(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Thursday, 02 April 2026) Easterlies affecting the country. Easterlies ang makaapekto sa rehiyon sa Caraga.


PIA News Service - Friday, May 21, 2010

Good Samaritans spread sunshine thru medical, dental services

A year ago, elementary grader Jonathan Atienza of Barangay Baan, Butuan City attempted to have a circumcision – a rite of passage wherein a male’s foreskin is excise. Somehow, at that time, he was told by the doctor that his “gun” was not yet ready and was advised therefore to wait for a year maybe.

Now, already 10 years of age, he’s at it again due to the calm persuasion of Fr. Ricky Amante. Trying for the second time around, he’s hoping that the said rite of passage would push through, be successful and help him graduate into full-pledged manhood later on.

Good for him, the pain was just at the start; it subsided after a few minutes with the help of a painkiller drug. When the rite of passage was through, he was more than satisfied; the circumcision was a success. For this, he credited the doctors for the tender care and he lavished them with praise for the job well done.

On the other hand, Rachel Galacio – 22 years of age and likewise a resident of Barangay Baan – was also all praises after her tooth extraction escapade, because the dentist was very gentle and professional. As per her observation, the medical and dental services given as a whole were really organized and fast.

There were other success stories in cadence with the duo, but all in all, there were 59 circumcision patients and another 51 dental patients, who trooped recently at the St. Ezekiel Parish in Barangay Baan, which was the venue of the medical mission. Many of them were thankful because of the pro bono medical and dental services afforded unto them by the Good Samaritans.

It was learned that the Good Samaritans, whose group remains nameless until this time, were already in their 4th year of doing such once-a-year medical mission.

According to Drs. Victoria Gracia Bungabong and Joan Tormis, who were identified as the twin head of delegation, on top of their time and effort dispensed for free, the resources used for the one day affair came from benevolent supporters and friends, who desired to be anonymous.

When asked why they have had been doing said mission, they replied that, together with other supporters, “we desire to please God, get a feeling of fulfillment, and wish to become role models so that others may follow.”

They of course appreciated the support given by RESPOND (Rescue and Emergency Service Provider on Disaster), Inc, who became instrumental in controlling the crowd and directing patients; the avid role played by Father Amante, St. Ezekiel Parish Priest, for drumbeating the event and persuading his parishioners to come; the UNILAB, represented by Mr. Brian Hernandez, for the medicines provided; backstopping assistance by the Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office personnel; Doctor of Education Josefa Canoy, for facilitating the distribution of medicines; the prime services provided by several dentists in the persons of Drs. Pio Bagaloyos, Charlotte Manding, and Reginald Dompor, who himself is an active Responder also.

As per agreement, the Good Samaritans pledged to likewise network with RESPOND, Inc. in case the latter would request their benevolent services later on. (Jeriel Kenneth B. Catedral and Gervacio C. Dauz, Jr., TESDA-AdN/ PIA-Caraga)


Grand Float Parade - an added feather to DILG XIII Family’s Cap

Butuan City - Once again the DILG XIII Family’s craftsmanship stood out and bagged the first prize award in the Butuan City Fiesta’s Grand Float Parade contest when it bested other entries from the national government agencies, private organizations and the academe on May 19, 2010. This is the second win of the agency since it joined the contest started in 2008.

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This year’s theme was “Balangay, the Symbol/Image for Development” with the balangay boat, epitomizing trading of ancient Butuan with neighboring communities, was used as a theme for the contest. It shows that Butuan City, long before invaders and settlers set foot in this city, is already rich in commerce and culture and that proud of its own heritage.

In the morning of the festival, floats designed as Balangay boats sailed along the streets of Butuan City, with each float not only flaunting a colorful and creative design but also showing how the participants contribute to the city’s development. With its Dove which symbolizes primitive desire for peace and the transformation torch depicting the DILG Family’s burning commitment for public safety role. The DILG’s float outshone all other entries. The two icons sent the message to the public that DILG family is for lasting peace and order in our land.

This year’s float was conceptualized and artistically built by the designer, PO3 Rico Mata, who also designed last year’s float which also won first price.

The DILG XIII Family’s 2010 masterpiece mirrors the DILG XIII Family’s cohesive relationship as it vows to serve not only the people of Butuan City but the entire region as well. (Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/ PIA-Caraga)
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Butuan Balangay Festival 2010
DILG nanatiling kampyon sa Balangay Boat Float Contest


BUTUAN CITY (21 Mayo) – Ang Regional Office ng Dept. of Interior and Local Government (DILG) ay nanatiling kampyon sa paligsahan ng Boat Float Making noong Miyerkules, Mayo 19, sa ginawang parada para sa kapistahan ng lungsod ng Butuan, alay sa Patron nito na si Senyor San Jose.

Tumanggap ang DILG ng Php 50,000 cash prize, tulad din ng premyong natanggap nila noong nakaraang taon sa parehong patimpalak. Pumangalawa naman ang Dept. of Education (DepEd) - City Schools Division na tumanggap ng halagang Php 40,000. Ikatlong pwesto naman ang Dept. of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), na tumanggap ng Php 30,000 bilang premyo.

Ang mga sumusunod na lokal na tanggapang pamalahaan at mga pribadong tanggapan na sumali sa nasabing paligsahan ay ang mga sumusunod: Dept. of Science and Technology (DOST-13), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Dept. of Agrarian Reform (DAR), M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Dept. of Agriculture (DA), Dept. of Health (DOH), Technical Education and Skill Development Authority – Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries.

Lahat ng mga kalahok ay nagtipun-tipon sa J. Rosales Ave., galing sa DBP papunta sa mga pangunahing kalsada ng lungsod. Tinapos ang parada ng isang maikling programa sa tapat ng Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT).

Ang batayang ginamit ng mga huradong kinabibilangan nina Architect Rey V. SeƱeres, G. Wayne Tanigami at G. Matthew Berginc ay ang mga sumusunod: 50% para sa disenyo, konsepto, at pagkamalikhain; 25% sa pagka-orihinal at 25% para sa presentasyon ng tema.

Nakatanggap din ng mga espesyal na premyo ang Technical Education and Skill Development Authority- Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (TESDA-NMSF)
para sa pinaka orihinal na float, Dept. of Agriculture bilang pinaka matemang float at M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala bilang pinakamakulay at kaakit-akit na float, at lahat ay nakatanggap ng Php 5,000 bilang premyo.

Naging posible ang 2010 Balangay Boat Float Grand Parade sa tulong ng City Tourism Office, kaakibat ang City Government ng Butuan.

Samantala, sa siyam na kandidatang lumahok sa patimpalak-kagandahan, hinirang si Soundy Manuel ng United Architects of the Philippines bilang Mutya Hong Butuan 2010. Taglay ang kanyang kagandahan at katalinuhan, nasungkit niya ang korona noong Lunes, Mayo 17 na ginanap sa Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym.

Binubuo ang magic five ng Mutya Hong Butuan 2010 ng mga sumusunod: Hidie Amor Ignilan ng Butuan Banker’s Club – Mutya Hong Butuan – Tourism; Kristine Rosales, 1st Runner-up (Liga ng mga Punong Barangay); Rose Murphy, 2nd Runner-up (Butuan Chambers) at; Rhina Mae Carombana, 3rd Runner-up (Integrated Bar of the Philippines).

Itinampok an ang ibat-ibang festivals sa Pilipinas bilang paksa sa 2010 Search for Mutya Hong Butuan at bilang parangal sa mga Balikabayan na mga Butuanons. (Phil Jan C. Conde, Freldemar C. Gamotin, Carol Ivy N. Mitchao and Eloisa Faith B. Plaza, FSUU/PIA-Caraga)


BFAR, kinilala ang mga lugar na positibo sa red tide

BUTUAN CITY (21 Mayo) – Ang Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) ay nag-isyu ng bagong babala para sa publiko na ang Bislig Bay sa Surigao del Sur ay positibo pa rin sa red tide toxin. Dahil dito, ang mga molusko(shellfish) galing sa mga lugar na ito ay hindi ligtas kainin.

Base sa Shellfish Bulletin No.11 Series of 2010 na pinalabas ng BFAR, kasama ang Local Government Units (LGU) tinukoy nito na ang mga molusko (shellfish) nakuha sa Dumanquillas Bay sa Zamboanga del Sur; Bislig Bay sa Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; Matarinao Bay sa Eastern Samar; Murclelagos Bay sa Zamboanga del Norte at Misamis Occidental; at sa mga coastal waters sa Bolinao at Anda sa Pangasinan ay positibo sa paralytic shellfish poison na lagpas sa itinalagang limitasyon.

Lahat ng klase ng molusko at alamang na nalikom galing sa mga di-ligtas na lugar ay hindi ligtas kainin. Subalit, ayon sa BFAR, ang mga isda, pusit, hipon at alimango ay ligtas kainin kung ito ay presko at nilinis nang maayos.

Ang mga sumusunod ay ang mga sintomas ng
Paralytic shellfish poisoning: mild symptoms, facial paresthesia burning, facial numbness , facial tingling, arm tingling, arm numbness, leg tingling, leg numbness, headache, dizziness, nausea, muscular in coordination at floating sensation. Kung nararanasan ang mga sintomas na ito, komunsulta agad sa pinakamalapit na duktor.

Ang mga sumusunod na lugar ay nanatiling ligtas sa toxic red tides: coastal waters ng Cavite, PiƱas, ParaƱaque, Navotas, Bulacan at Bataan sa Manila Bay; coastal waters ng Alaminos sa Pangasinan; Mansiloc Bay sa Zambales; coastal waters ng Milagros at Mandaon sa Masbate; Inner Malampaya Sound sa Taytay at Honda Bay; Juag Lagoon sa Matnog at Sorsogon Bay sa Sorsogon, at lahat sa Luzon.

Sa Visayas, ang mga lugar na ligtas sa toxic ay Puerto Bay sa Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; coastal waters ng Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan at Sapian sa Capiz; coastal waters ng E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Palupandan, Valladolid, Talisay City, Bacolod City, Hiringan, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City at San Enrique in Negros Occidental; Irong-irong, Maqueda at Villareal Bays sa Samar, Ormoc, San Pedro, Cancabato at Carigara Bays sa Leyte; at Biliran waters sa Biliran Province.

Habang sa Hinatuan at Lianga Bays sa Surigao del Sur; Balite Bay sa Mati, Davao Oriental; at coastal waters ng Kabasalan sa Sibugay Bay, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Samantala sa coastal waters ng Wawa, Bani sa Pangasinan ay ligtas na mula sa toxic red tide. (Phil Jan C. Conde, Freldemar C. Gamotin, Carol Ivy N. Mitchao and Eloisa Faith B. Plaza, FSUU/PIA-Caraga)
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DTI-Caraga official warns public vs mislabeled school supplies

BUTUAN CITY (May 21) - The Department of Trade and Industry in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga Region) has mobilized all its city and provincial field personnel to closely watch school suppliers in their areas who may take advantage of the coming opening of the new school year by jacking up their prices. 

At the same time, the DTI warned parents on Friday to be more meticulous in examining the labels or brands of the school supplies and other materials they are buying to assure quality and durability. 

“Our parents must be watchful to ensure and assure quality, safe use and to get the best value for their money,” said Region XIII Regional Director Brielgo O. Pagaran. 

The region’s DTI chief also advised parents not to rush into buying fake or imitation products that are cheap. 

“Our parents must know the product and address of the manufacturer, country of manufacture, net quantity and toxicity warning, if applicable," Pagaran said. 

"Those found not conforming to the minimum labeling requirements will face administrative or even criminal charges which include a maximum fine of P300,000 per violation," he added. 

Under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers are liable to consumers for injuries caused by defective and unsafe products as well as for the insufficient or inadequate information on the use of certain products and the hazards they pose. 

The DTI-Caraga regional office has already activated its provincial and city task forces to check various malls and school supplies stores. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, May 20, 2010

PBSP to help Basilan, Tawi-Tawi schools through Brigada Eskwela

Thirty-nine (39) schools in conflict-affected areas of Basilan and sixty-two (62) other schools in farflung Tawi-Tawi will get assistance from the Philippine Business Progress (PBSP) through its Brigada Eskwela initiatives.

At least 234 schools from the most-needy areas in the country have been identified by PBSP to benefit from the Brigada Eskwela assistance. Companies, partners and other donors are encouraged to support this initiative through PBSP.

As an expression of corporate social involvement PBSP have gathered and mobilized donations from its member companies and partners, for the repair and cleanup of public schools through the Department of Education’s annual Brigada Eskwela.

Brigada Eskwela is part of the bigger education program of PBSP. The largest corporate-led foundation in the country, PBSP aims to help reduce poverty by improving the quality of education in public schools, bringing children to school, and keeping them from dropping out.

To improve the quality of education and equip schools with Information Technology (IT) capabilities, PBSP members and donors spent P101 Million last year.

Of this amount, P 1.5 Million worth of donations were mobilized for Brigada Eskwela. The donations included paints and repair materials, books, school supplies, food provisions and first aid kits. PBSP pulls these donations together and ensures that they reach the intended beneficiaries.

This year, PBSP has received early donations of educational magazines from Diwa Learning Systems, storytelling books from The Bookmark, Inc., and assorted books from Goodwill Bookstore and Adarna House.

Other donations are notebooks from Sterling Paper Products, pencils and paper from Manila Bankers Life Insurance and Jopa Enterprises, Inc., and Vienna sausages from CDO Foodsphere, Inc.

PBSP members and partners are encouraged to join Brigada Eskwela by donating cleaning materials, books and school supplies, slippers or shoes and school bags, food for baon, among others. Employees are also encouraged to share their time as volunteers to scrub floors, fix damaged desks, and repaint walls.

More than 43,000 public schools nationwide are preparing to welcome millions of elementary and high school students for the start of the school year in June. This year’s Brigada Eskwela will be held from May 24 until 28. (Danny Escabarte, PBSP/PIA-Caraga)



Butuan Balangay Festival 2010
DILG retains crown in Balangay Boat Float Contest


BUTUAN CITY (20 May) – The Regional Office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) retained the title which they won last year during the celebration of the city’s charter day in August 2, after winning the Balangay Boat Float Contest held Wednesday, May 19, during the Grand Parade highlighting the city’s Fiesta Celebration, in honor of its Patron Saint – Saint Joseph the worker.

DILG received a cash prize of Php 50,000, the same amount they received last year. Second place went to the Department of Education (DepEd) – City Schools Division who received a cash prize of Php 40,000. Third place went to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), winning Php 30,000 cash prize.

The event was also participated by other local government and non-government offices, namely: Dept. of Science and Technology (DOST-13), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Dept. of Agrarian Reform (DAR), M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Dept. of Agriculture (DA), Dept. of Health (DOH), Technical Education and Skill Development Authority – Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries.

All participating floats assembled along J. Rosales Ave., from DBP Area, heading towards the main streets of this city and ended with a short program in front of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT).

Criteria used by the judges composed of Architect Rey V. SeƱeres, Mr. Wayne Tanigami and Mr. Matthew Berginc are as follows: 50% for design, concept, artwork and creativity, 25% for originality and uniqueness and 25% for the presentation of the theme.

Special awards were also given to Technical Education and Skill Development Authority- Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (TESDA-NMSF) for the most unique float, Dept. of Agriculture for the most thematic float and M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala for the most colorful and attractive float, all received a cash prize of Php 5,000.

The 2010 Balangay Boat Float Grand Parade was made possible by the City Tourism Office, in cooperation with the City Government of Butuan.

Meanwhile, Soundy Manuel, representing the United Architects of the Philippines captured the hearts of the judges after she was adjudged as this year’s Mutya Hong Butuan from among the nine candidates. With her poise and wit, Soundy bested the other contestants and won the most coveted crown during the pageant’s night on Monday, May 17 held at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym here.

Completing the magic five of this year’s beauty and brains competition are as follows: Hidie Amor Ignilan of Butuan Banker’s Club – Mutya Hong Butuan – Tourism; Kristine Rosales, 1st Runner-up (Liga ng mga Punong Barangay); Rose Murphy, 2nd Runner-up (Butuan Chambers) and; Rhina Mae Carombana, 3rd Runner-up (Integrated Bar of the Philippines).

The 2010 Search for Mutya Hong Butuan is anchored on a theme featuring the famous festivals of the Philippines, as a way of giving tribute to Balikbayan Butuanons. (Freldemar C. Gamotin and Carol Ivy N. Mitchao,FSUU/PIA-Caraga)


BFAR warns public on areas positive of red tide

BUTUAN CITY (20 May) – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently issued an advisory informing the public that Bislig Bay in Surigao del Sur is still positive with red tide toxin, thus shellfish from this area are not safe for human consumption.

Based on the Shellfish Bulletin No.11 Series of 2010 issued by BFAR, the latest laboratory results from their office and the Local Government Units (LGU) revealed that shellfish collected at Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Bislig Bay in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar; Murclelagos Bay in Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental; and in the coastal waters of Bolinao and Anda in Pangasinan are still positive for paralytic shellfish poison that is beyond the regulatory limit.

All types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or alamang gathered from the above banned areas are NOT SAFE for human consumption.

However, BFAR said, fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for human consumption provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.

The list of signs and symptoms for
Paralytic shellfish poisoning includes: mild symptoms, facial paresthesia (burning), facial numbness, facial tingling, arm tingling, arm numbness, leg tingling, leg numbness, headache, dizziness, nausea, muscular in coordination and floating sensation. If any of these symptoms are felt, BFAR advised to consult a local physician immediately.

The following areas continue to be FREE from toxic red tides: coastal waters of Cavite, PiƱas, ParaƱaque, Navotas, Bulacan and Bataan in Manila Bay; coastal waters of Alaminos in Pangasinan; Mansiloc Bay in Zambales; coastal waters of Milagros and Mandaon in Masbate; Inner Malampaya Sound in Taytay and Honda Bay; Juag Lagoon in Matnog and Sorsogon Bay in Sorsogon, all in Luzon.

For Visayas, areas found to be free from these toxics are: Puerto Bay in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; coastal waters of Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan and Sapian in Capiz; coastal waters of E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Palupandan, Valladolid, Talisay City, Bacolod City, Hiringan, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City and San Enrique in Negros Occidental; Irong-irong, Maqueda and Villareal Bays in Samar, Ormoc, San Pedro, Cancabato and Carigara Bays in Leyte; and Biliran waters in Biliran Province.

Meanwhile, Hinatuan and Lianga Bays in Surigao del Sur; Balite Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental; and the coastal waters of Kabasalan in Sibugay Bay, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Moreover, coastal waters of Wawa, Bani in Pangasinan is now free from the toxic red tide. (Phil Jan C. Conde, Freldemar C. Gamotin and Carol Ivy N. Mitchao, FSUU/PIA-Caraga)




Cebuano News: PGMA gipaniguro nga umentohan ang suholan sa mga empleyado sa gobyerno hangtod 2013

By Michael A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY (May 20) – Si Presidente Gloria Macapagal Arroyo gipaniguro ang pag-umento sa suholan sa mamumuo sa gobyernon hangtud sa tuig 2013, ilalom sa Salary Standardization Law III nga gipirmahan niadtong Hunyo sa miaging tuig.

Ang hugna sa pagpataas sweldo sa publiko nga sector nahisubay sa salary standardization progam nga gikinahanglan masugdan alang sa mga nagserbisyo sa publiko.

Ang SSL III gilauman nga mokabat sa 1.5 million government employees ang makabenipisyo niini.

Ang basic salary magsubay sa gipabarog nga framework rationalize nga madawat sa mga empleyado apil na ang mga allowances, benipisyo ug mga incentives gikan sa mga opisyal padulong sa mga empleyado.

Si Pres. Arroyo ang nipahibalo niini atol sa gihimong pakigpulong sa ika-16th nga Annibersaryo sa Commission on Higher Education (CHED) didto sa Commission headquarter sa kauluhang Manila.

Matud sa Presidente nga dako ang iyang suporta nga matuman ang gipanday nga balaod aron molambo ang pangabuhian sa mga mamumuo sa panggamhanan.

Dugang niini, iyang gistulti nga aron motaas a ng revenues “bitter but necessary economic and financial reforms” ang gikinahanglang ipatuman.

Ang expanded value added tax law (E-VAT) nga gipatong sa mga taxable items ang matud pa 12 porciento niini ang gikuhaan para sa pagpalambo sa edukasyon, social services, imprastraktura ug pagpasaka sa sweldo.

Kahinumduman nga niadtong Hulyo sa miaging tuig, gi-umentohan ang sweldo sa mga nagtrabaho sa gobyerno apil na mga magtutudlo sa SUCs (state universities and colleges).

Gibutyag nga mikabat sa 300 opisyales ug empleyado sa Commission on Higher Education ang nakabenipisyo sa programa apil na ang mga staff niini.

Gisulti ni Pres. Arroyo nga bisan sa paghuman sa iyang termino padayon nga makabenipisyo ang publiko sa maong programa. “Because of the Salary Standardization Law that we enacted during my administration, even when I am no longer President, you will continue to receive increases for the next three years”.


Gitug-an sa Presidente nga karong Hulyo ang sunod nga pagpatuman sa umento sa sweldo sa mga empleyado sa gobyerno. (PIA-Caraga)


Butuan City celebrates feast of St. Joseph the worker with pride and honor

By Michael A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY (20 May) – With less than two weeks after the election fever, this city celebrated the feast of St. Joseph the worker highlighting Butuan’s culture and tradition as showcased in the activities conducted and spearheaded by the City Tourism Council.

As early as 8:00 o’clock in the morning, Butuan Bishop Juan Dios Pueblos officiated the concelebrated mass held at St. Joseph Cathedral on Wednesday (May 19) with around 3,000 parishioners and devotees attending the religious gathering.

In an earlier interview with City Tourism Chairman Leonides Theresa Plaza, she said the organizers carefully planned the preparations for this annual event to show to the visitors what Butuan can offer to the tourism industry of the country.

The Chairman further stressed that the City administration strongly supported the celebration even if incumbent Mayor Democrito Boy Daku Plaza II’s term will end on June 30, 2010.

One of the highlights of the celebration is the holding of the Mutya Hong Butuan 2010 held on Monday (May 17) at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym, where Ms. Soundy Manuel of the United Architects of the Philippines unanimously won the hearts and votes of the judges.

Meanwhile, the Balangay Float Parade showcasing each private and public offices, departments, and organizations was conducted during the Grand Parade held on the feast day (May 19) to add color to the celebration.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government Unit (DILG)-Caraga Region, once again grabbed the 1st prize bringing home Php 50,000, besting the other 11 contenders. The department also won the same during last year’s charter day celebration of the city held on August 2.

With the success of this year’s celebration, Butuanons greatly appreciated the efforts of the City Government here to make the celebration meaningful and colorful. (PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Sugyot ni PGMA ngadto sa sunod nga administrasyon: JPEPA, ipadayon

By Michael A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY (20 May) – Si Presidente Gloria Macapagal Arroyo misugyot nga kinahanglan mapadayon ang Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) sa sunod nga administrasyon.

Sa gipahigayon nga pakighinabi sa Presidente ngadto sa NHK-Japan Broadcasting Corp. didto sa Kalayaan Hall MalacaƱang, gipasabot ni Pres. Arroyo nga ang kasabotan sa ekonomiya nga gitampo sa Japan usa ka “win-win agreement”.

Kung mahinumduman, ang Japan usa ka lig-on ang pakig-alyansa niini sa Pilipinas lakip na sa mga rehiyon (strong ally and partner for the Philippines and for the region).

Gi-asoy ni Pres. Arroyo nga matud pa “JPEPA certainly strengthens that partnership, especially during this time of global economic crisis,”

Ang JPEPA gipirmahan ni Pres. Arroyo ug ni Japan Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi didto sa Helsinki, Finland, niadtong Septembre tuig 2006 ug gi-aprobahan kini sa senado.

Kabahin sa aspeto sa negosyo ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) nagpalambo sa proyekto sa Philippine exports ngadto sa Japan nga migahin og 20 percent.

Miabot sa P300 billion ang nakuhang pipeline investments nga nagikan sa automotive parts ug produktong panapton sa nasud. Gipalapad ang negosyo aron makuha ang kompiyansa sa ubang nasud.

Sa laing bahin, ang Presidente mapasalamaton nga nag-ingon “JPEPA brings the benefits of our strong cooperation to the people themselves in the form of opportunities for more job creation, business opportunities, and economic growth.”

Buot ni Arroyo nga palapdan ang language training program sa mga Hapones aron makat-on ang mga Filipino medical workers ug mga caregivers sa nasud nga makakuha ug dali nga trabaho sa Japan.

“I just hope that Japan will be able to maximize the cooperation on language training so that out caregivers and medical workers can take better advantage of opportunities, which will also be good for the older Japanese people,” dugang sa Presidente. (PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News : BFAR giila ang mga lugar nga positibo sa red tide

BUTUAN CITY (20 May)­ – Base sa impormasyon nga gipagawas sa Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) sa Department of Agriculture (DA), ang Bislig Bay sa Surigao del Sur positibo na usab sa red tide toxin niining mga panahona ug tungod niini gi-awhag sa maong buhatan ang mga katawhan nga dili usa mukaon ug mga kinhason gikan sa maong lugar.

Matud sa Shellfish Bulletin No.11 Series of 2010 nga gipagawas sa BFAR uban usab ang Local Government Units (LGU) nga ang resulta sa mga nakulikta nga mga shellfish sa mga lugar sa Dumanquillas Bay sa Zamboanga del Sur; Bislig Bay sa Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; Matarinao Bay sa Eastern Samar; Murclelagos Bay sa Zamboanga del Norte ug Misamis Occidental; ug coastal waters of Bolinao ug Anda sa Pangasinan nagpositibo guihapon sa paralytic shellfish poison nga milapas sa gibutyag nga limitasyon.

Matud pa, guinadiling kaunon ang mga kinhason ug alamang gikan sa mga dapit nga giila sa BFAR nga positibo sa red tide.

Hinuon, matud sa BFAR nga ang mga isda, nukos, pasayan, ug alimango mamahimong kaunon basta nakasiguro nga lab-as kini ug tarungon kini paghugas usa lutuon.

Mga sintomas sa Paralytic shellfish poisoning mao ang mosunod: mild symptoms, facial paresthesia (burning), pag-paminhud sa nawung (facial numbness), facial tingling, arm tingling, pag-paminhud sa bukton (arm numbness), leg tingling, pag-paminhud sa paa (leg numbness), sakit sa ulo (headache), pag-kalipong (dizziness), pag-suka (nausea), muscular in coordination and floating sensation.

Kung padayon nga nakahi-agom niining mga simtumas, gi-awhag sa BFAR nga magpakonsulta sa pinaka-duol nga duktor.

Samtang, giila usab sa maong buhatan ang mga lugar nga luwas sa toxic red tides, ug kini maon ang mosunod: coastal waters sa Cavite, Las PiƱas, ParaƱaque, Navotas, Bulacan ug Bataan sa Manila Bay; coastal waters sa Alaminos sa Pangasinan; Mansiloc Bay sa Zambales; coastal waters sa Milagros ug Mandaon sa Masbate; Inner Malampaya Sound sa Taytay ug Honda Bay; Juag Lagoon sa Matnog ug Sorsogon Bay sa Sorsogon, tanan sa Luzon.

Mga lugar nga luwas sa toxic red tides sa Visayas mao ang Puerto Bay sa Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; coastal waters sa Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan ug Sapian sa Capiz; coastal waters sa E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Palupandan, Valladolid, Talisay City, Bacolod City, Hiringan, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City ug San Enrique sa Negros Occidental; Irong-irong, Maqueda ug Villareal Bays sa Samar, Ormoc, San Pedro, Cancabato ug Carigara Bays sa Leyte; ug Biliran waters sa Biliran Province.

Sa laing bahin, luwas usab ang mga lugar sa Mindanao partikular sa Hinatuan ug Lianga Bays sa Surigao del Sur; Balite Bay sa Mati, Davao Oriental; ug ang coastal waters sa Kabasalan sa Sibugay Bay, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Dugang pa niini, ang coastal waters sa Wawa, Bani sa Pangasinan luwas na sa toxic red tide. (Eloisa Faith B. Plaza, Carol Ivy N. Mitchao and Phil Jan C. Conde, FSUU/PIA-Caraga)



Butuan Balangay Festival 2010
DILG nidaug na usab sa Balangay Boat Float contest

BUTUAN CITY (20 May) – Ang Rehiyonal nga buhatan sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) mao guihapon ang misakmit sa kadaugan sa gipahigayong Balangay Boat Float contest atol sa kasaulogan sa kapistahan ni’ng dakbayan niadtong Miyerkules, Mayo 19.

Nakadawat ang DILG ug premyo nga salaping cash nga mokabat ngadto sa Php 50,000, samtang ang Department of Education (DepEd) – City Schools Division ang maong nakakuha sa ika-duhang trono ug nakadawat usab ug Php 40,000. Samtang ang Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) ang nakakuha sa ika-tulo nga premyo ug nakadawat usab ug Php 30,000. Mahinumduman nga ang DILG mao usab ang migawas nga mananaug sa gihimong kumpetisyon niadtong Agosto 2 mi-aging tuig atol usab sa kasaulogan sa Charter Day sa dakbayan.

Ang maong aktibidades gilangkuban usab sa mga partisipante nga naggikan sa lokal government and non-government offices sama sa: Dept. of Science and Technology (DOST-13), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Dept. of Agrarian Reform (DAR), M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala, Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Dept. of Agriculture (DA), Dept. of Health (DOH), Technical Education and Skill Development Authority – Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries.

Ang criteria nga gigamit sa mga huradong gilangkuban nila ni: Architect Rey V. SeƱeres, G. Wayne Tanigami ug G. Matthew Berginc mao ang mosunod: 50% para sa design, concept, artwork ug creativity, 25% para sa originality ug uniqueness ug 25% usab sa presentasyon sa tema.

Nakadawat usab ug espesyal nga premyo ang Technical Education and Skill Development Authority- Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (TESDA-NMSF) para sa most unique float, Dept. of Agriculture para sa most thematic float ug M. Llhuiller Kwarta Padala para sa most colorful ug attractive float, kun diin ang tanan nakadawat ug premyo nga tag Php 5,000 matag special award.

Ang 2010 Balangay Boat Float Grand Parade gipangunahan sa City Tourism Office, kauban ang City Government sa Butuan.

Samtang, nakuha ni Soundy Manuel, nag-representa sa United Architects of the Philippines ang korona isip Mutya Hong Butuan 2010 atol sa pageant’s night niadtong Lunes, May 17 sa Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gym. Nakuha ni Manuel ang boto sa mga hurado dihang gipabilib kini niya sa question and answer portion.

Ang mga nakasulod sa magic five karong tuiga mao sila Hidie Amor Ignilan sa Butuan Banker’s Club isip Mutya Hong Butuan–Tourism; Kristine Rosales, 1st Runner-up (Liga ng mga Punong Barangay); Rose Murphy, 2nd Runner-up (Butuan Chambers) ug; Rhina Mae Carombana, 3rd Runner-up (Integrated Bar of the Philippines).

Ang Mutya Hong Butuan 2010 gipangunahan sa tema nga nag-feature sa mga festivals sa Pilipinas aron hatagan og kalingawan ang mga Balikbayan nga mga Butuanons. (Eloisa Faith B. Plaza, Carol Ivy N. Mitchao and Phil Jan C. Conde, FSUU/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, May 18, 2010

CPP-NPA releases town mayor, 4 escorts after 17 days in captivity 

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the New People’s Army (NPA), finally released early Monday evening Lingig, Surigao del Sur Mayor Roberto Luna and his four escorts after 17 days in captivity at Barangay Pasi-an, Monkayo, Compostela Valley Province. 

Luna was released together with Police Officer 3 Allan Dapitanon and Police Officer 2 Joseto de Castro, both of Lingig Municipal Police Station; and Pfc. Junrey Abao and Pfc. Arnel Dizon, both assigned in Surigao del Sur and temporarily detailed as security escorts of the Mayor. 

Surigao del Sur provincial police director Sr. Supt. Julieto M. Diray said the freed hostages were released by their abductors at 6 p.m. to the Surigao del Sur Crisis Management Committee (SCMC) and officially arrived at Lingig town at 1 a.m. Tuesday. The SCMC members were led by Surigao del Sur Governor-elect Johnny Pimentel. 

“They were released unharmed and no mentioned ransom during the peace negotiation,” said Diray. 

Vice-mayor Daniel Lu of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, a physician checking on the health status of the captives, said Luna and company were in good health. 

Lu said their body bore no contusions nor torture marks indicating that they were treated well. 

Mayor Luna and his escorts are currently under medical check up at Lingig medical clinic. 

In a brief turn-over ceremony, Luna, Dapitona, de Castro, Abao and Dizon thanked the NPA unit who took custody over them for 12 days for respecting their rights in accordance with the international humanitarian law. 

He did not give any comment nor mention if they would file charges against their abductors. 

“For the meantime, ay pahinga muna kami (we want to rest),” was the only statement released by the mayor to Philippine News Agency. 

But Chief Supt. Lino D. Calingasan, regional director of Police Regional Office 13, ordered on Tuesday Sr. Supt. Nestor M. Fajura, chief of planning and operations division, and Surigao del Sur provincial police director Senior Supt. Diray to study the exact charges in court against the abductors of Mayor Luna and his four escorts. 

In reaction to the release, 10th Infantry Division commanding general Major General Carlos Holganza, said he was happy about it but stressed that the incident will not erase the fact that what the NPA did was an abduction punishable under the law of the country. 

Holganza noted the NPA only wanted to divert the attention of the people from the blunders their group had committed for the past few days especially the ambush at Maragusan, Comval Province on May 12 that killed four government troops and a civilian who served the elections as a poll watcher. 

“It is a propaganda,” he stressed. 

Meanwhile, Governor-elect Pimentel was in a joyous mood when reached through mobile phone by PNA. 

“Salamat sa Poong Maykapal at binitiwan din ng mga hostage-takers sila mayor na walang nangyari (Thanks to God and hostage-takers released the Mayor and his escorts unharmed),” said Pimentel. 

The incumbent and last termer Lingig town mayor, who also won during the recent May 10 election as vice mayoralty candidate in that same town, and his four other escorts were flagged down by the NPA somewhere in the border of Trento, Agusan del Sur and Monkayo town in Compostela Valley on May 5 while in route to Davao City.
(muc/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Anti-rabies ordinance sa Nasipit aprubado na

Isa sa gikahadlukan nga sakit mao ang pagtakboy sa rabis sa lawas sa tao kung kini mapaakan ug iro’ng buang.

Aron mapakgang ang pagkasayang sa kinabuhi sa tao tungod sa rabis, gipasa gilayon sa konseho sa Nasipit nga gipangamahan ni SB Hector B. Magtibay ang SB ordinance No. 005-2008 o ang pagsanta sa rabis sa maong lugar.

Base sa ordinansa, gimanduan ang tana’ng nanag-iya og iro nga pabakunahan dayon kini og anti-rabies kung mag-edad na og 3 ka bulan pataas ug kinahanglan kanunay kini’ng hiniktan o anaa nakabutang sa hawla aron malikayan ang pagpama-ak niini sa tao.

Adunay multa nga P1,000 hangtod P2,500 ug pagkapriso sa napulo hangtud traynta ka adlaw alang sa mga dili motuman niini.

Sumala sa gisugid ni Ms. Brenda P. Tampos, ang Provincial Anti-Rabies Coordinator sa Agusan del Norte, adunay nahitala nga 182 ka tao ang napaakan og iro didto sa Nasipit sa ni-aging tuig apan walay taho nga adunay namatay sa rabis.

“Mao bitaw nga nagpasi-ugda mi og quiz bowl ug poster making contest kaniadtong Marso 23, 2010 didto sa Nasipit Central Elementary School (NACES) Gym aron madugangan ang kahibalo sa tao, hilabi sa mga estudyante, kung unsay buhaton aron malikayan ang sakit nga rabis” dugang pa ni Ms. Tampos.

Tungod sa importansya sa maong ordinansya, gi-aprubahan gilayon kini pinaagi sa Sanguniang Resolution No. 121-2010 nga gipangamahan ni Bokal Aquino Gambe.

Ang maong ordinansa uyon sa Provincial Ordinance No. 154-2004 nga mao ang Provincial Dog and Rabies Control Ordinance. (MS Monoy/ PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Watershed areas sa ADN gituki

Aron malikayan ang kadaot sa kalikupan (environment) sa tibuok probinsya sa Agusan del Norte.

Ang Sanguniang Panlalawigan Office nangayo og mga lista sa mga identified watershed areas sa probinsya sigun sa munisipalidad ug barangay ngadto kang Environmental Management Speacialist nga si Mr. Lauro G. Hinaloc.

Pinaagi sa Sanguniang Resolution No. 103-2010 nga gipangamahan ni Bokal Aquino W. Gambe.

Sa gihimong Executive- Legislative Agenda (ELA) sa 2007, nahisgutan ang usa ka pro-active measure nga mag-protektar sa mga kabukiran ug mga katubigan (forest and water resources) sa probinsya batok sa mga kasarangang kalamidad nga nahitabo naadtong niaging mga tuig hilabi na ang mahitungod sa baha nga resulta ani’ng Global Climate Change.

Aron makagama og mga resolusyon o mga ordinansa nga makapanalipod (protect) ug makapatunhay (preserve) sa atong mga natural resources, nagkinahanglan ang lehislatura og igong kaalam sa insaktong lokasyon sa tanang watershed areas aron masugdan na dayon ang pagpanday sa mga gikinahanglan’ng balaod ug mga proyekto ug kalihokan alang niini. (MS Monoy/ PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Livelihood alang sa out-of school youth gisuportahan

Gitubag sa pangagamhanang probinsyal ang hangyo sa kabatan-onan o mga out-of school youth sa Barangay Talisay, Nasipit nga makabaton og panginabuhian nga swine fattening livelihood project.

“Ang maong proyekto makatabang gayod sa atong kabataan pinaagi sa paghatag kanila og dugang kita ug tungod sa daghan silay atimanonon aron mapausbaw ni nga proyekto, mawad-an na sila og panahon para sa mga bisyo, “Matod pa ni Bise Gobernador Enrico R. Corvera nga mao ang nangamahan sa Sanguniang Resolution No. 106-2010.

Hatagan og pundo ang nasangpit nga proyekto gikan sa 20% Development Fund. (MS Monoy/ PIA-Caraga)

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Tubay to hold regular bloodletting program

Advocating blood donation as an act of heroism, the municipality of Tubay will now conduct abloodletting Day program twice a year or as often as necessary by virtue of Municipal Ordinance No. 2009-10. authored by SB Member Jary P. Mondejar.

Local officials recognized the significance of the program mainly: 

1) to advocate and promote the voluntary blood donation program in the community;
 2) to ensure adequate, safe and readily available supply of blood through regular blood letting activities; 
3) to help eradicate the misconceptions in blood donation through a comprehensive information, education and communication campaign; and 
4) to let the community realize the importance of the program that blood donation is a heroic act of saving lives.

To put things in order regarding the said program, a municipal blood Council (MBC) is created with the Municipal Mayor as the chairman and co-Chaired by the Municipal Health Officer (MHO) who will set the schedules of the municipal bloodletting days and cause and cause the necessary preparations and arrangements with the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) and or duly authorized hospitals or blood banks and such other concerned entities from the public or private sectors.

The program will have an annual allocation of P30,000.00 for the expenses related to the conduct of said activity such as but not limited to meals and snacks, transporatation, donor incentives, information campaign, community mobilization campaign, community mobilization and documentation.

“Blood donation is indeed aheroic act of savinglives”, said Board Memebr Aquino W. Gambe, author of Sangunian Resolution No. 038-2010, approving the said municipal ordinance. (MSMonoy)


Province asks DPWH to finance its multi-million road project

Citing in particular the thousands who could benefit from the proposal, provincial officials are asking the support of the Department of Public Works and Higways (DPWH) over its proposed multi-million road project.

In a resolution sent to the secretary of DPWH, the province is hoping to get the nod of the agency for the construction of the two Hundred Million (P200,000,000.00) peso Buenavista-Bonaguit farm to market road.

This proposal is one of the priority projects of Governor Erlpe John M. Amante’s Administration believed to benefit 53, 059 residents in the area including the nearby province. It is a major endeavor contained in the Executive-Legislative Agenda of the province of Agusan del Norte.

“I am bent to pursue this project this project since this would connect the province of Bukidnon and would also promote the sustainable development of Las Nieves, Buenavista, Nasipit, Carmen (LASBUENASCAR) sustainable Agro-Forestry Development Project” Governor Amante said to justify his intention.

The approximate length of road to connect the two provinces is 70 kilometers and currently, 18 kilometers were already constructed leaving 52 kilometers more.

Based on the study, the Buenavista-Bonaquit farm-to-market road has an influence area potential for agricultural production. Currently, remains undeveloped mainly because of its inaccessibility. The direct beneficiaries are the people living in the traversed section of the project and considerably the indigenous people living inside the 56, 000 hectare LASBUENASCAR Agro-Foresfry Development project.

For his part, Board Member Aquino W. Gambe opined that once implemented, it will significantly appreciate the value of the land area and promotes the full and sustainable development of LASBUENASCAR.

The area is fertile for banana, rice, coconut, abaca and other crash crops.

“The project will surely trigger greater agricultural production due to easy access in transporting farm inputs, implements and technologies even the nearest market growth in the area”, Governor Amante added.

PIA News Service - Monday, May 17, 2010

Feature: Growing older but getting healthier
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As people grow old, they start to feel body aches and pains. The ageing body undergoes physiological, psychological, and economic changes. Tiring bones and muscles have given way to fat because of the inactive hormones. All these changes contribute to poor nutrition among elderly persons.
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The key to health is balanced diet. Like everyone else, older people need a balanced diet to preserve good health and maintain quality of life. The following nutrients will be of great help as one grows older:
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Water
Older person often suffer from dehydration. This is because the body's water content decreases as one grows older. Older persons should remember to regularly drink at least an ounce of water for every kilo of body weight. For quick reference, follow the Daily Nutritional Guide Pyramid’s recommendation of eight glasses a day.
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Protein
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Protein is essential as a person ages. Protein is needed to maintain a healthy immune system and to prevent muscle wasting. At the same time, they do not need that much of energy. Foods such as egg whites, chicken without skin, lean meat, and fish, which are low-fat sources of proteins, are very much essential for the older persons.
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Carbohydrates and Fiber
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Carbohydrates provide energy for the entire body. Carbohydrate-rich foods are bread, pasta, cereals, among others. Older persons usually suffer from constipation. Prevent constipation by taking a diet that is rich in water and fiber.
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Fat
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The diet of older people should be low in fat but not fat-free. Limit fat intake by using only lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Limit frying as a means of cooking the food. 
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Iron
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Iron helps build and maintain blood supply. It gives the healthy red color to the blood. Iron deficiency is common among older people who do not eat much. Such people should eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, breakfast cereals or red meat.
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Zinc
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Elderly bodies find it difficult to assimilate zinc. Zinc helps the body use protein and carbohydrates. It also helps hasten wound healing. Take fish, poultry, and meat in order to satisfy the zinc requirements of your body.
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Calcium
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When people age, they hardly get enough of calcium. The elderly require at least 800 milligrams (mg) of calcium per day according to the recommended energy and nutrient intakes (RENI) for Filipinos. Many of the older persons avoid drinking milk out of fear that it might upset their digestive processes. If a person is averse to milk, one could use non-fat milk powder instead of milk. Calcium can also be obtained from foods such as low-fat cheese, dried fish especially if eaten with bones (dilis, bia, tabios, ayungin) malunggay,saluyot, kintsay, mustasa, kalabasa.
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Vitamin B12
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Cobalamin or vitamin B12 facilitates maturation of red blood cells. It also protects the “myelin,” the fatty material that covers the nerves and enables one to transmit electrical impulses (messages) between nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is usually absorbed by an intrinsic factor in the stomach. Many of the elderly suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency because they suffer from atrophic gastritis, a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the walls of the stomach, growth of bacteria, and lack of the intrinsic factor that is responsible for the absorption of this vitamin into the system.
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The elderly need each of these nutrients to keep themselves healthy. The elderly should be as active as possible and maintain a balanced diet. Following the FNRI’s Daily Nutrition Guide Pyramid for Older Persons can serve as a reference.
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Growing older does not mean one have a reason to neglect the body. An elderly should always eat well and follow good nutrition practices to enjoy a long and healthy life.
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For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Gen. Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Trunkline: 837-2071 local 2296 or 2287; Telephone/Fax No.: 837-3164; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or mar_v_c@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Victor J. Alfonso Jr., FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service)
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Maximizing post-menopausal health: Opportunities for nutrition intervention
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Among older persons, there are a number of nutrition-related health problems that are particularly pertinent to women, namely, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and weight problems. Most of these problems are largely due to a reduced secretion of estrogen which occurs at menopause.
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Health issues for women after menopause
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Osteoporosis
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Osteoporosis is characterized by a low bone mass and increased fragility of bones, making them more susceptible to fracture. Bone loss occurs with aging, but it occurs earlier in women than in men. Accelerated bone loss occurs at menopause as a result of low estrogen levels.
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Nutritional Factors Affecting Bone Strength
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One of the most significant nutritional factors affecting bone strength is calcium status. The rate of bone loss can be reduced in post-menopausal women by ensuring an optimal calcium intake throughout the life stages.  
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Other key nutrients essential for bone health include vitamin D, vitamin C, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. Vitamins C and D facilitate the absorption and utilization of calcium.  
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Studies revealed that the ability of the skin to synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight dramatically decreases with age. Furthermore, elderly women who are homebound may have less opportunity for exposure to sunlight.  
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As components of bone, phosphorus and magnesium stabilize bone structure and improve bone strength. A varied diet usually meets the recommended intakes of these minerals. 
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Many elderly persons are reported to have marginal zinc stores. This can be a result of decreased meat intakes, medical conditions that impair zinc status, or the use of drugs that either reduce zinc absorption or increase zinc excretion.  
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Supplements to improve zinc status should, however, be used with caution because excessive zinc intake can cause gastrointestinal irritation, copper deficiency, anemia, hypercholesterolemia and impaired immune functions.
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Weight-bearing exercise has a significant effect on bone strength, but sufficient calcium must be consumed to optimize the benefits of exercise on bone. 
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Cancer  
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Breast cancer is the most common and risk increases with early menarche and late menopause. In the Philippines, breast cancer is the leading type of cancer among Filipino women according to the Department of Health’s (DOH) latest data. It has been reported that postmenopausal women aged 55 years and over have a 66% incidence of breast cancer mortality.
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There is evidence that diet may play a role in some types of cancer, in particular, the high-fat intake and breast cancer. The role of other dietary factors is unclear. What is known though is that obesity increases risk of post-menopausal breast cancer, and for obese women, weight loss can reduce cancer risk.  
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The increased consumption of fruits and vegetables is also thought to be protective against breast cancer.
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Cardiovascular Disease  
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Modifiable coronary heart disease (CHD) Risk Factors in Women
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Modifiable CHD risk factors are important target for intervention in post-menopausal women. Modifiable risk factors include smoking, hypertension, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes.
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Although each factor may affect CHD risk independently, controlling non-lipid risk factors like weight, blood pressure, and lifestyle factors can also control hyperlipidemia.  
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Reducing obesity and increasing physical activity can control hypertension and diabetes in addition to improving lipid profile. Smoking cessation not only removes the strongest independent modifiable risk factor for CHD but also affects lipid profile favorably.
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Hyperlipidemia Management in Women
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For primary prevention, the initial or routine screening should include assessment of total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels to determine the client’s lipid risk status.  
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A routine visit should also include assessment of the client’s dietary habits and other risk factors for CHD, such as family history, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity.
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For patients who have desirable total cholesterol levels at less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (200 mg/dL) and HDL levels that do not signal increased risk at equal to or more than 35 milligrams per deciliter (35 mg/dL), no additional testing is needed and follow-up cholesterol screening can be deferred for up to five years.
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Nevertheless, clients who have desirable total cholesterol and HDL levels and are not overweight should be advised about diet and physical activity. In addition, all patients should be encouraged to be physically active.  
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The current recommendation is to accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most or preferably all days of the week.
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Even when cholesterol levels are desirable, women who have modifiable CHD risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, and hypertension, should be counseled on risk reduction. Those who have diabetes should be referred to specialty care for lipid management.
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Appropriate management for patients with undesirable total cholesterol or HDL levels depends on a combination of their levels and CHD risks. Determining a patient’s risk level on this basis is termed risk stratification.  
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Overweight and Obesity 
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Menopause is often believed to cause weight gain, although there is little sound evidence to describe it as a particular risk period. Menopause is, however, associated with a change in the distribution of fat, with more fat deposited around the abdominal area. Excess abdominal weight is associated with an increased risk of CHD.
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Obese women should be strongly encouraged to lose weight. A 10 kilogram (kg) weight loss can lead to a fall in systolic blood pressure of 10 millimeter mercury (mmHg) and a fall in diastolic blood pressure of 20 mmHg. It can also reduce total cholesterol levels by 10%, and reduce obesity-related cancer deaths by 40%.
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Excess weight also puts additional strain to already fragile bones of some menopausal women. With so much weight to carry, obese women may have difficulty moving around, making them more prone to accidents.
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Long-term weight loss and weight-maintenance strategies need to be implemented with dietary management, behavior modification and an increase in physical activity.  
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A healthy diet for post-menopausal women
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The combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity and weight loss work together to promote overall health and well-being of post-menopausal women and reduce their risks of osteoporosis, cancer, cardiovascular disease and weight problems.
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The general characteristics of a healthy diet for menopausal women are the same as those for all adults.
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Specific instruction may be given for the following:
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1. Calorie intake: An appropriate energy intake for an individual is the amount of calories that will achieve or maintain a desirable body weight. Particularly for an overweight or obese woman, it is desirable to assess current calorie intake and recommend a reduction in calorie intake accordingly.

2. Fat intake: The recommended fat intake for Filipinos is 20-30% of calorie intake. This conforms to the recommendation of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP).

3. Calcium intake: An adequate calcium intake is not only protective against osteoporosis, but also promotes cardiovascular health.

For bone health in older individuals, an adequate calcium intake throughout the lifestages is important, and calcium supplementation at menopause has little effect on bone mineral density.  
Thus, the US Food and Nutrition Board (1998) recommends the same calcium intake of 1000 milligrams per day (mg/d) for all adults, including post-menopausal women. The recommendation for Filipinos has been increased from 500 mg/d to 800 mg/day.

Excellent sources of calcium are milk and calcium-fortified juices. Good sources include seafoods and green leafy vegetables.
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4. Fruits and vegetables: The NCEP panel pointed to epidemiologic evidence that a diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, grains and fish affords protection against CHD. Not only do these foods tend to be low in fat, cholesterol, and calories, they also supply substances, such as antioxidants, fiber and carotenoids which are protective against CHD, cancer, and other degenerative diseases.
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For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, FNRI Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/Fax Nos.: 837-2934, 837-3164; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Celeste C. Tanchoco, Dr.P.H., Scientist III & Chief Science Research Specialist, FNRI-DOST S& T Media Service) 
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Tagalog News: Lathalain: FOOD SAFETY, mahalaga ngayong Summer 
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Nagpaplano ba kayong mag outing o magkaroon ng family gatherings ngayong summer? 
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Kung outing ang pag-uusapan, ang laging nasa isip natin ay swimming at masasarap na pagkain na nababagay dito. Wala na ngang sasaya pa sa paglalangoy sa beach o sa pool at ang pagkain ng mga summer foods. 
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Ngunit huwag natin kalimutan ang food safety o kaligtasan ng pagkain sa panahon ng tag-init o summer. Ang pagkain ay dapat laging malinis, mula sa paghahanda hanggang sa pagkonsumo. Mas lalong dapat maging maingat kapag magluluto ng pagkain sa labas o outdoors.

Narito ang ilang paalaala tungkol sa ligtas at malinis na paghahanda ng pagkain ngayong summer:
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• Panatilihing malamig ang mga pagkaing tinuturing na cold foods. Gumamit ng coolers at lagyan ng maraming yelo. Ilagay ang coolers sa lugar na di naiinitan. Dagdagan pa ng yelo kung tunaw na ang yelo sa coolers. Ang pinakamainam upang mapanatiling malamig ang pagkain tulad ng tinamplahang karne, manok at isda ay iimbak muna sa freezer para maging frozen bago ilagay sa coolers. 
• Unahing kainin ang mga pagkaing madaling masira at ihuli ang mga pagkaing di madaling masira.
• Baunin sa picnic o sa outing ang mga pagkaing di madaling masira tulad ng adobong baboy o manok, inihaw na baboy o isda, sariwang prutas at gulay.
• Hugasang mabuti ang prutas at gulay bago i-empake.
• Kung mag-iihaw, panatilihin muna ang pagkaing iihawin sa loob ng coolers at ilabas lang kung kalian iihawin na ang mga ito.
• Kung maghahanda ng pagkain, panatilihing malinis ang lahat ng kagamitan. Maghugas ng kamay bago hawakan ang pagkain.
• Ilagay sa malinis na lalagyan ang inihaw na pagkain. Huwag gumamit ng parehong pinggan para sa hilaw at lutong pagkain.
• Uminom ng malinis na tubig o magdala ng bottled water.
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Ayon sa ika-siyam na mensahe ng Gabay sa Wastong Nutrisyon para sa Pilipino, kumain ng malinis at ligtas na pagkain lamang upang maiwasan ang sakit na sanhi ng maruming pagkain at tubig. 
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Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain at nutrisyon, makipag-ugnayan kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837-29-34 or 837-20-71 loc. 2287, FNRI-DOST, email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph; website:http//www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso, FNRI-DOST S & T Media Service)
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Feature: Pregnant strongly advised: increase folate intake 
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Jake and Sylvia is a young couple from a depressed area and from poor families who thrive on “hand-to-mouth existence”. Amidst poverty, the two fell in love and vowed to stay together to raise a family.  
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After six months of being together, Sylvia experienced morning sickness and a visit to a nearby health center confirmed her condition. She is six weeks on the family way. Sylvia eagerly told Jake the good news and both excitedly waited for the coming of their new bundle of joy.  
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In less than eight months of pregnancy, however, Sylvia experienced contractions and was rushed to the hospital. Sylvia was brought to the operating room and gave birth to a baby boy. The baby, however, was unusually small, weak and pale. The couple’s happiness was short-lived, for the baby was diagnosed of anencephaly and died a few hours later.
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What is anencephaly and how can it be prevented?  
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Anencephaly is a kind of neural tube defect, often associated with inadequate folate intake and characterized by undeveloped brain. Babies with anencepahly are most likely to be stillborn and may die a few hours after birth.  
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What exactly is folate and what is its importance?  
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Folate is a water- soluble B-vitamin that occurs naturally in food. Folate came from the Latin word “folium” which means leaf. It is one of the nutrients that prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy.  
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Adequate folate intake during pregnancy protects the unborn child from neural tube defects. Neural tube defects result in malformations of the spine or spina bifida, skull, and brain mentioned before as anencephaly.
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Folate can be derived from green leafy vegetables, fruits like citrus and fruit juices, dried beans and peas. Whole grain and liver are likewise good sources of folate.
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It is a sad reality, however, that despite the relative accessibility of local vegetables to Filipinos, many pregnant women have high percentages of sub-normal values of serum folate (51.7 percent) and red cells (37.5 percent). These figures indicate an alarmingly high prevalence of folate deficiency, as shown by the 2003 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST).  
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The typical Filipino diet still lacks the needed nutrients for good health, more, especially for pregnant women who are carrying the seeds for a brighter future.
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For pregnant and pregnant wanna-be’s, mag-folate na! Give your babies a headstart in this competitive but wonderful world we live in. Folate for healthier babies and brighter future! 
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For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Ma. Susana O. Encarnacion, FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service) 
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Tagalog News: Sukat ng baywang, nakakaapekto sa kalusugan

Alam ba ninyo na bukod sa hindi kaaya-ayang tingnan ang malaking tiyan o bilbil ay may malaking epekto ito sa ating kalusugan?
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Maaaring maging isang indikasyon ng posibilidad na magkaroon ng sakit sa puso o diyabetis ang pagkakaroon ng higit sa normal na sukat ng baywang at balakang. 
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Dahil dito, inirerekomenda ng mga eksperto ang pagsukat ng baywang at balakang upang malaman kung ang isang tao ay sobra ang taba sa parte ng tiyan o android o apple-shaped obese.
Ang pagkakaroon ng sobrang taba, lalung-lalo na sa parte ng tiyan, ay nagdudulot ng mataas na lebel ng asukal, insulin, kolesterol at triglyceride sa dugo na siyang nagiging sanhi ng diyabetis, alta-presyon, atake sa puso o iba pang sakit.
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Ayon sa Interheart Study, isang pag-aaral na nakatuon sa cardiovascular diseases sa iba’t-ibang bansa sa buong mundo kabilang ang Pilipinas, inirerekomenda na ang sukat ng baywang ay hindi dapat lalampas sa 80 sentimetro o 31 pulgada para sa mga babae at 90 sentimetro o 35 pulgada para sa mga lalake.
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Kung kaya’t dapat pag-ingatan ang ating katawan para na rin sa kalusugan. Healthy na, sexy pa.
Ang impormasyong ito ay hatid sa inyo ng Food and Nutrition Research Institute ng Department of Science and Technology o FNRI-DOST, ang pangunahing ahensiya ng gobyerno sa pananaliksik sa pagkain at nutrisyon. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon at kaalaman sa pagkain at nutrisyon, sumulat o tumawag kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Direktor, FNRI-DOST sa kanyang email address: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph o mar_v_c@yahoo.com o sa telepono bilang 837-2934/837-3164. Maaari ding bisitahin ang FNRI website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Charina A. Javier, FNRI-DOST S & T Media Service)
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NFA open rice sales 
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Regional Director Gil Pepito B. Paqueo recently announced to all interested grains businessmen/millers/wholesalers/retailers/establishments that NFA will be accepting buyers for the sale of imported rice (VCCW91) 15% brokens at Php 1,175.00 per bag. Rice stocks are presently stored at NFA warehouses throughout the region.

RD Paqueo stressed that buyers should be licensed as retailer/wholesaler by NFA. Maximum quantity of five thousand (5,000) bags per purchase per buyer based on capitalization is allowed by the management.

He then urged the public to send their comments, suggestions, queries and complaints in case of rice diversion, rebagging and overpricing to NFA office at (085) 342-7898. 

The NFA’s rice inventory as of the first week of May was 974,790 bags. This was more than enough to meet region’s rice requirement for 31 days, based on the region’s daily requirement of 22,800 bags. (Christine S. Parinas, NFA/PIA-Caraga).