Governor: Hon. Arturo T. Uy Vice Governor: manuel e. zamora nutrition MONTH: House Representatives: 1st District - Hon. Maria Carmen S. Zamora; 2nd District - Hon. Rommel C. Amatong Comval pushes for active Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members: 1st District - Ramin l. gentugaya, paul p. galicia, arvin dexter lifestyle m. lopoz, joseph t. jauod, neri r. barte; 2nd District - Jayvee he province, in observance to the nationwide tyron l. uy, ruwel peter s. 41st Nutrition Month, highlights the importance of gonzaga, cesar d. richa, moran b. takasan, macario Tproper nutrition and physical activity especially in t. humol today’s world where the problem of overweight and obesity provincial Ex-officio Members: CC/ip is prevalent. Representative: augusto s. blanco With the theme, “Timbang iwasto, sa tamang nutrisyon at Elected officials jr.; PCL- Raul C. timogtimog; lnmb- RANDY OPISAN ehersisyo!” (Achieve normal weight through proper nutrition compostela valley province and physical activity), the provincial government through the Nutrition Council (PNC) chaired by Gov. Arturo Uy takes on the lead by incorporating the “Gulayan sa Kapitolyo: Comval Goes Green” participated in by government employees. Launched on July 7, this activity is a vegetable production contest with planting sites located at the capitol compound divided into 12 clusters with each cluster composed of different executive and legislative offices of the provincial government as well as national agencies. Among them are the DEPED, DILG, PNP, BJMP, BFP, AFP, TESDA, DTI, DOLE, DOST, DENR, NCIP, NFA, Land Bank, and Philippine Red Cross. Planted by the employees were common garden vegetables such as Eggplants, Okra, Pechay, Swamp Cabbage (Kangkong), Cucumber, String Beans (batong), Bitter melon (ampalaya), and leeks (sibuyas dahon) and were harvested by September. In the afternoon of the launching, a health risk assessment, deworming activities and Vitamin A supplementation among employess were also conducted. During the culmination, the Armed Forces of the (AFP) composed of the 1001st Brigade, 25th IB, 71st, 72nd IB, 46th ID, and 66th emerged as the winners followed by the Cluster 7 from the Office of Vice Gov. Manuel Zamora and SP Members Joseph Jaoud, Ramil Gentugaya, Paul Galicia, Neri Barte, Augusto Blanco Jr., and Majority Floor Leader Atty. Arvin Dexter Lopoz. And 3rd Prize Winner went to the DepEd Family. “Not only do the employees benefit from the vegetables produced but in the process of growing it, we encouraged our workers to do physical activities through gardening,” Gov. Uy said. Meanwhile, a Search for “Zumba Bida 2015” was held on July 31. Capitol employees have been holding a 1-hour Zumba, a Latin-inspired dance fitness program, every Friday afternoon as part of its health and wellness program. (Fe Maestre)

editor-in-chief: Fe F. Maestre, writers: Gilbert M. Cabahug, REY M. ANTIBO, HONEYLYN SAYSON, photographers: Albert A. Dayao, Reynaldo S. Renoblas, videographers: ROMULO AUGUSTO A. ADAPON, Charleston L. Arcales, graphic artist & design: Marc Kervy B. Lim, administrative support: Nora M. Senorio, Henrico Portes

USWAG ComVal MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Office of the Governor, BEFORE Provincial Government of Compostela Valley. Articles and photos for publication may be sent to the Editor, Uswag ComVal Magazine, Information Dissemination Section, Office of the Governor at 3rd Level, Provincial Capitol, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province with Telephone No. (084) 376-0943 or by e-mail to [email protected]. Articles, photos and other materials in this publication may be reproduced in any media with permission and proper attribution.

USWAG COMVAL 2 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 “Making use of vacant lots into community gardens” ComVal LGU culminates “Gulayan sa Kapitolyo,” celebrates Coop day he “Gulayan sa Kapitolyo: Comval Goes Green” of Cluster 9 of the Department of Education (DepEd). the provincial government culminates with a cooking Launched during Nutrition Month this July, the activity is a Tand vegetable production contest participated by 12 way of promoting healthy lifestyle where employees cultivated clusters on September 8, 2015. their respective gardens with planting sites located at the capitol Lined up right in front of the vegetable garden tended by compound. Since then, they were able to harvest common the employees’ themselves, the cooking contest was won by the garden vegetables such as Eggplants, Okra, Pechay, Swamp Provincial Engineering Office (PEO). This is followed by Cluster-5 Cabbage (Kangkong), Cucumber, String Beans (batong), Bitter composed of the General Services Office (PGSO), Budget (PBO), melon (ampalaya), and leeks (sibuyas dahon). Legal (PLO), and Veterinarian (PVO) while 3rd Prize Winner is Meanwhile, on the same day, the ComVal Capitol Multi- Cluster 7 of the Offices of Vice Gov. Manuel Zamora, SP Members Purpose Cooperative (CCMPC) sponsors a free beauty and Joseph Jaoud, Paul Galicia, Neri Barte, Ramil Gentugaya, Augusto personal care services extended to the employees marking the Blanco, and Arvin Dexter Lopoz. Employees’ Coop Day Celebration. Simultaneous to the event Based on education relevance, garden quality, sustainability is a blood letting activity spearheaded by the Health Office. of the garden, and volume of produce, the best vegetable (FeM) garden was won by Cluster 11 composed of the Philippine Army, particularly the 1001st Brigade, 25th IB, 71st, 72nd IB, 46th ID, and 66th IB. Second Prize Winner was again won by Cluster 7 followed by

Employees’ Coop day celebration

AFTER

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 3 “Making use of vacant lots into community gardens” PAGRO, DA Honor ComVal Gawad Saka winners he Provincial Agriculturist Office Farmer, New National High School alleviation and food sufficiency. (PAGRO) led by Dr. Rolando S. 4-H Club of Maco for Outstanding Young “We recognize farmers with innovations, TSimene in partnership with the Farmer Organization and Mrs. Necitas S. because agriculture is not the exact science, Department of Agriculture (DA RFO-XI) Barrete of Brgy. Cabacungan, Nabunturan mathematics is the exact science, this is a honored this year’s outstanding achievers for Outstanding Coconut Farmer. continuing struggle for learning, and there is in agriculture and fishery in 2015 Gawad Five of this year’s awardees already no such thing as monopoly of knowledge,” Saka awarding ceremonies at the Provincial emerged as the regional winners during he said. Level staged at the Villa Amor Hotel, Pob. the Regional Farmers & Fisherfolk’s Months “Through the conduct of Gawad Saka, Nabunturan ComVal on July 14, 2015. Celebration held last May 30, 2015 at Ritz the PAGRO encourages that somebody in Seven awardees of 2015 Gawad Hotel, . Among them are Jaime agriculture who can share innovations, good Saka are Purok Rural Improvement Club Conson, LAMPCO, Esabelo Candilado, New practices to veer themselves away from Skilled Women Association (PRICSWA) Leyte National High School 4-H Club, and tradition, and successfully rise above their for Outstanding Rural Improvement Club, Necitas Barrete who will also represent the present economic conditions by adopting Anagasi Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Gawad Saka national level. modern, yet sustainable, production Brgy. Casoon, Monkayo for Outstanding Awardees received a plaque and technologies, modern farm inputs, machinery Barangay Food Terminal, Mr. Jaime C. a certificate of appreciation as well as and facilities,” Sibayan added. Conson of Brgy. Cadunan, Mabini for P5,000.00 cash award from the Provincial Meanwhile during the program, the oath Outstanding Fisherfolks (Fish Capture), Government. taking of the officials of Compostela Valley Laak Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LAMPCO) Ronald C. Sibayan, Supervising Fresh Water Aquaculture Association was for Outstanding Small Farmers/Fisherfolks Agriculturist said that the Gawad saka is also done by Board Member Macario T. Humol Organization, Mr. Esabelo C. Candilado of being institutionalized by the province and as the Committee Chairman on Agriculture. Brgy. Babag, Monkayo for Outstanding Corn the two main objectives are the poverty (Rey M. Antibo) ComVal awards 2015 Best Solid Waste Management Implementers n line with the implementation following LGUs: 1st Prize is Maragusan, 2nd of P20,000, P15,000 and P10,000. of its 10-Year Provincial Solid is Monkayo, and 3rd-Maco. For Category The awards are based on the waste IWaste Management (SWM) Plan, B: 1st Prize-Laak, 2nd-Mawab and 3rd- segregation, collection and recovery the provincial government through the Compostela. Each winners receive a plaque composting, information and education, Environment and Natural Resources Office and cash prize of P55,000, P45,000 and monitoring and enforcement, quality and (PENRO) spearheads an awards incentive P40,000, respectively. final disposal facility, number of implemented for the Best SWM Implementers at the For the Barangay level, Category A activities/projects listed in the approved provincial capitol on July 27, 2015. winners are Olaycon, Monkayo for 1st Prize, SWM Plan, and fund sourcing initiatives. This is to monitor the compliance of New Leyte, Maco for the 2nd Prize and These are determined by an evaluators team waste generators and other stakeholders Talian, Maragusan for the 3rd prize. While composed of employees from the provincial from the muncipalities, barangays to Puroks in Category B: 1st-Mabuhay, Laak; 2nd-San government and from the national offices on RA 9003 or the SWM Act, to identify and Miguel, Compostela; and 3rd- Concepcion, such as DENR-PENRO, DILG , DTI and the recognize best implementers, to support the Mawab who will also receive a plaque Provincial Youth Task Force officers. MLGUs in their IEC activities and SWM facility and cash prize of P35,000, P30,000, and ComVal LGU has been recognized as the development, and to implement the targets P25,000. first province to have an NSWMC-approved in the Provincial SWM Plan on providing In addition, the Puroks’ initiative are also 10-Year Provincial and Municipal SWM Plans incentives to partners. recognized with Purok Paras of Poblacion since November 2014 making it a nation- The award has two categories with Maragusan getting the 1st prize for Category wide record holder of such. Category A for LGUs who are under the A followed by Purok 6 of New Leyte, Maco “This is the goal of making the province annual monitoring and evaluation by (2nd) and Purok 7 in San Jose, Monkayo a Republic Act 9003 compliant and our the National Solid Waste Management (3rd). Finally, for Category B, Purok 1 in Tamia, contribution to the call for action to combat Commission (NSWMC) and the Category B Compostela, Purok 3 of San Jose, Montevista global warming of which ecological solid for those LGUs who are not yet included in and Purok 8 of Mabuhay, Laak bag the 1st, waste management is our major move, “ said the NSWMC monitoring and evaluation. 2nd and 3rd Prize, respectively. The Purok OIC-PENRO Eugene Alaba. (Fe Maestre) Bagging the Category A are the winners also receive plaque and cash prize

LGU Maragusan- (1st Barangay) (1st PUROK) USWAG COMVAL 4 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 Municipal category. Barangay Olaycon of Monkayo - Barangay category Purok Paras, Poblacion, Maragusan - Purok category ComVal launches Hybrid Rice Derby nder its rice support program, Mayor Lema Bolo welcomes the in the province through this activity, a the provincial government project as she expressed her support and technology demonstration in consonance Uthrough its Provincial commitment saying this will help improve with the DA’s program, High Yield Agriculturist Office (PAGRO) spearheads the farmers’ yield and income especially Technology Adoption,” Simene said. the launching of a Hybrid Rice Derby that Compostela is a major rice producing Sr. Board Member Tyron Uy, DA Region dubbed as “Kapehan sa Uma” on July 29 municipality. XI Rice Focal Alejandro Yadao, PhilRice in Brgy. Lagab, Compostela. Comval has been recognized by the Agusan and other guests also graced the The activity highlights the ceremonial Department of Agriculture (DA) as one of launching. (Fe F. Maestre) planting of various Hybrid rice seedlings, the Top 10 Most Outstanding Rice- ribbon cutting and signing of Memorandum Producing Province in the country of Understanding (MOU) with the P/ during the 2014 Agri-Pinoy Rice MLGUs, private seed companies and Achievers Awarding Ceremony farmer cooperators. held March of this year. “We wanted to showcase the The national rice industry data technology, its benefits and importance also shows that Comval has help of hybrid rice seeds and its suitability in contribute through incremental our province and eventually increase rice production of 11.44% average sufficiency in Comval,” said PAGRO Chief yield per hectare in 2014 with Dr. Rolando Simene. 90% of Certified Seeds grown Under the MOU, the private seed by farmers and only 5% are companies SYNGENTA, SL Agritech hybrid areas. Corporation, Bayer CropScience, “We need to strengthen Pioneer Hi-Bred Philippines, and Jardine the advocacy and improve Distribution Inc., provide for the seed the utilization of hybrid seeds and farm inputs as well as the technical assistance to the hybrid rice seed variety. Meanwhile, farmer cooperators: Fructuso Jumalon, Apolonio Obeja, and Nelson Sebastian, provided for their own farm sites as the trial area. This 2,500 square-meters demo area will then be planted for each rice variety.

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 5 Pantukan hosts 8th Family Health Day s the nation celebrates the Program by the Sanitary Inspectors of to the public, a free eye-check is also given Family Health Month, the ComVal; Nutrition and Child Program by to the Senior Citizens through the office Aprovincial government through the RHU Monkayo, RHU Maragusan, and of SP Member Tyron Uy under his “Alay its Health Office (PHO) spearheads the MNC Pantukan; Adolescent Health offered Liwanag para kay Lolo at Lola” program Family Health Fair Day on September by Compostela and New RHUs; as well as free haircut and feeding. 3 with Pantukan as this year’s host Safe motherhood by Pantukan and Mawab BM Uy who also heads the Health and municipality. RHUs; free consultation and IEC services Social Services Committee said the Health “As has been our goal, we wanted to for TB by Nabunturan RHU; Family Fair day aims to intensify public awareness improve the health seeking behavior of Planning for Maco and Mabini RHUs; and on the availability of health services the people. We wanted to promote the Non-Communicable Diseases Control especially on the Maternal, Neonatal, Child health services and make it available to Program for Montevista RHU. Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) strategy. the community,” said Provincial Health Meanwhile, RHU Laak offers health Also joining the program are Pantukan Officer Dr. Renato Basañes. services on Vector Borne and Infectious Mayor Roberto Yugo, POPCOM Reg. The fair showcases the various health Diseases Program including Malaria, Dir. Maduh Damsani, SP Member Randy services offered by the local government Filariasis, Schistosomiasis, Dengue, Opisan, Arvin Ablin of CHD-DOH XI, offering free health screenings and Rabies, and STD/HIV; PEEMO offers the USAID- Health, WHO-KOIKA and exhibits and promotion of health services. Center for Wellness; while other agencies other stakeholders. Particularly, each municipality and other such as the Provincial Dental Association With its theme, “Sa saktong nutrisyon partner agencies are in charge of various takes charge on Oral Health Care Services, ug edukasyon sa panglawas, balatian booths such on Environment Sanitation as well as the Philippine Health Insurance sa pamilya maluwas,” this is pursuant to Corporation (PHIC) and other private stake Executive Order No. 36-2008 issued by holders also join the fair. Governor Arturo T. Uy in 2008 and has In addition to the free services catered since been rolled out in the municipalities. (fe maestre)

USWAG COMVAL 6 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 Sight Saving Month oserved he Department of Health Perla Rodriguez. (DOH) in coordination with the The program TProvincial Health Office (PHO) was participated celebrates the “Sight Saving Month” with by 52 visitors who the theme “No More Blindness. Prevent came from our IPs, avoidable blindness though timely eye barangay officials care services.” and workers, and In line with this celebration, the 195 employees PHO spearheaded a motorcade and free of the Provincial eye screening at the capitol lobby on Capitol. August 20, 2015. This was made possible Consequently, among the 247 interference. The two were advised for through the presence of volunteer nurse participants who were examined, 1 was operation to thwart them from further eye specialists from United Church of Christ found to have a cataract and another one impairment. of the Philippines (UCCP) Social Concern for Pterygium, a noncancerous lesion The objective of this conducted activity Foundation Incorporated, namely: Mr. that may continue to grow until covering is to ward us off from blindness. Truly, Joey Canaba, Mr. Joel Tapere and Mrs. the pupil of the eye causing vision caring for our eyes. (Honeylyn Sayson) DAR Sec. De Los Reyes graces turnover of P19.8-M Project he Department of Agrarian Regional Director-Mariano R. Alquiza and and encouraged both national and local Reform (DAR) recently turned company, Vice-Governor Manuel Zamora, government units to join efforts for the Tover the newly completed Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member- common good of the people. 2.892 kilometers concrete Farm-to-Market Jayvee Uy, Mayor Eutropio S. Jayectin, In his acceptance message, Linoan Road (FMR) worth P19,829,100.34 which Public School Teachers and other Local Barangay Captain Joel B. Hara, said will benefit 6,182 residents of Barangays Government Officials, Employees and they are very happy and grateful for the Linoan, Dauman, Banagbanag and New residents of this province. realization of the project. He said that it is Visayas in Montevista, Compostela Valley De los Reyes said that the completion among the vital components that is badly Province. of the road project would pave the way needed for their community. “It’s a dream Out of this population, 871 households for provision of other basic services of come true for us” He added. (contr. Flor comprising 1,103 Agrarian Reform the government like health, technology Isaac- Berdos, DAR_ComVal PIO) Beneficiaries (ARBs) will now enjoy the and transportation assistance to the three privilege of having a better farm-to-market barangays considering that road is road courtesy of DAR-Agrarian Reform now accessible. Infrastructure Support Project III funds of In his speech, De los Reyes Philippine Government in cooperation stressed the key role of the with the Japanese Government. government to alleviate the lives The ceremonial turn over was graced of the . “Unlike super by the Hon. DAR Secretary and was heroes the government does not attended by the DAR Regional Director possess enough power to address XI-John M. Maruhom, Provincial Agrarian the problems of every citizen.“The Reform Program Officer II- Eduardo E. mandate of President Aquino is to Suaybaguio and other key officials and finish what is supposed to be finished employees of DAR-Compostela Valley before his term ends. He inspired Province. Also joining the event were DPWH everyone to work hand in hand

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 7 More Comvaleño graduates in free “Skills Training” rom January to June 2015, a total continues to implement its National TVET Services NC-2; Assumption College of of 808 Comvaleños graduated Competency Assessment and Certification Nabunturan for Beauty Care Services (Nail Fin various Skills Training such (NATCAC) wherein they regularly conduct Care) NC-2, Bookkeeping NC-3, Consumer as in Beauty Care, Massage Therapy, free Competency Assessment and Electronic Servicing NC-2, Driving NC-2, Haircutting, Nailcare, Cellphone Repair, Certification. and Computer Systems Servicing NC-2, and Food Processing all over the province. Assessment Centers are located in formerly known as Computer Hardware According to Provincial CTEC Bob DNAS Montevista for various qualifications Servicing. Mirasol, the provincial government and the in Animal Production NC-2, Bread The second batch on NATCAC Technical Education Skills Development and Pastry Production NC-2, Electrical schedule will run in the whole month of Authority (TESDA) have intensified its Installation and Maintenance NC-2, Food August on a first-come, first-served basis campaign to benefit more Comvalenyos Processing NC-2, Horticulture NC-2, with November as the next schedule of in terms of providing for free skills training Housekeeping NC-2, and Shielded Metal assessment. For more information, visit under its “Technical Education Skills and Arc Welding for NC-2. TESDA-Comval in Nabunturan. (GMC, Livelihood Training Program.” Other assessment centers are located FeM, Honey) TESDA-Comval Provincial Office also in COMVIT-Montevista for Health Care

poor particularly women and children Capacity building for tanods boost to pursue justice through increased knowledge about basic human rights he provincial government of were given among Barangay Tanods and the justice system,” he added. Compostela Valley through the with several batches assigned per The 2-day workshop also included TLegal Office (PLO) continues municipality on a weekly basis starting disaster management, first aid and its mission to capacitate barangay late May 2015. fire prevention, basic barangay police functionaries on Barangay Justice System From the 2nd, 3rd quarters and early operations such as patrolling and Ronda (BJS) towards effective governance. on October 1st week, a total of 3,035 operations, crowd control, arresting The barangay functionaries has barangay tanods all over Comval were techniques and procedures, among always been at the forefront of local already trained and capacitated. others. development undertakings in the PLO head Atty. Richard Liban said the It can be recalled that last May 2014, province. Their roles are crucial training program, targeting all barangay the activity kicked-off with the because of their strategic situation at tanods in the 11 municipalities, is participating officials composed of the the grassroots level especially in the designed to provide them the necessary Barangay Captains, First Barangay effective and efficient service delivery to tools and practices in the administration Councilors, Barangay Secretaries, and the community. of the BJS. members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa. This year, the skills training workshop “We would like to enable the With lectures on “Katarungang Pambarangay Law,” Other Related Laws, Mediation & Conciliation Skills, Special Laws, and R.A. 9262 or Violence Against Women and Children Law, among others. The program was funded by PLGU ComVal with technical assistance from the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Justice, and Provincial Police Office. (Fe Maestre)

USWAG COMVAL 8 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 Motorcycles given to better equip Comval punong barangays helmet courtesy of SP Member Tyron Uy’s personal fund. “We also wanted to ensure the safety total of 205 motorcycles were of the Federation of the Association not just for our drivers but also to their already distributed to barangay of Barangay Captains (FABC) said this passengers, hence, I’m giving them an captains in ComVal with the has been their long time request and A additional helmet to spare them from 1st batch given to District I covering expressed their gratitude towards the further expenses,” he said. Montevista, Monkayo, Compostela, provincial government under Gov. Arturo With this, he is hoping that this will New Bataan and Maragusan of District Uy and the office of Vice-Gov. Manuel help them fulfill their duties effectively as I and Nabunturan of District II. The 105 Zamora and the rest of the SP Members. motorcycles were given after a brief He appreciated the fact that the public servants such as in fast tracking blessing ceremony and a short program provincial officials see their needs in official transactions and especially in times on September 18, 2015 at the provincial fulfilling their duties as head of their of emergencies. capitol. respective barangays. “Importante Gov. Uy also challenged them to take While the 2nd batch were given the ang transportasyon sa panerbisyo,” good care of the motor vehicles and be same Honda XRM 125cc Dual Sports on (transportation is important as we give responsible in driving, among others. He October 1 covering the municipalities of service), he said. added that far-flung and hard to reach Maco, Mabini, Pantukan, Mawab, and Laak Aside from this, 2 protective helmets areas such as in Barangays Andap and with 100 motorcycles. were also given to each local official still Manurigao in New Bataan and Mt. Diwata Ex-officio SP Member Randy Opisan from the PLGU ComVal and the other in Monkayo will receive Honda XR 150L, a motorcycle made for such difficult road conditions. (Fe Maestre)

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 9 Going the extra mile for public service (ComVal SP Member Uy’s journey to Brgy. Manurigao, New Bataan) ans a chopper or any convenient treacherous road with the fare ranging mode of transportation, Senior from P500-P1,000 each plus a P10/kilo fee Welcome sight SBoard Member (BM) Tyron Uy for the goods they bring with them. Arriving at past 2 in the afternoon of choose to brave the long, bumpy and Aside from the road condition, BM July 14, BM Uy, DepEd-Comval Education difficult road going to one of the far-flung Uy, who heads the Committee on Health Supervisor Ruben Reponte, and the barangays in New Bataan. Intermittently and Social Services, also took note of their rest of the team were met warmly by hiking uphill and downhill for several hours health concerns. the townsfolk. Indeed, a welcome sight then riding on a single motor, the young “It is very hard for the people there among the villagers who seldom meet and legislator wanted to personally experience who have health issues as they have to see visitors due to the remoteness of the and see for himself the needs and situation travel long distances. What’s more during place. of the tribal villagers. emergency cases as they might not be “Di masukod ang among kalipay sa “I’m not an outdoor climber, not a able to get to the hospital quickly,” he said. pag-abot nila labi na nga nagselebrar mi seasoned backpacker and definitely not To date, initial road development sa ika-9th Araw ng Manurigao tungod the bravest man in town but because of plans were already put in place by the kay daghan ang misaksi sa among public service, there are some things that local government while work is in progress mabulukong selebrasyon,” said Barangay I am willing to risk for the benefit of my to answer the need on road access in the Captain Marcos Lino. constituents...I chose what’s in my heart area. Meanwhile, after his trip to Manurigao Most especially, he took note of the and be able to feel and experience the and discussing the town’s issues and time and effort exerted by BM Uy’s group life of our people way beyond our comfort concerns, the provincial government just to be with his people and hear their zones,” Uy said. commits to conduct medical outreach on concerns. In fact, the young legislator is Manurigao, a predominantly Mandaya September or within the year through the the first provincial elected official who ever tribe, is 36 kilometres away from the main Health Office (PHO). set foot on this quaint town. town Cabinuangan of New Bataan or BM Uy, who is also the Education and about a 5-hour travel by single motorcycle. Information Technology chairman, also This only mode of transportation is also commented on the lack of a public modified with its wheels wrapped in drive high school in the barangay as an chains to help it have more traction on aftermath of Typhoon Pablo and, the sandy and gravelly road, it also has a again, has already raised the motor trail. concern to the Department Motor drivers are also a league of of Education-ComVal. their own as they expertly traverse “We target to through winding and sometimes re-open (HS) on

USWAG COMVAL 10 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 August this year creating an integrated pride---the Malumagpak falls. It is about Mandaya kung gikapoy siya gikan sa school for elementary and high school in a two-hour trek from Manurigao passing trabaho, o sa kalaay...kung naa siya sa Manurigao,” Reponte said. Sitios Tuwali and Biyangungan and has kaguul ug ingon man sa kalipay o kun three cascading waterfalls. Each waterfall naa siya’y gipahinungdan sama sa usa reaches so high that it will dwarf a person ka babaye,” Teacher Shen, who is an Cultural immersion and nature standing below it. elementary school teacher, explained. beckons It was also an immersion for the All in all, it was an unforgettable group as they experience Mandaya’s and significant experience for BM Uy And yet despite the difficult road travel, culture and way of life. Their brand of as he thanked the people of Manurigao one can’t help but be amazed by the lush hospitality showing as they tasted the and those who went with him including greenery and wide mountain range of New locally produced wine “biya-is,” which is Councillor Geraldford Balbin and the rest Bataan. It is a blissful respite as, along the made of wild ginger they call “pangla” and of the group. way, they’re greeted with wild flora, fresh food cooked in bamboo or “lyurot.” All the “The best part of our journey? It’s spring water and a picturesque view of while, they are entertained with the sweet, the people. Their smiling faces really nature’s bounty. The fresh air, already crisp haunting music emanating from a flute-like captivated our hearts and brought us and cold, at a height reaching more than instrument they call “Tuwali.” hope--a hope for a better future,” he 1,500 above sea level (ASL). “Mao ni ang ginapatugtug sa mga ended. (Fe F. Maestre) And topping it all is the barangay’s Mission possible: revisiting Manurigao ust a few months after the first by the employees from the Engineering visit of BM Uy in Manurigao last Office (PEO), geo-tagging conducted by Fast Facts: JJuly 14-16, 2015, he has made the Planning and Development Office Manurigao is a remote barangay true his promise of sending a medical (PPDO) and Malumagpak Falls site of the Municipality of New Bataan. It team to cater the needs of the populace inspection and documentation from the is divided into 8 respective Puroks after seeing for himself the basic concerns Tourism and Information offices. (subdivisions of a Barangay) namely: in the community. PHO Head Dr. Renato Basañez led Purok 1–Macupa, Purok 2– Uduan, On September 9-11, in coordination the medical mission in Manurigao. For Purok 3–Tagima, Purok 4–Cabetian, with the provincial government of Dr. Basañez, it is just a typical task having Purok 5–Biangonan, Purok 6– ComVal under Governor Arturo helped similar geographically-isolated Tanggaan, Purok 7–Binantal and Uy, BM Uy sent a 17-man team and depressed areas before. However, Purok 8–Danawan. to Manurigao not only for despite the difficulties in travelling, he People in Manurigao are mostly a medical mission led emphasized that he was very glad for the of Mandaya tribe and are divided into by the Health Office warm welcome of the people in Manurigao. three religious faith: Calvary Church, (PHO) but also to Masandak Hambasan, one of the General Baptist and Charismatic Full conduct a road oldest residents in Manurigao took the Gospel Ministry. Sources of income of survey first check-up of her life. She expressed the citizens in Manurigao are peanuts done her gratefulness that without this medical and making of abaca fiber. mission, she wouldn’t have the chance to have herself checked by a doctor. All in all, there were 85 persons who benefited from the free check-up, 14 for circumcision and 529 consultations. They were also provided with the necessary medicines. (Honeylyn T. Sayson)

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 11 ComVal opens the 115th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary he provincial government exemplify what we have learned.” This Meanwhile, as part of the whole month spearheads the opening of the intensifies the urge for a more developed celebration, government employees T115th Philippine Civil Service quality public service that Civil Service join the forum dubbed “Towards ASEAN Anniversary with a holy mass on September Commission (CSC) wants the public Integration Preparedness” on September 1 at the capitol lobby. The program servants to have. 10 at the Social Hall, Capitol. Invited proper started with an opening remarks With the theme “Kayang-kaya mo, speakers are CSC PD Esperanza, Majority from Ms. Lara Zaphire Kristy N. Bermejo, Lingkod Bayani,” the speaker affirms that Floor Leader SP Member Atty. Arvin Dexter PG Department Head, PHRMDO and government workers have the capacity Lopoz with topics on the “ASEAN Economic followed by an Audio-Visual Presentation to be heroes in their own right given all Community: Its prospect” and “Role of that shows the collaborative efforts of all the necessary support. “Thus, as public LGUs in ASEAN Integration in the Context Lingkod Bayanis who untiringly serve the servants, they should give people the of Human Resources Management.” PRC people from then on until today. finest service that we ought to do for Supervising Professional Regulation Civil Service Commission (CSC) them. Indeed, true heroes are not those Officer Sheriel E. Loloy also discussed Provincial Director and guest speaker who wears capes but those who rendered on “Human Resource Development Nelly L. Esperanza said “the CSC believes a part of their lives to serve people in all Capacity Building and Professional that there is always an opportunity to learn ways, in all form and in all the time.” She Recognition of the LGU in the ASEAN and grow from the past, to have the will and ended her speech with motivation to every Integration.” (HoneylynSayson) determination to apply new knowledge Lingkod Bayani to continue the burning and adjust to new environment, and to desire to extend public service.

USWAG COMVAL 12 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 Wellness Programoftheprovincialgovernment,encouraging component activityinlinewithcontributingtotheHealthand Civil Service Anniversary from September 17-18. This is a Sportsfest dubbed“Larong Pinoy”aspartofthe115thPhilippine sa Kapitolyo Larong Pinoy oVl provincialgovernmentholdsitsannualEmployees ComVal EMPLOYEES SPORTSFEST-Team standing KUNG FUCHINITO JU CAPT AN DELCRUZ LASTIKMAN . BA RBEL TEAM 100 75 25 50 OBSTACLE 100 50 75 25 TUG-WAR-M 100 25 50 75 TUG-WAR-F (PPDO), andSocialWelfare andDevelopment Office(PSWDO). Governor’s Office(PGO),PlanningandDevelopment over-allChampioncomposedoftheProvincial emerged as the Fu Chinito, Capt.BarbelandJuandelaCruz,theteamLastikman through sportsaswellfosteringcamarederie. the governmentemployeestohaveahealthylifestylepractice 100 75 50 25 MARIA/MARIO Clustered intolocalfictionalheroes,namely: Lastikman, Kung 100 75 25 50 KARANG 100 50 75 25 SKIP ROPE 100 25 50 75 PATINTERO 50 10 20 30 SYATONG-M 50 10 30 20 SYATONG-F 10 30 50 20 BUKO-COIN-M 50 20 10 30 BUKO-COIN-F 100 50 25 75 DODGE BALL 100 25 50 75

JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 SACK RACE 100 75 25 50 USWAG COMVAL TIGSO 10 50 20 30 TAKYAN 100 50 75 25 ZUMBA 845 720 780 955 SCORE 13 2 4 3 1 RANK Young artists open Tourism

month celeb efficiency of municipal tourism officers in n exhibit of arts work by local also known as Talahib. preparing tourism site travel itinerary and young artists at the lobby In a brief message at the opening of in conducting tours. Aof Gaisano Grand here on exhibits, Jan Jan Roe Arnejo, assistant The other activities are a series of September 4 officially opened the month- store operations manager, declared food processing training with provincial long observance of Tourism Month in Gaisano Grand’s continuing support to partners Department of Trade and Industry Compostela Valley. help develop the artistic and creative (DTI) and Department of Science and Dubbed Arts and Culture + Tourism talents of young Comvaleños. “We hope Technology (DOST), site inspection, cave Exhibition, the event highlighted the you will take pride in your artworks, each guide training, tour packaging training, mixed-media “Reverie Collection” of has a story to tell. We are happy to be featured artist Mark Kervy Lim back to part of the celebration of tourism month,” street dancing choreography workshop, back with the canvas paintings of four Arnejo told the audience of some 200 and investments code orientation and virtual arts students of Nabunturan mostly students. harmonization workshop for municipal National Comprehensive High School’s Compostela Valley regularly joins the legislators.. (NNCHS) Special Program in the Arts and national and global celebration of tourism The artists featured at the Gaisano another four young artists from the town month. This year’s theme is “A billion exhibit are Marc Kervy Lim of Capitol, of Pantukan. tourists, a billion opportunities”. NNCHS special arts program students Artist Arturo Landa, 28, from the town Provincial tourism officer Christine Charienmel S. Andres, Kenneth Lloyd T. of Compostela, featured exotic artworks Dompor explained the exhibit aimed to horn of pouches and wine holders from expose the works of local and young artists Cañete, Kim Patrick S. Saren, and Erica Mt. Apo and White Peak drift wood, and open a “new world of opportunity” for Mae M. Gabunada, Pantukan young artists carabao horn, monkey skull, and wild them. Mheldwin N. Tunda-an, Ronald A. Ylaya, boar jawbone among others. His exhibit Aside from the month-long exhibit, Arianne Erl F. Arroyo, and Gio D. Pedernal, was complemented by the paintings of the celebration has lined up an inter- and Arturo Landa of Compostable. (contr. Compostela town-mate Ryan Ponesto municipal tour competition to assess the Jimmy p abayon/pgotss) USWAG COMVAL 14 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 ComVal strengthens investments climate with LGU BPLO computerization training

he investments climate in the fifth most competitive municipality in said the training would firm up the Compostela Valley further the Philippines and the only one cited in province’s preparedness when the Tstrengthened with the training of Mindanao. provincial investments centre go full-swing municipal business permits and licensing Aware of the role of the business in promoting and marketing Compostela officers (BPLOs) on computerizing the permits and licensing office in encouraging Valley as an investments destination. business and licensing systems of all local investments, the Provincial Investments “Investors, like ordinary people, hate government units. Board chaired by Governor Arturo Uy to be inconvenienced with paperwork Among the 11 towns of Compostela through the Provincial Investments Centre and other bureaucratic red tape like time- Valley, only the business permits gave a PhP 50,000 counterpart fund for consuming transactions for permits and and licensing office of the municipal the computerized enhanced tax revenue licenses,” Dompor explained. She said government of Nabunturan is assessment and collection system training Governor Arturo Uy is a businessman computerized. Since its adoption of the of all municipal licensing and investments himself and understands what investors computerized enhanced tax revenue officers. want and need to open a business. “That’s assessment and collection system The training, held on August 3-7, 2015 why Governor Uy and the provincial in 2009, the municipal government at a local function hall in Nabunturan, investments board fully support the increased revenue collections by as much brought together 45 business licensing training,” she added. as 25 percent. and local economic and investments Compostela Valley enacted its The computerization system was a officers (LEIPO) from all over the province investments code in 2013 followed by the component of the Australian Aid granted who have organized themselves into the appointment of a LEIPO and the creation to Nabunturan in 2009 to enhance its Association of Licensing and Investments of the Provincial Investments Centre in geographical information and revenue Officers (ALIPO) headed by Nabunturan 2014. (Jimmy p abayon) systems. In 2014 Nabunturan, Capital BPLO Gilda Aldaya. town of Compostela Valley, was declared Provincial LEIPO Christine Dompor

“TOURISM MONTH ACTIVITIES”

USWAG COMVAL JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 15 ComVal holds 1st Education Summit 2015

or the full Implementation of K–12 Program on 2016, the FProvincial Government held a Provincial Education Summit at Big 8 Hotel, Tagum City last August 19-20, 2015 spearheaded by Governor Arturo Uy with Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Dr. Reynante Solitario and Senior Board Member Tyron Uy, who also heads the Committee on Education and Information Technology. The 2-day event aimed to have a The speaker of the summit, the wide perspective of the Education system President and CEO of Synergia Foundation and programs inside the province. For –a coalition of individuals, institutions, further enhancement of knowledge, they and organizations working to improve discussed about Real Property Tax (RPT) the quality of basic education – gave Advocacy Campaign, Harmonization emphasis unto the creation of School of SIP to LSB Plan, DepEd Order No. Governing Council (SGC) that is believed 54 – Governing PTA and the upcoming to be an essential system in administrating implementation of K-12 Program by Dr. public schools for the participation of Solitario. renowned officials of united barangays The DepEd Regional Director XI, and respected names of community will Atty. Roberto T. Escobarte, shared also contribute for the progress of schools. his inspiring message to inspire them to The participants of the Summit were the School Principals, District Supervisors of continue serving and imparting knowledge members of Provincial Local School Board, ComVal and Municipal Mayors. (Honeylyn to learners. Municipal LSB of the 11 Municipalities, High Sayson) Medical outreach continues to benefit Comvaleños rom its 1st semester covering additional 5,494 patients who availed of 6,417 for free dental care. January-June 2015, more than free consultations and given medications. According to Dr. Basanes, they are also F16,209 Comvaleños availed While minor surgical operations were also given free medicines and Multi-vitamins, as themselves of free medical services from conducted with 256 patients availing free well as free laboratory services during the the barangay health outreach activities circumcision and 12 who underwent cyst whole-day medical and dental outreach conducted by the Provincial Health Office operations. Meanwhile, 4,181 pre-school activities. (PHO) under Dr. Renato Basañes. children, adult and young patients also “We are especially targeting those The program is part of the Preventive had their free dental services including what we call the Geographically Isolated Aspect on Health Services Delivery that tooth extraction done during the semester. and Depressed Areas (GIDA) and we also the provincial government continues to Since January until September, partner with the Department of Health implement without let-up especially in far- almost 24,000 citizens have benefited (DOH) and the Municipal LGUs through flung areas in its 11 towns. from the program with 14,706 patients for their MHOs to implement our health For the second semester, covering free consultation, 2,766 underwent free services delivery effectively,” he added. July-September 2015, PHO has served an circumcision and 89 for cyst operation and (FeM, HS)

USWAG COMVAL 16 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2015 USWAG ComVal Employee, a Galing Mason 2015 Awardee ement Manufacturer Holcim Philippines, in partnership with Cthe Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) holds its “Galing Mason Award 2015.” Galing Mason Award is a nationwide search that happens every two years seeking for the most outstanding Filipino Mason who shows great skills and pride in his work and is a model of Filipino community. This is not just merely about looking for the most outstanding but it also aims to further enhance skills and knowledge and professionalism in masonry through trainings to be given to Competition Showdown, Niñal made it to Top 20 is screened into its final interview Mason Representatives. the top. The said showdown is a level of and Niñal made it to the Top 10 bringing The Provincial Government sent Mr. selection in Galing Mason Award on Basic honor to ComVal. He receives P20, 000.00 Edwin Niñal, an employee of ComVal Masonry Work that includes Lay-outing, from Holcim Philippines and an additional Provincial Engineer’s Office (PEO) to CHB Laying and Plastering which took P10,000.00 for garnering the Training represent the said competition. Among place in Leyte last September 19-21, 2015. Achievement Award. (Honeylyn Sayson) all 200 contingents who underwent Skills Finally, on September 25, 2015, the

different theatrical presentations per cluster through singing and dancing recalling his Cake-filled special day for Gov many landmark projects and best practices as Governor of the province. Some of which he province celebrated on July includes the “Lusong” concept, house 22, 2015 the 63rd birthday of the build through Gawad way in the 11 Tfather of the province, Governor municipalities of ComVal, rebuilding and Arturo T. Uy. recovery efforts from the Typhoon Pablo, It was a simple celebration but a Bulawan Festival Celebration, GK initiatives joyful and meaningful one. There was a through Culture of Loving, Caring and Sharing cake parade with the 63 lady employees under the program Barangay Walang Iwanan wearing their best red dress going to the (BWI). cake stand at the stage to symbolize his Gov. Uy expressed his heartfelt thanks to 9th year as a public servant (governor) all for the support accorded to him all these since 2007. years and simply wished for himself, good The employees also rendered their health to be able to continue his service to the people. (Rey M. Antibo)

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