophy and certificates of appreciation each.

For the sustainability award, Brgys. 28 San Bernabe and 54-Camanggaan received cash prizes of P50,000.00 each.

For the finalists: Brgys. 1, 7-A, 7-B, 24, 16, 27, 9, 10, 11, 19, 4, 8 and 18 (Urban Category); and Brgys. 40, 62-A, 41, 52-B, 56-B, 51-A, 36, 49-B, 60-B, 51-B, 30-A, 56-A, 44, 59-B, 55-A61, 34-A, 46, 31, 38-B, 54-A, 59-A, and 35 (Rural Category), they each received a cash prizes of P10,000 each.

For the Most Child-Friendly Barangays rural category the winners are: Brgys. 52-A San Mateo (first), 51-A Nangalisan East (second) and 54-B Camanggaan (third). For the urban category winners are Brgys. 1 San Lorenzo (first), 3 Nra. Sra. Del Rosario (second) and 15 san Guillermo (third). Each received cash prizes of P12,000, P10,000 and P7,000, respectively.

For the Best Child Development Center urban category, the winners are: Brgys. 1 San Lorenzo (first), 23 San Matias (second) and Bahay Bulilit (third); while in the rural category they are Brgys. 51-A Nangalisan East (first), 51-B Nangalisan West and 60-B Madiladig (second) and 54-B Camanggaan (third). The winners received cash prizes of P7,000, P5,000 and P3,000, respectively.

For the Best Child Development Worker urban category, the winners are Romelia King, Leila Anacleto and Zenaida Eugenio; while in the rural category they are Norlita Antonio, Rowena Balicao and Judelyn Atriginio. The winners received cash prizes of P5,000, P3,000 and P2,000, respectively.

For the 2017 Lupong Tagapamayapa, winners are Brgys. 3 Nra. Sra. Del Rosario (champion), 23 San Matias (second), 55-C Vira (third) and 4 San Guillermo (fourth). Each of these barangays received cash prizes of P20,000, P15,000, P10,000and P5,000, respectively.

Laoag ABC president and council ex-officio member Mary Michelle Louise “Mikee” V. Fariñas congratulated all the winners. She lauded them for “giving their best making their respective barangays as the cleanest, greenest, most productive and safest barangays in the city of Laoag”.       

The event is part of the Pamulinawen Festival 2018 Year XXII.

The ABC president also expressed her thanks to all her fellow barangay officials for supporting all the activities and programs of the association.

Laoag mayor Chevylle V. Fariñas also congratulated the winners. She said she hopes other barangays who were not able to make it last year would improve in the next search. 
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Batac fetes superb athletes, academic awardees

April 9, 2018, 4:00 am
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By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

Batac City—The city government here celebrated its outstanding athletes and academic awardees.

In a bid to institutionalize this, the Sangguniang Panlungsod here passed an ordinance that honors and recognizes outstanding performances of Batac pupils and students in sports and academic contests.

The ordinance also features an incentive program for the awardees.

Batac councilor Medeldorf Gaoat, chairperson of the committee on education, said deserving pupils and students who earned regional and national awards in the field of sports deserves to receive cash incentives from the city government.

Mr. Gaoat added that this program came about after Batac athletes garnered numerous achievements after the separation of the schools’ division here in competing in the Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) meet.

The incentives are for individual events: PHP3,000, PHP2,500, and PHP2,000 for the gold, silver and bronze medalists, respectively; for duo/doubles: PHP5,000, PHP4,000, and PHP3,000 for gold, silver and bronze medalists; while for trio/triple, they will receive PHP6,000, PHP4,500 and PHP3,000.

The city government will also give cash incentives to teams of at least 4 members but not more than 8. The incentives are PHP1,000, PHP900, and PHP800 for each member of the team that finishes in the top three.

For teams that feature 9 or more members, the incentives are PHP800, PHP700, and PHP600 for each member.

As for athletes selected to represent Region I in the Palarong Pambansa and who finish in the medal circle, the athletes will receive double the amount mentioned earlier. They will also receive a citation from the council.

Mr. Gaoat explained further that the Batac schools’ division will recommend the athletes for the incentives.

Funding for said program will come from the city’s annual budget under the youth and sports development fund, particularly in the awards and incentives fund for athletes with an appropriated amount of PHP300,000 every year. A supplemental appropriation shall likewise authorized when the fund allocated is not enough to meet the requirement.

Meanwhile, the city government likewise approved three ordinances recognizing deserving elementary and secondary graduates through the city mayor, vice mayor and Sangguniang Panlungsod’s award for academic excellence and leadership award.

All members of the council, including Batac vice mayor and presiding officer Jeffrey Jubal Nalupta authored the said ordinances authored and were all approved on its third and final reading on the February 19 regular session.

This recognition gives special import in the multi-dimensional development of the pupils and students both public and private schools.

Batac mayor Albert D. Chua believes that commitment to excellence must become ingrained in the psyche and character of every Batacqueño, especially the young with the city’s distinction as “Home of Great Leaders”.

Mr. Chua said that recognizing the deserving pupils and students by giving medals or medallions for the academic and leadership achievers are a way of acknowledging their exemplary performances.

The awards will for deserving pupils and students “With the Highest Honors Gold Medal” with a general average of 98%-100%; “With Highest Honors for Silver Medal “with a general average of 95%-97%; and “With Honors for Bronze Medals” with a general average of 90%-94%.  

The mayor hopes that these ordinances will encourage pupils and students will to do better so they could also be receiving the same soon.

The mayor likewise thanked the parents for continuously guiding and supporting their children of becoming sports enthusiasts and academic excellence and that the city government will always be there to support the city DepEd’s programs and activities.
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Ilocos Norte pasalubong center to stay in QC market

April 9, 2018, 4:01 am
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By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—A pasalubong center dedicated for the best-selling products in Ilocos Norte will soon be available anytime at the Juliana market in Balintawak, Quezon City.

Through a public and private partnership agreement between the Ilocos Norte government and the Juliana market, fresh produce of Ilocos farmers and entrepreneurs here will be delivered directly to consumers in Quezon City.

As of the moment, Edison Natividad, head of the Small and Medium Enterprise Office of the provincial government said a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between two parties is now ready for signing.

But even without the MOA, tons of orders ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables, processed food products and other goods from the province are being delivered to Quezon City while other businesspeople are coming to Ilocos Norte to haul their orders.

According to Mr. Natividad, this is a good development for local producers as they have readily available market for their products.

A mango farmer like Imelda Tumaneng of Barangay 2 in Vintar, Ilocos Norte said she is grateful for the “Producers to Consumers” program of the provincial government where local farmers and entrepreneurs are given the chance to earn more from their produce by providing them a direct link with customers outside the province.

“I have been harvesting and selling mangoes for a long time in the province but it is only now that I was able to save some extra profit,” Ms. Tumaneng said citing her sweet mangoes are among the best-sellers at the Juliana market.

Aside from mangoes, watermelon and other fruits and vegetables from the Ilocos region are in demand in the metro.

For a better chance to earn more and sell faster, Ms. Tumaneng said it is best for farmers here to join an association so they could negotiate a better price for their products with big time businessmen.

Since last year, the Ilocos Norte government through governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos initiated an exploratory market matching with the local government of Quezon City, allowing farm producers and SMEs from the province to sell their products at the Quezon City Hall at least twice a month or every payday.

Due to consistent demand, a MOA was inked then it was renewed again for another year effective 2018.

According to Mr. Natividad, they are also planning to conduct market matching in other areas such as in Tuguegarao City to expand market of Ilocos products.
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Bacarra’s dome-less bell tower to undergo restoration

April 11, 2018, 5:27 pm
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By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter

Bacarra, Ilocos Norte—Officials and residents of this town are rejoicing as its dome-less belfry will soon be restored courtesy of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).

Bacarra mayor Nicomedes dela Cruz reported that the NHCP through director Rene Escalante on his recent visit to Ilocos Norte, assured about PHP50 million for the restoration of this important national treasure, also known as the “acrobatic bell tower of Asia”.

Locals said they are thankful for this new development as the dignified dome-less bell tower of Bacarra is often under appreciated.

Unknown to many, the old church of Saint Andrew the Apostle along with the bell tower and convent are among the enduring landmarks of the Augustinian Friars that forms part of the rich history of the Ilocanos.

Built in 1593, a 7.8 intensity earthquake on August 17, 1983 destroyed the church and belfry. It caused the dome to fall down thus, gaining the romanticized title “Dignified Dome-less Bell Tower in Asia.”

By virtue of Presidential Decree No. 260, then President Ferdinand E. Marcos declared the Bacarra Church as a National Cultural Treasure on August 1, 1973.

Aside from the bell tower, the NHCP has also allocated some funds for the Natba watch tower restoration starting this year.

According to Bacarra local government website, the watchtower located at Brgy. Natba is a 17th century structure which served to guard the coastline against pirates during the old times. Said tower symbolizes Bacarreños ancestor's great love and loyalty to their town.
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Kalinga adopts Imee

April 11, 2018, 5:34 pm
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Laoag City—Gracing Kalinga for the second Bodong Festival and 23rd founding anniversary of the province, the Kalinga Sangguniang Panlalawigan honored Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos as a “daughter of the province of Kalinga” through Resolution No. 2018-025.

The honor is a provincial tradition for Kalinga and is in consonance with customary ethnic practices. According to the resolution, it is a recognition bestowed upon “personages who have singularly endeared themselves and contributed outstanding services to the people.”

The Kalinga board particularly gave Ms. Marcos the name “Laggunawa”, meaning, “a beautiful and strong daughter of a tribal chieftain.”

“Sakto yung pangalan ko, anak daw ng chief—kaya I’ll have to live up to that name. Sabi nila… This ideal is what you should grow up to, so I must become Laggunawa,” she shared.

The province grants their sons and daughters of the province certain privileges, including protection under the umbrella of the Kalinga Peace Pact institution or the Bodong Justice System “Proto-Pagta.”

Ms. Marcos shared, “I am deeply honored by this endowment and I will treasure this resolution.”

She also urged the opening of tourism routes from Ilocos Norte to the Cordilleran Region, “[S]apagkat ang nakikita lagi ay yung coastal—La Union hanggang Ilocos Norte… There’s a very, very rich culture here at kitang-kita na iisa ang ating kulturawhether upland, midland, or lowland.

“Kinakailangan na si Apo Whang-od ay maging ‘National Living Treasure’,” she added, referring to the aging mambabatok (traditional tattooist) of Tinglayan, Kalinga. She stressed how tourism could be an avenue for better promotion and thus preservation of culture. (PGIN-CMO)
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Laoag gov’t honors 2018 outstanding Laoagueños

April 11, 2018, 5:45 pm
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Laoag mayor Chevylle V. Fariñas hands over a plaque of recognition to Dr. Marc Jim M. Mariano as one of the Most Outstanding Laoagueños 2018 in the field of Education (Agricultural Research) while Laoag vice mayor Michael V. Fariñas, other city officials and Mr. Mariano's family look on. (Doms dela Cruz)


By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

Laoag City—The city government here honored 15 outstanding Laoagueños for 2018 as it wrapped up celebrations for the Pamulinawen Festival Year XXII.

Laoag mayor Chevylle V. Fariñas congratulated the awardees on February 24, 2018 at the Laoag City hall auditorium.

She thanked them “for their continuous contributions that uplift the lives of the people of Laoag”.

The recognition of outstanding Laoagueños began during the term of former Laoag mayor now Rep. Rodolfo “Rudy” C. Fariñas, (1st district, Ilocos Norte). The event celebrated Laoagueños “who gave honor, distinctions and achievements for the city and its people”.

This year’s awardees are:

Education
City schools division superintendent Joel Lopez of Barangay 55-C Vira, Laoag City. His recent accomplishments include the conceptualization of Division Employee Information System; Facilitating Division Communication through social media; launching the first official magazine of the division; Implementing transparent ranking system; Initiating he conduct of mass oath taking and orientation of newly appointed teachers and employees; facilitating substitution of teachers; establishing stronger relationship between public and private schools; launching SDO Laoag City’s Learning Resource Center; and devising the Division Dynamic Circle or Learning Action Cell. Dr. Lopez also authored the first ever DepEd Laoag City Hymn which reflects the division’s thrust for continuous improvement and excellence.

George A. Alonzo of Barangay 43 Cavit Laoag City also rendered exemplary public service in the region, the division, schools and in the community. Mr. Alonzo introduced approaches or innovations in teaching which contributed to the improvement of instructions in meeting the needs of students and teachers later recognized by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts through its localized exemplar.

Rizal Angelo N. Grande of Barangay 3 Laoag City founded the Manuelita Grande Alcantara Memorial Award for Academic Excellence at Agripino P. Santos Elementary School. Mr. Grande also supports various forms of projects and advocates of his Barangay.

ICT education
Johnson Modesto A. Blanco of Barangay 2 Laoag City, director of the security and exchange monitoring services of MMSU. He fronted and led the university to become the Best and Most Peaceful Higher Education Institution in Region I for 2015 and 2016.

As an ICT and Educational Technology Faculty of MMSU-CTE, he initiated and conducted lectures in in National and Regional Teacher Trainings in ICT Education.

Culture and the arts education
Maria Eliza Simeon Lopez, Ph.D. of Barangay 55 Vira, Laoag City is a faithful lover of the Filipino Language and other languages. Dr. Lopez advocated the appropriate and continuing use of our languages.   

Being the chief of the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura of the NCCA, she conducts trainings, for a, conferences, and research to further inform, orient and encourage people to love our national language and other dialects.

Research/education
Jovenita Aguilar Aragon, Ed.D. of Barangay 1 Laoag City had research paper presentations in Indonesia and Manila, wherein she informed research enthusiasts of new technology as product of her research.

In addition, she also published her work in recognized journals as the Science and Technology Journal, MMSU Research Journal, Research e-Journal Publication and Timpuyog Journal.

Agriculture education
Marc Jim Mariano of Barangay 47 Bengcag this city founded the Timpuyog Festival in 2005 with the intention of giving back to his community in his barangay which now conducts this in his community every December.

Mr. Mariano is nature lover caring for the environment which he invites youth joining him in tree planting activities.

Banking
Rafaela T. Dela Cruz of Barangay 9 Sta. Angela, Laoag City initiated the Adopt-A-Park (Siazon Park) project during her incumbency as President of the PICPA, Laoag City – Ilocos Norte Chapter. Ms. Dela Cruz is a retired bank manager and past President of the Bankers Association of Laoag City and Ilocos Norte Chapter.

Dante G. Bolusan of Barangay 3 this city actively participates in opposing BIR’s proposed increase in zonal valuation in Laoag City thru BALCIN and RC Laoag City. Mr. Bolusan initiated the granting of scholarships to poor but deserving students of MMSU by the BALCIN plus an annual gift giving to indigent families and inmates of the city jail by the RC Laoag.

Community service/construction business
Fulgencia B. Taylan of Barangay 50 Buttong this city devotes her full time and invaluable services to her construction business through providing jobs to the people as well as improvement infrastructure throughout Luzon.

Ms. Taylan helps in the operation of the Saint Lorenzo Ruiz Medical-Dental Clinic at the Diocese of Laoag.

She also contributed to the livelihood of the people through employment.

Journalism
Celestina C. Paz of Barangay 8 this city spearheaded programs and projects in the city of Laoag and other communities including the annual “Broadcasteering” a tree planting activity of KBP Ilocos Norte Chapter.

Likewise, “Kapiling Bawat Pasko” KBP, an annual gift giving activity of broadcasters at the Tahanang Carmela D’Amore, an orphanage run by the Sisters of the Divine Zeal in Laoag City.

Government/public service
the late former Laoag mayor Cesar Ventura of Barangay 50 Buttong this city saw the vision of finishing the road to La Paz sand adventure and connecting it to the majestic sand dunes and to the sea as he envisioned it as paradise for the children and the people of Laoag and from other places.

The former mayor pulled out all heavy equipment and all his personal workers then in a mining company to work for the road called “Ventura Highway” leading to the La Paz sand dunes and La Paz sea and an alternate route for the people of La Paz.

Enlisted reservist
Gloria Manguira of Barangay 49-B Raraburan Laoag City is a constant volunteer whenever disaster occurs.

Ms. Managuira helps in the conduct of the annual “Operation Tuli”, “gift giving to indigents, tree planting, Oplan Dalus with PGBI and Friends Unlimited, necrological services and bloodletting.    

Public service
Carmencita“Menchu” Montano Senen-Tamayo of Alabang, Las Piñas City is the corporate secretary and vice president for external affairs and special projects of a Metro Manila university.

Ms. Tamayo’s advocacy is on the “Zero Waste Management Program” wherein she showcases “zero waste” activities in the school and hospital environment.

Government service
Albert Q. Valenciano who was born in Laoag and presently lives in Dasmariñas, Cavite is the first welfare officer in Italy and Israel.

Mr. Valenciano was also the first embassy officer who established and maintained the presence of Milan 24/7 at a time when there was still no Philippine Consulate General.

He was instrumental in the establishment of the Federation of Filipino Communities in Israel.
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OWWA extends relief assistance to repatriated Kuwait OFWs

April 11, 2018, 5:47 pm
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By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is calling on all repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Kuwait to report to the nearest OWWA for assistance.

In Ilocos Norte, Nona Ganal, of the OWWA Regional Office said on February 28, 2018 that OFWs who were not able to receive any financial or livelihood assistance from the OWWA central office may avail of the said benefits.

For every repatriated OFW, the OWWA is giving out at least PHP25,000 livelihood assistance and PHP5,000 financial assistance.

Over the weekend, the OWWA and labor officials went to Kuwait City to check on the welfare of OFWs and to assess the impact of a new ban on Filipinos working there.

This came following the murder of a 29-year-old Joana Demafelis by her employers and President Rodrigo Duterte immediately announced a departure ban for Filipinos planning to work in Kuwait.

The ban remains in effect until the government can ensure the safety of OFWs. (Leilanie G. Adriano)
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Farmers need not worry about La Niña—PhilRice

April 13, 2018, 6:02 pm
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Despite reports on La Niña expecting to last until March from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), climate change experts from PhilRice advise farmers to remain calm as the effects may not be detrimental but at the same urge them to be always prepared.

“The effects of La Niña vary around the world. In the Philippines, it brings more rains while in other countries, the usual effect can also be drought. Local farmers need not panic as what we might be experiencing until March are just slight effects of La Niña, after that everything will return to the neutral condition,” says Dr. Jasper G. Tallada, climate change expert and supervising science research specialist from PhilRice’s Rice Engineering and Mechanization Division (REMD).

Mr. Tallada has emphasized that while there is no early sign of detrimental effects of La Niña, it is still good to be prepared and alert. Hence, he advises farmers to regularly check updates on La Niña and other extreme weather conditions that can affect their rice farming. He also recommends them to adopt some practices that will help them prepare for the effects of La Niña.

 “We encourage farmers to use submergence-tolerant varieties or those that can still survive despite being soaked in water for days. These varieties include NSIC Rc 68 (Sacobia) and NSIC Rc 194 (Submarino 1). They should also plan their planting schedule very well to avoid torrential rains and strong winds that can cause damages to crops,” explains Dr. Ricardo F. Orge, lead of the PhilRice’s Climate Resiliency for Enhanced Agricultural Trade and Efficiency for Rice (CREATE Rice) Program.

According to these experts, farmers should repair drainage canals, dykes, and ensure an effective water management system in the field to avoid pest infestation and diseases that are prevalent during La Niña. They also encouraged farmers to plant trees around their fields that can serve as wind breakers for crops during strong winds.

Meanwhile, Messrs. Orge and Tallada also highlighted the effectiveness of using mechanical dryers in drying the crops, the establishment of floating gardens for water-soaked areas, and the use of small farm reservoir to store rainwater that farmers can use in the next planting seasons.

“The bottom line is that we should always be informed about the changes in our weather. We can check for updates from PAGASA and the National Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council (NDRRMC),” Mr. Tallada concluded. (PhilRice)
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DPWH bans names, photos on project signages

April 13, 2018, 6:06 pm
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By Dominic B. dela Cruz
Staff reporter

San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte—The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Ilocos Norte 2nd Engineering District will strictly a new order banning photos and names of persons on signages of government infrastructure projects.

The restriction stems from DPWH Dept. Order 21 series of 2017 signed by DPWH Sec. Mark A. Villar.

DPWH 2nd district engineer Mathias Malenab made this announcement during a Sangguniang Panlalawigan regular session. DPWH’s 1st Engineering District also attended the said session.

Mr. Malenab stressed that they will no longer allow pictures and names of any person to appear on DPWH billboards.

He added that they have also disallowed DPWH contractors to place names of any politician on their equipment.

The DPWH order also stated the billboard design layout, dimension and letter sizes on white background.

In view of this, they will replace all existing billboards of ongoing projects.

The district 2 engineer also said that each road, bridge, and flood control projects shall have only two billboards each; installed at every 5-kilometer interval. He added that they also restrict billboards within 100 meters of all DPWH projects, in between project limits, or within the road right-of-way.

He further disclosed that this order supersedes Department Order No. 141 series of 2016.  

Meanwhile, Mr. Malenab said major infrastructure projects of the province’s second engineering district this year are flood control projects in Paoay and Batac City.

He said they did not receive funding for bridge construction and road widening projects for this year.

As for school building, the district engineer said they are still waiting for the release of funds while they complete school buildings from last year.
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DOLE reminds employers to comply on new daily minimum wage rate

April 13, 2018, 6:07 pm
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By Elsha Marie B. Soriano
PIA

DAGUPAN CITY—The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Central Pangasinan reminded all employers in the province to comply with the increase in the daily minimum wages of their employees to avoid penalties under the new wage order of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB).

Panfilo Dioquino, labor communications officer II of DOLE-Central Pangasinan, said under the Wage Order No. RB1-19, employers who refuse or fail to pay the prescribed increase daily minimum wage shall be punished by a fine of not less than P25, 000 not more than P100, 000 or imprisonment of not less than two years not more than four years or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court pursuant to the provision of Section 12 of Republic Act 6727 as amended by RA 8188.

He said under the new wage order, effective January 25, minimum wage workers in large non-agriculture establishment should expect daily wage increase of PHP30, for workers under medium non-agriculture establishments employers should add an increase of PHP20 to them while those working in small and micro establishments as well as agriculture sector (Plantation and Non-plantation) should expect an additional PHP13 per day.

“Sa ating mga empleyado na di nakatanggap ng increase p’wede tayong magpunta sa DOLE office,” Mr. Dioquino said urging the employees to have courage and report any irregularities in their company.

“Hindi natin maiiaalis yung takot ng mga empleyado, pero in case may problema, narito po ang DOLE. Magkaroon po sana sila ng lakas ng loob na magreport para matulungan po sila ngDOLE at para maitama ang mga maling gawain ni employer,” he said during the “Pantongtongan Tayo” a radio program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Pangasinan.

Mr. Dioquino said DOLE offices in the province regularly conduct inspection to companies and establishments in the province to check if employers violate any labor code as well as wage order.

Meanwhile, the RTWPB is going around the Ilocos region to inform the employees and employers on the new daily minimum wage rate.

Recently, RTWPB conducted a wage orientation for over 200 employers and human resources personnel from various companies in Pangasinan.
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Piddig council oks RA7171 share appropriation

April 14, 2018, 11:19 pm
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By Bernard Ver
Contributor

Piddig, Ilocos Norte—The Sangguniang Bayan here ratified a resolution from the Municipal Development Council to appropriate the municipality’s tobacco excise tax share for the local farmers on February 26, 2018.

Piddig’s tobacco excise tax share is PHP125 million.

The council voted 4-3 to approve the resolution.

Piddig councilors Hershey Mandac, Lendell Chua, Wilbor Bringas and Marianito Foronda voted for the resolution. They cited the need for the town’s tobacco excise tax share for agricultural development use.

Piddig councilors Quezon Alejandro, Onofre Bayag and Romulo Helario, Sr., on the other hand, voted against the resolution. They reasoned that they need more to time in assessing and scrutinizing the fund.

One of the two other council members, councilor Rey Nicolas, abstained; while ex-officio member Piddig Liga ng mga Barangay president Florentino Soriano was on a convention in Pampanga during the session.

After the approval, Piddig mayor Georgina Salazar-Guillen expressed her appreciation to the members of the Sangguniang Bayan on their munificent effort.

“It is high-time and indeed necessary for the LGU to give what is right to our town-folks especially the farmers,” said Mrs. Guillen.

Republic Act 7171 calls for the allotment and sharing of funds from the tobacco excise among beneficiary provinces. Under the said law, a local government unit must have an average annual production of leaf tobacco of no less than one million kilos to earn a share.

The law further states that tobacco excise tax shares are only for the development of the capacity and capability of tobacco farmers through cooperative, livelihood, agro-industrial and infrastructure projects such as farm-to-market roads to ease transportation and lessen costs. (Bernard Ver)
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Over 100 Ilocos Norte athletes to join Palarong Pambansa 2018

April 14, 2018, 11:21 pm
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By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY–More than a hundred athletes from Ilocos Norte are set to join other athletes from Region 1 in the Palarong Pambansa 2018 in Ilocos Sur.

Of the 101 athletes, at least 20 captured athletes came from other divisions in Ilocos Norte, said Gene Reginaldo, education program supervisor of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte.

They are set to represent Region 1 in athletics, baseball, gymnastics, tennis, baseball, chess, taekwondo, football and swimming.

According to Mr. Reginaldo, the Ilocos Norte athletes will be in Vigan starting April 6 for their week-long training prior to the national sporting event set on April 15-21 at the Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.

To date, Ilocos Norte education officials billeted these athletes at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Sports Stadium in Laoag City for their training with local coaches.

With 14 schools divisions, Region 1 is composed of four provinces namely Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan.

The heritage city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur is hosting this year’s biggest youth sports event in the country after it won in the bidding against Ilagan City in Isabela, Baguio City, Province of Bulacan, and Marikina City.

Vigan hosted the same event in 1953 and 1973 when the event was still known as Bureau of Public Schools-Interscholastic Athletics Association.
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