The Ilocos Times

By Joanna Diaz-Sabado

PIA

SAN JUAN, La Union—The National Food Authority (NFA) in La Union announced that the “government will not allow any Filipino to get hungry despite lack of rice stocks”.

According to Engr. Fortunato Bulao, NFA-La Union provincial manager, there are only 692,453 bags available and an expected production of 115,375 bags in the province.

Data is as of February 18, 2018. But with the existing daily rice consumption of 5,800 bags or a monthly consumption of 162,400 bags, they expect the available stocks to last for less than four months, or until May this year.

There are also some 8,000 bags available at NFA-La Union warehouses, but 2,000 bags of which are for emergency relief operations, thus the government will likely resort to rice importation.

“We are anticipating that the importation of rice will come just in time before the lean months,” Mr. Bulao said.

He, however, assures the public that "the government is on top of everything" and "President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will not allow anyone to get hungry."

They expect a total of 250,000 metric tons or 400,000 bags of imported rice allocation for Region 1 by June, wherein 75,000 metric tons will be allocated for the province of La Union.

Mr. Bulao also assures the public that there are no existing rice cartel and rice hoarding in the province.

Average price of NFA rice is at P32 pesos while average commercial rice sells at P43.50. Buying price for palay is at P17.70 per kilo.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Laoag City—The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is inviting interested individuals to the Cultural Mapping Facilitators Training on April 16-20, 2018 at the Silid Darangen of the NCCA Building.

Republic Act 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, through the appropriate cultural agencies and local government units (LGUs), tasks NCCA to establish and maintain the Philippine Registry of Cultural Properties (PRECUP).

The law specifically mandates local government units to maintain an inventory of cultural property under its jurisdiction and to furnish the NCCA a copy of its local inventory.

To help the LGU identify and account its cultural properties, the NCCA established the Technical Assistance for Cultural Mapping to support them in this endeavor.

To increase the number of facilitators equipped to conduct cultural mapping training in different LGUs, the NCCA is calling on interested educators and/or cultural workers to attend and participate in the 2018 Cultural Mapping Facilitators Training on April 16-20, 2018 at the Silid Darangen of the NCCA Building.

There are 20 slots available for application.

Cultural mapping is a multi-disciplinary field. It requires stock knowledge on many related areas of research, including social artistry, cultural and art studies, architecture and urban design, geography, sociology, cultural policy and planning, and the social sciences.

Applicants must meet the following: background on cultural heritage; at least 5 years of experience in cultural work; workshop/seminar/training facilitation skills;language (written and spoken) fluency in Filipino, English and preferably regional language

Employed applicants should seek endorsement from the head of their organization allowing them to engage in cultural mapping activities undertaken by the NCCA.

They also need to accomplish the application form and submit curriculum vitae.

Former Rep. Roque Ablan Jr. with son, PCOO Usec. Kris Ablan.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Former Ilocos Norte Rep. Roque Ablan Jr. died of multiple organ failure on March 26, 2018 at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City. He was 85.

Mr. Ablan, a lawyer and longtime ally of former Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos, served for eight terms as representative of the first district of Ilocos Norte province from 1967 to 2010. except from 1998 to 2011.

At 31, he served as senior board member of Ilocos Norte and as chair of the League of Board Members from 1963 to 1967.

Known in Ilocos Norte as “Alikabok,” Ilocanos remember Mr. Ablan as a humble man with a generous heart as he never turned down those who sought his help.

In her Facebook post, Mr. Ablan’s daughter, Annette, said, “We just lost a wonderful father, not just to us, but also to the many people who [he] nurtured and took care of.”

Mr. Ablan’s son, presidential communications assistant secretary Kristian Ablan, posted in his Facebook account: “Lucky to be at his bedside when he died. I choose to remember the old man during happier days.”

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) unveiled a commemorative marker of the 100-year-old Ilocos Norte Capitol building to the public.

The marker recognizes the Capitol’s historical significance to the lives of the Ilokanos in this northern gateway of Luzon.

Builders completed the Ralph Harrington Doane-designed structure in 1925. Engr. Jose Paez, who became Public Works Director in 1919; and two more notable architects, Tomas Mapua and Antonio Toledo helped in the Capitol’s design.

The new and present-day Capitol was also one of two new provincial buildings that would stand as monuments of architectural beauty and models for other provinces, according to a 1917 Report of the Governor General of the Philippine Islands to the Secretary of War. The other was the Pangasinan Provincial Capitol.

During the time of the Japanese invaders, historians say then Ilocos Norte governor Roque B. Ablan Sr. left the Capitol and continued provincial government service in the mountainous village of Maananteng in Solsona, Ilocos Norte. The United States Army Forces in the Philippines recaptured the Capitol on February 13, 1945.

Major remodeling and expansion transformed the building in 1957, with the Corinthian columns and pediment featuring relief art by Ricarte Purugunan of Dingras. Former President Carlos P. Garcia was in attendance when Ilokanos inaugurated the building on December 27, 1958.

The Capitol compound underwent another major change in 2010, at the start of the administration of Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos. She ordered the walls enclosing the compound taken down, and the renovation of the front grounds to give the Capitol a more “park-like appearance”.

Attended by Philippine veterans, provincial and municipal officials, students, government and non-government organizations, the NHCP led by Chairman Rene Escalante turned over the marker on March 1, 2018 to the Ilocos Norte government, led by Ms. Marcos.

As a model of beauty and architecture in the entire province, Mr. Escalante hopes the people of Ilocos Norte will take good care of the historical marker and preserve it for future generations.

For her part, Ms. Marcos said the sturdy, old Capitol building of Ilocos Norte that has seen so many changes are testament to the remarkable history of the Ilokanos.

“I am certain that in the next 200 years, we add more to that history—glorious, triumphant, and truly united at last,” said Ms. Marcos citing the old building stand tall amidst all the difficulties and struggles because of the unity and heroic deeds of the Ilokanos.

As the historic Capitol building played an important role in the lives of the Ilokanos as well as other heritage buildings in other towns and cities here, Marcos urged all officials and residents to “start conserving and preserving these historical assets that are repositories of racial consciousness and identity”.

The Ilocos Norte Capitol’s centenary coincides with the province’s own bicentennial foundation celebration. Also, last September 2017, another NHCP installed another marker at the “Daytoy ti Bannawag” monument. (With a report from PGIN-CMO)

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

Dingras, Ilocos Norte—The National Electrification Administration (NEA) ordered the postponement of scheduled election for Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative directors scheduled this April.

INEC set the district elections earlier for Districts VIII on April 14, 2018; III on April 21, 2018; and V on April 28, 2018.

NEA Administrator Edgardo R. Masongsong signed the deferment order upon the request of INEC board president Reynaldo “Rey” M. Lazo.

“Considering the circumstances, this office approves the deferment of the said district elections for two (2) months pending the approval of the proposed deferment of elections by the NEA Board of Administrators, Thus, you are enjoined to conduct elections not later than June 2018,” Mr. Masongsong said in the order.

According to Mr. Lazo, he requested the postponement because the INEC district elections will encroach into the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections campaign period.

He noted that the INEC district elections “may create confusion” with the BKSE, and candidates for either elections may take advantage to push their own interests.

“Thus, there is the possibility of manipulating the district elections of BOD that will defeat the supposed non-political character of the ECs,” Mr. Lazo added.

When the INEC board scheduled the district elections for April this year, Mr. Lazo was in the United States of America representing INEC for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) convention; and thus, did not join the board deliberation.

Upon his return to the country, he said he requested the board to consider the district elections’ deferment but the other board directors rejected his request.

In view of this, he requested Mr. Masongsong to intervene and order a deferment because of the reason he earlier cited.

He, however, clarified that the NEA board will still need to meet to tackle INEC’s district elections postponement on the date the NEA order specified.

Mr. Lazo has reached the term limit as INEC District VIII director. He, however, disclosed that he can still run for another term based on NEA’s latest policy on the issue.

“No man pay iti maysa a director ket nakapag-serbin iti naming tallo a daras mabalin na paylaeng iti agaplikar itiexemption a mabalin na man iti tumarayen. And I believe that I have that qualifications for that particular exemptions a miyembro iti junta direktiba,” Mr. Lazo said.

“For the record, twice I [tried] give up the position [BOD president] but they rejected [it]. At any time the board does not have confidence on me as their president, I can give it up. It’s up to them,” Mr. Lazo said to quell rumors he does not want to yield his INEC board presidency.

Meanwhile, INEC’s Interim Services Department (ISD) manager Menchie Cariaga disclosed that there will be no election for INEC this April based on the NEA deferment letter.

INEC records show that retired INEC department manager Engr. Lindbergh Castillo was the lone candidate who filed his certificate of candidacy for the District VIII election.

(From left) IPC President Hajime Koso, ICI General Manager Steve Gingco, ICI President Manny Aligada, IPC Division Head for Administration Myrna Valle and IPC Division Head for Sales Joseph Bautista.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) recently held a ground-breaking ceremony for what will be its new site in Minglanilla, Cebu.

On March 8, IPC President Hajime Koso together with Isuzu Cebu Inc. (ICI) President Manny Aligada and ICI General Manager Steve Gingco lead the ceremony.

“This relocation is part of our continuing goal to strengthen and widen the service of Isuzu to our valued clients. We are proud that our dealer groups, like ICI is among those that is continuously working towards extending their reach by bringing our products and services closer to their sales area, and now here in southern Cebu,” said Koso.

Located in Barangay Calajoan, Minglanilla, Cebu, the new site will replace the existing outlet Isuzu in Talisay. With more than 3,500 sqm, the new site will then be called Isuzu Cebu South which according to the initial architectural design will have a bigger showroom that can accommodate five-unit display including trucks.

Aside from bigger floor area, Isuzu Cebu South will have a complete servicing facility, six service bays which can cater from light vehicle to heavy-duty trucks. Construction is set to start in May 2018 with a completion date targeted within the year.

“We are happy to witness the ground-breaking ceremony of yet another Isuzu outlet under Isuzu Cebu Inc. Less than three years ago, we opened the Isuzu Cebu City which also has a bigger land area to accommodate more sales in the city proper - this is an indication that the Cebuano market is really booming,” Koso added.

In 2017, sales of Isuzu Talisay grew by about 82-percent majority coming from their light commercial vehicle model. “Our sales in the area has been consistently growing. To cope up with the demand, we decided to relocate to a bigger and accessible area that will not only attract sales but also increase our after-sales service as well,” said Gingco. “Once completed, we forecast to sell around 50 units per month, along with significant increase on our service operations by accommodating trucks in the area,” he added. [ADVT]

By Bernard Ver

Contributor

LAOAG CITY - The Department of Agriculture (DA) High Value Crops and Rural Credit in cooperation with the DA Region 1 field office kicked off the first Ilocos Region Garlic Summit at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena on March 14, 2018.

Nearly 1,000 farmers attended the summit; they came from different provinces of Region 1: Ilocos Norte; Ilocos Sur; La Union and Pangasinan.

The keynote speaker was DA undersecretary Evelyn Laviña, Head, High Value Crops and Rural Credit in lieu of DA secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol.

The first garlic summit’s theme: "Crafting of the 5-Year Roadmap for the Philippine Garlic Industry Development."

“The Department of Agriculture will intensify garlic production in the whole Region 1… [a]nd the conference is in response to the marching order of secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol to conduct field trials in all regions,” Ms. Laviña said

During the summit, DA distributed farm machineries, equipment and materials to include: 17 units 4-wheel tractor amounting to PHP17 million; 23 units multi cultivator amounting to PHP3,470,240; 31 units pump and engine set worth PHP2,170,000; 12 units power sprayer worth PHP288,000; 188 units knapsack sprayer worth PHP347,800; and 1 unit hauling truck worth PHP1,500,000.

In the Ilocos Region, climatic and soil conditions are ideal for planting garlic during the dry months. DA will lend technical assistance to anyone going to plant garlic as well as assured the availability of seeds.

The main objective is to sustain the sufficiency of the commodity and avoid a situation such as what happened in 2012 when garlic suddenly disappeared from the market.

“There is no such thing as ‘hoarding of garlics’ thru farmers, it is the businessmen who do so,” stressed Ms. Laviña.

In Ilocos Norte, thru several LGUs' requests, Ms. Laviña gave agricultural funding: PHP3 million for Pasuquin; PHP2 million for Sarrat; PHP500 thousand for Burgos; and PHP650 thousand for San Nicolas. Other Ilocos Norte towns will receive farm machinery and equipment.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Employees and visitors going to the Ilocos Norte Schools Division Office (INSDO) in this city may feel a new vibe upon entering the old government compound with its refreshing look both inside and out.

Located at the heart of the city next to other national government agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Mariano Marcos State University-Laoag campus, vibrant colors of ornamental plants along a patio and a cactus garden greet visitors just beside a newly-established guard house where you have to log in in a blue book before you could make any transaction inside the building.

They also relocated an old grotto, left unattended in previous years, which is now more visible in its well-lit altar inside an open kiosk turned as a sanctuary for believers with offertory candles and fragrant flowers.

Inside the offices of the INSDO are comfortable lounge chairs with a touch of class for waiting visitors. They now also serve hot coffee or cold refreshments on special occasions. They also converted a portion of a parking area into a spacious canteen with wide open doors and clear windows. The clean rest rooms are now also more spacious with a giant mirror and a wash area which could accommodate three persons at a time.

Also discarded were piles of old cabinets and paper documents in exchange of more computers equipped with reliable internet connectivity.

“This is in connection with our quest for International Standardization Organization (ISO) certification quality management system,” said schools division superintendent Vilma Eda, who is on her 11^th month in the post; she replaced retired Araceli Pastor.

The ISO standards require an organization to enhance customer satisfaction through effective and efficient application of its system and processes.

“In management, we need to organize the physical set-up of the office and so with the processes that we follow as an organization,” Ms. Eda said as she underscored this would translate to a better quality of service to the schools, other government and non-government agencies that INSDO serves.

Ms. Eda said the on-going education transformation in the province is in line with the concerted efforts of all employees and schools covering the 21 towns and two cities of Ilocos Norte.

Of the more than 200 DepEd divisions in the country, Ilocos Norte aims to become the first division in Region 1 to be fully ISO-certified.

Joining the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) community at the 6^thYear Anniversary of the New Marcoseños of Hong Kong Worldwide (NewMAHK) on February 25, 2018, Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos took the opportunity to personally thank them for their contributions to the progress and development of Ilocos Norte.

With 61% of families in Ilocos Norte partially or fully dependent on foreign remittances from loved ones working abroad, the province has grown to be one of the richest, most well-developed, and most educated in the country, marked by a high human development index (HDI).

“Dahil sa hirap ng mga OFW, lahat nakakapag-aral; walang sinasabing mga squatter—may sariling mga bahay; at higit sa lahat, nakikita natin na umuunlad sa maliliit nahotel, restaurant, at iba pa dahil sa turismo. Iyan ay dahil lahat sa tinatawag na hirap at pasakit ng ating mgaOFW,” said Ms. Marcos.

She also shared recent developments in tourism, including the yearly average of two million visitors in Ilocos Norte and the regular docking of a luxury ship at the Port of Currimao, saying that OFWs made these possible by contributing to the local economy for decades.

Furthermore, Ms. Marcos highlighted the rapid creation of local jobs, in particular those brought by business process-outsourcing (BPO) companies.

“Alam natin na ang pag-migrate, ang pag-alis… ay hindi dapat ‘kapit sa patalim’ kundi choice talaga ng isang pamilya,” she said, empathizing with the difficulty of being away from family and having to work from home just to provide more for loved ones.

“Dapat magbigay din nga trabaho sa sariling probinsiya. Iyan talaga ang gusto naming mangyari.” She added as she told potential investors repeatedly, “Help us generate secure, well-paying jobs so that soon, leaving home will simply be another choice.”

For years, Ms. Marcos’ said her desire is for stable and well-providing employment to be available in Ilocos Norte as she recognized the social cost of families getting split apart by time and distance as many parents, out of desperation, need to work for higher incomes abroad. (PGIN-CMO)

Women-farmers spend more time and receive lower wage than their male counterparts! The exhibit at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in Maligaya, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija in celebration of the Women’s Month this March showcased this issue.

In the exhibit titled, “The Land Nurturers,” photo stories show that women outnumber the men by 2% during planting season. They also spend two days more than the men in harvesting and about three days more in drying the rice grain.

Dr. Diadem B. Gonzales-Esmero, PhilRice Gender and Development focal person, said the exhibit aims to increase awareness on the conditions of the women-farmers.

“The contributions of women in rice farming are not noteworthy, but their issues are not given much attention. Other than working hours and wage, we also learned that they also have the least access to some services. These are based on data we gathered from three international and national studies and integrated the results in this art and photo exhibit,” she elaborated.

In their 2016 study, “Women at Work in the Farm,” Dr. Irene R. Tanzo and her colleagues found that the women-farmers in Quezon and Zamboanga del Norte are engaged in more than half of the 51 farm activities from land preparation until selling of rice. They are mostly involved during pulling of seedlings, transplanting, and harvesting.

Despite equal work, Ms. Tanzo’s study on cross-country hired farm labor and wage differences showed that women-farmers earn less than the men by around P108 a day. In Nueva Ecija, the women-farmers’ wage is around P50 less than the men during crop establishment and P216 during threshing.

The study of Daryl Leyesa of National Rural Women Coalition-Philippines also reveal that women work for 11 hours during planting and harvestings days. In the farm household, they take the lead decision-making role in nine of 12 production areas, including farm capital, animal raising, and vegetable growing. Her male counterpart meanwhile, decides over the seeds and where/when to sell their produce.

Moreover, when compared with the woman workers in corn, coconut, sugar, vegetables, and onion, the women-rice farmers had the least access to school and health care facilities.

Launched in March 5 and installed at PhilRice main building, the exhibit is open to the public until April 6. PhilRice Gender and Development Focal Point System spearheads the exhibit program. (PhilRice news)

US ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim helped put the finishing touches on the mural. Right: The Doodle Art Enthusiasts (DAE) community teamed up with Kris Abrigo to bring the mural to life.

Ambassador Kim (center) and Counselor for Public Affairs Carolyn Glassman (right) with (from left to right): DAE muralist Daryl Andre Victoria, Franz Lawrence Rafols, King Jaed Miranda, Larrysa Latade, Patrice Palisoc, artist Kris Abrigo, DAE creative director Lei Melendres, and DAE muralist Gelo Morales.

Manila—United States of America ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim joined Kris Abrigo and young artists from Doodle Art Enthusiasts (DAE) at the Youth Art Collab culminating event to put the finishing touches on a mural celebrating the longstanding US-Philippine relationship at the American Center of the US embassy.

The embassy launched the Youth Art Collab mural project in honor of Philippine National Arts Month, celebrated every February. The young artists and the Embassy team collaborated on the design, which the artists painted in just one week. At the culminating event, Ambassador Kim delivered remarks and awarded certificates of appreciation to the muralists.

As part of today’s event, the artists shared the motivation behind the mural. Kris Abrigo explained, “Creating a collaborative mural that celebrates diverse cultures and illustrates a rich connection between two allied countries is a great privilege and an awesome opportunity to spread messages of peace and unity.”

DAE creative director Lei Melendres said, “We, as a community, uphold and inspire this generation with the belief that everyone can and should have a chance to be part of something big. That’s why we include our members in collaborative endeavors such as this, making them aware of how they can use their talents and skills to make a change.”

The US embassy launched the American Center in 1945 as the Thomas Jefferson Library and in 1999 became the Thomas Jefferson Information Center. The Center has since evolved into the dynamic public engagement space it is today. The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy maintains a network of American Spaces in the Philippines including the American Center and 14 American Corners in key locations throughout the country. American Corners are American resource-dedicated centers and program spaces hosted within partner public and private universities.

The American Spaces in the Philippines are part of a global network of 650 American Spaces around the world that strive to provide innovative, multifunctional platforms for public engagement programs that introduce visitors to the people, history, culture, and policies of the United States. (US Embassy news)

A portion of the Ilocos Norte highway is free of any obstruction. (Lei Adriano)

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Ilocos Norte’s Second Engineering District is up for another round of road sweep as it started its “Operation Baklas” to clear the national highway’s right of way.

Since February 21, 2018, the DPWH along with personnel from the Philippine National Police started to remove obstructions to ensure smooth flow of traffic and prevent road accidents.

Under Department Order No. 73 series of 2014, Engr. Mathias Malenab cited some prohibited uses within the right of way. These include all kinds of temporary and permanent structures such as buildings, houses, shanties, stores, shops, stalls, sheds, canopies, billboards, signages, advertisements, fences, walls, railings, basketball courts, barangay halls, and garbage receptacles among others.

According to Mr. Malenab, a total of 293 obstructions were removed following the three consecutive road clearing operations slated from February 21 to March 3, 2018.

The areas covered included Batac City and the towns of Paoay, San Nicolas, Currimao and Badoc respectively.

Mr. Malenab said they will resume the operation again next week.

In the first district of Ilocos Norte, Engr. Nestor Pasion also reported the DPWH First Engineering District were able to demolish and remove 3,019 obstructions from Laoag City all the way to Pagudpud.

The DPWH appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate and abide by the revised Philippine highway act and the national building code.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources issued a final demand to Pagudpud resort owners to voluntary demolish cottages and other structures built on the foreshore area surrounding the “Blue Lagoon,” a favorite tourist destination at Brgy. Balaoi in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

The foreshore is a portion of the beach which spans 20 meters from the seashore. DENR Department Order No. 34, issued in 1999, states that a foreshore is “part of the shore which is alternately covered and uncovered by the ebb and flow of the tide.”

In a letter sent to at least five resort owners, Atty. Mae Jean Pedro, DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources based in Barangay Manayon, Bangui, Ilocos Norte legal consultant said that “(O)ccupying the legal easement of the 20-meter salvage zone is in violation of Article 51 of the Water Code of the Philippines (Presidential Decree 1067).

Under the law, it is prohibited for any person to stay in this zone longer than what is necessary for recreation, navigation, floatage, fishing or salvage, or to build structure of any kind within the legal easements.

The DENR identified the violators as Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center owned by retired Airforce Col. Ricardo Nolasco Jr., Classique Homestay of Ruth Magarro, Cottages of Nelly Cristobal, May Anne Copeland and Corazon Espejo.

In the DENR letter, they directed and demanded the owners to voluntary demolish the cottages and other structures within 72 hours upon receipt of notice otherwise appropriate charges will be imposed to them without prior notice.

The DENR guidebook said: “The Philippine foreshore is one area where rapid development is taking place.”

“With progress comes the various problems: environmental pollution, conversion of mangroves into other uses, illegal reclamation, squatting and many more,” it said.

Turn-over Ceremony. INPPO provincial director P/Sr. Supt. Melencio Nartates (center) leads the turn-over between incoming OIC P/Supt. Dominic Guerrero (left) and out-going P/Supt. Edwin Balles (right) at the city hall auditorium on March 12. Witnessing the turn-over ceremony are INPPO officials, some chiefs of police, Laoag mayor Chevylle V Fariñas and other city hall officials. (Doms dela Cruz)

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

Laoag City—The Philippine National Police appointed a new officer-in-charge for this city’s police force.

P/Chief Supt. Dominic Guerrero replaces outgoing P/Supt. Edwin Balles.

Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) provincial director P/Sr. Supt. Melencio Nartates led the turn-over ceremony at the city hall conference room attended with Ilocos Norte police officials, other chiefs of police and Laoag mayor Chevylle V. Farinas and other city officials on March 12, 2018.

Mr. Guerrero, in his message, said he will continue all the programs and activities of the present especially in support to the campaign against illegal drugs and the peace and order situation of Laoag.

He also asked a full cooperation by the city government to implement the PNPs vision and mission.

Records show that Mr. Guerrero is the second Laoag native chief of police after former Laoag police chief P/Sr. Supt. Sterling Blanco.

Prior to his new assignment in Laoag, Mr. Guerrero led the 2^nd Provincial Mobile Force Company at the INPPO.

He was also the chief of police in the municipalities of Paoay, Bacarra, Sarrat, San Nicolas and once became a caretaker in Marcos and Pagudpud.

Relative to this, Mr. Guerrero appealed the public for their cooperation in order to achieve a peaceful, orderly and safe place to live in.

In behalf of the people of Laoag, Mrs. Farinas warmly welcomed the newly installed police for Laoag.

The mayor assured the city government’s help with the Laoag police.

The city government’s latest donation to the city police are new patrol cars and motorcycles.

Mr. Balles, meanwhile, leaves for a new assignment in the police regional office.

Mr. Balles led the Laoag police for more than two years.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The Ilocos Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan urged the cooperation of all stakeholders to help prevent mineral theft in the province.

SP member Vicentito “Toto” M. Lazo reiterated that all quarry sites should include the names of contractors to monitor the volume of aggregates used in various infrastructure projects in the province.

As this developed, the SP has requested the Department of Public Works and Highways in the first and second engineering districts of Ilocos Norte to submit a complete list of infrastructure projects and to furnish them data on the specific volume of aggregates needed in these projects.

By doing so, Mr. Lazo said it would be easier for them to monitor the implementation of the quarry ordinance passed in 2017.

As dredging of rivers is also a form of quarrying based on the quarry ordinance, the provincial board also made DPWH to explain where they put the sand.

Assistant district engineer Richard Ragasa of the Ilocos Norte first engineering district reported the dredging of the Bacarra river covering Barangays 8 and Cabaruan which commenced last February was worth PHP40 million.

Mr. Ragasa also clarified that the aggregates dredged from the river are not taken out for construction but are just put to another site on the same river bed.

Based on the newly amended quarry ordinance before a river dredging activity takes place, Mr. Lazo underscored the project implementor shall seek endorsement from the provincial board first.

Provincial legislators are seeking the strict implementation of the quarry ordinance here in an effort to prevent mineral theft, which they observed to be prevalent over the past few years.

In a related development, the board declared invalid at least two municipal resolutions requesting for river dredging in Vintar and Badoc for lack of endorsement from the SP. (Leilanie G. Adriano)

By Bernard Ver

Contributor

SARRAT, Ilocos Norte—This town’s rural health unit (RHU) of Sarrat and the provincial health office (PHO) conduct voluntary Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing in the town’s Tourism Hall on March 12, 2018.

In observance of the International Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (Aids) awareness, the Department of Health together with the Ilocos Norte PHO conducted free HIV testing that included rural health units and social hygiene clinics in region 1.

Trained healthcare professionals as well as counselors were stationed at the different HIV testing centers to ensure that testing process is done correctly.

The public is encouraged to take part of the HIV testing but youth aged 18 and below should have consent from their parents or guardians before undertaking the procedure.

Under Republic Act 8504, or the Philippines Comprehensive Prevention and Control Act of HIV-Aids, HIV testing should be done on a voluntary basis.

Meanwhile, the 2018 advocacy to heightened attention and active support of everyone in addressing the alarming HIV incidence in the country. The theme is "Alamin and estado, Magpatest at Maging Handa, Labanan and HIV/AIDS."

In December 2017, there were 992 new HIV antibody sero-positive individuals reported to the HIV/AIDS & ART Registry of the Philippines (HARP). Eighty-six percent of those were asymptomatic at the time of reporting.

On HARP's data Most (97%) were male. The median age was 27 years old (age range: 4 to 70 years). Half (50%) of the cases were from the 25-34-year age group while 33% were youth aged 15-24 years.

In fact, the regions with the most number of reported cases are: National Capital Region (NCR) with 351 (35%) cases; Region 4A with 147 (15%) cases; Region 3 with 106 (11%) cases; Region 7 with 74 (7%) cases; Region 6 with 66 (7%) cases; and Region 11 with 41 cases (4%). Additional 207 cases (21%) came from the rest of the country.

Collected information and reported modes of transmission were sexual contact (962), needle sharing among injecting drug users (IDU) and mother-to-child transmission. More likely, eighty-seven percent of infections transmitted through sexual contact were among males who have sex with males (MSMa).

A total of eight pregnant women were diagnosed with HIV in December 2017; four cases from NCR and one case each from Regions 3, 4A, 6, and 7. Age ranges from 15 to 48 years old (median: 24). In Ilocos Norte, the PHO treats at least 17 cases.

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Owing to the intensified drive against prohibited drugs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Ilocos Norte reported that drug supply in the province has significantly dropped.

PDEA agent Lanibelle Ancheta made the announcement as she provided anti-drug activities and updates on the drug clearing operations here.

In 2016, Ms. Ancheta reported they seized a total of 51,4823 grams of shabu. She added that the total seized volume of 10.0075 grams in 2017 is significantly lower, which, she said, means the supply has dropped by more than 100 hundred percent.

From January up to present, the PDEA Ilocos Norte reported seizing at least 5.7036 grams.

According to Ms. Ancheta, one of PDEA’s greatest achievement include the January 26, 2018 arrest of Marvin Crisostomo, a former Piddig councilor and a staff member of Piddig vice mayor Generoso Aquino.

To date, the PDEA has declared nine out of the 21 towns and two cities of Ilocos Norte as “drug-free”. These are the towns of Carasi, Marcos, Adams, Banna, Currimao, Dumalneg, Burgos, Piddig and Vintar.

Of the total 518 drug affected barangays in Ilocos Norte, the PDEA said they have validated and cleared at least 61 percent, or 320.

While validating the remaining 198 barangays, Ms. Ancheta urged Ilocos Norte officials and residents to continue to be more vigilant to suppress the entry of prohibited drugs.

“Despite limited manpower and logistics, let’s continue to stay vigilant and help maintain peace and order in the province,” Ms. Ancheta underscored.

Once they clear a drug-affected barangay, PDEA clarified that even if law enforcers arrest a drug suspect on the same locality, this will not affect the said status a. PDEA, however, has a maximum of 30 days to take proper action. (Leilanie G. Adriano)

Vira Vira Rural Waterworks and Sanitation Association, Incorporated (RWSAI) is presently serving more than 6,000 residents of Brgys. Subec, Saguigui, Baduang, Burayoc and Saud in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

Vira Vira Rural Waterworks and Sanitation Association, Incorporated (RWSAI) is looking into the possibility of expanding its area of operations in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

Jojo V. Constantino, Vira Vira general manager, said they are presently supplying potable water in Brgys. Subec, Saguigui, Baduang, Burayoc and Saud, all in Pagudpud.

“We would like also to extend our services to Brgys. Caparispisan and Poblacion Dos,” said Mr. Constantino.

In the late 80’s, Vira Vira was established through the assistance of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the water and sanitation program of the World Bank.

The local government unit and barangay residents also gave their equity for the startup operations of the water system.

Alex L. Malapit, Vira Vira RWSAI board of directors’ chairperson, said before Vira Vira, they had a barangay water system.

“But since it could only serve a small portion of the population, many of us fetched our drinking water from a ‘bubon-bubon’ or a hole we dug at the riverbank,” Mr. Malapit lamented.

It was a health nightmare since the river also served as the “toilet and bath” of many residents then. During those days, diseases, especially diarrhea, easily spread.

Today, Vira Vira is serving more than 6,000 residents of its area of coverage. At only P62 per month, they supply a household with affordable and safe water from the Vira Vira Spring in Saguigui.

In return for the support of the community, Vira Vira is giving cash mutual aid, senior citizen’s discount and free water supply to public schools, barangays halls, day care centers and cemeteries.

“But we are not resting on our laurels. Our ultimate goal is to have a municipality-wide operation,” Constantino added.

Provincial agrarian reform program officer II Vic M. Ines gave assurance that DAR Ilocos Norte is always ready to assist Vira Vira in their plans and operation.

***

BARD NOTES: Happy bard-reading to Ilocos Norte Governor Imee R. Marcos, Laoag City Mayor Chevylle V. Farinas, Laoag City Vice Mayor Michael V. Farinas, Badoc ABC President Virgilio Calajate, Ilocos Norte Provincial Treasurer Josephine P. Calajate, Dr. Miramar Bumanglag, DAR-Ilocos Norte PARPO II Vic M. Ines, DAR-Ilocos Norte CAO Rudy Acacio and PNB Pasuquin Branch Manager Metty V. Guerrero.

Greetings also to the employees of AMA Laoag, Laoag City PNP, DAR Ilocos Norte, DepEd Laoag, DepEd Ilocos Norte, PNB Pasuquin and to the residents of Barangay 6, San Agustin, Laoag City.

Laoag councilors, led by ex-officio member and transportation committee chair Mikee Fariñas holds a public hearing on the proposed fare increase.

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

Laoag City—Tricycle drivers in this city is asking for a PHP4 basic fare hike, which will hike rates here to PHP15 from the current PHP11 basic fare.

Aside from the PHP4 fare increase, they are also asking to increase the rate after the first kilometer to PHP2 per kilometer. The current rate is pegged at PHP1 per kilometer after the first kilometer.

Ex-0fficio council member Mary Michelle Louise “Mikee” V. Fariñas, the council’s transportation committee chairperson, however said the council will still study the matter.

She also warned tricycle drivers and operators to refrain from charging PHP15 as basic fare. She stressed that the ordinance that raised tricycle fares to PHP11 remains unamended.

Ms. Fariñas added that ordinance that will amend the old fare ordinance is still on its first reading.

The committee held public hearing on March 7, 2018, where tricycle drivers and operators, as well as calesa drivers attended. Organizers also claimed that representatives from the riding public also attended.

She also disclosed that their main concern is the PHP2 increase for the succeeding distance after the first kilometer.

“Ta ngamin adu dagiti traysikelan nga agsingir iti nangin-ngina ngem iti naiyetnag iti linteg aglalon medyo adayo bassit iti papanan ket saan da met a suruten tay ordinansan a mangnayon iti P2 kada kilometron no di ket arkilan iti pamayan da ket agsingir dan tay kaykayat da,” a riding public representative said.

“Ket dagita kuma iti adalen a nasayaat dagiti agtuturay ta saan laeng a dagiti traysikelan iti masursurot no ket dakami kuma met nga agluglugan ta uray asideg lang iti papanan mi ket agbayad kam met iti hushusto. Agpanayon da pay wennu agpadoble da iti plete no maymaysa ka nga aglugan,” the commuters added.

To remedy this, Ms. Fariñas asked for time to study all recommendations.

“Ket ita mai-define to dagidiay point-to-point distances appo tapnu ammu metla tao no manu iti bayadan da kas kuman aggapu da ditoy city hall no mapan da idiay public market, addan to defined number of kilometers plus rate to didiay a distance, appo,” Ms. Fariñas said.

The city government last increased fare rates in 2011 through city ordinance No. 2011-077, which raised basic fare rates from PHP8 to PHP11.

The Department of Agrarian Reform – Ilocos Norte, in partnership with the Mariano Marcos State University – College of Industrial Technology, held a basic skills training on “atsara” making for the members of the Paninaan Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Bacarra. (Photo courtesy of Rommel R. Aquino)

The Department of Agrarian Reform-Ilocos Norte, in partnership with the Mariano Marcos State University-College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT), conducted on March 15-16 a basic skills training on papaya pickles or “atsara” processing for the members of the Paninaan Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

Paninaan MPC is located at the Panata agrarian reform community in Bacarra. It has a total membership of 112 with 75 agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Agrarian reform program officer (ARPO) II Reynalda A. Quiamas said majority of the members are farmers engaged in agricultural production with rice as their major crop, and corn, garlic and papaya as their secondary crops.

“Considering the availability of raw materials in the locality and the health benefits derived from papaya, the cooperative thought of a value-adding enterprise that will sustain their operations,” said Mr. Quiamas.

Ms. Fairie Anne Domingo of MMSU-CIT held a hands-on lecture on processing, packaging and labeling for the members of the cooperative. While, speakers from the Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) of DAR-Ilocos Norte gave tips on product pricing and costing.

The said activity is a product development project under the agrarian reform beneficiaries development and sustainability program of DAR.

***

Greetings also to the employees of AMA Laoag, Laoag City PNP, DAR Ilocos Norte, DepEd Laoag, DepEd Ilocos Norte, PNB Laoag and to the residents of Barangay 6, San Agustin, Laoag City.

NFA-La Union assures public gov’t in control of rice supply

NCCA calls for cultural mapping facilitators

Roque R. Ablan Jr., 85

NHCP unveils Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol marker

NEA defers INEC-scheduled April elections

Isuzu continues expansion, breaks ground in South Cebu

DA holds first Ilocos garlic summit

DepEd Ilocos Norte: A fresh new look

Imee personally thanks OFWs for Ilocos Norte’s progress

Women-farmers work more, paid less

Youth Art Collab wall mural at the American Center Manila

DPWH-Ilocos Norte rolls out ‘Operation Baklas’

DENR orders demolition of illegal structures in Pagudpud

Laoag City has new police OIC

Ilocos Norte board urges strict monitoring of aggregates in infra projects

Sarrat, Ilocos Norte gov'ts hold HIV testing

Drug supply in Ilocos Norte drops—PDEA

Vira Vira gears up for expansion

Laoag City trikes wants P15 basic fare

DAR conducts training on ‘atsara’-making