Digos City, and Davao del Sur and Davao Oriental Provinces [Archive] - Page 7

scarletwitch.wanda

June 27th, 2009, 05:30 AM

Billiton, local partner to drop suits over nickel row

By Othel V. Campos

BHP Billiton, the world’s biggest mining company, and local partner Asiaticus Management Corp. agreed to withdraw the legal suits they filed against each other over the $1.5-billion Pujada nickel mine in Davao Oriental, Environment Secretary Lito Atienza said over the weekend.

“This a major breakthrough after one year of talking to each company. It’s already a big step,” Atienza said, adding that the two companies had agreed to “start from a clean slate.”

The conflict between the Australian miner and Asiaticus stemmed from a misunderstanding on the ownership of the mine. The case reached a Singapore arbitration court but Asiaticus threatened to cancel the partnership when Billiton won the case.

Atienza said both companies had since agreed to renew the partnership and planned to finalize the details of ongoing negotiations in a neutral country, “possibly Singapore or Hong Kong.”

“They promised to renew their good relations and partnership that was on the throes of dissolution. I told them to immediately address their concerns and make their partnership work,” he said.

“BHP is staying on in the country, maintaining its partnership and interest in investing in the Philippines, which is really important. If I we’re not able to have them renegotiate, BHP will withdraw,” Atienza said.

The Pujada nickel mine, located in barangays Cabuaya and Macambol in the City of Mati, Davao Oriental, was originally covered by seven original mineral production and sharing agreements, which Asiaticus acquired from previous concessionaires.

BHP Billiton forged a joint venture agreement with Asiaticus in 2002 to develop the mine, which required investment of up $1.5 billion. Billiton assigned its rights to the joint venture to its subsidiaries, Hallmark Mining Corp. and Austral-Asia Philippines Mining Inc.

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=business2_june22_2009

hakz2007

June 28th, 2009, 05:06 AM

Naga council opposes local gov’t code change (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20090626-212599/Naga-council-opposes-local-govt-code-change)

By Jonas Cabiles Soltes
Inquirer Southern Luzon
First Posted 20:45:00 06/26/2009

Filed Under: Laws

NAGA CITY, Philippines -- The Naga City Council has passed a resolution strongly opposing a House bill seeking to amend the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act 7160) to allow several municipalities to become cities by exempting them from income requirement.

In the resolution, passed on June 16, the council said it was joining the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) in opposing the bill which it said discriminates against other local government units in favor the 16 municipalities that recently lost in the case “LCP versus the Commission on Election.”

In the case, the 16 municipalities argued that they should be exempted from the minimum income requirement to be a city because their charters had been approved by Congress before the Supreme Court nullified their elevation to the category of city in November last year.

The Naga City Council said the proposed amendment would violate the “equal protection clause under the 1987 Constitution” and would be a retroactive implementation of a law, which is in violation of Section 450 of Republic Act 7160.

It also noted that the 16 municipalities must comply first with the requirements provided under Section 450 of Republic act 7160 which states that to become a city, a municipality should have an annual income of at least P100 million.

It said that when the decision of the Supreme Court in the LCP vs Comelec case became final, Naga City, for instance, was notified that it was going to receive an IRA adjustment amounting to P42 million.

The cities reverted back to being municipalities and call themselves the "League of 16", which include Baybay (Leyte province), Bogo, Naga and Carcar (Cebu), Catbalogan and Borongan (Samar), Tandag (Surigao del Sur), Lamitan (Basilan), Tayabas (Quezon), Tabuk (Kalinga), Bayugan (Agusan del Sur), Batac (Ilocos Norte), Guihulngan (Negros Oriental), Cabadbaran (Agusan del Norte), El Salvador (Misamis Oriental), and Mati (Davao Oriental).

Dakpa ang akong tiil

June 28th, 2009, 03:29 PM

GO Mati City!

dinabaw

June 29th, 2009, 04:03 AM

Editorial - An important movement
Sunday, 28 June 2009 12:56
PDF
BY the end of 2009, a million new trees shall have been planted and cared for in various parts of Davao Oriental. By 2010, a total of two million trees shall have gone up and eventually reaching five million in 2011.
This ambitious, albeit doable tree-planting program called Million Trees Movement, was started last June 12 with the simultaneous planting of 200,000 trees along the 300-kilometer highway connecting the province’s 11 towns.
The synchronized multi-sectoral activity, timed with the country’s 111th Independence Day celebration, was led by Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon who was in the town of Banaybanay, particularly in Barangay Pintatagan where the governor likewise formally opened the Welcome Park.
The importance of the re-greening of Davao Oriental, where the region’s remaining timber stand is just about gone, cannot be gainsaid, to borrow a hackneyed term. Nobody can deny the role trees play in mitigating the horror of creeping global warming. No wonder, the formal launch was graced by the presence of Secretary Heherzon Alvarez, presidential adviser on climate change. Alvarez witnessed the covenant signing of Davao Oriental’s membership in the Carbon Cutting Coalition v. Climate Change.
The province’s commitment to the Coalition includes supporting national policies and enactment of ordinances for climate change mitigation and adaptation, and reduction of greenhouse gases through energy conservation, solid waste management, and stemming of deforestation by arresting and punishing violators. On top of these, Governor Malanyaon has launched a massive information campaign on climate change and what every citizen can do to mitigate it.
As carbon cutting coalition member, Davao Oriental has joined Cebu and Davao del Norte as provinces committed to the reduction of carbon emissions.
It’s too early to tell, but properly implemented, the re-greening program may yet be the best thing that ever happened to Davao Oriental.
But, of course, many Dabawenyos are probably wondering whether the families who got rich from the logging boom would join in the massive re-greening program not only in Davao but the entire country. These families are very much around and continue to wield economic and political power.
Guess who?

Edge Davao (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/newreply.php?do=postreply&t=517953)

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 2nd, 2009, 12:50 PM

DSWD conducts policy forum in Davao Sur
PIA Press Release

Digos City, Davao del Sur (1 July) -- "For this local policy forum, we have invited the LGU social workers, Sanggunian Chairpersons of the Social Services Committee and Vice Mayors of Davao del Sur to discuss our implementation of two vital laws," Director Ester Acebedo-Versoza of DSWD opened her message at the forum held in the city recently.

The forum likewise serves as one of the department's advocacy campaigns on Republic Act 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act of 2004) and Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2004), Acebedo-Versoza further said.

The forum also focused on The Joint DBM, NEDA, National Council on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) Circular 2004-01 or the 5% Allocation for Gender and Development which was presented by Jane B. Concepcion of NEDA.

Judge Rosalina Letrondo-Montejo of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Davao del Sur ran a review on the two Laws while Dr. Luz D. Ancheta, consultant on public administration and local governance, provided inputs on Public Policy Analysis as guide for participants in analyzing the local implementation of RA 9208 and RA 9262.

Nestor Estampa, head of DSWD Policy Development and Planning Unit, said most social workers revealed that families of victims lack interest to pursue cases of AVAWC and Anti-Trafficking due to financial constraints, further disruption on their lives, and fear of retaliation and harassment by perpetrators or violators.

"Participants proposed that victims as well as their families be extended legal assistance, livelihood opportunities, and alternative shelter or safe house to help them out during the crisis period," Estampa explained.

Estampa further said, sample ordinances on the two Laws were likewise presented to guide participants in crafting local ordinances but taking into account the unique conditions in their respective locality.

At the end of the one-day forum, participants drafted a Policy Action to respond to local issues akin to implementation of RA 9262 and RA 9208 which will form part of the ordinance or resolution for endorsement to their respective Sanggunian. Local resolutions and ordinances adopted by LGUs following the policy forum will be monitored by DSWD to determine status of implementation. (DSWD/degsduron/PIA XI)

scarletwitch.wanda

July 3rd, 2009, 10:23 AM

Manay-Boston road completion eyed by December

By Mai Gevera

Davao City (3 July) -- Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Director Yusop Ali has committed that the completion of the Manay-Boston Road would happen before the end of this year.

This is a project under the Surigao-Davao Coastal Road Project included in the Super Regions Project of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The Surigao-Davao Road Project covers 300 kilometers from Surigao City to the boundary town of Davao Oriental.

Davao Oriental First District Representative Nelson Dayanghirang announced in yesterday's 42nd Foundation Anniversary Program the expected date of completion of the said project.

"Our farmers can easily transport their goods especially now that municipalities of Davao Oriental are already connected to Surigao. This would translate to further development in our area," he said.

The Mati-Manay stretch in Davao Oriental was already completed last year.

Meanwhile, data from the DPWH showed that the Boston-Manay section is half complete; the Bislig-Boston section is now 60 percent complete; while the Marihatag-Hinatuan-Bislig is half complete.

Once completed, this road network would speed up the traveling time of tourists going to the coastal areas of Davao Oriental and it would also provide better transport access for the aquamarine products going to the market areas and processing facilities. (PIA XI)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090703.htm&no=06

scarletwitch.wanda

July 3rd, 2009, 10:24 AM

Davao Oriental officials push tax campaign

By Jean Duron-Abangan

Mati, Davao Oriental (3 July) -- While the national administration is batting the Congress' approval of revenue enhancement measures, provincial government leaders of Davao Oriental are also pushing ways to raise local income.

Provincial Vice Governor Mario Almario declared Wednesday during the 42nd Anniversary of Davao Oriental, a "war" of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan "against people who are not paying their taxes."

Almario discouraged municipal government units from passing a resolution to SP requesting for tax amnesty saying "I will see to it that that in SP, we will not support any tax amnesty."

"It is unfair for those paying their taxes," he said in his talk during the occasion. "It is giving rewards to those not paying their taxes," he added.

His strong calls for all Davao Oriental resident to religiously pay taxes came on the heels of reversion of Mati's citihood back to its municipality status after the courts had ruled out in favor of the League of Cities which claimed that Mati failed to reach P100 million local revenue, a level which would qualify a municipality to become a city.

As of 2008, Mati collected only about P60 million worth of local taxes.

Almario said SP under his leadership would be engaging in an active tax campaign so the provincial government would have resources to continue implementing plans and projects to further develop Davao Oriental.

Almario lamented that 40 percent of the 5,600 clients who went to his office last year didn't even have a community tax certificate which he requested them to show when asking for assistance.

He urged barangay captains to get at the frontline and push tax payment campaign. "Mga barangay kapitan, kinahanglang mangusog mo (the barangay captains should push hard) that each of your barangay-mates should pay community tax," he said.

The least community tax one can pay is P5.00 which Almario said "is so minimal" and that "it could not hurt" but would cause a habitual problem of not paying taxes if community folks won't be required to pay.

Almario cited a provision of a law deputizing barangay treasurers to collect taxes and fees at the barangay level while also allowing barangay governments to keep 50 percent of the collection.

He, however, stressed that barangays should remit to the municipal treasurer's office the rest of the collection otherwise their barangay treasurers would ceased to become deputized collection agents.

At the extreme, Almario was thinking of having the names of delinquent taxpayers published "so everybody would know that these guys are not contributing to the development of Davao Oriental."

The practice was done in Quezon City and in Muntinlupa, Almario said.

Meanwhile, Davao Oriental Provincial Governor Corazon Malanyaon bared the creation of a committee on finance which would have a task force to "concentrate on raising taxes and on imposing levies and fees.

Malanyaon wanted the provincial government to generate more local taxes other than what it had been getting from real property taxes.

In her State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered during the anniversary program, she revealed her thrusts to address development concerns regarding Davao Oriental -- among which is generating revenue.

She wanted to come up with other ways and means to raise local income, modify existing schemes and "strengthen the enforcement of these schemes"

"We will see to it that all revenues shall be utilized to programs and projects that would uplift the socio-economic (condition) of our people and create a favorable climate for business," she said.

Plans to rev up income is also a concern of the national administration which is also hoping that Congress would soon pass the revenue enhancing bills to generate additional income to fund for development projects of the government.

The Department of Finance (DOF) is proposing that sin taxes in the country be simplified, with the rates on tobacco products be cut in two tiers instead of the present four-tier in a bid to provide additional revenues of about P19 billion to P20 billion this year.

A bill filed at the House of Representatives early this year wants excise tax on machine-packed cigarettes to be a uniform P14 per pack but the rate would be adjusted automatically after two years. Another proposal is for a two-tier tax rate, one for high-priced brands and one of cheaper brands.

On the other hand, the telecommunication tax bill is eyed to bring in around P7 billion revenues for the government annually.

Under this proposal, a metering device linked to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) would be installed on telecommunication companies to capture their revenue stream.

DOF said the metering system on telecommunication entities provides an effective tool for the government's tax administration.

Meanwhile DOF eyes to collect around P5 billion from the implementation of Simplified Net Income Taxation Scheme (SNITS).

Under the Senate version of this measure, professionals and self-employed individuals have the option to deduct a uniform 40 percent from their gross sales or receipts to arrive at a taxable income subject to the income tax, instead of itemizing deductions. (PIA XI/JMDA)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090703.htm&no=05

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 4th, 2009, 08:58 AM

Davao Oriental targets rice sufficiency this year

By Mai Gevera

Davao City (4 July) -- This year, more farmers in Davao Oriental will be given additional incentives that will entice them to engage into rice farming.

Bared during the 42nd Foundation Anniversary Program, Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon announced her plan of pouring in more incentives to encourage farmers to plant rice.

She admitted that instead of utilizing the municipality of Banaybanay as the area for seed growership, she would also now tap more farmers for rice production as well.

"Not just Banaybanay as the very popular town for rice farming, we will start to look into the potentials of the East Coast to be developed as rice granary," Malanyaon said.

There is a total of 15,000 hectares potential for rice production in the east coast, however, only half of the area is said to be irrigated.

This pushed the provincial government to avail of a grant from the Mindanao Rural Development Program which will put up an irrigation system for at least 1,700 hectares of rice farm.

"We will be subsidizing farm inputs like fertilizer, palay seeds as well as technical assistance to our farmers for two seasons," she explained.

The province is aiming to reach rice sufficiency this year.

Malanyaon is optimistic on this target especially that the previous harvest season showed her an increased on yield by 20 percent as the province offered incentives to the farmers along with providing necessary agricultural and infrastructure requirements in rice farming.

scarletwitch.wanda

July 4th, 2009, 11:47 AM

Davao Oriental’s taxmen bank on computerization

MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL — Tax collection in Davao Oriental is expected to get a boost when its computerization program is completed within the year. In her speech during the 42nd founding anniversary of the province last Wednesday, Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon said the provincial government’s computerization project is now 41% done. Davao Oriental’s total financial resources this year, data from the Department of Budget and Management showed, is P817 million, with the internal revenue allotment from the National Government (NG) comprising P640 million. Provincial officials said local taxes collected would improve significantly under a computerized system. With the computerization, Ms. Malanyaon said, "We can be assured of the legitimacy of the accounts." "No one can ’doctor’ the result," she said, adding that this will be among the revenue generation mechanisms that the provincial government is implementing. She cited the need to be able to rely on internally generated funds, more than the NG doleout. — C. Q. Francisco

http://www.bworldonline.com/BW070409/content.php?id=053

scarletwitch.wanda

July 4th, 2009, 11:59 AM

http://www.manginasal.com/branch.html
http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/2623/manginasalsite.jpg

dinabaw

July 5th, 2009, 04:26 AM

Davao Or’s re-greening program
worth emulating nationwide
SO IT SEEMS
BY FLORENCIO A. RANIDO

The trail blazed by Governor Corazon Malanyaon of Davao Oriental—targeting to plant a million trees from the town of Banaybanay in the Davao Gulf area to the municipality of Boston in the province’s Pacific coast—is worth emulating not only by her peers from Batanes up north to Tawi-Tawi down south but by all heads of local government units nationwide.

Time was in the not-too-distant past when Mindanao was the envy of Luzon and the Visayas for its lush forests. Because of the abundance of centuries-old trees, specially in the southern parts of the country’s second biggest island, logging was one of Mindanao’s flourishing industries and among the island’s most lucrative employment-generating business ventures. Mindanao was the country’s main source of logs and lumber for exports.

But those halcyon days are only memories now. Due to intensive logging, both legal and illegal, many of the island’s mountains have been denuded, resulting in flashfloods in many areas and landslides in a few cases during heavy rains. If one travels overland from Davao City to Cagayan de Oro via Buda all that he sees on both sides of the highway are denuded hills and bald mountains, mute testimonies to indiscriminate logging operations exacerbated by kaingineros or slash-and-burn farmers.

The flashfloods that submerged some areas in the southern part of Davao City last Monday night in which among the hardest hit areas were Los Amigos in Tugbok District and barangay proper of Talomo and affected more than 6,000 families can only be due to one cause: the denudation of our forests .

The few remaining plywood plants in Mindanao are operating mainly on logs imported from neighboring Indonesia and from as far as Africa. Ironic, to say the least, because the Philippines, notably Mindanao, used to export round timber and lumber to Japan, Korea and Taiwan, to name a few countries, in the 50s, 60s and 70s.

A little over two decades ago, in an effort to re-green the once lush hills and mountains, the government through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and other related agencies, launched the reforestation program by planting fast-growing trees like gmelina and mahogany, among other varieties. Alas and alack, despite the passing of many years, we have yet to see positive results of the program.

The failure of the reforestation program can be traced to a number of factors foremost of which are the government’s half-hearted implementation of the re-greening efforts and the lack of support from local government units.

And so, Governor Malanyaon’s project to plant a million trees in denuded areas in Davao Oriental as part of the week-long preparations for the 42nd anniversary celebration of the founding of her province which culminated on the foundation day itself last July 1 is worth duplicating in other provinces of the country to reinvigorate the environment and reverse the effects of climate change as well.

In her anniversary message, Malanyaon said in part, “Matag yuta adunay tanom Tanoman ang kayutaan aron kini mabungahon ug ang matag pamilya magpuyo sa hayag nga kaugmaon.” (Every piece of land should have plants. Lands should be planted to make them fruitful and make each family live with a bright future.)

A heartening development insofar as the re-greening program is concerned was the massive planting of trees in northeastern and southern Mindanao during the nationwide celebration of Arbor Day last June 25. Led by top DENR officials in Region 13 (Caraga region) and Region 11 (Davao region), all concerned line government agencies in the two regions, non-government organizations, the academe, students , religious sectors, tree-plantation holders and farmers participated in the tree-planting activities.

We hope the project initiated by the lady governor of Davao Oriental and the massive tree planting in Butuan City and Davao City last week will serve as a wakeup call to all Filipinos, LGU officials in particular. During the authoritarian rule of Ferdinand Marcos, then First Lady Imelda Marcos (who incidentally turned 80 the other day) launched the “Green Revolution” program.

Unfortunately, like many government programs, Imelda’s brainchild died a natural death which was ignored during the administration of plain-housewife-installed-president-by-a-mob Cory Aquino who is now on the throes of death due to colon cancer. We hope the tree-planting activities in the Caraga and Davao regions could be the re-birth of the “Green Revolution” for if the program is not revived in earnest now it might be too late to do it, say, a decade or two from now.

—o0o—

Mindanao Daily Mirror (http://www.dailymirror.ph/July/opinion07042009&02.html)

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 6th, 2009, 04:54 AM

Mati Cocofiber Tech: From wastes to gold

By Ben O. Tesiorna

DAVAO Oriental has been known as the coconut capital of the country.
With thousands and thousands of hectares planted with coconut, the province also produces tons and tons of coconut husks, coco water and coco shells that are usually considered by coco farmers as "wastes."

But with the hard times, entrepreneurs of the province have come up with ways on how to turn these wastes into gold.

Now coming into the picture is the Mati Cocofiber Technology owned and operated by Davao Oriental Board member Eric Rabat. Just two years in the business, the youngest son of former governor and former Mati mayor Francisco G. Rabat said they discovered new uses of what used to be coco wastes and are earning from it.

Though their main product is coco fiber coming from the coconut husks, other byproducts of their production are the short coco fibers that are made into mattresses and pillows, as well as the coco dusts or coco peat that are used as growth medium or replacement for soil.

From wastes to gold

The process in making coco husks into fibers is very easy actually, with the help of the machines.

They usually buy husks from coco plantations and load them to a truck for transport to their main production plant in Dahican.

"We usually buy the coco husks from plantations at P200 per truck with an approximate content of 6,000 husks per load. We do the hauling na. Dati kasi ay sinusunog na lang nila yung mga coconut husks na ito," Rabat said.

The husks are then fed to a machine that grinds them to fibers. With a decorticating machine, the long fibers are separated from the short fibers and the coco peat.

The long fibers are then sun-dried before they are fed into a bailing machine that now compresses the long fibers and made into geo-textiles.

Geo-textiles are used as anti-soil erosion in many parts of world especially in China where Rabat usually exports his products.

Bio-organic foams and pillows

Rabat said there is a rising trend now in the modern industry on the use of organic materials.

Like for example in pillows and beds, he said there is a growing demand for coco short fibers as replacement for the foam.

"This is because coco fibers are organic at di basta-basta nasisira. It will really last long unlike the foam," Rabat said.

Rabat tapped a women organization in Dahican that would produce the pillows and mattresses out of the coco fibers.

He sells short coco fibers to the women's group at P4 per kilo. The fibers are then made into pillows and sold at P60 each. They call their product as Sanfran pillows because the women reside in Purok San Francisco.

Rabat said he started their pillow production in June 2009 and at present, they have already sold several. He said he plans to donate pillows to the provincial hospital as well.

Soon, they will go into production of mattresses.

Going strong

At present, the coco coir plant produces 50 tons per month of coco fibers. Rabat said their target is to produce 70 tons per month by the end of this year.

His plant employs 50 people, with most of them earning at least P200 per day.

Danilo Montebon, 47-years-old and a former tricycle driver, said he has been working with the coco coir plant for more than two years now. Back as a tricycle driver, he earned from a low of P50 to as high as P300 per day.

He said his work at the coir plant is way better than being a tricycle driver. With his wife's salary as a teacher and his combined, Montebon said they were able to support their six children to school.

Rabat said that during summer, they also employ students who wanted to earn money for their schooling.

He said he will be putting up another plant soon that will produce coco fertilizer. He said he already had forged an agreement with an interested partner that will give more jobs to more people.

Rabat said the coconut industry has been affected by many "uncontrollable" factors, especially so that there is a global economic crisis. He said that the only way to stabilize the coco industry is with the value added products.

bustero

July 7th, 2009, 12:21 PM

:cheers:

Monday, July 6, 2009 | MANILA, PHILIPPINES

BFAR, Mati to put up 345-hectare bangus farm

MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the municipal government will set up a 345-hectare mariculture park.

George G. Campeon, regional director of the Fisheries agency, said in an interview late last week that about 100 hectares of the planned park will be devoted to bangus production. "The area is ideal for bangus-growing since its waves are not big," Mr. Campeon said.

Richard L. Villacorte, local government administrator, said BFAR and the local government will jointly invest P10 million in three years to develop the area.

Part of the fund will be used for mooring systems, including ropes to delineate the area since the plan is to divide the park into three parts.

The local government already has a pilot fish cage of bangus in the area which has yielded P895,000 worth of harvest from a P600,000 investment. "We tried first to find out if the area is suitable for a mariculture park," Mr. Villacorte said.

Mr. Villacorte said the first part of the park will be set aside for small fisherfolk and for groups that want to conduct studies. "We want to invest considering that they [fisherfolk] are also our engine of growth," he said, explaining that they will be trained on how to manage fish cages.

The second zone of the park will be devoted to small private investors. The third zone will be devoted to big investments by companies that will have bigger fish cages, he added.
Initially, an investor needs about P500,000 in capital for a 10-meter by 10-meter fish cage, with P250,000 to be used in setting the fish cage, while a similar amount to buy feeds. — C. Q. Francisco

http://bworld.com.ph/BW070609/content.php?id=056

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 10th, 2009, 04:27 AM

Core shelter assistance program realizes dreams of homeless families in Mati

By Neela Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (10 July) -- Complementing the provincial and local officials' developmental agenda for the constituents of Davao Oriental, Congresswoman Thelma Z. Almario of the second district of the province, with the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWD) initiated a housing program for the marginalized sector in the city, dubbed as Core Shelter Assistance Project, (CSAT).

The move is also in response to the persistent request of the local government of Mati, through the Housing and Resettlement Office, as the officials are now on the third part of their development agenda, health care being the first, and education as their second thrust.

"We are happy that there was a unanimous meeting of minds, as to the intention of providing the need of shelter for the homeless families," beamed Marikit Franco-Quiñones, Head of the Housing and Resettlement office.

As yet, five housing units have been completed, part of the 15 housing units in the initial phase of the shelter program locally dubbed as "Magpanday Ta" housing program, and the work continues for the remaining ten units.

The 15 housing units composed the initial phase of the project, funded by the allocation Congresswoman Thelma Almario.

It is expected to be completed in the next forty five days.

Once completed, 40 more houses are to rise in the project site in Guang-Guang, Mati, the site also of the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology, (DOSCST).

The forty housing units targets a November 2009 completion.

The housing program embodies a 120 square meter lot size, ph 70t cost of materials, with a single detached and row house with 4 units' schemes, as approved by the Dept. of Social Welfare and Services.

"What we are doing is a ministry, as we are bent on addressing the needs of the poor. And in this housing program, we will build partners. We want institutions who are experienced, or experts on this to work with us. We have the likes of Gawad Kalinga and Habitat for Humanity. We will expand the program, from the town, city, district and the province," Almario said in an orientation briefing regarding the program.

The seed money of 1 million and 50 thousand for the housing program came from the congressional allocation of Almario, with counterpart from the DSWD of 2.8 million pesos, and the sites of the program have been identified and provided as the counterpart of the local government unit.

However, the beneficiaries will also have their share of the program, through their labor.

"The beneficiaries should not stop helping each other to really come up with their dream houses. As I them at work, I see the excitement, the fun, the brotherhood. Needless to say, what will be built is a labor of love," stressed Virgie Almaida, Municipal Social Welfare Officer of Mati.

The beneficiaries will pay a very affordable amount monthly, based from the monthly amortization of beneficiaries of the other housing program of the city government, in utmost consideration to their capacity to pay.

In the orientation briefing for the said program, Almario expeditiously got the commitment or pledges of support from the attendees and from the members of the core group for the program.

She got the pledge of support from the Dept. of Public Works and Highways, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang Bayan, Association of Barangay Captains, among others.

The District Representative, in behalf of the Almario family and the Rural Bank of Mati, Inc. pledged to shoulder the cost of two housing units.

Almario also emphasized that the local government have to put the beneficiaries in places conducive to raise a good family.

"But most importantly, we have to ensure the necessity of health and sanitation are instilled among the beneficiaries, and also the beneficiaries has to be evangelized on values," she added.

Mayor Michelle Rabat commended the District Representative for the initiative and expressed gratitude for the dreams of her constituents now and soon to be materialized.

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 10th, 2009, 04:36 AM

"Five Stars" still best combination in Davao Oriental

By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (10 July) -- She was vibrant and bubbly as ever, when the Media Relations Office of Mati talked to her very recently. Amid speculations of a possible political break-up, but Mayor Michelle Rabat exudes with confidence that the "Five Stars" to date, remains the best political combination there is in the history of Davao Oriental's local politics.

"Vice-Governor Mayo Almario expressed it well in the last 42nd Araw ng Davao Oriental celebration. We are on status quo. The same people will be running in the same position. Of course, we are in a democratic country, and as long as qualified, anybody can run in the coming 2010 elections. You cannot stop the people from thinking, and you cannot stop them from having their own opinion," said Mayor Michelle Rabat.

The Mayor boasts of their coalition's direction, though not perfect, but definitely pursuing the right track.

"We are happy with the set-up, we support each other. We are united, and once unity prevails, there is peace. We have set our goals not only for ourselves but for the people whom we promised to serve, and that is far more important," she added.

Rabat also attributes the harmonious relationship of the party to their open communication line, thus, overcoming barriers to any possible misunderstanding.

As a neophyte politician, Mayor Michelle Rabat admits she learns a lot from Vice-Mayor Cesar "Titing" de Erio.

"Willingly, he gives advices, and since he has been in politics longer than I am, really get inputs from him," she explained.

Rabat furthers that she competes with herself, to emerge better, stronger, and more determined.

She is also too cognizant that in politics, it's the public who lets out the final say.

"It's the people who will judge you, if you satisfy them with your performance, or if it not good enough for them," the Mayor uttered, as she concedes to whatever the decision of the people will be on judgment day.

Gov. Corazon Malanyaon, Vice-Governor Mayo Almario, Congresswoman Thelma Almario, Mayor Michelle Rabat, and Vice-Mayor Cesar de Erio composed the "five stars" of Davao Oriental's politics, conceptualized and put to life in the last 2007 election.

The five starts made a sweeping history in the last election, beating their respective opponents by a wide margin.

Never in the history of Davao Oriental that such political climate is experienced and enjoyed by the populace.

And in the 2010 elections, history is bound to repeat itself, as the glitters of the five stars just keeps on, in the name of public service.

scarletwitch.wanda

July 11th, 2009, 06:01 AM

Drug test ordinance envisions drug-free Davao Oriental

By Neela G. Duallo

City of Mati, Davao Oriental (8 July) -- The 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental, through Vice-Gov. Mayo Almario approved on it's third and final reading, the mandatory drug test ordinance for the province of Davao Oriental, after strongly pushing what can be considered a landmark ordinance, which requires all personnel of the province, elected officials, permanent, casual, co-terminus, contractual, consultancy, and job order status to submit to mandatory drug test.

In authoring the ordinance, Almario reiterated that the ordinance is intended to stop the drug menace in the province.

"Nobody can get rid of this, nobody is exempted, and as stipulated in the ordinance, everybody in the government service has to undergo the mandatory drug test. This will prove that no one is above the law. And this now becomes a yearly requirement," he said.

Under the ordinance, the drug test will be done at an unannounced time.

If one is proven positive with drugs, the individual will undergo an investigation that will determine the possible cause of the drug test result.

Dr. Victorio Cubero explained that there can be attributing factors to the positive result, for example, the individual might have taken some drugs or medicines before the drug test.

The drug dependent will be then referred to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for appropriate actions, and as stated in the ordinance, termination from work befits them, if the dependent is not a regular employee.

The ordinance also said that those proven to be drug users will undergo rehabilitation for six months, with the employer to shoulder the rehabilitation expenses.

After completing the six months rehabilitation, he can re-apply for work, and it is now the prerogative of the employer to consider the application, depending on the need of his service.

"I see no problem on the implementation of the ordinance. I see no problem with the implementation, even in the financial aspect, because the provincial government has allotted a budget for its anti-drug campaign," Almario explained.

The Mandatory Drug Test ordinance author is also hoping that the ordnance will be adopted even in the 183 barangays of the province, and other provinces in the country.

The 12th Sanggunaing Panlalawigang Presiding Officer furthered that this has to be a concerted, collaborative effort with the schools, the government, the business and private sector, as we gear towards one direction.

"We need to make this work in our desire for a drug-free Davao Oriental, and yes, a drug-free Philippines," he added.

Based from the Dangerous Drugs Act, the mandatory drug test also serves as a pre-requisite for job application.

After the mandatory drug test bill, Vice-Governor Almario is to author another ordinance, an ordinance prohibiting the sale of soft drinks and junk foods 100 meters away from every school.

"Needless to say, this is to instill to the minds of the students the importance of good health, that will ensure a conducive study atmosphere and attitude," he concluded. (CIO-Dvo.Or)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090708.htm&no=06

scarletwitch.wanda

July 11th, 2009, 06:02 AM

Mati folks reject mining operation in Davao Oriental
Monday, July 06, 2009 11:42:06 AM

DAVAO ORIENTAL, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / July 6, 2009) – Filipino environmentalists marched on Monday to protest continued mining operations in the southern Philippine province of Davao Oriental.

The protesters, led by a multi-sectoral group called Kabukiran, Kapatagan, Kadagatan Panalipdi (KKKP), said the mining operations caused pollution, flash floods and landslides in the town of Mati.

Fishermen and peasants and interfaith groups also joined the protest dubbed as “Baktas Katawhan Para sa Kinaiyahan.” They were protesting against the operation of the Bearbull Mining, Inc. in the village of Dawan. The environmental rights network PANALIPDAN-Southern Mindanao Region also participated in the march.

Gil Gentiles, KKKP chairperson, said that the mining operations started without prior consultations with the people of the affected communities.

“These hazards would also cause destruction to agricultural lands and protected area of Pujada Bay,” Gentiles said.

Sister Stella Matutina, head of the Saint Scholastica’s Institute Education to Faith and Integral Development based in Mati town, said the “Baktas Katawhan Para sa Kinaiyahan” is a unity walk for the protection, justice and integrity of creation particularly aimed to stop all destructive mining and logging operations in Mati.

“The whole world continues to feel the effects of global warming and climate change. It is a good news that there are still many people who continue to spread consciousness and awareness of the need to uphold the integrity of creation through different forms such as forest conservation, proper waste management, sustainable-organic-bio-diversified farming and strong opposition to destructive logging and mining,” she said.

Francis Morales, PANALIPDAN-SMR spokesperson, urged the provincial government to listen and take action on the just calls and demands of the citizens.

There was no immediate statement from the mining firm about the accusations.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20090705234206

scarletwitch.wanda

July 11th, 2009, 06:03 AM

scarletwitch.wanda

July 11th, 2009, 06:04 AM

Fight still on despite decrease in malnutrition cases in Davao Oriental

By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (8 July) -- Gov. Corazon Malanyaon took pride in recognizing the efforts of the Provincial Nutrition Office in the campaign against malnutrition, as malnutrition cases in the province dropped from 15-16% to 9-10%, based on the evaluation made after the Operation Timbang done by the Provincial Nutrition Office.

The Governor is also happy with the reports that aside from the Lady Mayors, even the gentlemen Mayors in the Province had their focus also on the fight against malnutrition, making the malnutrition fight not just a matter to be addressed by the women or ladies.

"It is very remarkable, as we do not expect that these gentlemen Mayors really went out of their way to check on the malnutrition status in their respective areas," she said.

The Governor revealed that they have a target mark in the campaign against malnutrition, of which the competition is very stiff.

After Boston, Gov. Malanyaon is happy with the Municipality of Cateel, where she lauded Cateel because of their successful fight against malnutrition.

"Before, Cateel is one of the municipalities who has many cases of malnutrition, but now, among the 11 municipalities in the province, Cateel is now second to the last in as far as malnutrition cases is concerned. it has hit the desired percentage of knocking out malnutrition," she added.

Malanyaon stressed that the Mayors were really motivated because she always reminds them of those thrust, and their standing and participation to the said thrusts. She made them realize how they stand in malnutrition, in the access to comfort rooms, and other indicators.

While malnutrition cases in Davao Oriental remarkably dropped for the year 2008, but the Provincial Nutrition Office says this still needs focus, to really achieve the goal which is to minimize and eventually eradicate malnutrition.

As such, the supplemental feeding program of the provincial government also stands still.

Supplemental feeding of the Nutrition Office starts with giving input to mothers on proper nutrition, deworming of children, and feeding the children with nutritious foods.

Different nutritious menu were prepared for the feeding program.

The Provincial Nutrition Office also maintains the Provincial Nutri-Village, composed of six cottages that serve as refuge for malnourished patients, mostly children.

The provincial government shoulders the expenses of the rehabilitation, including the medicines, vitamins, and food of the patients, and nutrition education for the watchers.

"We have to show real concern; we have to use our resources, in this fight against hunger. All we need is to plant; we are blessed with healthy soil, and a good climate. So if we will only work, we can do wonders, we can solve the problem," the Governor Malanyaon explained.

The Governor even hurled the challenge of staying healthy.

"It is not expensive to be healthy. Just give attention to it. The programs are introduced to achieve good health, so let us continue working on this cause, and for the other programs of the provincial government," she concluded.

Governor Malanyaon also gives credit to the Municipal Nutrition Action Officers, the barangay health workers, and the barangay nutrition scholars for being such enormous part in the fight against malnutrition. (CIO-Dvo.Or)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090708.htm&no=07

tc9

July 12th, 2009, 04:25 PM

I hope to visit soon ... :)

dinabaw

July 13th, 2009, 07:06 AM

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/8168/37130601828c15c3f69ao.jpg

scarletwitch.wanda

July 18th, 2009, 08:37 AM

Health top priority for Davao Oriental

By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (16 July) -- Governor Corazon Malanyaon still believes that the right to life is a basic human right, and as yet, momentum still remains high for the provincial government through the Integrated Provincial Health Office in Davao Oriental, as the expansion of the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital is about to start in August, and as the provincial government is untiringly making true to its commitment of uplifting the health services for the people in the province.

Governor Corazon Malanyaon explained that the expansion of the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital takes time because of the procedures that has to be followed.

The hospital expansion is worth ph80 million.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Malintad revealed that they are working first on the rehabilitation of the 3-storey hospital building, so they can use the ground floor as an "Emergency Room, and patients can already be transferred to the newly renovated building.

However, the project is bound to materialize with the resourcefulness of Gov. Corazon Malanyaon in looking for funds for the said ambitious, yet doable project.

Governor Malanyaon was able to source out funds from Sen. Manny Villar, Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, PAGCOR, Office of the President, and Congressman Nelson Dayanghirang, among others.

With the expansion, the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital will be operation on a 200-bed capacity, addressing the influx of hundreds of patients coming to the hospital everyday.

"We also provided our district hospitals with enough allocation for medicines and supplies, while increasing their work force," said Gov. Malanyaon.

Last week, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Risuldo Malintad called for a workshop for all Chief of Hospitals in the four district hospitals of the Province.

The "Project Proposals for Hospital Equipments Workshop" served as an avenue for all concerned to come up with a collaborative proposal to be submitted to the Department of Health.

The group of Dr. Risuldo Malintad, Dr. Rail Failma, Chief of Hospital of Lupon District Hospital, OIC Chief of Hospital Dr. Kareza Mae Go of Governor Generoso District Hospital, Dr. Napoleon Basoc of Manay District Hospital, and Dr. Modesto Veroy of Cateel District Hospital, successfully came up with a proposal on upgrading health facilities and on upgrading the rural health units in the province.

"We have to make this so as to justify our request to the Dept. of Health for the said purpose," said Dr. Risuldo Malintad.

Earlier, Manay and Cateel District Hospital received financial assistance from the Department of Health.

Manay District Hospital received 1.5M financial assistance for the purchase of more equipment, and Cateel District Hospital also got 1.5M, still for the purchase of equipment, and another 2.5M for the infrastructure works in the district hospital.

Chief of Hospitals Dr. Napoleon V. Basoc of Manay District Hospital, and Dr. Modesto Veroy, Jr. of Cateel District Hospitals expressed gratitude for the assistance.

The assistance from the Dept. of Health is an aftermath of the provincial government's relentless efforts in addressing the health needs of the constituents, the top priority of Gov. Corazon Malanyaon. (DXHM–Mati)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090716.htm&no=09

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:02 PM

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:06 PM

Davao Oriental officials push tax campaign By Jean Duron-Abangan Mati, Davao Oriental (3 July) -- While the national administration is batting the Congress' approval of revenue enhancement measures, provincial government leaders of Davao Oriental are also pushing ways to raise local income. Provincial Vice Governor Mario Almario declared Wednesday during the 42nd Anniversary of Davao Oriental, a "war" of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan "against people who are not paying their taxes." Almario discouraged municipal government units from passing a resolution to SP requesting for tax amnesty saying "I will see to it that that in SP, we will not support any tax amnesty." "It is unfair for those paying their taxes," he said in his talk during the occasion. "It is giving rewards to those not paying their taxes," he added. His strong calls for all Davao Oriental resident to religiously pay taxes came on the heels of reversion of Mati's citihood back to its municipality status after the courts had ruled out in favor of the League of Cities which claimed that Mati failed to reach P100 million local revenue, a level which would qualify a municipality to become a city. As of 2008, Mati collected only about P60 million worth of local taxes. Almario said SP under his leadership would be engaging in an active tax campaign so the provincial government would have resources to continue implementing plans and projects to further develop Davao Oriental. Almario lamented that 40 percent of the 5,600 clients who went to his office last year didn't even have a community tax certificate which he requested them to show when asking for assistance. He urged barangay captains to get at the frontline and push tax payment campaign. "Mga barangay kapitan, kinahanglang mangusog mo (the barangay captains should push hard) that each of your barangay-mates should pay community tax," he said. The least community tax one can pay is P5.00 which Almario said "is so minimal" and that "it could not hurt" but would cause a habitual problem of not paying taxes if community folks won't be required to pay. Almario cited a provision of a law deputizing barangay treasurers to collect taxes and fees at the barangay level while also allowing barangay governments to keep 50 percent of the collection. He, however, stressed that barangays should remit to the municipal treasurer's office the rest of the collection otherwise their barangay treasurers would ceased to become deputized collection agents. At the extreme, Almario was thinking of having the names of delinquent taxpayers published "so everybody would know that these guys are not contributing to the development of Davao Oriental." The practice was done in Quezon City and in Muntinlupa, Almario said. Meanwhile, Davao Oriental Provincial Governor Corazon Malanyaon bared the creation of a committee on finance which would have a task force to "concentrate on raising taxes and on imposing levies and fees. Malanyaon wanted the provincial government to generate more local taxes other than what it had been getting from real property taxes. In her State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered during the anniversary program, she revealed her thrusts to address development concerns regarding Davao Oriental -- among which is generating revenue. She wanted to come up with other ways and means to raise local income, modify existing schemes and "strengthen the enforcement of these schemes" "We will see to it that all revenues shall be utilized to programs and projects that would uplift the socio-economic (condition) of our people and create a favorable climate for business," she said. Plans to rev up income is also a concern of the national administration which is also hoping that Congress would soon pass the revenue enhancing bills to generate additional income to fund for development projects of the government. The Department of Finance (DOF) is proposing that sin taxes in the country be simplified, with the rates on tobacco products be cut in two tiers instead of the present four-tier in a bid to provide additional revenues of about P19 billion to P20 billion this year. A bill filed at the House of Representatives early this year wants excise tax on machine-packed cigarettes to be a uniform P14 per pack but the rate would be adjusted automatically after two years. Another proposal is for a two-tier tax rate, one for high-priced brands and one of cheaper brands. On the other hand, the telecommunication tax bill is eyed to bring in around P7 billion revenues for the government annually. Under this proposal, a metering device linked to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) would be installed on telecommunication companies to capture their revenue stream. DOF said the metering system on telecommunication entities provides an effective tool for the government's tax administration. Meanwhile DOF eyes to collect around P5 billion from the implementation of Simplified Net Income Taxation Scheme (SNITS). Under the Senate version of this measure, professionals and self-employed individuals have the option to deduct a uniform 40 percent from their gross sales or receipts to arrive at a taxable income subject to the income tax, instead of itemizing deductions. (PIA XI/JMDA)

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:06 PM

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:08 PM

Drug test ordinance envisions drug-free Davao Oriental By Neela G. Duallo Mati, Davao Oriental (8 July) - The 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental, through Vice-Gov. Mayo Almario approved on it's third and final reading, the mandatory drug test ordinance for the province of Davao Oriental, after strongly pushing what can be considered a landmark ordinance, which requires all personnel of the province, elected officials, permanent, casual, co-terminus, contractual, consultancy, and job order status to submit to mandatory drug test. In authoring the ordinance, Almario reiterated that the ordinance is intended to stop the drug menace in the province. "Nobody can get rid of this, nobody is exempted, and as stipulated in the ordinance, everybody in the government service has to undergo the mandatory drug test. This will prove that no one is above the law. And this now becomes a yearly requirement," he said. Under the ordinance, the drug test will be done at an unannounced time. If one is proven positive with drugs, the individual will undergo an investigation that will determine the possible cause of the drug test result. Dr. Victorio Cubero explained that there can be attributing factors to the positive result, for example, the individual might have taken some drugs or medicines before the drug test. The drug dependent will be then referred to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for appropriate actions, and as stated in the ordinance, termination from work befits them, if the dependent is not a regular employee. The ordinance also said that those proven to be drug users will undergo rehabilitation for six months, with the employer to shoulder the rehabilitation expenses. After completing the six months rehabilitation, he can re-apply for work, and it is now the prerogative of the employer to consider the application, depending on the need of his service. "I see no problem on the implementation of the ordinance. I see no problem with the implementation, even in the financial aspect, because the provincial government has allotted a budget for its anti-drug campaign," Almario explained. The Mandatory Drug Test ordinance author is also hoping that the ordnance will be adopted even in the 183 barangays of the province, and other provinces in the country. The 12th Sanggunaing Panlalawigang Presiding Officer furthered that this has to be a concerted, collaborative effort with the schools, the government, the business and private sector, as we gear towards one direction. "We need to make this work in our desire for a drug-free Davao Oriental, and yes, a drug-free Philippines," he added. Based from the Dangerous Drugs Act, the mandatory drug test also serves as a pre-requisite for job application. After the mandatory drug test bill, Vice-Governor Almario is to author another ordinance, an ordinance prohibiting the sale of soft drinks and junk foods 100 meters away from every school. "Needless to say, this is to instill to the minds of the students the importance of good health, that will ensure a conducive study atmosphere and attitude," he concluded. (CIO-Dvo.Or)

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:11 PM

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:12 PM

Davao Oriental optimistic of Mt. Hamiguitan inclusion in World Heritage list By Neela G. Duallo Mati, Davao Oriental (16 July) -- With the series of nominations that UNESCO Philippines made for Mt. Hamiguitan in the municipality of San Isidro as a heritage site, Davao Oriental is hoping to obtain the honor. Needless to say, the local government of San Isidro is at the peak of excitement, as the recognition will add and reaffirm that indeed, Mt. Hamiguitan is the tourist destination to beat. Former San Isidro Municipal Mayor and now Board Member Tina Yu of the Second District of Davao Oriental is all high hopes for Mt. Hamiguitan. "We are now preparing new requirements to be submitted to Unesco. And I am happy with the nomination, and we can be the happiest constituents if Mt. Hamiguitan will be duly recognized as a heritage site because this will mean that our efforts to preserve it's unique biodiversity is successful because once recognized as a heritage site, Mt, Hamiguitan will now become a property of the world," she beamed. Indeed, there's no stopping Davao Oriental in pursuing an aggressive tourism promotion, particularly for Mt. Hamiguitan of San Isidro. Endowed with the vastness of one thousand hectares and the mystique of it's 2 to 3 feet tall-century-old trees, the Pygmy Forest in Mt. Hamiguitan was chosen as the brand mark of Davao Oriental, in a Stakeholder's Forum on November 7, 2007. Mt. Hamiguitan offers many beautiful sites. And it can give the best destination package for the province. From the peak of the mountain, one can see the Pujada Bay, Sleeping Dinosaur Island, the Pacific Ocean, Davao Gulf, and from within one can see the Pygmy Forest with the centuries old bonsai plants, and Tinagong Dagat, a lake that has remained it's mystery as it dwells hidden in the mountain. Gov. Corazon Malanyaon has high hopes that Mt. Hamiguitan will make it, and will put Davao Oriental in the map of tourism wonders. In making Mt. Hamiguitan as the brand mark of Davao Oriental. Gov. Corazon Malanyaon said that it's now time to make use of the abundance, of whatever that is there for the province, and to introduce Davao Oriental to the rest of the country and to the world. "There is no politics here. On the marketing side, we really have to think of what is it in Davao Oriental that would the lure visitors and tourists to come for a visit, and what is its uniqueness," the Governor explained. She further said that others that were suggested to be the landmark of the province can also be found elsewhere in the world, but you cannot find another pygmy forest in other places. San Isidro Mayor Apolinar Ruelo was elated with the big opportunity given to their place through Mt. Hamiguitan. He has prioritized local tourism promotion in his agenda, to live up to the expectations now that Mt. Hamiguitan symbolizes the province of Davao Oriental, and about to become a heritage site. 'Mt. Hamiguitan majestically stands at 5, 345 feet above sea level, and looks like a huge vegetable garden in the middle of the jungle, and has become the favorite camping site of local and foreign tourists, mountain climbers, and adventurous people. It became Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary by virtue of Republic Act No. 9303 authored by then Congressman and now Davao Oriental Vice-Governor Mayo Almario. (N. Duallo/PIA XI)

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:14 PM

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:15 PM

ang gaganda ng mga programa sa Davao Oriental. Mapapakinabangan talaga ng mga constituents. Kudos!

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:15 PM

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/8168/37130601828c15c3f69ao.jpg

nice majorettes....

hakz2007

July 18th, 2009, 04:16 PM

Welcome to Davao Oriental Province Thread 2.

Keep posting, friends!

davaob4now

July 18th, 2009, 05:07 PM

hello Davao Oriental... :wave:

it doesnt matter if city ang mati or not as long as may improvements ang nangyari, nangyayari at mangyayari sa mati...:)

hakz2007

July 19th, 2009, 07:14 AM

Link to

Davao Oriental Province Thread 1 (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=517953)

dinabaw

July 19th, 2009, 07:21 AM

well why not include Mati ? as long as it doesn't attached "city"... Mati is the provincial capital of Davao Oriental.

and afaik those cities doesn't have the namesake of their provinces should have the decency to exclude "city", it's just show how ignorant some folks here.

hakz2007

July 19th, 2009, 08:21 AM

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 20th, 2009, 03:58 AM

P3.6B worth of infra projects underway

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Director for Region XI Osop L. Ali disclosed that some 95 projects of the Arroyo Administration are being undertaken by the regional office, which are expected to be completed by 2010.

Included in this lineup are the the President’s SONA (State of the Nation) projects: the Improvement and Construction of Kapalong-Talaingod-Valencia road in Davao del Norte; and the Rehablitation and Improvement along Surigao-Davao Coastal road (Manay-Boston) in Mati, Davao Oriental.

The projects, with an allocation of some P3.6-billion, were distributed to the eight DPWH Engineering offices while about 16 projects are being implemented by the regional office.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was here Friday, has committed to develop Mindanao by undertaking a massive road development program that will increase transport mobility and accessibility within and outside the island-community.

Together with the President was DPWH Secretary Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., who told his staff in an informal meeting that the ongoing road projects will help turn aspirations for a robust Philippine economy into a reality.

“We are trying our utmost best to finish all pump-priming projects of the President as scheduled and if God permits, we are positive that we can make it,” Director Ali said.

“As ordered by Secretary Ebdane, we are putting our efforts into doing not only what is programmed for today but also for tomorrow. We are here to do our jobs, and as much as possible, I want my men to achieve more than expected, and try to achieve the highest efficiency,” he added.

dinabaw

July 22nd, 2009, 08:23 AM

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/1235/matidavorfishkids.jpg
FISHERKIDS. This picturesque scene in Mati, Davao Oriental almost makes one forget that hauling fish is very hard manual labor, hardly suitable for these young boys who should be deep in school work, instead of knee-deep in salt water. (AKP images)

dinabaw

July 22nd, 2009, 03:09 PM

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/5118/pasigoversview.jpg
Pasig Island, Davao del Sur

Hirono-kun

July 22nd, 2009, 04:22 PM

Ships ride out global economic storm by dropping anchor in Malalag Bay

by Froilan Gallardo
MindaNews
Tuesday, 02 June 2009

MALALAG, Davao del Sur -- The towering hulls of the ships are visible in Malalag Bay and even from the small sari-sari store where Toto Paller sells cold softdrinks and foodstuff to local fishermen.

The ships have been emptied of containers and their hulls are visibly higher in the water. They are not to load cargo or would be loaded with containers. For now, the ships are going nowhere. They have been parked here by their owners to ride out the worst economic storm that has hit world shipping.

Twenty three ships, each capable of carrying 45,000 to 59,000 dead weight tons of cargo, have been in “cold lay-up,” without crew, in Malalag Bay since December last year, according to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt14/Jheaux/Around%20Davao/02malalag3.jpg
At least 22 ships, mostly container ships,
have sought refuge in Malalag Bay since December 2008
after their owners decided to lay them up amid the global recession.
MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

"We do not know how long they will be here. They just arrived here suddenly. We woke up and they were here," the 47-year-old Paller pointed at the direction of the ships that anchored off-shore.

Malalag Bay, located 30 miles south-southwest of Davao City, on the southwestern side of Davao Gulf, has been declared as a marine sanctuary by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Bernardo Monarca, ship lay-up specialist of Marina Davao said nobody knows how long the ships will be staying.

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt14/Jheaux/Around%20Davao/02malalag2fisher.jpg
Fisherman's boat passes by huge container ship.
MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

He said recent downturn in the economy had dampened the global cargo market forcing owners to berth their ships in ports with lower fees.

A MARINA circular issued in 2005, said lay-up fees cost $91 a day for a 50,000-deadweight ton (DWT) ship, $104 for vessels between 50,000 DWT and 150,000 DWT, and $117 for vessels over 150,000 DWT.

As the global market plummets, Monarca said Philippine coast lines have suddenly become attractive to owners who are looking for a place where they can cheaply stash their vessels.

“Malalag Bay has definite advantages. It is not on the typhoon path. There are no security threats. It ‘s deep bay is suited for these vessels,” Monarca told MindaNews.

He said Malalag Bay can accommodate 100 more of these ocean-going container ships and 14 more are scheduled to arrive this month.

Monarca said another ship company is also planning to anchor 100 bulkers and cargo ships at Pujada Bay in Davao Oriental.
http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt14/Jheaux/Around%20Davao/02malalag5.jpg
For only 91 US dollars a day, ships riding out the economic
storm have sought refuge in Malalag Bay since December 2008.
MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

Under international shipping guidelines, ship owners have three schemes in laying up their ships: a cold lay-up calls for all crew members to disembark and stop the engines during the mooring period, while a hot lay-up employs a complete set of crew onboard while a ship stays moored for lack of business. A third option, according to experts, is cutting down the ship’s operation by at least 50 percent to save on cost.

Monarca said the ship owners in Malalag Bay exercised the cold lay-up option and have hired a Manila-based company, Asia Pacific Chartering Company, to service their vessels.

He said the Asia Pacific Chartering Company has deployed armed security guards on board the vessels and have warned local fishermen in Malalag not to go close to the moored ships.

In its website, Asia Pacific Chartering Company said the area where the ships are moored in Malalag Bay is four miles long and one mile wide and can accommodate ships “without size limit.”

The company also said their operations and the bay have been approved by Lloyds Underwriters

“It is Southeast Asia's Most Secure and Strategic Typhoon-Free Lay-up Facility,” the firm’s website said.

Paller and other residents at the Malalag port do not mind that foreign vessels have sought refuge in their bay to escape the global economic storm.

But because the owners opted for a cold lay-up for their ships, most of the ships’ crew immediately left after the vessels arrived in Malalag Bay.

“We do not even get too see their crew. They immediately get ferried to the Davao airport and flown back home. They do not even stay here long enough to drink beer,” Paller said.

The municipal government of Malalag is not amused by the presence of these ships in their backyard.

“We were not even informed. We were just as surprised when these huge ships started arriving,“ Ronaldo Salvilla, Malalag planning development officer said.

As the local government scrambled for answers, Salvilla said they learned that Marina did not allocated shares of the anchorage earnings to the affected municipalities.

Salvilla said the ships have occupied the municipal waters of the towns of Sulop, Malalag and Santa Maria in Davao del Sur.

All three local governments have sent their representatives to meet with Marina to thresh out the problems of allocation.

Salvilla said Malalag, Sulop, Santa Maria and including the provincial government of Davao want 40 per cent of the lay-up fees of these ships.

He said the proceeds will be divided by the LGUs for their use.
“That is a sizable amount of revenue if could collect them. We can make use of the money for our economic development,” Salvilla said.

Salvilla said Malalag local government is also demanding that ship owners pay P5,000 every time they bring garbage from the vessels to the shore.

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt14/Jheaux/Around%20Davao/02malalag4.jpg
Fisherfolk and their families, this boy included, are worried.
MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

“Malalag Bay is one of the finest. We want it to stay clean for our fishermen,” Salvilla said.

Salvilla said Malalag Bay has 50 hectares of fish cages and fish production is vital to the local economy being the third major earner of the municipality.

He said local officials expect there will be friction between the ship owners and local fishermen eventually.

“These ships occupy a big area of the bay where our local fishermen used to fish. (Our fisherfolk) can not fish there anymore because the owners will not allow them to go near the ships,” Salvilla said.

“We anticipate there would be friction in the future,” he added.

:tyty::applause::tyty:

^^ Tag-sa ra ni.....

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 31st, 2009, 08:51 AM

Coco summit starts with bleak prediction

By Ben O. Tesiorna @ SSD

THE 1st Mindanao Coco Summit started with a bleak prediction from Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat who declared that the coconut industry in their municipality is declining.

In an interview after her speech at the opening of the coconut summit Thursday, Rabat said that the "traditional" coconut industry that's merely focused on copra production is already declining due to the increase on demand for coco coir and other new products out of coconut.

Though the need for the latest coco products is a welcome development, Mayor Rabat said that a lot of their coconut farmers are however affected by the need for a "whole coconut" instead of the processed ones.

"Kasi dahil buong niyog na ang binibili ngayon, nawawalan na ng trabaho ang mga nagabiyak ng niyog, pati na yung mga nagalugit ng lubi," Rabat said.

Mati has majority of its 27,000 hectares of total land area devoted to coconut with approximated three million coconut trees. There are about 18,000 coconut farmers in Mati.

In her speech, Rabat said the coconut industry in Mati is being faced with a lot of challenges. Among the challenges mentioned are as follows:

1. Mati, as the capital of the country's number one coconut-producing province, has not other coconut industry facility other than the copra-buying station, like Cargil;
2. Mati has no virgin coconut oil and coconut desiccated plants;
3. Mati has no large-scale coconut nursery;
4. Mati is not part of the national coconut biodiesel industry of the Philippines.

The mayor said the challenges could be due to the fact that for more than 100 years, many have taken for granted the coconut industry in their town.

But such is no longer the case, the mayor said. In 2004, the local government of Mati has started the formulation of coconut industry developmental programs. The Coconut Industry Council of Mati was also created in 2008 in order to institutionalize the local government's desire to mainstream industry interventions.

Dakpa ang akong tiil

July 31st, 2009, 11:01 AM

^^ Tag-sa ra ni.....

tagsa na unsa?

Hirono-kun

July 31st, 2009, 03:13 PM

tagsa na unsa?

^^ mudunggo ang barko maskig asa hehehe

Dakpa ang akong tiil

August 1st, 2009, 10:06 AM

Coco industry players want share of coconut levy funds

COCONUT industry players in Mindanao want a share of the P100-billion coconut levy fund as support for the ailing industry dubbed as one of the country's major export products sector.

In a resolution passed during the 1st Mindanao Coco Summit in Mati, Davao Oriental on Friday, coconut-based organizations, along with the Mindanao Business Council, sought the government's help for the Mindanao coconut industry through the utilization of a portion of the interest earnings of the coconut levy funds.

For updates from around the country, follow Sun.Star on Twitter

Coconut farmers, meanwhile, promised to submit a proposal for an integrated coconut farms productivity improvement, coconut-farming incentives, and support programs for the coconut-based micro, small and medium enterprises for Mindanao.

At the same time, the Mindanao Confederation of Coconut Farmers, a Mindanao-wide organization of all the regional coconut farmers' associations, was also launched in an effort to bring together all key stakeholders of the industry from all over the island.

Jason Magnaye, executive director of the Mindanao Business Council who spearheaded the event, said the coco summit is very successful in "getting a good Mindanao-wide representation of coconut farmers."

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon expressed optimism that the just-concluded Mindanao Coco Summit would prod both the government and private sectors to look closely and seriously into the plight of the coconut industry.

"We need to rethink of our development direction for the industry, consider and work on innovative options and explore strategies to propel the industry's growth into a high level. We have to consider that with almost 70 out of 79 provinces of the country known to be coconut areas with more than three million hectares of farmlands planted to it and with coco-based products as among the leading export products of the country, there is no doubt that we should continue to foster the coconut industry's increased productivity and sustained growth," Malanyaon said.

"I hope that this summit will provide the venue where we can agree on actions and steps that would bring us to that level of development that we have been envisioning for the industry. As host province to this 1st Coconut Summit, incidentally the biggest coconut-producing province in Mindanao if not the whole country, it is with great pleasure that I welcome all of you to this momentous event," she added.

The coconut industry continues to be a major source of foreign exchange with the Philippines coconut exports accounting to about 65 percent of the world traded coconut products. The industry earns an average of $800 million per year or P32 billion per year from exports trade and contributes about five percent of the country's total annual merchandise exports receipts.

It is the top export earner on net basis considering that its raw materials and labor components are domestically based unlike other export products, and the Philippines supplies 64% of the global coconut oil requirements.

About 24 million Filipinos, or one third of the Philippine population, directly or indirectly benefit from the coconut industry. There are 1.5 million coconut farmers and farm workers in the country.

Mindanao is home to six coconut regions with the entire island economy contributing more than 60 percent of the national output.

Despite this, however, the productivity level of coconut still remains low due mainly to the lack of resources of farmers to buy agricultural inputs as well as tenurial problems, limited access to credit, inadequate farm-to-market roads and post-harvest and processing facilities, indiscriminate cutting of productive coconut trees, and the increasing trend of conversion of coconut lands for other commercial and agricultural purposes.

Dakpa ang akong tiil

August 1st, 2009, 10:51 AM

^^ mudunggo ang barko maskig asa hehehe

nganong tagsa lang man???
free na cla oi, bisan asa pa na cla modunggo!
kay LAPAD ANG DAGAT! :lol:
naa man gani barko sa libro!!!:bash:

kaw jud tigpatay sa thread ba! hehehehhh j/k!

Hirono-kun

August 1st, 2009, 11:02 AM

nganong tagsa lang man???
free na cla oi, bisan asa pa na cla modunggo!
kay LAPAD ANG DAGAT! :lol:
naa man gani barko sa libro!!!:bash:

kaw jud tigpatay sa thread ba! hehehehhh j/k!

^^ nganong tig-patay man ko??? :eek2::ancient::weirdo::ancient::eek2:

:lol::lol::lol::lol:

bustero

August 10th, 2009, 08:54 AM

Mati has always had poor poor coconut production. We are below the average in productivity per hectare. I remember the soil study done for the province, it's not really best suited kasi for coconuts. We really should be looking at other crops.

dinabaw

August 17th, 2009, 07:28 AM

Mindanao’s tourism industry set to launch key projects this week

DAVAO CITY — Mindanao’s tourism sector will unveil six projects during the Mindanao Travel and Tour Expo on August 20-22, simultaneously with the Kadayawan festival.

The list involves three medical tourism projects, two retirement villages and an inland resort, said Gil M. Dureza, head of the Board of Investments in the region.

A three-dimensional map will also be unveiled that will be eventually posted on the Internet to help would-be tourists better plan their travels on Mindanao.

Mr. Dureza said the medical tourism projects involve a dental facility and expansion of two big hospitals. "Let us wait for their officials to identify these projects," he said declining to provide details.

One of the retirement villages is a project of a Korean company, while the other is that of a Filipino company, he said. The inland resort, he added, is run by a local company.

Lucky Siegfred M. Balleque, chief of the Trade department’s National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center, confirmed that documents on these projects have already been filed with his office. "We have started looking into these documents since we want to approve them the soonest we can so they can immediately start development," he said in an interview.

A list of 46 proposed projects, other than the six, was sent to Board’s head office, Mr. Dureza said, so those projects could be matched with investors who are willing to pour in their capital in Mindanao. Many of these projects are from the Davao Region, while the others are from other regions of Mindanao, he added.

He said tourism is among the sectors with high potential for investment. "The region is endowed with much beauty. Davao Oriental, by way of example, has one of the longest beaches with white sand at 400 kilometers," he said.

The three-dimensional topographical map that will be unveiled this week will show the highways and bridges that connect key tourism spots on the island to help travelers plan their routes.

The 6x6 feet Mindanao Tourism and Transport Highway Map was developed by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Transportation and Communication.

Sonia V. Garcia, tourism regional director, said a parallel map which also shows the hotels and accommodations in all key sites as well as brochures will also be unveiled during the expo. Ms. Garcia said the map will show the routes from Davao City going to Island Garden City of Samal, Cagayan, Surigao, Tawi-tawi, Zamboanga or tourist spots like Lake Sebu, Mt. Apo, or Mt. Kitanglad and others. "On the map, you will also able to see gaps in the connectivity...so it is now up to the private sector to ask the National Government to bridge those gaps," she said.

A soft copy of the map will soon be uploaded at the DoT Web site for Internet surfers who will like to have an idea on traveling by land in Mindanao, said Araceli L. Ayuste, vice-chairman of the Davao Region Tourism Council.

"The [original] map is so big I still don’t know where we are going to put it, maybe in a museum," she said.

Ms. Ayuste said domestic tourists seem to be more particular about accommodations, accessibility and security and they won’t travel unless they are confident of where they are going.

She said her team traveled throughout Mindanao for a road show for the travel expo.

"We went to Butuan from Davao City for a meeting thinking it will take seven hours," she said. "But we left 5 a.m. for Butuan and arrived there by 9 a.m."

That route usually takes from seven hours on good weather to up to 10 hours during rainy days.

Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo R. del Rosario said the Talaingod-Kapalong-Bukidnon road has been completed which makes it easier to travel to Northern Mindanao from Davao del Norte. The first-class coastal road linking the province to Davao Oriental and Surigao has also been completed, cutting travel time. — CQF and JBE

:)

davaob4now

August 17th, 2009, 03:12 PM

Proposed Convention Center in Bansalan
http://bansalanwow.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/7/5/1075272/5974341.jpg?553x413

Onward to Mt. Apo!!! :)
http://bansalanwow.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/7/5/1075272/8466998.jpg?555x368

other news:
Davao Central Warehouse Club (U/C)- Bansalan branch
Gaisano Capital Bansalan - Soon to Open (daw)

how i wish i can take photos of these projects..:)

regjeex

August 17th, 2009, 03:40 PM

Nagsugod na ba ang construction sa NCCC Digos?

davaob4now

August 17th, 2009, 04:02 PM

^^
i dont know...all i know is that its always a proposal :D
what i have learned, NCCC is planning to construct the mall at Bgy. San Jose which is just next to Bgy.Cogon, the site of future (or U/C) Gaisano Grand Digos.:) ( i have to ask my kababayans in digos regarding this).

or better to ask @peng about the NCCC digos project...:D

regjeex

August 17th, 2009, 05:13 PM

ang Gaisano Grand ba ay malapit lang sa lumang Gaisano Digos? mingaw nako sa Digos hinuon da....

Kanang Gaisano Grand mao ba ng duol sa may Polytechnic? hehehe kalimot naman ko sa mga street... :bash:

Fahdingding

August 18th, 2009, 02:56 AM

NEWS: NAsunog daw ang PUBLIC MARKET ng DIGOS...

davaob4now

August 18th, 2009, 03:54 AM

NEWS: NAsunog daw ang PUBLIC MARKET ng DIGOS...

sometimes ginatuyo na lang na nga sunogon para maka claim ug innsurance ug to get rid of the storeowners...there was a rumor before nga ang public market sa digos will be converted into a shopping mall, but there is a strong resistance from the storeowners.:)

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 06:30 AM

oi sayang... pero bitaw sakto jud ka davaob4now... tuyuon sa owner aron makuha ang daku nga insurance.. basin mao na diha ang location sa NCCC..hehhehe OK kaayo kay duol sa house sa akong auntie....

davaob4now

August 18th, 2009, 08:31 AM

^^
;)
it would be very convenient...as it will be situated at the heart of digos. ( if madayun)..

another news, gi close sa daw ang DCNHS, kay naa daw nagka swine flu didto..:(

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 08:41 AM

kay sauna baya gaisano og DC ra jud akong maadtuan sa Digos.. aw naa pa diay ang central warehouse... karon, daghan naman diay mga establishment sa digos... mo labay cguro ko diha after Gensan this december.

davaob4now

August 18th, 2009, 12:12 PM

^^
yup...gaisano and DC...i dont know the "looks" of DC right now...there were some renovationss before...i hope the looks is appealing right now...

good idea, why dont you drop by and see it for yourself, and if youve got time try to take photos of the U/C projects within the CBD of digos...it will be a great contribution to this thread ;) :cheers:

Fahdingding

August 18th, 2009, 12:17 PM

oi sayang... pero bitaw sakto jud ka davaob4now... tuyuon sa owner aron makuha ang daku nga insurance.. basin mao na diha ang location sa NCCC..hehhehe OK kaayo kay duol sa house sa akong auntie....

That is the usual practice of Big Businesses who wants to claim insurances... so they resort to arson...

Ganun ba! Wala palang ibang location na pwedeng pagtayuan ng NCCC Mall?

Kawawa naman ang mahihirap nating mga kababayan kung nagkaganun...

Fahdingding

August 18th, 2009, 12:17 PM

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 12:39 PM

I would love to take photos sa Digos... i remember me and my cousins everytime mag laag laag mi dihang dapita... deretso dayon sa Datu Complex kay tua didto ang jabee...hehehe nakalimot man ko kung naa ba food chain sa Gaisano Digos? murag wala man cguro... murag deparment store man to cguro ang Gaisano.... naay tapad sa DC nga baligya-anan og bingka diha... kalimot ko sa name sa tigulang.. hehehe lami ang bingka kay sagulan daw nila ug tuba... giputos og dahon sa saging... hehehe basta bibingka dili jud nako palabyon :cheers:

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 12:41 PM

Fahdingding, pag uli nako puhon kay mo labay ko diha sa Digos from Gensan... as of now, layo ko kaayo karon,, dia ko sa halayong dapit sa kalibutan...

Fahdingding

August 18th, 2009, 12:46 PM

Fahdingding, pag uli nako puhon kay mo labay ko diha sa Digos from Gensan... as of now, layo ko kaayo karon,, dia ko sa halayong dapit sa kalibutan...

Cge..I'll look forward to that regjeex! :banana: THNX

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 12:55 PM

hehehe daghan kog agian from Gensan, Digos, Davao, bibingka from Panabo and Tagum... hehehe grabe jud nakong laroy laroy ana nga time... hehehe maayo kay december dili init... hehehe

regjeex

August 18th, 2009, 12:57 PM

Kumusta na kaha ang Dawis og ang Aplaya? hehehe mingaw nako sa beach didtong dapita... hehehe

qwert_guy

August 18th, 2009, 01:37 PM

DC diay tong naay jabee, i thought Gaisano to... wer diay dapit ang Gaisano?

davaob4now

August 18th, 2009, 01:44 PM

^^
ang gaisano digos naa sa likod sa jolibee estrada...:)

yup, the first jolibee in digos kay naa sa DC square.

dinabaw

August 18th, 2009, 03:03 PM

Mati, Davao Oriental

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/894/2978493414113631bb1d.jpg

http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/8608/2977642845a9fb4b38d0o.jpg

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8054/sanjosebeachdaet.jpg

Mars Uy

August 18th, 2009, 03:15 PM

MATI : A MUNICIPALTIY AGAIN WITH PRIDE (http://mati.gov.ph)
7/13/2009
by Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental – After so many sleepless and seemingly endless nights, the battle is over for Mati and to the rest of the League of 16, for now.

The Supreme Court favored the petition of the powerful League of Cities, and converted Mati into a municipality again.

In the Conference on the Effects of the Adverse Ruling of the Supreme Court to the Citihood Law Creating the City of Mati held on June 19, 2009 at Casa Rosa, a power point presentation delineated the brief history of the struggle of Mati for citihood, and the devastating effects of unmaking a city, particularly for Mati.

Commemorating the citihood of Mati

Mayor Michelle Rabat emphasized that the citihood of Mati is really worth commemorating.

“For a year, we were able to provide more services to our constituents. For a year, we were able to accommodate the requests of the Phil. Nat’l Police, the requests of the 26 barangays, the requests of the Dept. of Education, and the requests of the needy and the sick,” she said.

The Local Government of Mati is now asking help from the national agencies, like the Dept. of Budget and Management, the Dept. of Interior and Local Government, to guide Mati on how to go about the conversion.

Mayor Rabat said that the national agencies can help in explaining to Mati the guidelines in unmaking a city, just like what happened to Mati.

Deprived of Dreams and Aspirations

“My heart bleeds for everybody, for all Matinians, for the people who voted yes in the last plebiscite they were not heard, because we are deprived of our dreams, of our aspirations by a few men. They say the issue here is money because the League of Cities strongly protested the addition of the League of 16 to their group because it will mean a reduction to their Internal Revenue Allotment. But I was enlightened with the homily in the Mass commemorating the citihood of Mati and celebrating the 6th Pujada Bay Festival, that it’s not really money, but the attitude of people in greed,” she added.

The Mayor explained that with Mati now back to the municipality status, the province will shoulder all the eleven local government units again.

“The League of Municipalities now will suffer a reduction of their IRA to accommodate the converted cities, and this includes the municipalities of Davao Oriental. While the League of Municipalities has to accept such fate, our neighboring provinces like Davao del Norte with 3 cities already, will further enjoy an increase to their Internal Revenue Allotment with the decision of the Supreme Court, and the money will just revolve around in that Province. And for Davao Oriental, the Province will again shoulder the requests of all municipal mayors and all the barangays. We are already on our way up, but we were pulled down,” she explained.

Good Argument

Mayor Rabat furthered that Mati and the League of 16 gave a good argument to the case.

The citihood of the sixteen cities cannot be called unconstitutional because the criteria was stipulated in the Local Government Code, and the Local Gov’t Code which was enacted by Congress, enabled by Congress, and can be amended by Congress.

Reaching the Illusive One Hundred Million Peso

With the illusive 100 Million peso standard income requirement for citihood, Rabat is very optimistic that such is reachable.

“If all of us will say that it is achievable, then it will be, and we can. Let’s get our acts together and the media can help us in our campaign to increase our income, and have the income of what it takes to be a city,” she stressed.

Best Was Done for Citihood

Earlier, the author of the Republic Act 9408, the bill creating the City of Mati, former Congressman Mayo Almario said that the best was done for the citihood of Mati.

“We exerted our best efforts. We prayed really hard for it. Even if the decision also pains me because I’ve been through a lot for the citihood of Mati, lobbying to the senators even during unholy hours, and there were instances when I almost gave up, but this happened under the law, and so we have to abide. The best thing to do now is to accept the reality, the decision of the Supreme Court,” Almario reminisced.

But the former lawmaker hurled a challenge of making what happened as an eye opener.

“We failed because we did not reach the income requirement. Why is Mati’s income low? It is because we do not have sufficient collection as yet. And where do we get our income? We get it from the business permits of the businessmen, from the residence certificates, among others. No matter how much you pay, but that will contribute in bringing us to where we want to go. Needless to say, we have to strengthen all the more our tax campaign. Even the students can explain and entice their parents to pay their taxes with the students well informed of the necessity of tax payments.

Citihood: Best Thing that could Have Happened to Davao Oriental

Governor Corazon Malanyaon also shares the sentiment of Mati, but let out some very consoling words for Mati.

“We should not be in mourning. As you see, we are commemorating our citihood, we are celebrating the 6th Pujada Bay Festival, and the forthcoming 42nd Araw ng Davao Oriental. Most importantly, as Mayor Rabat said, we should not give up. True, we are experiencing the adverse effects with the conversion of Mati. Mati lost a sure income of almost 400 million pesos. And this could have been used for development projects. Just imagine the employees who were laid off simply because of Mati can no longer afford their compensation as city employees. Such amount is really a big loss,” she reiterated.

The Governor said the best thing that could have happened to the province of Davao Oriental is having its first city in Mati.

“Perhaps this is the right time for us, an opportunity to reflect on what we are going to do to achieve the target income to qualify as a city. While its true that basically Mati, as well as the other local government units rely on real property taxes, but with all the initiatives that we are jointly doing, we can increase our revenues through other sources. That is why we will now be focusing on revenue generation. Let us just remember that in every thing that will happen, there will always be some compensating advantages. It’s just a matter of attitude. If we will work together, we can do wonders. Let us be one as residents of Mati, and as residents of Davao Oriental,” she pointed out.

With adjustments to be made with the status now of Mati, Malanyaon calls for prudent spending, and proper setting of priorities.

Life Goes On

“We cannot dwell on the past because that’s water under the bridge. It already happened. Officially we already received our municipal IRA. Life goes on. It may not be this year, or next year, but definitely, they cannot stop Mati from getting there. As I said, citihood for Mati is what we believe in for always. And no matter what, a city or a municipality, I will say this again that Mati is for Matinians, Mati is where we belong, home of God-fearing and peace loving people,” concluded Mayor Michelle Rabat.

dinabaw

August 18th, 2009, 03:22 PM

Davao Oriental's East Coast included in regional tourism program

by RG Alama

Davao City (23 April) -- Dive Davao a major program of the Department of Tourism as part of the country's niche marketing and global positioning program as a top diving destination in the Asia-Pacific Region has included Davao Oriental's East Coast.

Formerly focused in Davao Gulf, Davao Oriental's East Coast which lies along Southern Mindanao's Pacific coast is home to different unexplored tourist attractions like beaches, dive sites and historical sites.

DOT –XI Regional Director Sonia Garcia said she will visit the East Coast municipalities this May to look at the homestay program in the towns of Boston, Tarragona and Mati and also discuss with the local government the prioritization of their tourism potentials.

Among the priority tourist potentials enumerated include dive sites in Tarragona, Manay's beaches, surfing in Boston, the old Spanish church in Caraga and Aliwagwag falls in Cateel.

Meanwhile Emmanuel Isip, Regional Technical Director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said they consider the DOT as partners as their program is in consonance with their Integrated Coastal Resource Planning Project (ICRPP) for Davao Oriental's East Coast towns.

They can address the livelihood component of the Project; he said that ICRPP envisions a sustainable livelihood for the coastal community in harmony of its aim in the conservation of the protected marine environment.

"As of the moment we can identify dives sites through the ICRPP," Isip said.

DOT's tourism program is also in consonance with the program of the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental under Governor Corazon Malanyaon in promoting the many natural tourism destinations in the province and at same time protecting and conserving these fragile environment. (PIA) [top]

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p080423.htm&no=21

dinabaw

August 18th, 2009, 03:24 PM

Surf’s now up in Davao Oriental

By Joselle Badilla
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:19:00 01/06/2008

Filed Under: Tourism & Leisure, Leisure (general), Lifestyle & Leisure

MANILA, Philippines - Seven years ago, Davao Oriental became known as the Philippines’ sunrise capital when locals and foreigners converged at the Pusan Point in Barangay Santiago in Caraga to witness the first millennium sunrise.

Today, the province, just three hours away from the Davao International Airport and Sasa wharf, is promoting its other side.

In September, the Department of Tourism-Southern Mindanao and provincial government launched the 1st Surf and Skimboarding Safari in Dahican Beach, one of the best white-sand beaches the capital city of Mati has to offer.

“This is a fabulous province. We are hoping that Davao Oriental will become the next favorite tourist destination. This is the best place for lovers of nature, culture and history,” Gov. Corazon Malanyaon said.

The DOT also launched “Baybay nato ni Bay” (This is our beach, pal), a coastal-management campaign designed to create environmental awareness among different communities.

Surfers and skimboarders are now common sights at the Dahican beach. George Plaza, the 34-year-old trainer of about 13 skimboarders, said they tried the sport two years ago.

“Dayo dayo lang mi pag nay competition sa ubang area. Ang uban pud sila gadayo diri sa amo,” he said (We went to places where there were competitions. But other people also came here.).

When a Japanese national saw their plight, he said, he donated five surf boards worth over P50,000 each.

Best waves and beaches

“He surfed with us. He said we had the potential, we had the best waves and best beaches for practice but we were not using the right surfboard,” Plaza said.

Plaza said most of those engaged in surfboarding and skimboarding were sons of local fishermen.

So, even if a skimboard cost only P1,000, they could not afford to buy it because their parents were only fisherfolk, he said.

Plaza said the boys were elementary and high-school students who practiced during weekends.

He said one of his trainees, 13-year-old Sonny Aporbo, a Grade 3 student already won in several surfing competitions. The youngest surfer in his team now is 9-year-old Jovec Monares, also a son of fisherman.

“Kana siya, walo na sila ka mag-igsoon. Gusto ra gyud skimboard. Bug-at pa ang board kaysa sa iya pero maayo nga bata, naa gyud talent,” Plaza said. (They are eight kids in the family. He really wants a skimboard. The board is bigger than him, but he is a good kid and has talent.)

Foreign visitors

Today, the province has at least three diving sites and one surfing site. Unknown to many, these sites are already frequented by foreigners and they may be the next top tourist and surfing destination in Mindanao.

Sonia Garcia, DOT-Southern Mindanao regional director, said the department was developing new destinations and new skimboarding and surfing sites.

“The coast here is very clean. Marunong mag-alaga ang mga tao sa coastal areas nila dito sa Mati. We hope that this will be the next tourist destination. We have great places to dive and surf here,” she said.

“People can visit this place. If they want to stay on a weekend, we have the best beach. We also have the Carmelite Monastery,” Garcia said.

The Carmelite Monastery in Barangay Matiao is a good place to visit during Holy Week. José Barcena has sculpted the mysteries of the Holy Rosary for the 16-hectare monastery.

First resort

Garcia said a local Mati businessman, Efren Dupa, had also constructed in Barangay Badas the first 50-room coastal resort in Davao Oriental.

Dupa said, “Gwapo atong mga dagat diri. Daghang mabisita nga gwapong lugar. Diri sa resort they can try fishing. We have bangus and dangit. We also have floating cottages.” (Our beach is nice and guests can also visit many other nice places. Here in the resort they can try fishing.)

Garcia said, with the new resort, Mati would be attracting more visitors. “It is a boost for Mati. Hopefully in the next few days or weeks, tourists will now be coming,” she said.

The province’s famous attractions also include Pujada Bay, Wason House, 17th-century Caraga Church, Cape of San Agustin, San Agustin Altar Cave, Mandaya Village, Tuboran Muslim Village, Menzi Tourism Complex, Provincial Capitol Park, Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Sleeping Dinosaur Peninsula, Calapagan Hotspring, Sigaboy Island, Mt. Hamiguitan Bonsai Forest in San Isidro town, Pujada Island, Waniban Island, San Victor Island and Lake Diomabok.

Philippine Daily Inquirer (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20080106-110601/Surf%92s_now_up_in_Davao_Oriental)

reancorbz84

August 18th, 2009, 08:09 PM

nag start naba construction dun sa new mall na sinasabi?

dinabaw

August 21st, 2009, 03:15 AM

Feature: Mati park baywalk unites Matinians

By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (21 August) -- The majestic sun has just started to shun away from man's sight, and as twilight ushers in, more and more Matinians lead their way to one place that is perfect to unwind, to recapitulate all the transpirations of the day, and to anticipate with hope another dawning of a new day.

With it's very relaxing cold sea breeze, Mati Park and Baywalk is destined to be an avenue for people from all walks of life, of all ages, of different sects, and principles to come together and seek a refreshing respite from the daily challenges of life.

Mayor Michelle Rabat shared her excitement to her plans for the Mati Park and Baywalk, despite the fact that the project is affected with Mati's reversion into a municipality, but she opted to be a little discreet with the details.

"You will just see. But as of now, the lights are installed already, and we plan to put up benches for the convenience of the people spending quality time at the Baywalk," she said.

The Mayor revealed that the Mati Park and Baywalk was one of the dreams of her father, the late Mayor Francisco "Paking" Rabat.

"It is designed to be a place where people flock, spend time together, discard all the worries and the hassles of work, and will serve as refuge for Matinians. It is also envisioned to be a place where relationships are strengthened and things threshed out" she added.

Mayor Rabat further disclosed that the development plan for the Mati Park and Baywalk covering 1.5 hectares of land area remains.

"We are starting and we hope the people understand that we are doing our best to develop the area despite our limitations. These are all for them," she explained.

The original plan embodies a mini park, income generating facilities like a convention center, recreational center, among others, all in the heart of Mati's supposed first boulevard ever.

But at the rate things are going, the local government of Mati opted to settle to the most important component of the project, and that is making a park, or mini park in the Baywalk.

The Park complements the breathtaking view of the Pujada Bay, and the serenity of the sea waters depicting the coastal resources of the sixteen coastal barangays of Mati.

One important thing is that, beneath the story of the Mati Park and Baywalk lies the untold struggle of people, of the vendors allowed to do their small business at the sea side area.

The vendors braved the coldness of the night, staying until the late hours, as Baywalk goers often stayed until the late night also, never seemed to have enough of the stars and the moon scintillating boastly, insinuating a perfect evening.

"I am so happy with these vendors because I learned that they are making a living from simple things. They can now have something that will augment the financial needs in providing the basic necessities of their family, like sending their children to school," the Mayor stressed.

While it can be said that the Mati Park and Baywalk today is still far from it's real perspective, but nonetheless, it purpose is not defied….it symbolizes the unity among Matinians…unity that will stand the test of time, and it symbolizes one people, never vociferating much, but only a place to show who and what they are. (IO-Dvo. Oriental) [top]

PIA News (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=R11&y=09&mo=08&fi=p090821.htm&no=09)

coolerman

August 21st, 2009, 07:43 AM

maot man ang digos kai walai kala-agan! boring kaayo,. nay mangadto mog CAMP sabros.. malingaw pa mong zip line! hahaha!

coolerman

August 21st, 2009, 07:44 AM

P15M for eco-tourism

By Nancy R. Cudis

BEFORE the end of this year, Cebu will have a new adventure and eco-tourism facility that will serve as source of funding for reforestation projects in the province.

The facility, which is yet to be named, will be located on a 13-hectare timberland area in Barangays Gaas and Magsaysay in Balamban, Cebu. It is targeted to be operational by November.

The Canton family secured a Special Use Agreement in Protected Areas for the area for 25 years. The Cantons have allocated P15 million as start-up capital for the eco-tourism facility.

Oscar Canton, founder of Cebu-based Carsons Construction, recalled a report by the National Geographic, describing Cebu as the worst climate hotspot in the entire Philippines.

“We should do something about it. Since my family is not financially capable to provide a substantial revenue stream devoted for reforestation projects, we decided to invest in eco-tourism,” he told Sun.Star Cebu.

When the project becomes operational, he said that at least 20 percent of revenues will be used to fund reforestation projects, especially in central Cebu where a large portion of the province’s watershed forest reserves is located.

“We already received the go-signal from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. They are very happy about the project. It will not cost them any centavo,” he said.

Employment

The Canton family came up with plans for the facility a month and a half ago. The Cantons approached Mindanao-based CAMP SABROS to supply the facility’s equipment and provide safety training to its staff. The future eco-tourism project will employ at least 12 residents.

The first and main component of the new investment is a 700-meter zipline that will be twice as long as the one at the Danao Adventure Park in Danao, Bohol.

It will also feature an adventure academy where students, professionals and can embark on adventure activities as part of their leadership or teambuilding seminars.

“We hope to develop among them the love for the environment through actual experience with nature,” said Barry, Oscar’s son, who will serve as the facility’s chief operations officer.

Eventually, the facility will feature more activities such as caving, river trekking and organic farming.

“We will try and make do with what we have. We received feedback from enthusiasts who say that the caving adventure in Barangay Gaas is very good but the system needs improvement,” Barry said.

He observed that many adventure enthusiasts and even hotels are clamoring for more adventure and eco-tourism activities to offer their clients.

“When the facility is in place and made known, then it would be easy to market it,” he said.

coolerman

August 21st, 2009, 07:49 AM

P15M for eco-tourism

By Nancy R. Cudis

BEFORE the end of this year, Cebu will have a new adventure and eco-tourism facility that will serve as source of funding for reforestation projects in the province.

The facility, which is yet to be named, will be located on a 13-hectare timberland area in Barangays Gaas and Magsaysay in Balamban, Cebu. It is targeted to be operational by November.

The Canton family secured a Special Use Agreement in Protected Areas for the area for 25 years. The Cantons have allocated P15 million as start-up capital for the eco-tourism facility.

Oscar Canton, founder of Cebu-based Carsons Construction, recalled a report by the National Geographic, describing Cebu as the worst climate hotspot in the entire Philippines.

“We should do something about it. Since my family is not financially capable to provide a substantial revenue stream devoted for reforestation projects, we decided to invest in eco-tourism,” he told Sun.Star Cebu.

When the project becomes operational, he said that at least 20 percent of revenues will be used to fund reforestation projects, especially in central Cebu where a large portion of the province’s watershed forest reserves is located.

“We already received the go-signal from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. They are very happy about the project. It will not cost them any centavo,” he said.

Employment

The Canton family came up with plans for the facility a month and a half ago. The Cantons approached Mindanao-based CAMP SABROS to supply the facility’s equipment and provide safety training to its staff. The future eco-tourism project will employ at least 12 residents.:banana:

The first and main component of the new investment is a 700-meter zipline that will be twice as long as the one at the Danao Adventure Park in Danao, Bohol.

It will also feature an adventure academy where students, professionals and can embark on adventure activities as part of their leadership or teambuilding seminars.

“We hope to develop among them the love for the environment through actual experience with nature,” said Barry, Oscar’s son, who will serve as the facility’s chief operations officer.

Eventually, the facility will feature more activities such as caving, river trekking and organic farming.

“We will try and make do with what we have. We received feedback from enthusiasts who say that the caving adventure in Barangay Gaas is very good but the system needs improvement,” Barry said.

He observed that many adventure enthusiasts and even hotels are clamoring for more adventure and eco-tourism activities to offer their clients.

“When the facility is in place and made known, then it would be easy to market it,” he said.

dinabaw

August 31st, 2009, 08:24 AM

tUR02Kav-XA

dinabaw

August 31st, 2009, 09:32 AM

Sigaboy, Davao Oriental

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/1998/img2100vc9.jpg (http://img32.imageshack.us/i/img2100vc9.jpg/)

"We have just returned from Governor Generoso where we met the Governor, Mayor and many local officials who are actively trying to promote diving and eco tourism in that area.

Though we were prevented from diving due to the sea state, this area promises to have some of the best diving in the Philippines. It's open to the sea and - by all accounts - has plenty of shark, rays, jack and tuna. Many people there - and here in Davao - have reported sighting of tiger shark in this area (towards Cape St Augustine). In fact, I have a good diver friend who saw a tiger shark there a couple of years ago.

"We have some friends who are going back there this week to check a few sites out. The area is stunningly beautiful and - regardless what people think - is extremely safe with great local people who are incredibly hospitable.

My wife and I are leaving the Philippines for a couple of months to dive the Turkish South Mediterranean (an area we know well) but will return to Davao in October. We are planning a week or so of exploratory diving there when we return. Are there any experienced divers who might be interested in joining us to open up dive tourism there? Accomodation will be tents on the beach and all costs to be shared (no profits). Photographers/videographers are partticularly welcome. Please send me a private message if you are interested in further information. Thanks."

Scuba Magazine (http://www.scubamagazine.net/showthread.php?t=992)

dinabaw

August 31st, 2009, 09:45 AM

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/416/headerfmj.jpg (http://img199.imageshack.us/i/headerfmj.jpg/)
Proposed municipal hall of Tarragona

dinabaw

September 1st, 2009, 03:06 AM

Davao mango growers act to stabilize prices
Monday, August 31, 2009

MATI, Davao Otiental -- Mango industry stakeholders here have now taken the first step towards stabilizing the prices of mango in the Davao Region.

Some 30 mango farmers in the new city of Mati and the town of Banaybanay in Davao Oriental province gathered recently for a meeting with the mango industry cluster team led by Antonio Teh of the Davao Industry Cluster Capacity Enhancement Project (Diccep) for a forum on synchronizing the growing and harvesting of fresh mango in the province.

For updates from around the country, follow Sun.Star on Twitter

Diccep is a joint project of Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

"This is the only way we can get our acts together in this industry to get better prices for our mangoes," said Teh. "We need to get together and agree on having a different time schedules for the growing and harvesting of this fruit."

Synchronizing the production of mango, according to Teh, will make some mango farmers induce the flowering of the fruit at a certain time, while others are into different stages of the fruit growth, "to make sure that all mango plantations will not harvest the fruit all at the same time."

The mango industry cluster team is also scheduling similar meetings with all other mango growers and farmers in Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Samal island, Davao City and Davao del Sur in the coming months.

Mango farmers all over the Davao Region have been griping for years about the very low prices they get from traders and mango processors because they all harvest the mangoes almost all together, creating a glut in the local market.

Most mango growers want to export their fruit, according to Teh, but many of them in the industry find it very difficult to reach this goal because of the very high standards of export-quality mango.

Faced by low production volumes and low quality, most of them are selling their fruit to domestic traders and fruit processors who turn their mangoes into dried mango, mango concentrated juice and mango puree.

Sun-Star (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/davao-mango-growers-act-stabilize-prices)

wise_zech

September 1st, 2009, 09:17 AM

hallo guys..........

sandman.ink

September 1st, 2009, 10:44 AM

nice kaayo ang u/c na coliseum jan sa Digos, coliseum ba yun or convetion center?

davaob4now

September 1st, 2009, 11:10 AM

^^
san banda? baka yun na yung sports complex...:)

sandman.ink

September 2nd, 2009, 11:37 AM

^^
san banda? baka yun na yung sports complex...:)

yun nga ata ung sinasabi ko...hehehe...meron na kasing tarp sa harap, baka meron pwedeng kumuha ng pix from Digos...pasok!

davaob4now

September 2nd, 2009, 12:14 PM

^^
if you are pertaining about the tarp just across the davao sur capitol, then mao na ang sports complex..:)

i like the design pud...

dinabaw

September 3rd, 2009, 04:09 AM

http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/5881/38815176052c04e86e7do.jpg (http://img527.imageshack.us/i/38815176052c04e86e7do.jpg/)

regjeex

September 3rd, 2009, 06:17 AM

Nyor Dinabaw, sa dawis ba to? :)

http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/5881/38815176052c04e86e7do.jpg (http://img527.imageshack.us/i/38815176052c04e86e7do.jpg/)

davaob4now

September 3rd, 2009, 11:16 AM

^^
i think that is in Badiang or Balisong...:)

If im right.

dinabaw

September 3rd, 2009, 02:26 PM

^^ di kaaya malapit yan sa Piapi? yung mountain sa background yan yung Crocodile Island.

davaob4now

September 3rd, 2009, 03:29 PM

^^
i dont know im confused...
may ganyan din kasi sa may badiang at balisong area..yun nga lang nasa middle of the sea talaga yung mga cottages nila, eh yan parang malapit lang sa seashore...
mayron din sa brgy. bato, di ko lang sure if yan nga yan...or sa piapi nga yan...

MtApoStandard

September 11th, 2009, 04:44 AM

Mati makes Patrol 117 dry run
By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (11 September) -- The Bureau of Fire Protesting is now making an operation test to the Patrol 117 emergency response system.

Mati Fire Marshall Alex Pamaybay revealed that they started the operation test last week.

This is to check the system and to prepare for the start of the actual operation.

Pamaybay added that the emergency response system, similar to that of a call center system, dwells on the 3R principles.

These include the reporting of an incident, the relay of the report, and the response of the concerned responder.

The Fire Marshall reiterated that once operational, they want the system to really serve its purpose, and that is to be one in service, one in response, and to give the immediate response in seven minutes.

"We can connect the call direct to the concerned responder," Pamaybay said.

The Bureau of Fire Protection leads the agencies deputized to run the Patrol 117 system.

Working with the BFP for the operation of the system are the PNP and the BJMP.

Earlier, people who will be tasked to operate the system had undergone a training to have a full grasp of the work waiting for them.

"We have 12 computers, and a base and printer. All calls, incoming and outgoing communications are recorded and can be printed," he added.

Once all the necessary preparations are done, and everything is set, the local government of Mati will launch the Patrol 117.

The Patrol 117 is an 80M worth project of the DILG, in another move to foster crime prevention and quick response to emergency situations.

With the municipality of Mati as the hub of the Patrol 117, it can facililtate response to calls from other neighboring municipalities and provinces in the region.

The Patrol 117 was installed at the second floor of the Kasanag Drop In Center at the Municipal Compound, Mati. (PGO, Mati, Davao Oriental) [top]

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&sec=reader&rp=1&fi=p090911.htm&no=2&date=

davaob4now

September 12th, 2009, 07:00 AM

http://bansalanwow.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/7/5/1075272/4276066.jpg?552x392
The Immaculate Conception Parish

Bansalan has arguably the most beautiful Catholic parish church in Davao del Sur. From a wooden church building, an impressive structure was erected patterned after Canadian architectural design. Rev. Fr. Germaine Pelletier, PME was the parish priest who saw to its completion. Fr. Pelletier was a Canadian missionary from Quebec, Canada. Although he was a French-Canadian, he was also fluent with the local dialect which is predominantly Cebuano. The PME missionaries used to serve the parishes of Davao del Sur

http://bansalanwow.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/7/5/1075272/4388452.jpg?237x177
Mt. Apo - Bansalan Trail

Mount Apo is a large stratovolcano on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is the highest mountain in the country and overlooks Davao City, a few kilometres to the northeast. Its name means "master" or "grandfather". Apo is flat topped, with three peaks, and is capped by a 500 m wide volcanic crater containing a small crater lake. It is a source of geothermal energy, but the date of its most recent eruption is unknown, and none are verified in historic times. Mount Apo is one of the most popular climbing destinations in the Philippines, and the summit is easy to reach. It was first climbed on October 10, 1880 by a party led by Don Joaquin Rajal. Last February 2008, The Mt. Apo - Bansalan Trail was formaly opened to the public.

davaob4now

September 14th, 2009, 04:08 AM

Cenral Warehouse Club - Bansalan Branch...

http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/20/71/83831702/2_815096200l.jpg

the construction is still on going...pero naa na Mang Inasal...:D

http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/20/71/83831702/2_678851653l.jpg

the third warehouse club in davao del sur...:)

The Vow

September 14th, 2009, 04:22 AM

davaob4now

September 14th, 2009, 04:25 AM

^^
no worries...
me too..im happy for bansalan...
next time yung Bbq avenue na naman at yung new terminal nila...:)

imported pa yang mga pics na yan...i asked my friend to take photos and send it to me via email...:lol: nagalit naman siya dahil napagutusan...hehe

regjeex

September 14th, 2009, 07:08 AM

kanus-a kaha ang central warehouse ng davao mo butang og branch sa BXU....:)

Cenral Warehouse Club - Bansalan Branch...

http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/20/71/83831702/2_815096200l.jpg

the construction is still on going...pero naa na Mang Inasal...:D

http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/20/71/83831702/2_678851653l.jpg

the third warehouse club in davao del sur...:)

davaob4now

September 14th, 2009, 07:42 AM

^^
Agusan diba?
they have branches in Trento and San Francisco...:)

Fahdingding

September 14th, 2009, 08:13 AM

Naa ba sila branch dnh sa South Cotabato? Koronadal?

regjeex

September 14th, 2009, 09:34 AM

I mean BXU ba...

^^
Agusan diba?
they have branches in Trento and San Francisco...:)

MtApoStandard

September 16th, 2009, 05:49 AM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2572/3921742011_199714a93e.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/11513439@N05/3921742011/

Residents hail Padada Bridge opening
by RG Alama

Davao City (16 September) -- Bringing ease and convenience to commuters, lowering transport cost for goods and giving employment opportunities to residents.

These are among the many reasons, commuters and residents alike have hailed the opening of the long-delayed Padada bridge reconstruction project. The opening last Sept. 15 was highlighted by a ceremonial drive-through with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo accompanied by Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas and Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Bashir Rasuman.

Victoriano Labis, a resident of Hagonoy and one of those employed as masons by Grace Construction- the project contractor, thanked the President for the project saying that it has given him a job. He said that aside from this bridge project, Grace Construction has also included him in one of their projects.

While Grace Indino, a volunteer worker residing in Hagonoy, profusely thanked the President during her brief interaction with the residents. Indino, said that it cut the travel time and cost in traversing the other side of the Padada River.

Before the bridge was opened, commuters had to take a circuitous 6.5 kilometer route using the bypass road. Normally when the Padada bridge was still usable, passengers had to pay P10 going to normal destinations, with the bypass route commuters had to shell out P20.

According to Barangay Guihing Captain Reuel Raut, the economy declined when the Padada Bridge was made impassable due to the reconstruction and the three long years it took before its completion.

"There was an increase in the cost of transporting goods, many businessmen complained," Raut said.

Among the main products of Padada and Hagonoy include sugar and Cavendish bananas. The Padada bridge was the major artery in the transport of these goods either to Digos City or General Santos.

"When it was opened (the bridge) we were so overjoyed," Raut added.

Department of Public Works and Highways Region XI director Osop Ali said that the bypass route with a distance of about 7 kilometers had been cut to only 90 meters with the opening of the two-lane, 90-meter span bridge.

At a cost of P227-million the project included the main bridge, the all-weather bypass road and the 20-meter span bypass bridge.

President Arroyo during her short message after the ceremonial drive-through said that the project is one of the major infrastructure programs in the region undertaken by her administration. (PIA XI) [top]

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p090916.htm&no=03

hakz2007

September 17th, 2009, 06:50 AM

Official intensifies traffic operation in Davao Oriental (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=229803)

MATI, Davao Oriental, Sept.16 (PNA) – Mayor Michelle Rabat has ordered an intensified operation against colorum vehicles plying in and out in the area after a series of killings involving motorcycle-riding gunmen.

In a memorandum dated Sept. 14, Rabat upgraded the Mati Traffic Management Office into a division level entity and placed it under the Office of the Municipal Administrator with the intent of providing traffic management with close-in supervision.

The reorganization provided a new name to the unit, which is now called Traffic Management Coordinating Division (TMCD).

Rabat said the TMCD will be fully implementing the local traffic code under Ordinance 155 in the next few days as it has already completed a 21-day trial period.

She ordered TMCD personnel to go after motorcycles with no plate numbers.

"All killings have been perpetrated by gunmen aboard motorcycles with no plate numbers," Rabat said.

She said the murder of Davao Oriental Environment and Natural Resources chief Eulogio Baltazar, Provincial Veterinarian Antonio Agustin, and Mati Civil Security Unit chief Herminio Bagay were among those that raised the level of concern among local officials.

"There is a clear pattern to those killings which is the use of hired gunmen," she said.

The newly organized TMCD intends to tap on the strength of the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Traffic Management Group (TMG).

Richard Villacorte, Mati administrator, was tasked to meet the heads of the concerned agencies in the light of Rabat's directives.

Gunmen using motorcycles with no plate numbers are a common occurrence not only in Mati but anywhere in the Davao Region, the mayor further said. (PNA)

MtApoStandard

September 20th, 2009, 02:08 PM

Langyawan Cave, Cateel, Davao Oriental (http://pedroiho.wordpress.com/2009/09/17/cateel-davao-oriental-escapade-langyawan-cave/)

http://pedroiho.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/p8310610.jpg?w=510&h=382

http://pedroiho.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/p8310594.jpg?w=510&h=382
underground river

http://pedroiho.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/p8310578.jpg?w=510&h=382

http://pedroiho.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/p8310617.jpg?w=510&h=382

http://pedroiho.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/p8310619.jpg?w=510&h=382
calcium deposits

hakz2007

September 25th, 2009, 12:06 PM

Coast Guard leads Int'l Coastal Clean-Up Day observance (http://pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p090925.htm&no=05&r=r11&y=&mo=)

By Neela Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (25 September) -- The Philippine Coast Guard-Mati Station, the Phil. Port Authority, and the local government unit of Mati led the observance of the International Coastal Clean-up Day held last Sept. 18.

Phil. Coast Guard Mati Station Commander Lt. Ramil Palabrica explained that the coastal clean-up day is scheduled every third week of September.

Joining in the coastal clean-up were students from the Immaculate Heart of Mary Academy, and Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST), and elements from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO)-Mati.

For Mati, the clean-up areas were the Baywalk, Magsaysay of Barangay Central, and Brgy, Tagawisan.

Palabrica is grateful to Mayor Michelle Rabat for providing the plastic bags needed where garbages were placed.

The Philippine Coast Guard Lupon and Baganga detachment also participated in the coastal clean-up.

For the Baganga coastal clean-up, barangay officials led by Kagawad Paulo Cera of Barangay Lambajon and students from Maryknoll of Baganga participated in the activity.

Civilian volunteers took time out from their daily routine in Lupon to join in the annual campaign for ecological preservation.

Activity in the clean-up day dwelt in cleaning and collecting garbages from the coastal areas.

Palabrica also reported on the observance of the National Maritime Week on Sept. 21 to Sept. 27, 2009.

"As a start to the Maritime Week celebration, there was a simultaneous blowing of ship horns nationwide. The celebration is also a way to remind us of our tasks as members of the Philippine Coast Guard," Palabrica said.

Also, the Phil. Coast Guard remains steadfast in fulfilling one of its important task, and that is ensuring maritime safety.

As such, the Philippine Coast Guard boasts of their 8 light houses that serve as reference point for fishermen, fishing vessels, and ships, all of which are operational.

Light houses are in Baculin in the municipality of Baganga, Pusan Point in Caraga, Mapanga in Banaybanay, Tibanban and Cape of San Agustin in Governor Generoso, and Lawigan, Pujada Island, and at the back of the Coast Guard station in the municipality of Mati. (DXHM-AM and DXDV-FM)

dinabaw

September 30th, 2009, 03:18 AM

PIA Press Release
2009/09/30

Mati to implement solid waste management program

By Neela G. Duallo

Mati, Davao Oriental (30 September) -- The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) is now bent on implementing the solid waste management program, as stipulated in a national directive.

This was revealed by MENRO Officer Mr. Eddie Cobacha.

However, Cobacha added that the barangays in the municipality still have to comply with their respective material recovery facility.

The said facility is a must in the program's implementation.

To really ensure compliance to solid waste management, Mayor Michelle Rabat issued a memorandum, requiring all barangays to comply by having their material recovery facility.

MENRO will also strengthen education and information campaign on the solid waste management law until October 31.

Earlier, the Dept of Interior and Local Gov't (DILG) has strongly directed all local government units to comply with the law on solid waste management.

MENRO is to hold a media forum to further its information and education campaign on solid waste management.

Also, the Office has been into an in-depth advocacy on the 3R's of solid waste management.

These refer to the reduction, re-use and recycle of solid waste materials.

Aside from the implementation of the solid waste management program, the MENRO is also pushing and sustaining two movements designed to preserve and protect ecology.

These are the Save Mati Creek Movement and the Save Banahaw Creek Movement.

Mati Creek is an 8-kilometer creek from the river bank traversing Barangay Sainz, while Banahaw Creek of Sudlon in Barangay Central is approximately 4 kilometers going to Bilawan Creek, still a part of Barangay Central.

Cobacha explained that 70 to 80% of the water from the Sudlon Watershed flows down to Banahaw Creek, and as such, MENRO is pushing for an engineering intervention so as to keep the residents protected from the possible overflow of water.

While pursing the said move, MENRO will continue to plant trees in the area.

"The Save Mati Creek Movement is already integrated in the Annual Investment Plan of the local government of Mati. All the local government is asking from the residents in those areas is to keep the creeks clean," Cobacha said. (MATI, Dvo.Or.) [top]

PIA News (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p090930.htm&no=11&r=R11&y=09&mo=09)

dinabaw

October 4th, 2009, 12:09 PM

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/1280/361637446647c7160290b.jpg

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/2267/29741485587a08031170o.jpg

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4448/2974148098b82bcf2631o.jpg

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/2351/34386880363e1199f4b2.jpg

dinabaw

October 4th, 2009, 12:15 PM

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/2820/3467742071e061828424b.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/7978/366477364201a6b1fd05b.jpg

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6500/2660580134195005b1e7o.jpg

dinabaw

October 16th, 2009, 02:49 PM

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/3441/4016271776f12f38776bb.jpg (http://img340.imageshack.us/i/4016271776f12f38776bb.jpg/)
Lupon, Davao Oriental

credits to:Roel Rubi(flickrs) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/romelrubi/)

dinabaw

October 16th, 2009, 03:06 PM

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/6700/ilovedavaoorientaldogsh.jpg (http://img251.imageshack.us/i/ilovedavaoorientaldogsh.jpg/)

dinabaw

October 16th, 2009, 03:10 PM

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/4662/rsz1facade.png (http://img97.imageshack.us/i/rsz1facade.png/)
South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC), in Camanchiles, Matanao, Davao del Sur, Philippines.

http://images.google.com.ph/imgres?imgurl=http://www.ssd.org/news/news_images/jul1409/rsz_1facade.png&imgrefurl=http://www.ssd.org/news/jul1409.html&usg=__KeODb25H5aYIwweavisqYW22guY=&h=300&w=450&sz=691&hl=tl&start=46&um=1&tbnid=1sL4-y5VWt5bsM:&tbnh=85&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddavao%2Bexcellent%2Bphotos%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Dtl%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26channel%3Ds%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN%26start%3D40%26um%3D1

davaob4now

October 17th, 2009, 09:53 AM

^^
thats the newly constructed nursing department building..

dinabaw

October 24th, 2009, 02:51 PM

Bansalan: A Town of Sustainable Farming Methods with Sloping Agricultural Land Technology

By Henrylito Tacio

Davao, 22 August 2009. Some few years back, friends of Leila Rispens-Noel wanted to visit her hometown. But they had difficulty in finding the town on the Philippine map. "I have to describe to my friends where the town is geographically located and assured them not to worry because one day Bansalan will be placed on the map of the Philippines," said the native of Bansalan, Davao del Sur who left for the Netherlands in 1979.Street dancing in the Bansaulog Festival.

Bansalan, a small town with a total land area of only 20,770 hectares, is subdivided into 25 barangays. It is the boundary between the provinces of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur. Sitting72 kilometers south of Davao City, Bansalan is very accessible by land transportation. The town is sandwiched by two cities: Kidapawan and Digos.

"This is probably the reason why progress in my former town is so slow," wrote Rispens-Noel in her column, Roundtrip: Bansalan-Holland."Vehicles do not linger in Bansalan. Passengers from North Cotabato are eager to reach Digos or Davao City, while passengers bound for North Cotabato pass through to reach Kidapawan City and Cotabato City. It has never been a place where passengers stay longer for one reason or the other. Business activities remain in the hands of a few local enterprising people. And so the town remains largely rural and agricultural, still waiting for a miracle for the local economy to pick up."

But there seems to be always two sides of a coin. In a way, being a laggard in development can also be a blessing in disguise. Bansalan is touted as a "green town" for being "environment-friendly."

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/7646/r5050ricegranaryofdavao.jpg
Improved rice farming using SALT has greater yield.

http://img44.imageshack.us/img44/7307/r5050slopingagricultura.jpg
SALT on slopes

Improved rice farming using SALT has greater yield. Bansalan is the birthplace of the internationally-known Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT). "The system is simple, low-cost, and timely method of tilling the fragile uplands, which comprise about 60% of the country's total land area," explains Roy C. Alimoane, current director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc. "SALT helps protect the soil from erosion and leaves of nitrogen-fixing trees and shrubs as fertilizer for crops and feeds for livestock."

MBRLC, located in barangay Kinuskusan, is just 10 kilometers away from the town proper. It's a training center for various sustainable farming systems. Considered the "Disneyland of agricultural lovers," people from all over the country travel to this place just to learn the modern technologies it offers.

At MBRLC, several eco-friendly technologies are taught: FAITH (Food Always In The Home) garden; and SALT system and its three other modifications, Simple Agro-Livestock Technology (SALT 2), Sustainable Agroforest Land Technology (SALT 3), and Small Agro-Livelihood Technology (SALT 3). Other training offerings include: how to milk dairy goats, harvest tilapia, and graft fruit trees.

For developing these technologies, the Department of Science and Technology awarded the center "in the area of agricultural production" in 1987. In 1991, the regional office of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognized MBRLC with a World Food Day Silver Medal for its contribution in "mobilizing people's participation in tree planting and sustainable forest resources management." Earlier, in 1985, its former director, Harold R. Watson, was given the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for peace and international understanding for promoting the technologies in various parts of Asia.

The center also houses its affiliate, the Asian Rural Life Development Foundation. "Our main purpose is to help develop and uplift the standard of living of the poorest of the poor in Asia," explains Alimoane, of the foundation which was launched in 1988.

SALT on slopesThrough the foundation, the staff has trained more than 10,000 people from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and South America. Trainees have included farmers and high-level officials, Christians and Hindus. "Aside from training, they also learned to know more about our country and our culture," says Alimoane.

Bansalan mayor Edwin G. Reyes is vigorous in his support of making the town a tourist destination. He appointed a tourism official and created a tourism council.

The mayor's other development plans also include: agro-industrialization, infrastructure development, economic development program, agricultural development, social services program, peace and order and political stability, fiscal management and human resource development, responsive and participative governance, investment and marketing promotion, and environmental protection program.

Integrated Farming
Just nearby is the Lao Integrated Farm in the adjacent barangay of Emanwhere durian trees flourish. If you crave for durian, described by one Westerner as a fruit that "smells like hell but tastes like heaven, then this is a must-see spot. The farm, owned by Attorney Benjamin Lao, has 700 durian trees in this five-hectare lot. Other fruits found in the farm include mangosteen, rambutan, and lanzones. Atty Lao also raises goats (purebred and upgraded). His fruits are grown organically as he uses goat manure as fertilizer for his fruit trees.

Two years ago, Lao's farm became a model was bestowed a Gawa Saka Award (integrated farming system category) from the municipal agriculture office. "What I want to convey here is that government service is never a hindrance to engage in other income-generating activities like farming," said Lao.

Bagobo weaving

Another place to visit in Bansalan is the training center of Salinta Monon, the last Bagobo weaver. In 1998, she was named one of the two Manlilikha ng Bayan awardees by the National Commission for Culture and Arts. Her citation reads: "For weaving traditional Bagobo textiles marked by quality workmanship and intricacies of designs and colors of her particular Bagobo community whose unique identity and creativity she has kept alive for the present and succeeding generations."

Other areas to visit while in Bansalan are the Mainit Hot Springs in barangay Managa, Balutakay (where vegetables like cabbages, carrots, cauliflowers, and onions are grown), and Tinago and Angel Falls (which can be visited while on the way to Balutakay).

Salinta Monon, the last Bagobo weaver, working on her tapestries.

Gaia Discovery (http://www.gaiadiscovery.com/latest-places/bansalan-a-town-of-sustainable-farming-methods-with-sloping.html)

dinabaw

October 29th, 2009, 07:25 AM

PLAIN AND SIMPLE
Welcome to Davao Oriental
Written by: Fernandez , Ed
Thursday, 29 October 2009

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/5163/2709658658l.jpg (http://img3.imageshack.us/i/2709658658l.jpg/)
U/C Mati Park and Baywalk

I WENT to Davao Oriental the other day with Photojournalist Aurelio “Boy” Pena to train student journalists who are all winners for the regional press conference.
I was happy the division is serious with learning the journalistic craft for their students who showed some interests and skills in journalism. Boy and I found journalistic talents of students.
One of them, Boy said, is “even better than my reporter in Davao City.” That honest comment from Boy inspired the school paper advisers and the journalism coordinator of that province.
I told the school paper advisers and the journalism coordinator that if Boy says that it means the student must really be good. Why? Boy is not just another school paper adviser lecturing about news or editorial or feature. He is a practicing journalist. Not just locally, but nationally and internationally.
I have always told journalism supervisors to get this man for their training especially for the school paper advisers. Boy is the former correspondent for the Agence France Press (AFP), this news agency of France and the former Mindanao correspondent of Asiaweek. Most of his stories occupied the centerspread of Asiaweek, a feat no Mindanawon has equalled.

I have seen and read Boy’s stories in European magazines and newspapers, in national dailies and in Asiaweek. As a young reporter for a national daily, I covered with him the snap election called by Mr Marcos. It was not an easy beat, but we had to be there for our newspapers.
There are good practicing journalists all around us, but not enough communicators and lecturers. One may write well, but he or she is a very lousy speaker. Some good writers are not gifted to communicate orally. Boy writes well and he can deliver the techniques and principles so well to his audience.
So many lecturers can talk about the elements of news because they can memorize and enumerate, but they can’t inspire their audience to write because sadly enough, they don’t know how to write. Boy does both.
I am happy that Davao Oriental got Boy for the training. I hope our supervisors are serious with really training our students to be excellent communicators who can speak well and write well. Teachers or lecturers facilitating must show them how.
The first one to write about news, features, editorials, headlines are the journalism supervisors themselves. If they cannot, they should not be there in the first place.

-oOo-
Now let me talk about my Davao Oriental trip. When the bus that I took first touched Pintatagan, the first barrio of Davao Oriental, I saw the mountain with statues of the mandayas of Davao Oriental looking like the famous Mt Rushmore.
I see the hand of Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon in this beautiful spot to welcome the guests and visitors to Davao Oreintal. That mountain with all the trimmings and decorations define what Davao Oriental is and it is a brilliant idea of the one leading the province.
I know the governor because I have worked with her during the leadership of Acting Mayor Zafiro L. Rerspicio at the City Hall of Davao. She was always innovative, creative, and a doer. She is never satisfied with mediocrity that is why she appears demanding. Demanding because she only wants the best for a project or program she wants done and implemented.

In short, Cora wants to welcome all to Davao Oriental. This could be the reason why she wants the road leading to Mati in their best condition. Construction is going on in Banaybanay, one of the two towns in Davao Oriental which are considered the rice granaries. The other one is Cateel, the town of Cora herself.
Governor Malanyaon is an achiever and she wants that define her leadership in that province. She is a certified public accountant; this is why she can easily account the budget of each project for the province. She is a lawyer, and she can easily detect some legal implications in government projects and programs. And she is gifted with a business acumen not given to other local leaders holding sensitive positions.
Davao Oriental is blessed with a leader like that who luckily hails from one of the towns of the province.
She has endeared herself to her own people because Cora speaks their language Mandaya, as fluent as speaking in Bisaya, Tagalog, and English. That is a gift not any political leaders in Davao Oriental have.

Mindanao Times (http://www.mindanaotimes.com.ph/?p=4666)

dinabaw

October 29th, 2009, 07:42 AM

DAVAO OR BEADAVAO OR BEACHES PERFECT FOR KAYAK
9/30/2009
by Neela G. Duallo

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/2523/friendshipkayakprojecti.jpg (http://img59.imageshack.us/i/friendshipkayakprojecti.jpg/)

While Surigao boasts of Siargao, Davao Oriental, with the longest coastline in the region, boasts of Mayo Bay and Dahican Beach in Mati, and other beaches in other parts of the province, yet to be unraveled.

Davao Oriental was chosen among the many provinces in the archipelago, as one of the itinerary of the Friendship Kayak Expedition.

“Perfect “ was how the expediton leader, Khoo Swee Chiow of Singgapore, described the Philippines, particularly Mati as they took a rest before hurdling again against the waves for their kayak expedition that started in Glan, Saranggani on August 29.

“The best way to explore beautiful wonderful places is through kayak. I guess nobody does the kayak here in Mati,” he said.

He emphasized that Davao Oriental has a big potential in kayak, and he hopes that the province can develop a kayak industry.

“I want to go back here, and not only for kayak, I also want to climb mountains. We have to explore natural beauty such as Davao Oriental, particularly Mati,” he added.

Chiow was awed with the spectacular view of Mayo Bay and its serenity, and with the inviting waves of Dahican Beach .

Mati Tourism Officer Dashiel Indelible, Jr. is optimistic that with Chiow’s kayak expedition and with his promotion of Mati and the rest of Davao Oriental, this will entice more visitors and tourists to visit Mati and see for themselves what Chow had seen.

Mr. Juancho Serrano of the Provincial Tourism Office is also grateful that a personality such as Chiow was able to visit Davao Oriental.

Indelible and Serrano beamed that most importantly, Chiow, in his brief visit to Davao Oriental, was able to see the culture of the province and was accorded with the famous Filipino hospitality.

The expeditors were thrilled to see endangered sea species such as sea cow in Mayo, and dolphins in the municipality of Cateel , that were seemed to be playing with them.

From Glan, Saranggani, the expeditors proceeded to Davao Oriental, and it’s first stop was the municipality of Lupon , then Governor Generoso, Mati, Tarragona , Caraga, Baganga, after which they sailed off to Bislig, Surigao.

It will be a 100-day expedition for Chiow, and the expedition will have it’s last stop in Pagodpud in November, Ilocos Norte.

“We are on the right track, in as far as promoting our tourism potentials is concerened,” Indelible said said.

Chiow had climbed the summit of the highest mountain in the World, Mt. Everest , not just nce but twice, and had been also to Mt. Fuji .

From Singgapore, he successfully reached Bejing through his bicycle, and he had also swum the Malaca Strait .

He has written three books, and his Philippine kayak expedition will be the fourth.

For such fate, Chiow is already in the Guiness Book of World Record.

The expedition aims to foster a more beautiful and dynamic relationship between Singgapore and Philippines.

Mati Website (http://images.google.com.ph/imgres?imgurl=http://www.mati.gov.ph/Images/headerimg.png&imgrefurl=http://www.mati.gov.ph/news.aspx%3Fid%3D50&usg=__dGdJO7HEBORjtx0Uzk-6PkDA330=&h=218&w=291&sz=104&hl=tl&start=26&um=1&tbnid=MFXqiNh2h2-ExM:&tbnh=86&tbnw=115&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddavao%2Boriental%2BMati%2Bwelcome%2Bsign%2Bphotos%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Dtl%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26channel%3Ds%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN%26start%3D20%26um%3D1)

dinabaw

November 2nd, 2009, 03:06 AM

Mati offers town to typhoon victims
Sunday, November 1, 2009

MATI municipality floated the idea of adopting flood-affected families of Metro Manila provided that the local government to where they come from would shoulder all the expenses of their relocation.

Mati municipal administrator Richard Villacorte said they are willing to offer a vast tract of land for the Metro Manila residents if they wish to relocate to Mati.

For updates from around the country, follow Sun.Star on Twitter

He said construction of the housing units for those who would transfer to Mati must be shouldered by the local government unit where they came from.

Another problem they foresee is on the need for jobs the exodus of Metro Manila residents to Mati would entail.

Villacorte admitted that the moment when Mati's internal revenue allotment was remarkably decreased from P300 million to a little over P100 million due to the nullification of their cityhood status, they could not provide jobs for the would-be residents.

Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat, however, raised the necessity for the relocation of some Metro Manila residents to other areas so as to equally distribute the wealth of the nation.

She said people flock to flood-prone areas of Metro Manila because there are no available jobs and little support in the rural areas.

"People will migrate to rural areas once we develop them. So developing rural areas is the only way we could decongest Metro Manila," Rabat said.

She said their failed bid for cityhood could have helped Mati attract people to reside in Mati.

Mati is a first-class municipality with agriculture as its primary form of livelihood.

The town boasts of white sand beaches and islands and is fast becoming a tourist destination in the Davao Region. (BOT)

Sun-Star (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/mati-offers-town-typhoon-victims)

davaoeagle

November 4th, 2009, 07:31 PM

Home » Sun.Star Davao » Lifestyle
Rediscovering historic and scenic attractions
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
By Henrylito D. Tacio

RECENTLY, I embarked on a trip (together with Sonny Dizon and nine others) from splendor Davao City to mysterious Agusan Marsh and then to historic Cateel, Davao Oriental (via the newly-opened Compostela route over the gorgeous Mount Diwata).

On our return trip, we followed the scenic highway from quaint Baganga to stately Mati and then back to Davao City. This is my report:

Mysterious and perilous Agusan Marsh

Almost two hours after traversing the chocolate-colored Cebulao River from the town of Bunawan, we finally arrived at Lake Mihaba, a crocodile sanctuary inside the ecologically significant wetland ecosystem in the country today.

Rey O. Calderon, president of the people's organization that monitors the lake, said the saltwater crocodile that attacked and killed 12-year-old Rowena Romano still lurks in the marshy waters. Saltwater crocodiles are considered the largest living among crocodilians and reptiles on Earth. Its average size is 17 feet.

Attacks are rare. But the marsh has been swollen for the past several months, causing fish to scatter to others parts. With little to feed on, the crocodiles have become aggressive, said Ruel Hipulan, head of the Save Mindanao Volunteers Inc.

Lake Mihaba is just one of the 56 lakes found in Agusan Marsh, which was declared as a protected area by the former president Fidel V. Ramos. The marshland, which is said to be similar to the Everglades of Florida, acts like a sponge, as it is nestled in the midwaters of the Agusan River drainage basin.

Mystical and luxuriant Mount Diwata

In Philippine mythology, a diwata is a mythological figure similar to fairies or nymphs. They are said to reside in large trees, such as acacia and balete and are the guardian spirits of nature, bringing blessing or curses upon those who bring benefits or harm to the forests and mountains.

On our way to Cateel, Davao Oriental, we followed the Mount Diwata trail. Only few patches of the road are cemented; the rest are still muddy if not dusty. But it was worth it as the trip provides you a glimpse of the infamous gold rush area 600 miles south of Manila.

Beneath its rocky soil and canopy of forest, Mount Diwata is believed to have the richest gold deposit in the Philippines, itself considered a world-class treasure trove of mineral wealth.

The lure of gold has attracted tens of thousands small-scale miners to Diwalwal (as it is commonly known) thereby transforming a once uninhabited wilderness to a rubble-strewn settlement where processing waste has killed the local river. "Those who are afraid to die should not come to Mount Diwata," village captain Franco Tito once told Reuters' Carmel Crimmins.

While the upper portion of the mountain is still classified as virgin forest, deforestation in some parts continues.

Unparalleled and enthralling Aliwagwag Falls

Known among the natives as the natural opus of the Mandaya gods (the father and son Mansilatan and Badla), Aliwagwag Falls is one of the tallest and most unique waterfalls in the Philippines. It is way off the tourist map and is known mostly to locals and intrepid adventurers; it is not even listed in international guidebooks.

Before reaching Cateel, we made a stopover at this majestic waterfall. And when I saw it, I was dumbfounded, speechless, and awed by the spectacular sight. It is beyond comprehension: a series of 84 falls appearing like "stairway to heaven" with various heights among the steps. One step is measured 72 feet and another is 67 feet. Overall, the falls is 1,110 feet of cascading energy and 20 meters in width -- all these in the midst of virgin forest.

According to some locals, there are parts in the forest just near the Aliwagwag Falls where you can find the burial grounds of the Mandaya and could be reached by hiking.

Historic and picturesque Cateel

The oldest town of the province of Davao Oriental, Cateel is located on the eastern coast of Mindanao and is bounded by the Pacific Ocean. The municipality is traversed by the two rivers: Caraga River in the south and Manurigao River in the north.

How quaint is the town? Writing in his blog, native Danny Castillones Sillada informed: "The town is like a forgotten paradise bereft of any infrastructure, regressive as it was since the Spaniards, the Japanese, and the Americans came: no electricity, no television, and no telephone."

What we missed visiting was the Pusan Point, the easternmost vantage point of the Philippine archipelago where you can witness and celebrate the nature come to life. This 4-hectare coconut plantation is blessed with a 750 meter beach blanketed with white sand beach facing the Pacific Ocean.

Digging sperm whale

As we approached Cateel, Darrell Dean Blatchley received a text from someone informing him of a sperm whale buried somewhere in Barangay San Antonio. The American owner of the Davao-based Blatchley Antler Design was excited when he learned that the group was going to the said barangay.

So while Patrick Taclob, Misael Abad, and Marco Dizon were surfing the big waves of the Long Beach in San Antonio, Blatchley was also digging the skeletons of sperm whale, which was buried some two years ago.

A sperm whale has a large head that can be up to one-third of the animal's length. The species feeds on squid and fish, diving as deep as 3 kilometers (9,800 feet) in order to obtain its prey, making it the deepest diving mammal in the world. It is considered the largest living predator.

Over most of the period from the early 18th century until the late 20th century, the sperm whale was subjected to significant hunting pressure in order to obtain the spermaceti and other products, such as sperm oil and ambergris. Spermaceti found many important uses, such as candles, soap, cosmetics and machine oil. The sperm whale can live for more than 70 years.

Surfing at Mati

On our third night, we slept at Mati, Davao Oriental.
The following day, we met Michael N. Rabat, the brother of the town's mayor. "Davao Oriental is the only province with no city," said Mikko (as he wants to be called), who owns the Villa Merced Hotel and president of the hotel and beach resort organization.

Mikko was our tour guide that day. First, he brought us to the provincial Capitol and then showed us some parts of the town before proceeding to the unused airport (which was built by then president Ferdinand E. Marcos). He also took us to their farm, where you can see sheep raised under the coconut trees, pomelo and cashew orchards, and cattle and horses.

Our final destination was barangay Dahican, whose 7-kilometer white sand beach is facing the Pacific Ocean. About 15 minutes away from the town proper, anyone can come to the beach. Its white sand may not be as fine as Boracay's but walking on it barefoot would still be a pleasure.

The waves are big enough for surfing; in fact, it is a well-known skimboarding and surfing spot in the country.

dinabaw

November 7th, 2009, 12:21 PM

now this i would like to see.... one of a kind... orgasmic beach!:lol:

Bel-at Beach

It is located at barangay Tagabebe. This is a white sand-filled beach possessing a unique figure when viewed from a distance across the sea. Sea caves formations are visible in adjacent areas of the beach. The place can be reached by pub, puj, and motorcycles.

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/3055/belat1.jpg

http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/1048/belat2.jpg

Governor Generoso (http://govgen.fieldofdreams-ph.org/tourism/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=1)

glenntoy15

November 9th, 2009, 06:37 AM

kalbongdad

November 9th, 2009, 10:34 AM

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/416/headerfmj.jpg (http://img199.imageshack.us/i/headerfmj.jpg/)
Proposed municipal hall of Tarragona

ganda...sana matuloy....its like the city hall of tagum meron wow factor...sana hindi lang drawing yung sa tagum...halos tapos na..

glenntoy15

November 10th, 2009, 08:06 AM

ganda...sana matuloy....its like the city hall of tagum meron wow factor...sana hindi lang drawing yung sa tagum...halos tapos na..

waw, ayus nito ah. parang addu.:banana::banana:

hummyn

November 17th, 2009, 11:22 AM

goodevening po sa lahat!! lalo na sa mga tiga Davao del Sur !!

Gusto ko lang po malaman kung ano po ba ang/ang mga major agricultural product/s ng Davao del Sur?

salamat po ! :D

dinabaw

November 17th, 2009, 01:00 PM

goodevening po sa lahat!! lalo na sa mga tiga Davao del Sur !!

Gusto ko lang po malaman kung ano po ba ang/ang mga major agricultural product/s ng Davao del Sur?

salamat po ! :D

Rice

Banana

Pineapple

diff. kind of fruits & vegetables

coffee

Rubber

& sugar

dinabaw

November 30th, 2009, 09:47 AM

Mati`s Waniban Island now a certified tourist destination
11/24/2008
by Neela G. Duallo

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/7514/1105840072l.jpg

http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/2683/1179306757l.jpg

City of Mati, Davao Oriental -- Unmindful of the big potential it has for the local tourist industry of the City of Mati, Waniban Island remains picture perfect of it`s white sand, oozing blue waters, sight refreshing mangrove trees, surrounded by the grandeur of nature.

As such, Davao Oriental Vice-Gov. Mayo Almario instructed Provincial Secretary Chito Gregorio to get a certification from the Dept. of Tourism-Region 11.

Gregorio got the Certification from Dept. of Tourism Regional Director Sonia Garcia.
With the certification, plans for its realization can be fully implemented.

These include the upgrading and cementing of the road leading to Brgy. Lawigan, passing through Waniban.
The move came after concerned residents asked the assistance of Congresswoman Thelma Z. Almario, for the rehabilitation of the said road.

Said certification was a pre-requisite to the measures to be taken up to pursue Waniban Island as a tourist destination.

Earlier, the Vice-Governor re-affirmed the thrust of the provincial government to boost the local tourism industry of the province.

In fact, in one of their regular sessions where personnel from Bachelor Express Bus Company made an appearance, he inquired if the back part of the bus can be used as space for promotion of the different scenic spots in the province.

"It will be a very effective promotional device. Anywhere the bus goes, people can see the picture of the different tourist spots of the province," he said.

He added that an active tourism industry means an active economic flow, thus benefiting the people of Davao Oriental.

"We have to let the people know that we have what it takes. And Waniban is just one of what we have," he stressed.

City of Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat also pointed out that she prefers Mati to be known as a tourist destination, than be considered a mining hub in the region, and budget for tourism promotion will be increased ten folds with the new IRA of Mati as a component city.

“We will be very happy to welcome visitors from the neighboring cities and provinces. We hope that their visit will be a wonderful experience,” she said.

Waniban Island covers an area of 4 hectares in Barangay Tamisan, approximately 20 kms from Mati Poblacion, and is only a 30-minute boat ride from Mati Wharf, or 15 to 20 minutes banca ride from the equally mystical Cinco Masao Beach Resort.

Wanniban Island is owned the family of 2nd District Board Member Ruben Linsag.

Mati (http://www.mati.gov.ph/news.aspx?id=7)

dinabaw

December 2nd, 2009, 01:05 PM

murag dayon na ni! naa nay Boysen!:lol:

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/2843/1305864556l.jpg

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/890/1362337086l.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7396/1482532656l.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/6900/1579540247l.jpg

dinabaw

December 2nd, 2009, 01:12 PM

Pasig Islet
Davao del Sur

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/2829/1674352252l.jpg

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/6639/1603343971l.jpg

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/259/1615036901l.jpg

http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/518/1713781760l.jpg

dinabaw

December 10th, 2009, 02:00 AM

Cebuano News: 1M halal chicken dressing plant gitukod sa Panabo

By June G. Geraldo

Davao City (10 December) -- Usa ka milyon ka pesos ang gigahin ni Mayor Jose L. Silvosa, Sr. alang sa pagpalit sa mga makinarya ug uban pang mga kagamitan sa planta nga gi istalar sa halal building, slaughter house compound nahimotang sa barangay Little Panay syudad sa Panabo.

Ang maong proyekto giimplimentar sa City Agriculture Office (CAGRO) sa pagpanguna ni City Agricuturist's Alijandro Mayato.

Sa maong planta pagaihawon ang mga manok nga gibuhi sa mga benipisyaryo sa backyard broiler production nga usa sa mga special project ni Mayor Jose Silvosa.

Ang backyard broiler production aduna nay nauna nga 50 ka benipisyaryo, nadugangan kini ug 140 ka benipisyaryo, nikabat na ug 190 ka benipisyaryo sa 18 ka barangay.

Gawas sa P1M nga dressing plant nigahin usab ug P2.1M si Mayor Silvosa alang ipalit ug mga piso nga broiler, feeds, medisina ug patukod sa poultry sa 140 ka mga bag-ong benipisyaryo.

Naaghat sa pagtukod ang lokal nga kagamhanan sa syudad gumikan kay inihaw ug limpyo na daan nga manok ang demand sa merkado publiko ug sa mga dagkong pumapalit. Ang maong planta moihaw ug 300 ka manok matag oras.

Kini gisugdan sa pag montar kaniadtong milabayng bulan sa Nobyembre ug gipaningkamotan sa syudad nga magamit karong umaabot nga bulan sa Enero 2010. (CIO Panabo) [top]

PIA News (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p091210.htm&no=12&r=R11&y=09&mo=12)

dinabaw

December 12th, 2009, 11:54 AM

Carmelite Monastery

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/5199/9ab6ce7e3f6b4d659b51f7e.jpg

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/4623/2873e7a83b7444f3bab4c4b.jpg

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/2229/015637bdca444e51bdb408b.jpg

Mati (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.mati.gov.ph/uploads/b9550cf7-4116-4a4a-88a8-bb73e12c471a_Masao%2520Beach%2520Resort%2520is%2520a%2520perfect%2520getaway.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.mati.gov.ph/gallery.aspx&usg=__QpkRFhuMZgck5vH7Hp_DxzRufgI=&h=550&w=733&sz=182&hl=en&start=118&um=1&tbnid=LL-KbfljItJ8YM:&tbnh=106&tbnw=141&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddavao%2Bperfect%2Bphotos%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26start%3D100%26um%3D1)

dinabaw

December 12th, 2009, 12:07 PM

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/751/5da37fc00a8a4c8aaafb9d5.jpg
Pujada Bay Festival

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/1706/e677e8c080c44f66ada93f8.jpg

http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/4266/5d28350070114588bca16d3.jpg

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/6503/e5bfdf8f289d46f4a4c468d.jpg
Baranga Cabuaya

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/8313/9d0eddc0337040a48df40b0.jpg
Waniban Island

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/2023/73b182515bbf41c6bbeb723.jpg
Oak Island

dinabaw

December 12th, 2009, 12:24 PM

Tourism Industry
Industry Background / Situationer

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/4110/sanvictorisland.jpg (http://img689.imageshack.us/i/sanvictorisland.jpg/)
San Victor Island

Tourism industry is one of the burgeoning industries in the country today. Davao Region’s comparative advantage lies in its natural and exotic sites, hence, the products such as Culture, Adventure and Nature, also known as CAN package. Promotion of these sites is fostered through the Department of Tourism’s banner program of “From Islands to Highlands”.

Among the Region’s provincial inventory of eco-tourism products, Davao Oriental has the highest number of products classified as Natural. The province boasts of diverse natural spots such as cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes and rivers, idyllic white sand beaches, exotic islands, lush forest and a bonsai forest. There are also cultural and historical sites such as the Cape of San Agustin where St. Francis Xavier was supposed to have said mass, and the 17th century San Salvador Church of Caraga that houses antique bell and images of saints.

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/6825/industrytourismtable1.gif (http://img130.imageshack.us/i/industrytourismtable1.gif/)

Tourists in the province are mostly local visitors coming from neighboring provinces and cities, “balikbayans”, visitors of some locales, participants to conferences and seminars hosted by the province, and some serious tourists from all over the country who are lured by the natural attractions of the area. There are some foreign visitors brought home by locales who either worked abroad or who married foreigners, and those who would really like to experience the rustic ambiance of some places in the province. All of these visitors provide an anchor for Davao Oriental’s tourism industry to thrive.
The tourism industry involves a broad mix of tourism operators who do business to provide complementary services ranging from travel arrangements and bookings, transportation facilities, hotels/resorts and home stays for accommodation, restaurants and entertainments. Thus, the industry offers a lot in terms of investments, employment and income.
Existing Players

Travel Agents/Operators
Beach Resort Operators
Operators of Hotel, Pension, Lodging House, Inn
Operators of Restaurants / Food House & Café
Tour Guides
Transport Operators (bus, vans)
Market Potentials

Water sports
Mountain Trekking especially to the Bonsai Forest
Special Package Trips to sites (one for District 1 & another for District 2)
Destination for conferences, seminars and other big events
Investment Potentials

Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Establishments
Theme Parks Development
Water Sports Facilities
Tour Bus Operation
Business tie-ups with establish Tour Operators in Urban Centers for inclusion of Davao Oriental in their menu of destinations
Operation of Gift Shops for Souvenir Items

Explore & Invest, Davao Oriental (http://images.google.com.ph/imgres?imgurl=http://davaoorientalinvest.com/main/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/san-victor-island.jpg&imgrefurl=http://davaoorientalinvest.com/main/%3Fpage_id%3D105&usg=__1ulxvkE-TB8QIejQUs44zoET778=&h=203&w=583&sz=27&hl=tl&start=96&um=1&tbnid=pd1xtwgMn7lC3M:&tbnh=47&tbnw=134&prev=/images%3Fq%3DSan%2BAgustin%2BDavao%2BOriental%2Bphotos%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Dtl%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26channel%3Ds%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN%26start%3D80%26um%3D1)

davaob4now

December 23rd, 2009, 12:23 AM

SC resurrects 16 cityhood laws Nation
Written by Joel San Juan / Reporter
Tuesday, 22 December 2009 21:51
SAYING that a deadlock vote does not show the sentiment of the majority of the justices, the Supreme Court (SC) on Monday abandoned its final decision declaring 16 cityhood laws unconstitutional.

Instead, in a 35-page decision penned by Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco, the Court en banc, with a vote of 6-4, granted the second motion for reconsideration filed by several municipalities seeking to declare as valid and constitutional Republic Acts 9389, 9390, 9391, 9392, 9393, 9394, 9398, 9404, 9405, 9407, 9408, 9409, 9434, 9435, 9436 and 9491.

The 16 cityhood laws contained a common provision exempting all the 16 municipalities—Baybay (Leyte); Bogo (Cebu); Catbalogan (Samar); Tandag (Surigao del Sur); Borongan (Eastern Samar); Tayabas (Quezon province); Lamitan (Basilan); Tabuk (Kalinga); Bayugan (Agusan del Sur); Batac (Ilocos Norte); Mati (Davao Oriental); Guihulngan (Negros Oriental); Cabadbaran (Agusan del Norte); Carcar (Cebu); El Salvador (Misamis Oriental); and Naga (Cebu) from the P100-million income requirement for conversion of a municipality into a city and directing the Commission on Elections to conduct a plebiscite to determine whether the voters approved of their conversion into cities.

In setting aside its final ruling on the case issued on April 28, the Court explained that the 6-6 vote does not reflect the majority of the members of the idea contemplated in Section 4 (2), Article VIII of the Constitution, which requires all cases involving constitutionality of a treaty, international agreement shall be heard by the SC en banc and decided with the concurrence of a majority of the members who actually took part in the deliberations of the case.

“And be it remembered that the inconclusive 6-6 tie vote reflected in the April 28, 2009, resolution was the last vote on the issue of whether or not the cityhood laws infringe the Constitution. Accordingly, the motions of the respondent local governments, in light of the 6-6 vote, should be deliberated anew until the required concurrence on the issue of the validity or invalidity of the laws in question is, on the merits, secured,” the Court said.

Contrary to its earlier rulings, the Court now held that the cityhood laws do not violate Section 10, Article X of the Constitution, as well as the equal protection clause under Section 1, Article III of the Constitution.

Section 10 provides that “no province, city, municipality or barangay shall be created, divided, merged, abolished or its boundary substantially altered, except in accordance with the criteria established in the local government code and subject to approval by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite in the political units directly affected.

The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), in a petition, opposed the cityhood laws, saying that the “wholesale conversion of municipalities into cities” will greatly reduce the cities’ share in the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), since more cities will partake of the internal-revenue allotment set aside for all cities under Section 285 of the Local Government Code (LGC).

In its November 18, 2008, the Court granted LCP’s petition to declare unconstitutional the cityhood laws and denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the municipalities in a ruling issued on March 31.

Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, who penned the said decision, held that Section 10, Article X requires that Congress shall prescribe all the criteria for the creation of a city in the LGC and not in any other law, such as the cityhood laws.

Furthermore, the Carpio decision stressed the the cityhood laws failed to adhere to the provisions of Section 450 of the LGC, as amended by RA 9009, which increased the annual income requirement for conversion of a municipality into a city from P20 million to P100 million.

Carpio noted that Congress, in enacting RA 9009, did not provide any exemption from the increased income requirement, not even to the respondent municipalities.

However, in its new ruling, the Court pointed out that the authority to create, divide, merge or abolish boundaries of a city is essentially legislative in nature.

Since Congress has the power to create political units, the SC said it “can surely exercise the lesser authority of requiring a set of criteria and standards” for their creation, which need not to be embodied in the LGC.

“In this case, the amendatory RA 9009 upped the already codified income requirement from P20 million to P100 million. At the end of the day, the passage of amendatory laws is no different from the enactment of laws, i.e, the cityhood laws specifically exempting a particular political subdivision from the criteria earlier mentioned. Congress, in enacting the exempting law/s, effectively decreased the already codified indicators,” the Court said.

The SC further noted that the exemption of the 16 municipalities from the P100-million income requirement is reasonable, since their cityhood bills had been pending even before the passage of RA 9009.

“Because of events they had absolutely nothing to do with, a spoiler in the form of RA 9009 supervened. Now, then, to impose on them the much higher income requirement after what they have gone through would appear to be indeed ‘unfair,’” the Court said.

The Court also stressed that the LCP cannot invoke the supposed violation of the equal-protection clause in seeking to declare unconstitutional the cityhood laws, since “no deprivation of property results by virtue of the enactment of the cityhood laws.”

“Indeed, it is presumptuous on the part of the LCP member-cities to already stake a claim on the IRA, as if it were their property, as the IRA is yet to be allocated. For the same reason, the municipalities that are not covered by the uniform-exemption clause in the cityhood laws cannot validly invoke constitutional protection. For, at this point, the conversion of a municipality into a city will only affect its status as a political unit, but not its property as such,” the SC added.

Concurring with the ruling were Associate Justices Teresita Leonardo de Castro, Martin Villarama Jr., Roberto Abad, Lucas Bersamin and Renato Corona.

Those who dissented were Associate Justices Antonio Carpio, Conchita Carpio Morales, Diosdado Peralta and Arturo Brion.

Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno and Associate Justices Mariano del Castillo and Antonio Eduardo Nachura took no part in the deliberations.

It can be recalled that during the 11th Congress, Congress enacted into law 33 bills converting 33 towns into cities. However, Congress did not act on bills converting 24 other municipalities into cities.

Meanwhile, the 12th Congress enacted into law RA 9009, which took effect on June 30, 2001, which amended Section 450 of the Local Government Code by increasing the annual income requirement for conversion of a town into a city from P20 million to P100 million.

The amendment was made to restrain the “mad rush” of municipalities to convert into cities solely to secure a larger share in the IRA  despite the fact that they are incapable of fiscal independence.

After the effectivity of RA 9009, the House of Representatives and the Senate of the 12th Congress adopted Joint Resolution 29, which exempted from the P100-million income requirement the 24 towns whose cityhood bills were not approved in the 11th Congress.

However, only 16 out of the 24 towns heeded the advice of Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr. to file, through their respective sponsors, individual cityhood bills.

----------------------------businessmirror

dinabaw

December 23rd, 2009, 06:29 AM

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6852/1299113051l.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/1299113051l.jpg/)
Mati seen from Badas

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/9297/1248806288l.jpg

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/2637/1300489681l.jpg
Menzi Plantation

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/3423/1503929727l.jpg
Tarsier @ Bobon, Mati

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/8587/1263697496l.jpg
Pujada Bay

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/2223/1543504698l.jpg
[/b]Mati Old Airport[/b]

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/8751/1258048702l.jpg
Mati Tourism Complex

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/6558/1278268006l.jpg
Mati Sports Complex

Mati (http://www.friendster.com/viewphotos.php?a=809433207&uid=92107152)

dinabaw

December 23rd, 2009, 06:48 AM

Mati

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/8938/1355680096l.jpg (http://img130.imageshack.us/i/1355680096l.jpg/)
New Provincial Capitol

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/6924/1924968896l.jpg
Old Provincial Capitol

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/9356/1369052786l.jpg

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/4213/1954335940l.jpg
Provincial Hospital

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/5794/1600760206l.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/1600760206l.jpg/)

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/5895/1821175817l.jpg (http://img189.imageshack.us/i/1821175817l.jpg/)
Landmark

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/7718/1467625365l.jpg (http://img30.imageshack.us/i/1467625365l.jpg/)

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/6282/1162065003l.jpg (http://img51.imageshack.us/i/1162065003l.jpg/)
San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/423/1680342689l.jpg
Jolibee

scarletwitch.wanda

December 23rd, 2009, 02:37 PM

Mati

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/6924/1924968896l.jpg
Old Provincial Capitol

Di po yan ang old prov. capitol...Mao na xa ang current Municipal Hall of MAti...:):):)

Hirono-kun

December 24th, 2009, 08:52 AM

Mati celebrates its being a city

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

MATI residents and several groups hailed the latest decision of the Supreme Court (SC) declaring its cityhood, along with 15 others, valid and constitutional.

The High Tribunal voted 6-4, granting the second motion for reconsideration filed by the towns that lost their city status because of the court's early decision that found the "cityhood laws" unconstitutional.

Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat said the latest SC decision is a big break the people of Mati deserve.

"God is really great. With Him, everything is possible. People of Mati deserves this break," she said.

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon also welcomed the SC decision, saying the progress of Mati as a city would surely have ripple effect on all other towns of her province.

"It's high time for Davao Oriental to have a city considering that we have one of the oldest towns in the country. I congratulate the people of Mati for their restored cityhood and this is indeed a very merry Christmas for us all and we are looking forward to more bountiful years for Mati City," Malanyaon said.

George Walter Misa of Amellar Solutions, meanwhile, congratulated Mati for its persistence in pursuing its cityhood dream.

Full article (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/mati-celebrates-its-being-city)

scarletwitch.wanda

December 24th, 2009, 03:32 PM

BHP Billiton ends feud with local partner, to exit Davao mine
Neil Jerome C. Morales, BusinessWorld
12/22/2009 | 10:35 AM
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/179956/bhp-billiton-ends-feud-with-local-partner-to-exit-davao-mine

BHP Billiton, the world’s largest miner, has decided to exit the local mining industry to end a feud with its local partner, the Environment chief said late last week.

The Australian mining giant will follow the footsteps of British miners Crew Gold Corp. and Avocet Mining Plc, and Canadian Ivanhoe Mines, Ltd., which all withdrew from local mining projects early this year due to financing problems and small profit margin estimates.

Early this year, the Environment department brokered talks between BHP Billiton and estranged partner Asiaticus Management Corp. in a bid to move forward their $2-billion Pujada nickel project in Southern Mindanao.

"They already have an agreement. BHP Billiton, I understand, will sell out to the local partner," Environment Secretary Jose L. Atienza, Jr. said in an interview.

"This is a solution agreeable and satisfying to both parties. I talked to the side of [Asiaticus chief executive] Peter Tan and company. They seem to be happy with it. Obviously, they found it to be a happy compromise," Atienza said.

The Cabinet official also said he had a conference with BHP Billiton officials in Australia about two weeks ago.

The 16,000-hectare property in Mati, Davao Oriental, which has an estimated 150 million metric tons of nickel reserves, is one of the priority mining projects of the government and could become one of the country’s largest nickel projects at full capacity.

A BHP Billiton spokeswoman confirmed Atienza’s statements.

"BHP Billiton confirms it has signed a Share and Asset Purchase Agreement with Asiaticus to divest its 40 percent interest in the Hallmark deposit to Asiaticus," Samantha Evans, media relations head of BHP’s Australia office, said in an e-mail yesterday.

"BHP Billiton thanks the Philippine government for their efforts in supporting our participation in the project and assisting to resolve the dispute with Asiaticus," the company spokeswoman added.

Asiaticus refused to comment on the matter. An official of the company said the local mining firm would issue a disclosure in early 2010.

In 2007, Asiaticus rescinded its joint venture partnership with BHP Billiton, after it had grown impatient at the rate of the latter’s exploration activities.

Commercial operation at the Pujada nickel mine was supposed to start next year.

However, an arbitration panel in Singapore upheld the validity of the joint venture early this year. In May, the Court of Appeals nullified the writ of preliminary injunction issued by a regional court last year, which ordered BHP Billiton to stop exploring the mine.
Evans said the financial details of the divestment program were confidential.
Atienza said he expects the mining project to finally move forward under Asiaticus.

"I am sure [Asiaticus] will now proceed full-blast as they were stymied with the legal issues between the two sides," Atienza said.

"I am sure [Asiaticus] will take advantage of the movement of metal prices," he added.

Nickel prices have already risen to $7.732 per pound (lb.), up from the average price of $5.64 and $4.75 per lb. in the second and first quarters, respectively, data from the London Metal Exchange showed.

Atienza said BHP Billiton would "reinvest somewhere else, in some other sector."

"But definitely they are not leaving the Philippines," the Environment chief added.

Last month, the publicly listed and state-led upstream oil and gas firm Philippine National Oil Co.-Exploration Corp. farmed out three-fourths of its participating interest in a 14,760-square- kilometer exploration block off Palawan to BHP Billiton Petroleum Pty. Ltd.

BHP Billiton Petroleum also holds a 25 percent interest in Service Contract 56 in Sulu Sea, an oil and gas exploration project operated by Exxon Mobil Corp.

davaob4now

December 29th, 2009, 11:21 AM

Bansalan Public Market burned..beacuse of firecrackers...:(

trYfe5ysJBE

dinabaw

January 6th, 2010, 02:07 AM

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/9764/42472921298efef40224by.jpg (http://img11.imageshack.us/i/42472921298efef40224by.jpg/)

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/9025/42473215897c8a2841bab.jpg (http://img199.imageshack.us/i/42473215897c8a2841bab.jpg/)
Dahican, Mati

WiseDvi(flickr) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25978436@N02/)

aquaticpanda

January 6th, 2010, 04:07 PM

Is is alright if I post pictures which are currently in use on my blog? Will I be sanctioned or something? :poke:

dinabaw

January 7th, 2010, 01:40 AM

Is is alright if I post pictures which are currently in use on my blog? Will I be sanctioned or something? :poke:

no, you can posts ALL your photo blogs here.
btw welcome @aquaticpanda! :cheers:

hakz2007

January 7th, 2010, 04:44 AM

Army battalion serves 1,316 individuals in medical outreach program (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=251226)

MATI CITY, Jan. 7 (PNA) –- A combat maneuvering battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had served at least 1,316 individuals in their series of medical and dental civic action programs (MEDCAP) in Davao Oriental town barangays.

MEDCAP of the 67th Infantry (Agila) Battallion (IB) led by Lt. Col. Henry Doyaoen, in cooperation with Rural Health Unit of Baganga, was dedicated to the people of Baganga town in Davao Oriental.

The medical and dental outreach program of the 6th IB also released a total of 15 boxes free medicines to Baganga residents.

The recent successful conduct of MEDCAP was also through the help of the provincial government and medical expertise extended by Dr. Violeta Morales, the Municipal Health Officer of Baganga and the medical staff who tirelessly devoted their time in attending to patients who came from the far sitios of Barangay Salingcomot and Bobonao of that same town.

Before the actual MEDCAP, the Civil Military Operations (CMO) section of the 67th IB prepared a film showing followed by info drive on the CPP/NPA's deceptive recruitment of minors and their criminal activities like arson, extortion and killing of innocent people.

After the MEDCAP, the residents of Barangays Salingcomot and Bobonao happily went home with sufficient (full dosage) amount of medicines needed for their illnesses and information about the deceptive nature of CPP/NPA's and their criminal activities, said Col. Doyaoen.

"As an eye opener, they were well informed on what may become of them and their loves ones should they allow themselves to be deceived by these criminals and be lured to join their criminal syndicate,” added the Army battalion commander. (PNA)

aquaticpanda

January 7th, 2010, 02:30 PM

no, you can posts ALL your photo blogs here.
btw welcome @aquaticpanda! :cheers:

Thanks! ^.^ got some pictures I'd like to post. I was in Digos last September and December. (I'm from Northern Mindanao)

I'm going to crop 'em first kasi sobrang laki ng file size. :ohno:

EDIT:

Can anyone tell me roughly how much money I'd be spending if I'd go to Camp Sabros? From Digos City that is... Ahhh zipline...

hakz2007

January 15th, 2010, 10:52 AM

PAO Davao reopens Davao Oriental district office (http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Cities_And_Towns_23/PAO_Davao_reopens_Davao_Oriental_district_office.shtml)

BAGANGA, Davao Oriental, Jan. 15 (PNA) -- The Public Attorneys Office (PAO) in Davao Region finally reopened its Baganga District Office with the appointment of one lawyer last Monday.

PAO Davao chief Francis Calatrava assigned in Baganga lawyer Apple Cherrie Amolata, who will be handling the Regional Trial Court (RTC) and the Municipal Trial Court (MTC) in Baganga, the Municipal Circuit Trial Courts (MCTC) in Cateel and Boston, Manay, Taragona and Caraga.

"Daghan kaayo siya ug courts (She has to handle so many courts) but I am so happy that we now have our office in Baganga which was closed since August 2004, for almost six years," Calatrava said.

Calatrava said Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon was instrumental in the reopening of the district office.

Meanwhile, Calatrava said the PAO Davao still needs additional lawyers for assignments in Digos and Malita in Davao del Sur; and Tagum and Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte.

"In Davao City alone, we have 15 lawyers for 18 courts. But, I'm prohibited from handling a court because I have to supervise and oversee the lawyers and the staff all over the region," Calatrava explained. (PNA)

dinabaw

January 15th, 2010, 12:30 PM

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/9816/4239955188a92d63560fo.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/4239955188a92d63560fo.jpg/)
Pujada Bay, Mati

http://www.flickr.com/photos/noel_pabuaya/4239955188/

michael_ray

January 27th, 2010, 02:07 PM

Maayong Gabii Digos City, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental! Yours truly and @BarPa of Davao City have started our campaign of creating SSC MINDANAO. The primary aim of this campaign is to build camaraderie, harmony, and unify all members of Skyscrapercity Mindanao which includes all cities, provinces, and region. I am sure many of you are aware of CVCs especially between CdeO and Davao. We want to end this and transform skyscrapercity as a venue for brotherhood. Will this really work? As long as we have the support of the majority then we will consider this campaign a success. We will then have rules where everybody's voice will be heard. Let us no longer tolerate conflicts. How? Do not reinforce the negative comment posted by one member. Instead, immediately remind him to be tact and calm. Let us immediately kill the fire if we can sense that it's already there.

Please support us by putting your city and your name in the list. To all those who have already supported this campaign DAGHANG SALAMAT. To all those who have shown their interest, we truly appreciate your kind gesture. Please support this campaign by putting your city and your name in the list. Thank you and GOD bless us all.

This is the list of our supporters as of January 27, 2010 (20:28).

SSC Mindanao supporters from CdeO:
1. Michael_Ray
2. Adeuksom
3. regjeex
4. dark_knight_detective

SSC Mindanao supporters from Davao

1. BarPa

juniordiscovery

January 28th, 2010, 03:57 AM

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/9816/4239955188a92d63560fo.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/4239955188a92d63560fo.jpg/)
Pujada Bay, Mati

http://www.flickr.com/photos/noel_pabuaya/4239955188/

Nice pics, nindot jud ang pujada bay :)

calbayognon

January 28th, 2010, 09:13 AM

I was in Digos City pala last January 20, ask ko lang. Nagsara ba yung Mcdonald's doon?

regjeex

January 29th, 2010, 06:37 AM

Anong oras ka nagpunta don sa Mcdo? Baka early morning ka na ni adto. Or basin naay interior renovation. Imposible mag sara ang McDo sa Digos.

I was in Digos City pala last January 20, ask ko lang. Nagsara ba yung Mcdonald's doon?

sandman.ink

January 29th, 2010, 08:07 AM

Anong oras ka nagpunta don sa Mcdo? Baka early morning ka na ni adto. Or basin naay interior renovation. Imposible mag sara ang McDo sa Digos.

closed na sya, last year pa

regjeex

January 29th, 2010, 08:45 AM

Unsa may cause why nag close ang McDo Sir? kay kadtong didto ko 2007 puno man ang Mcdo nag pila man gani mi sa akong Auntie tapos hulat mi kung naa bakante nga table...

closed na sya, last year pa

sandman.ink

January 30th, 2010, 02:54 AM

Unsa may cause why nag close ang McDo Sir? kay kadtong didto ko 2007 puno man ang Mcdo nag pila man gani mi sa akong Auntie tapos hulat mi kung naa bakante nga table...

naa daghan rumored reasons, pero dili ko sure...mas ok if gikan from mcdo jud, or someone who previously worked there.

dinabaw

January 30th, 2010, 11:13 AM

^^ mao ba ng issue na the lot they are occupyng owned by the Provincial Government?

regjeex

January 30th, 2010, 11:19 AM

Kasayang sa McDo Digos... balhin nalang unta sila og lain nga site within the city ra gihapon.. diri dapit sa may duol sa mercado oh... or atbang sa central warehouse. dili man sad pede mo atbang sila sa jabee diba simbahan man ang atbang sa Datu Complex? correct me if im wrong.. kalimot naman ko...

Or basin didto sila mag put up ug branch sa Gaisano nga new...

coolerman

February 3rd, 2010, 04:24 PM

dile sila kaabot sa quota nila, dile naman ko matingala na naa jud magsara as digos nga establishment.. sa tinoud lang, wala jud nilambo ang DIGOS, wlay trabaho kai walay oppotunity kai walay new business.. wala silay program regarding sa mga investments, ang officials ray nabulahan..

regjeex

February 4th, 2010, 05:56 AM

Mao ba Sir? si Cagas pa gihapon ang mayor diha? Mao man sad na ingon sa akong auntie nga mga officiales ra ang nanga datu diha sa Digos... Dugay ra unta gi kuha ang offer sa akong auntie mag serve diha sa Digos pero sa Hagonoy siya mi lahutay taman sa iyang pa retire kay less politics ang Hagonoy. Ang akong uncle nga naa sa post office murag Post Master IV man cguro... murag mo early retire na kay wa daw kasabot...

hakz2007

February 4th, 2010, 11:07 PM

British aerospace firm still prefers the Philippines as site of its $40-M Asian manufacturing facility (http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=21366:british-aerospace-firm-still-prefers-the-philippines-as-site-of-its-40-m-asian-manufacturing-facility&catid=45:regions&Itemid=71)
Written by Manuel T. Cayon / Reporter
Wednesday, 03 February 2010 19:55

DAVAO CITY—The head of the Board of Investments (BOI) here claimed that a British aerospace company has assured the Philippines that the country was the preferred site of its manufacturing facility of galleys and other items of future Airbus planes.

Gil Dureza, chief of three BOI regional offices, said the British Aerospace (BAE) told the BOI in November last year that the Philippines was its final choice of the country where it would put up its $40-million facility.

It was the latest communication sent by BAE after a lull of several months, when in January last year the company communicated to Philippine investment officials that it has included the country on the short list of five countries in Asia to host its production plant for plane parts. The communication was relayed by the British Embassy that time.

Dureza said his regional office has recommended three locations in Davao region as probable sites: the Hijo Port town in Madaum, Tagum City, already awarded the accreditation of the Philippine Export Processing Zone; Santa Cruz town and Digos City, both of Davao del Sur.

Dureza previously told business reporters here last year that Davao City was mentioned by BAE as highly preferred.

Dureza said that the BOI in Manila said the briefing paper of BAE stated that the proposed manufacturing facility would produce “galleys and other items for the next generation of Airbus aircraft”.

The galley is the area passengers first see upon boarding, an Internet posting said. The galley has counterspace that stores meals and drawers containing ice and sodas or plates and glasses.

The company is a leading UK designer and manufacturer of aircraft- interior products and solutions for the commercial, business jet and military aircraft markets, according to the project brief given to the BOI.

Dureza said the company “is in the midst of manufacturing the most advanced series of new generation of passenger aircraft most especially the Airbus 380, the single largest passenger aircraft to date.”

The BOI said BAE is one of the major contractors and partners in the European Air Defense System (EADS).

The company has inquired into the BOI if the prospective sites have available support infrastructures, support industry and details on transportation network. BAE would like to know the city’s road network, the “typical costs and transit times for both passenger and freight services to nearest airport and seaport;” the airports and seaports, specifically their distance from the potential facility and the details of both the airport and the seaport handling capacity; and the shipping costs from local seaport to nearest seaport to Toulouse, Marseilles, France.

The company would also like to know the details of the support industry, and include the name of the company, contact details, capacity of firms engaged in the manufacture of metal, machined parts, fabricated metal parts, electrical work like loom or harness manufacture, electrical cable printing, plastics, vacuum-formed parts, composite and injection molding.

Noize_320

February 5th, 2010, 12:59 PM

^^ source sa article po...

jhunix

February 5th, 2010, 01:01 PM

^^^ click mo yung title naka link yan...

Noize_320

February 5th, 2010, 01:08 PM

"post reply" ang link nun eh...

MtApoStandard

February 5th, 2010, 01:13 PM

hope politics in the bureaucracy will not ruin the choice of location and sequester this investment to favour a friend's place outside of davao. its about time to give davao a share of investment like this.

hakz2007

February 5th, 2010, 01:17 PM

^^^ click mo yung title naka link yan...

"post reply" ang link nun eh...

Fixed. :okay:

MtApoStandard

February 5th, 2010, 01:18 PM

another easy option, copy paste the title to a google search box:D

Thebawenyo

February 6th, 2010, 03:48 AM

KING CITY

February 11th, 2010, 03:55 AM

http://i.pbase.com/g3/49/789649/2/110183761.68pcWabp.jpg

Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur

dinabaw

February 18th, 2010, 01:58 AM

Feature: Caraga's gardening program and the 4Ps

by Sheryll Jane Sanico

San Jose, Caraga, Davao Oriental (18 February) -- Acknowledged by the Municipality of Caraga as the "model barangay for gardening," San Jose has the enthusiastic and cooperative 4Ps beneficiaries to thank for. "Kini mahitungod ug alang lamang kanila (This is all because of them)," Barangay Captain Alexander Sael bragged.

The gardening program is the initiative of the local government of Brgy. San Jose which started October 2009. "Gitagaan namo og luna atbang sa Barangay Hall para ilang matamnan og gulay ug uban pang lagutmon (We gave the lot located across the barangay hall where they can plant vegetables and other root crops)."

Also, the seeds and other planting materials were donated by the local government unit like camote and swamp cabbage (kangkong).

In addition, the money they earn from their produce are then kept by the barangay treasurer as "emergency fund." "Nakahatag na mi og singko mil pang-lubong kadtong naay namatay sa amoang barangay (We were able to donate P 5,000.00 for the burial expenses of one community resident)," Brgy. Capt. Sael said. Some of the harvested vegetables are also divided and distributed to the 4Ps households.

"Dako kaayo og natabang ang 4Ps sa amoang barangay. Nakita nako nga wala lamang nakatabang ang 4Ps sa pagpaeskwela ug paghatag og saktong nutrisyon sa ilang mga anak apan na-exercise pud nila ang community involvement (4Ps has been a huge help in our barangay. 4Ps not only assisted them on their children's education and health but also enabled them to exercise community involvement)," continued Barangay Captain Sael.

As the father of the barangay, he never fails to remind his constituents to comply with the conditionalities of the program. "Ang pagtuman lang sa konsdisyon sa programa ang ginapangayo sa inyoha. Ug kung buot huna-hunaon para gihapon sa inyo ug sa inyohang mga anak ang kondisyon nga ilang ginapangayo. Swerte ra kaayo ta sa Barangay San Jose nga naapil ta sa 4Ps busa atoa gyud nga panggaon ang programa (The only thing asked of you by the program is to comply with the conditionalities set by 4Ps. And come to think of it, the required conditionalities are also for you and your children's welfare. We are very lucky here in Barangay San Jose to be included in 4Ps that is why we have to love the program)," Brgy. Captain Sael prompts them.

Barangay San Jose is one of the seventeen barangays of Caraga which benefited from 4Ps. 4Ps is a poverty-reduxtremely poor households to help improve the health and education of children aged 0 to 14. (DSWD) [top]

PIA News (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&sec=reader&rp=1&fi=p100218.htm&no=4&date=)ction strategy aiming to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty by giving out cash grants to e

davaoeagle

February 19th, 2010, 02:12 AM

Davao del Sur Sports Complex
Matti, Davao del Sur

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5646.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5637.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5639.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5645.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5643.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5644.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5642.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5641.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5640.jpg

davaoeagle

February 19th, 2010, 02:23 AM

Digos City random shots

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5626.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5628.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5630.jpg

dinabaw

February 19th, 2010, 03:57 AM

^^ nice!

regjeex

February 19th, 2010, 05:30 AM

wui Datu Complex :cheers: always ko diha :cheers:

Digos City random shots

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5630.jpg

regjeex

February 19th, 2010, 05:33 AM

Roxas Street bani? or sa main highway.

Digos City random shots

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davao%20Vacation%202010/IMG_5628.jpg

davaob4now

February 19th, 2010, 06:15 AM

^^
Rizal Avenue na..:)

re: Datu Complex...it is DC Square now...:)

PS: Davao del Sur could host the Palarong Pambansa in the future once the sports complex will be comlpeted.

regjeex

February 19th, 2010, 06:28 AM

Aw Rizal Avenue diay na... naa naman gud nadugang na lane... kalimot nako

Once finished, that'll be the most modern sports facilities in the country IMO based on the rendering. Malabyan ba ni sya Sir padulong ka Digos kung you're from Davao City. Tama ba?

^^
Rizal Avenue na..:)

re: Datu Complex...it is DC Square now...:)

PS: Davao del Sur could host the Palarong Pambansa in the future once the sports complex will be comlpeted.

davaob4now

February 19th, 2010, 07:10 AM

^^
no.
if you are going to cotabato makikita mo to..but if sa digos city centre ka lang from davao city, di mo siya makikita unfortunately...the sports complex is situated along davao-cotabato national highway..:)

regjeex

February 19th, 2010, 07:17 AM

Ah OK. I hope maka take kog picture when i get there in Digos this May. Mag suroy suroy unya ko diha puhon.

glenntoy15

February 19th, 2010, 08:03 AM

Fahdingding

February 20th, 2010, 01:22 AM

nice development for digos!

Ibex

February 20th, 2010, 11:07 PM

rex abad

February 21st, 2010, 02:31 PM

"[QUOTE=dinabaw;52074569]Feature: Caraga's gardening program and the 4Ps

by Sheryll Jane Sanico

San Jose, Caraga, Davao Oriental (18 February) -- Acknowledged by the Municipality of Caraga as the "model barangay for gardening," San Jose has the enthusiastic and cooperative 4Ps beneficiaries to thank for. "Kini mahitungod ug alang lamang kanila (This is all because of them)," Barangay Captain Alexander Sael bragged."

madayaw!!! Caraga move forward!!! mayor of Caraga has nothing to do to improve the services for the people most especially in health, which is so basic....ano pa kaya sa iba pa like promoting caraga fo possible investments....it is through caraguenos, its people to have a better life, not to let corruption dig Caraga into more depths of poverty...:ohno:
I like the the place...its scenery, but i dont like the leaders, they have no will to improve caraga.....:ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno:

Ibex

February 22nd, 2010, 12:18 PM

DDS Sports Complex Construction
A closer look

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/4223/dsc5601.jpg
Gymnasium

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/6453/dsc5606r.jpg

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/9375/dsc5609.jpg

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/5083/dsc5612q.jpg
Indoor Swimming Pool

as of Feb 22, 2010

dinabaw

February 22nd, 2010, 01:05 PM

^^ wow! unta dili maabtan ug porotikal sabotage!lol

Ibex

February 22nd, 2010, 01:23 PM

^^ wow! unta dili maabtan ug porotikal sabotage!lol

unta sir dinabaw sayang ang loan sa World Bank :cheers:

dinabaw

February 22nd, 2010, 01:35 PM

^^ sir ka diha!lol lain lang paminawon kay DDS sports complex!haha

btw katung sa Davao Del Norte ang World Bank pud mag finance?

Ibex

February 22nd, 2010, 01:42 PM

^^ sir ka diha!lol lain lang paminawon kay DDS sports complex!haha

btw katung sa Davao Del Norte ang World Bank pud mag finance?

let's wait and see lang sir kay wala ma'y kalaban si Gov basin sa next term nya ma realize na to... wala koy idea asa kuhaon ang funding sir... :)

hahaha :lol: DDS = Davao del Sur

davaoeagle

February 22nd, 2010, 05:16 PM

^

Big thanks for the clearer, closer takes, Sir Ibex!..:okay:

Ibex

February 22nd, 2010, 11:17 PM

^

Big thanks for the clearer, closer takes, Sir Ibex!..:okay:

salamat pud sir davaoeagle welcome home... asa ka padulong pag kuha nimo sa pix sir sa Kidapawan or sa inyo mango farm sa bansalan :)

davaoeagle

February 23rd, 2010, 03:49 AM

^
Welcome Sir Ibex. Paingon ko ato sa Matanao to my friend's kalubihan he he. Wala man koy manggo farm, naa koy yuta pero duha ka taro lang man to....:jk:

davaoeagle

February 24th, 2010, 06:16 PM

Home » Sun.Star Davao » Feature
Elephant house: A scene-stealer
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Print EmailCommentShareThisSubscribe
By Aeje S. Timosan

THE house on Rosal Street, Barangay Poblacion Uno in Bansalan, Davao del Sur continues to attract people with its unusual shape. With large eyes and even larger tusks, this elephant house stand out among its neighbors.

Faustino Oracion designed the house. He is also the one who made the controversial statue of David at Queensland Lodge's Baywalk Park at Times Beach in Matina.

The house is still a work in progress, but it has already been drawing curious onlookers -- residents and visitors alike.

Jaime Rosal, a resident, says the house can be considered a tourist spot since it cannot help but attract anyone who visits Bansalan, for its different shape.

While Marivic Puentespina brushes this off as just a bit of unusual artwork, stunning in its size.

But for homeowner Paul Oracion, it is an expression of himself.

As a child, Oracion has been attracted to elephants although he has not seen one in real life. The house therefore answers his dream of seeing one.

A local architect, Robbie John Razonable, doubts the stability of the structure but agrees that no doubt, the house is the owner's answer to his childhood dream.

*****

This article is among a host of articles submitted by Masscom students of the Ateneo de Davao University for their advanced Journalism class under Ms Gemima Valderrama.

glenntoy15

February 25th, 2010, 09:50 AM

hakz2007

February 25th, 2010, 11:28 AM

Davao Sur most hit by brownouts (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=260865)

DAVAO DEL SUR, Feb. 25 (PNA) – The province of Davao del Sur, composed of 14 municipalities and one city, is the country's most-hit by brownouts, according to Governor Douglas Ra. Cagas.

Cagas said the number of power interruptions in Davao del Sur reached six hours in no definite time during a day, from just one to two hours earlier.

He said the brownout usually starts at 11 a.m. and lasted for an hour and later at 3 p.m. The third one hits at 6 p.m. that lasted for over three hours.

With this, Cagas said several commercial establishments and government installations had been experiencing a considerable amount of economic loss even as residents continuously complained of the said power outages.

Cagas apologized to his constituents as he appealed for understanding since the power outage was inevitable.

In a power system update of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) showed that the generation deficiency in Mindanao as of Tuesday was at 358 megawatts (MW), a marked increase from Monday's deficit of 183 MW.

Also on Tuesday, there had been an 80 percent and 60 percent reduction in the available capabilities of Agus and Pulangi Plants, respectively.

Reduction in the capabilities of these two plants on Monday was at 70 percent.

Agus Plant is now running at 120 MWs out of total rated capacity of 727 MWs, while Pulangi is running at 100 MWs out of total rated capacity of 255 MWs.

The two power plants reduced their generation capacity as the water level of Lake Lanao on Wednesday morning went down to 699.16 meters.

Also contributing to the power deficiency is the non-availability of Iligan Diesel Power Plant (IDPP) (35 MW) and the planned outage of Power Barge 117 (50 MW).

It was the National Power Corp. (NPC)-Central Office that recently ordered the Independent Power Producers to temporarily stop their operations due to heavy budgetary constraints, particularly on fuel consumption. (PNA)

Fahdingding

February 26th, 2010, 01:31 AM

himuan ba ni ug thread parehas sa RDR sports complex?

WOw! Congratulations!
Digos ni xa?

hakz2007

February 28th, 2010, 03:19 AM

Davao Sur now experiencing fixed 5-hour brownout everyday (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=261325)

DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur, Feb. 27 (PNA) -- The power supply distribution in Davao del Sur has set a fixed five-hour power interruption in three different areas that started last Thursday.

The electric supplier for the province, Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative (Dasureco), announced through its facebook account that the daily power curtailment will be divided into three.

On Saturday, the schedule will be from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. in Digos and nearby Sta. Cruz area; 1-6 p.m. in Hagonoy and rest of Sta. Cruz; and 6-11 p.m. in the areas of Magsaysay-Bansalan-Matan-ao (Mabama).

This will be a round-robin schedule until another advisory will be given, it said.

This as the dry spell has continued to hound the province and other areas in Mindanao, including some parts of Visayas and Luzon.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced a generation deficiency in Mindanao at 358 megawatts (MW).

There had also been an 80 percent and 60 percent reduction in the available capabilities of Agus and Pulangi Plants, respectively.

Reduction in the capabilities of these two plants on Monday was at 70 percent.

Agus Plant is now running at 120 MW out of total rated capacity of 727 MW, while Pulangi is running at 100 MW out of total rated capacity of 255 MW.

These two power plants reduced their generation capacity as the water level of Lake Lanao on Wednesday morning has gone down to 699.16 meters.

Also contributing to the power deficiency is the non-availability of Iligan Diesel Power Plant (IDPP) (35 MW) and the planned outage of Power Barge 117 (50 MW).

The National Power Corporation (NPC)-central office recently ordered the IDPP to temporarily stop its operations due to heavy budgetary constraints, particularly on fuel consumption. (PNA)

hakz2007

March 1st, 2010, 07:15 AM

All systems go for the “Ring War in Digos” (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=5&sid=&nid=5&rid=261593)

DAVAO CITY, March 1 (PNA) – All systems go for the big boxing event dubbed as “Ring War in Digos” to be held on Tuesday, March 2, at the Plaza in Digos City, Davao del Sur.

Pitted in the main event is Philippine No. 1 junior featherweight contender Sonny Gonzales of Digos against Korean Boxing Council No. 2 Won Jung Won of Korea.

The 10-round fight is promoted by Jose Abad Santos Mayor Alexander Wangkay or known as Zander Khan, a former promoter of People’s champ Manny Pacquiao in Manila.

Wangkay said there will be two 10-rounders, three 8-rounders, two 6-rounders and a four-rounder curtain raiser in the boxing card that is open free to the public.

He added a special feature will be an exhibition fight of World Boxing Council (WBC) intercontinental champion Balweg “The Hitman” Bangoyan with Jesar Ancajas of Davao City.

Bangoyan was originally scheduled to fight in the event with Korean boxer Won Jung Won, but Wangkay said the boxer will be challenging a bigger fight with WBC international super bantamweight king Toshiaki Nishioka on April 30 at the Nihon Budokan in Tokyo, Japan.

The 23-year-old Balweg, a native of Barangay Caburan, Jose Abad Santos, is ranked as the No. 1 by the website Philboxing with the highest winning percentage of 100 percent.

Balweg, nicknamed as “The Davao Hitman”, has a ring record of 15 wins with seven knockouts, no loss or draw.

Wangkay said Nishioka has an impressive record of 35 wins with 22 knock outs (KOs), four loses and three draws.

But the 5-foot-6-inch Balweg is confident of dethroning the Japanese champion.

Lined up in the undercard of the event are Ricky “Tyson” Sabya vs. Noel Adelmita (10 rds.-109 lbs.); Racel Alin vs. Jermie Javel (10 rds.-112 lbs.); Roberto Vistudio vs. Noel Adelmite (8 rds.-124 lbs.); Jog Alim vs. Joash Aperecio (8 rds.-115 lbs.); Hermie Benito vs. Romel Balbaguio (8 rds.-115 lbs.); Dave “The Cutter” Galas vs. Romel dela China (6 rds.-130 lbs.); Daniel Solis vs. Efren Fernandez (6 rds.-124 lbs.); and Rocky Sardido vs. Romeo Demati Jr. (4 rds.-105 lbs.). (PNA)

earlat

March 1st, 2010, 09:57 AM

Wind Shear

March 1st, 2010, 01:28 PM

Whaaat!?!?!?!? 5 hours jud.. K-grabe gud ana.. :ohno::ohno:

And yeah, my common-law wife's relatives are already suffering since the implementation. :(

Maybe it's time to consider investing grid-tie solar systems (or if you like, off-grid solar systems) at home

hakz2007

March 2nd, 2010, 05:54 AM

5.0 magnitude quake hits southern tip city of Mati in Southern Mindanao (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=261827)

BUTUAN CITY, March 2 (PNA) – Residents in Pacific Ocean facing-city of Mati in Davao Oriental were rattled when a 5.0 magnitude tremor struck that southern tip city before noon Monday, it was learned.

However, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported that there were no reports of damage or injuries from the undersea quake that occurred 16 kilometers northwest of Mati, capital city of Davao Oriental.

The 5.0 magnitude earthquake happened at 11:15 in the morning, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

It hit at a depth of 001.0 kilometer.

The epicenter was estimated at 07.06 kilometers north of Mati City, Phivolcs said.

An intensity 2 tremor was felt in neighboring areas such as Bislig City, in Surigao del Sur.

Last month, residents in Surigao del Sur were also rattled when a 4.7 magnitude earthquake also took place, 97 kilometers off Surigao City. No reported damage or hurt during that incident.

The Philippines sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” where continental plates collide, causing frequent seismic and volcanic activity. (PNA)

davaoeagle

March 3rd, 2010, 02:10 AM

CJ Toyota Tsusho Phils.
breaks ground in Darong
Mindanao Daily Mirror
March 03, 2010

CJ Toyota Tsusho Philippines, Inc. finally broke ground last week at the plant site in Darong, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

The newest project, with an estimated cost of USD 47.1 million, will operate a production of xylose, a natural sweetener derived from coconut shells. It is mainly produced as raw material of xylitol which is known to be one of the major functional sweeteners used in the production of gum.

The company has the capacity to produce 15,000 metric tons of xylose per year. This will be exported to various markets outside the Philippines. Majority of which are Japan, Korea, and the European Union States.

The project is expected to finish by January 2011 where it is foreseen to generate big employment opportunities especially in the locality where the plant is located.

It was warmly accepted by the province headed by Governor Douglas Cagas who said that it is “a very welcome development for the entire province of Davao del Sur. We need more incomes for our people, more jobs, [and] more utilization of our raw resources.”

The Korean Ambassador Choi Joong Kyung was also present on the event. “I have always believed that the best possible partnership between Filipinos and Koreans is in (the agriculture) sector where the Philippines has a big potential. The combination produced by Korea’s technical artistry with the Philippines’ natural environment and skilled manpower will produce pioneering results,” said Choi.

CJ TPI is made up of four partner companies which CJ President Kim Jin Soo tagged as a “dream team”: CJ Cheiljedang Corporation, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Binggrae Co., Ltd., and the Anflo Management and Investment Corporation (ANFLOCOR) that is the local company among the four.

“I’m confident that all the elements [of the four companies] will be put together in one bowl to generate one of the strongest players in this business world,” remarked Kim.

Also among the dignitaries who graced the ceremonies were Cong. Marc Cagas of Davao del Sur, Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez, along with the executives of the four companies led by their respective heads namely CJ President Kim Jin Soo, Toyota Tsusho Corporation Managing Director Makoto Hyodo, Binggrae President Lee Kun Young, and ANFLOCOR Chair Don Antonio O. Floirendo Sr.

hakz2007

March 3rd, 2010, 07:06 AM

Consortium putting up US$ 47-M sweetener plant in Davao Sur (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=3&sid=&nid=3&rid=261934)
By Digna D. Banzon

STA. Cruz, Davao del Sur, March 2 (PNA) -- The CJ Toyota Philippines, Inc. is putting up a US $ 47.1-million processing plant for xylose, a natural sweetener derived from coconut shells, in Barangay Darong here.

The company said the product is mainly produced as a raw material for xylitol, one of the major functional sweeteners used in the production of gum.

The plant will produce 15,000 metric tons of xylose a year that will be exported to markets such as Korea, Japan, and the European Union.

The project is expected to finish by January 2011.

Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas, in his message during the recent groundbreaking ceremony, said the CJ Toyota Philippines, Inc. investments in Sta. Cruz town were a welcome development for the entire province of Davao del Sur, as the province needed more incomes, jobs and utilization of its raw resources.

Korean Ambassador Choi Joong Kyung also graced the groundbreaking ceremony.

“I have always believed that the best possible partnership between Filipinos and Koreans is in (the agriculture) sector where the Philippines has a big potential. The combination, produced by Korea’s technical artistry with the Philippines’ natural environment and skilled manpower will produce pioneering results,” Choi said.

CJ TPI consortium is composed of CJ Cheiljedang Corp., Toyota Tsusho Corp., Binggrae Co., Ltd., and the Anflo Management and Investment Corp. (ANFLOCOR), the local partner.

“I’m confident that all the elements [of the four companies] will be put together in one bowl to generate one of the strongest players in this business world,” CJ President Kim Jin Soo said.

Davao del Sur Rep. Marc Cagas, Mayor Joel Ray Lopez, executives of the four companies led by their respective heads Toyota Tsusho Corp. Managing Director Makoto Hyodo, Binggrae President Lee Kun Young, and ANFLOCOR Chairman Don Antonio O. Floirendo, Sr. also graced the affair.

Sta. Cruz town is the industrial hub of the province where many foreign and local investments operate, including the San Miguel Brewery plant that is also located in barangay Darong.

It is also the site of Franklin Bakers Company, a plant that produces dessicated, processed and value added coconut products for export to the US. (PNA)

davaoeagle

March 4th, 2010, 06:38 PM

New farm-to-market roads opened in Dav Sur
Mindano Daily Mirror
March 05, 2010

STA. CRUZ, Davao del Sur (PNA) – Another newly opened farm-to-market road in Barangy Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, was recently turned over here by AboitizPower and Hedcor to the residents.

The newly opened road of about four kilometers worth P7.5 million was formally handed over by Hedcor vice president Gregorio Jabonillo.

To date, Jabonillo said Hedcor Sibulan, Inc. has opened and rehabilitated a total of 49 kilometers of farm-to-market roads in barangay Sibulan and barangay of Tibolo.

He said AboitizPower, through Hedcor Sibulan, Inc., accelerates country-side development in Barangay Sibulan by bringing in sustainable development projects to the area in terms of education, livelihood and health since the construction of the 42.5-megawatt Sibulan Hydropower Project started in June 2007.

He said Baran-gay Sibulan plays host to the 42.5-megawatt Sibulan Hydropower Project which taps the Baroring ang Sibulan Rivers in Barangay Sibulan, Sta. Cruz.

With two run-or-river hydropower plants will generate 212-gigawatt hour of sustainable energy annually. Its expected operation is seen to lessen the power deficit in Mindanao, specifically in Davao City, he added.

“We continue to commit to the development of Barangay Sibulan as the host community of the Sibulan Hydropower Project”, Jabonillo said.

AboitizPower is the holding company for the Aboitiz Group’s investments in power generation, distribution, retail and power services.

It is a major producer of renewable energy in the country with several hydroelectric and geothermal assets in its generation portfolio.

The non-renewable portfolio consists of plants throughout the country.

The distribution utilities it owns and operates are located in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, he further said.

davaoeagle

March 4th, 2010, 06:44 PM

Marina in Region XI posts record collections from foreign vessels
Business World
March 05, 2010

DAVAO CITY -- Collections from foreign vessels that docked in Malalag Bay, Davao del Sur amid the global economic slowdown enabled the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to earn record revenues in 2009, an amount that was much bigger than preceding eight years’ collections combined.

Liza R. Orongan, regional director of Marina-XI, said her office collected P50.8 million last year, or about P12 million more than its total revenue from 2001-2008 when it averaged single-digits in million peso income each year. For example, Marina earned just P4.8 million in 2008 and P3.5 million the year before that.

She added that her office collects a lay-up fee of $91 a day for those with deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 35,000-50,000, $104/day for those over 50,000 DWT to 150,000 DWT, and $117/day for ships over 150,000 DWT.

The Marina has identified Malalag Bay as one of the lay-up areas in Davao Gulf, along with Bunawan in Davao City and Pujada and Mayo Bay in Mati City, Davao Oriental.

The late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos issued Letter of Instruction 341 in 1975, declaring Malalag Bay as a lay-up area. Malalag Bay was chosen due to its ideal hydrographic condition and generally fair weather of the area.

Ms. Orongan described an ideal docking site as one where the water is at least 95 feet deep, has minimal current, is protected by a cove, and is spared by typhoons.

The agency had accredited Asia Pacific Chartering Philippines, Inc., Lacerta Shipping Agencies Philippines, Inc., National Marine Corp., Harbor Star Shipping Services, Inc., and Southship Handlers, Philippines, Inc. as lay-up agents.

Ms. Orongan said that, late last year, the Lloyds Joint War Commission removed Davao Gulf from its list of "perceived enhanced risk" areas, increasing the marketability of Malalag Bay for this use. Such risks include war, terrorism, strikes and other related dangers.

Malalag Mayor Givel M. Mamaril had earlier complained that the municipality does not get a share from the lay-up fees, despite the fact that the local government helps provide security in the area and also has to spend for anti-pollution measures in order to make sure that oil does not leak into the bay and kill the fish. -- JBE

juniordiscovery

March 4th, 2010, 08:48 PM

Rare rain helps power Sibulan mini-hydro plant in Davao del Sur

DAVAO CITY—A rare rainfall on Tuesday night in the Davao City and Davao del Sur area was not massive enough, but did help prime up one of the power plants of the Sibulan mini-hydroelectric plant that it would commission next week to help maintain the one-hour rotating brownout in the franchise of Davao Light and Power Co.

Art Milan, Davao Light’s chief operating officer, said the rains fell only in the vicinity of the city and its surrounding area and, while the episode could have been much welcome in the north-central part of Mindanao, “it helped one of our plants in Sibulan to be primed up.”

The Aboitiz-owned Hedcor Corp. operates the two plants of Sibulan which produce a combined capacity of 26 megaWatts (mW) when they start feeding to Davao Light this month. The two plants were expected to be commissioned this week and next week.

“One plant of 13 mW would operate this week, and because of that rain, the second plant would be tapped immediately next week,” Milan told a news conference on Wednesday at the Marco Polo Hotel here.

He said power distributors elsewhere have told him that no rain fell in Bukidnon in the north-central part of Mindanao, where the rains would have mattered significantly to the entire Mindanao grid.

It is in this region where the Pulangi 4 plant is located, which provide 255 mW to the grid. It is this plant in Maramag, Bukidnon, where the grid gets its second major hydroelectric source after the seven power plants along the Agus River in Lanao del Sur, which provide more than 700 mW.

The two hydroelectric sources combine for a 51-percent contribution to the Mindanao grid, which has a rated capacity of 1,700 mW.

The weather station in Davao City said that the rains were naturally occurring and were not generated through cloud-seeding.

“The Department of Agriculture does the cloud-seeding operation but it has not sent word that it has done any operation yet,” Milan said.

“It is scattered rain shower, and it is not the entire Davao City which experienced it,” he said.

With the Sibulan plant in operation and contributing 26 mW out of its rated capacity of 42.5 mW, Davao Light would have a total of 66 mW of dependable or actual capacity to use to offset the curtailed power supply from the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines.

Davao Light has been using the 57-mW Bajada power plant which is a standby or backup diesel-fired power-generation source, which gives a dependable power of 40 mW. It is currently running at 32 mW, however, after two of its 12 engines were decommissioned for regular maintenance.

The Davao Light franchise uses 260 mW from the grid in normal times, the biggest power-consuming region in Mindanao. Together with General Santos City, they comprise about 47 percent of the entire demand of the generation.

The Davao Light franchise has so far experienced only a one-hour daily brownout compared with the rest of Mindanao which are experiencing as long as eight hours of brownout every day.

http://businessmirror.com.ph

davaoeagle

March 6th, 2010, 02:50 AM

PIA Press Release
2010/03/05
Mati City gets brand new fire truck
by Mika S. Magtulis

Mati City (5 March) -- DILG Asst. Secretary for Plans and Programs Hon. Eubert F. Gutierrez together with Regional Director Quirino M. Libunao turned-over a brand new fire truck to Mati City Mayor Michelle N. Rabat and local functionaries on March 2, 2010 to augment the Bureau of Fire Protection's (BFP) firefighting capability.

In a simple but fitting ceremony at the Mati City Hall grounds Mayor Rabat said "This new fire truck will really make a big difference in our fire prevention preparedness measures especially so that we are celebrating this month the Fire Prevention Month".

Bureau of Fire Protection Regional Director Victoriano C. Remedio also expressed their gratitude to DILG Sec. Ronaldo V. Puno for helping the city boost its fire fighting capability.

Asec Gutierrez on his part articulated "This is part of DILG's commitment to LGUs in helping them to be fire and disaster-ready at all times. He also added that the Secretary is hoping that this equipment will be put to good use and will be maintained well by the city". (DILG-XI) [top]

tada

March 7th, 2010, 05:51 AM

PIA Press Release
2010/03/06
ENRO-Davao Oriental bags another batch of 50-T seedlings in 2 months
By Sarx Lanos

Mati City (6 March) -- Another 25,000 seedlings of different species of trees were now bagged at the newly established nursery of the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental located at Sitio Magay, Barangay Don Martin Marundan, this city.

Dante M. Ganir, head of the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Davao Oriental bared that the bagging of tree-seedlings is part of the leading steps for the continuance of the Million Trees Movement for Davao Oriental, a special program of Governor Corazon T. Nuñez-Malanyaon.

Ganir added that the Million Trees Movement that was launched by Governor Malanyaon on June 22 last year is to fulfill her commitment to regreen and restore the forest canopy of the province as well as to help abate the global warming and climate change.

The provincial nursery that is manned by Forester Claudio Mirafuentes and Nestor Silva Llana was just constructed by the ENRO office last February and is able to produce 25,000 on top of the projected 50,000 plantable seedlings by June 22, 2010 that includes acacia mangium, golden shower, cherry blossom, tringon (alibangbang) and neem tree.

"Next month we will bag another species of trees and we will never stop producing seedlings," Ganir also disclosed. (ManStar News Service) [top]

hakz2007

March 18th, 2010, 03:48 AM

Davao Oriental residents benefit from school, Army’s medical mission
LUPON, Davao Oriental, March 18 (PNA) -- Residents of Lupon here expressed their gratitude for the free medical and dental mission conducted recently by the association of parents and teachers in Maryknoll High School and the soldiers under the 28th Infantry Battalion at the school grounds.

Patricia Gimeno, a resident of the place, said the free consultation and medicines were big help for them amid the rising cost of doctor’s consultation which poor residents could hardly afford.

“We are very happy somebody are looking out for the health of the poor,” she said.

Gimeno said instead of spending for medicines, she can use the money to buy food for her family.

Larry Daquipil, one of the farmer beneficiaries, said the free tooth extraction was a big reprieve.

“I long wanted to have my tooth extracted but because of the cost, I just suffered through the pain. This project of the teachers and military is good for us,” he said.

Around 550 poor beneficiaries availed of the medical and dental services.

Lt. Col. Ferdinand Lazaro Budeng, commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion, explained that the medical-dental mission is part of the joint effort of soldiers with the community in providing basic health services to the people.

“The partnership of our soldiers with the LGU (local government unit), the academe and other stakeholders is an affirmation of our continuing vow to provide much needed services to our people. The individuals and all organizations which made the medical and dental mission successful deserve the people’s commendation,” he said. (PNA)
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=264977

hakz2007

March 18th, 2010, 09:17 AM

Hedcor hires local residents to man hydropower plants in Davao Sur
STA. CRUZ, Davao del Sur, March 18 (PNA) -- Hedcor Sibulan, Inc. (HSI), the Aboitiz’s developer of the 42.5-megawatt run-of-river hydropower plant in Barangay Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, here recently recruited local residents as plant operators.

Hedcor Human Resource manager Carol Tuvera said among the newly hired operators is Euri Caspi, a licensed mechanical engineer from the University of Mindanao. He grew up in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

“We have looked for qualified local residents to join our Sibulan operations team. Their familiarity with the community will be beneficial to us and to the community,” Tuvera said.

The Sibulan Hydropower Project created more than 1,000 employment opportunities for the locals of Barangay Sibulan and adjacent barangays and municipalities.

When fully operational, the Sibulan Hydropower Plant will generate 212 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy, thus preventing the release of more than 95,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (tCO2e) to the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide contributes significantly to global warming.

“We appreciate that they chose us as partner in building their careers,” Tuvera said.

Like its sister company Hedcor, Inc., HSI. is a known as partner-of-choice in the communities they work with.

Tuvera said HSI and Hedcor, Inc. are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Aboitiz Power, a major producer of renewable energy in the country with several hydroelectric and geothermal assets in its generation portfolio.

The non-renewable portfolio consists of plants throughout the country. The distribution utilities it owns and operates are located in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, she further said. (PNA)
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=3&sid=&nid=3&rid=265040

hakz2007

March 19th, 2010, 04:37 AM

Davao del Sur’s MNLF ex-combatants venture to livelihood activities
ZAMBOANGA CITY, March 19 (PNA) -- Enterprising former combatants of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Davao del Sur are poised for learning value-adding skills and gaining market access for their processed milk fish (bangus) and sandals with the assistance from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 11 and the Action for Conflict Transformation (ACT) for Peace Program.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chairman Secretary Jesus Dureza said Friday that former MNLF combatants engaged in de-boned and smoked Bangus processing and packaging in the towns of Malita and Hagonoy, Davao del Sur as well as those who are into sandal manufacturing in Digos City, the province’s capital, will get free technical assistance on marketing and livelihood value-adding skills to improve their products and gain access in the domestic market.

Dureza, who is also the national program director of the ACT for Peace Program, said that these three areas in Davao del Sur, which have been transformed from being conflict zones into peace and development communities (PDCs) will serve as pilot areas for the program’s project on strengthening production, processing, packaging and marketing of PDC-community economic development products.

In partnership with the program, Dureza said the DOST-11 will extend to the PDCs its Science and Technology Experts Volunteer Pool Program (STEVPP), a project that brings scientists and experts to the countryside to give free technical assistance which will involve training, on-field coaching and product packaging.

He said the PDCs will also learn how to access investment inputs for specialized machines related to their community enterprise activities.

He said that aside from STEVPP, the DOST also offers the manufacturing productivity extension for export promotion (MPEX) program where they help SMEs attain higher productivity in manufacturing.

For its part, the Act for Peace Program shall also assist in the social preparation of the PDCs, provide capital investment as well as facilitate convergence of the PDCs economic projects with other initiatives.

Dureza said that the MNLF former combatants now known as peace and development advocates are concentrated in 278 PDCs across Mindanao and Palawan.

The PDC is the basic social unit upon which the whole peace and development framework of the GoP-UNMDP peace-building efforts is founded.

These are marginalized and conflict-affected and vulnerable communities which become actively engaged in transformation process with the help of development partners.

A PDC may consist of a barangay or a cluster of barangays marked by a convergence of peace-building and development activities.

Dureza said that the ACT for peace program has seen that conflict-affected and vulnerable communities require economic support to trigger or support transformation that is why part of its strategies is the community economic development (CED) projects.

“We are sowing the benefits of this as we see our people becoming more productive and therefore become peace loving component of the society,” Dureza added.

DOST-11 Regional Director Anthony Sales said that the technical support extended to the PDCs is in line with the mandate of DOST to provide assistance to community-based livelihood projects.

“I find the project very relevant to the region considering that what we want to help are communities that have been affected by conflict,” Sales said.

He added it is important to sustain these communities in terms of human development and capital resources.

DOST is now focusing its assistance to community-based projects to achieve greater impact of its programs, he said. (PNA)
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=265260

regjeex

March 20th, 2010, 12:37 PM

:ohno::ohno: ingat ingat talaga... dapat ila-ilahon jud pag ayo si SAFETY...

Fire razes Davao Sur market

SULOP, Davao del Sur, Philippines—(UPDATE) Fourteen commercial stalls, two houses and a civilian volunteer outpost were razed when fire broke out at the town's public market here past noon Saturday.

Cyrus Montejo, Sulop town disaster action officer, said initial investigation conducted by the Bureau of Fire Protection indicated that the fire started from an electric flatiron, which was left unattended inside one of the stores.

Chief Insp. Decemoso Remorosa, provincial fire marshal, said the fire started at about 12:30 p.m. and quickly spread.

He said it was finally put off around 1 p.m. with the help of fire engines from various towns of the province.

“If not for the immediate reactions of our firefighters and the Filipino-Chinese fire volunteers the damage could have been more due to the extreme heat, which make the condition conducive to fire," Remorosa said.

No one was injured in the fire.

Remorosa said they were still trying to assess the total damage wrought by the fire.

Wind Shear

March 23rd, 2010, 10:14 PM

At first, it was at Bansalan. Now in Sulop? That was unfortunate.

Hopefully, the markets must improve the fire protection and safety.

hakz2007

March 24th, 2010, 04:30 AM

Davao Sur sugar, coconut firms need more supplies of raw materials
DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur, March 23 (PNA) -– Two of the major companies in Davao del Sur revealed that they need to expand their farms to get enough supply of raw materials.

The Davao Sugar Central Company, Incorporated (DASUSECO) needs an additional of 6,000 hectares of sugarcane plantation in order to run at full capacity.

DASUSECO general manager Constancio Galinato during the recently held dialogue with Davao del Sur’s Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) which was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao del Sur, said at present, the company only has 12,000 hectares planted to sugarcane covering Davao del Sur and some municipalities of Sarangani Province, benefiting about 3,000 farmers.

Galinato said location of sugarcane farms must be around 70 kilometers from the mill for full profitability.

Meanwhile, the Coco Davao, Incorporated has a rated capacity of 15,000 metric tons of desiccated coconut per year. However, supply of husked coconuts right now is low.

Therese Capuno of Coco Davao, a producer of desiccated coconut, said their plant is running below full production capacity since they lack coconuts to process.

She said that the price increase of copra could be the main reason for the low supply of raw materials.

“With the increase in the price of copra, many farmers opt to have their coconuts processed into copra than selling those as fresh husked nuts,” she said.

Manuel Chu, manager of the Darong Agricultural Development Corporation said that the prevailing buying price of fresh husked coconuts is only pegged at P4.20 per kilogram while copra is already at P20.00 per kilogram.

But, they don’t process all of their produce into copra because they want to serve both the desiccated coconut exporters and coconut oil manufacturers.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Davao del Sur provincial director Engr. Edwin O. Banquerigo said the concerns raised by the sugar and coconut industries will open up opportunities for the local farmers.

Banquerigo said sugarcane plantation will be included as one of the priority investment areas in Davao Region.

Therefore, this shall be featured in future investment promotion activities.

“On the concern of the DASUSECO, farmers near them can actually consider planting sugarcane to meet the demand of the company, he said.

Based on the data presented by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Davao to the dialogue participants, coconut production for the third quarter of 2009 recorded an increase of 1.4 percent, from 1,991,495 metric tons during the same period in 2008 to 2,019,435 MT.

However, sugarcane production showed a decline of 7.8 percent, from 505, 335 MT in the third quarter of 2008 to 467,043 in the same period of 2009.

Amidst all these, DTI Regional Director Marizon S. Loreto, who was the guest speaker during the dialogue, encourages all investors and businessmen to e-mail the agency should they have inquiries or issues which they would like to be addressed.

“We will appreciate it very well if you will send us emails or letters stating your concerns. This will definitely help all stakeholders in crafting measures that will beef up the economy,” she said. (PNA)http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=11&sid=&nid=11&rid=265881

davaoeagle

March 31st, 2010, 09:49 PM

Nice improvement along highway to Mati

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davor.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/davaoeagle/Davor2.jpg

Credits to my cousin Gem Flores-Garcia

sandman.ink

April 1st, 2010, 06:11 AM

^^ i like...

reancorbz84

April 6th, 2010, 09:51 AM

Dahican Beach, Mati City, Davao Oriental

jAHiUQzYz6w

davaoeagle

April 7th, 2010, 09:21 PM

Home » Sun.Star Davao » Lifestyle
For the love of skimboarding
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
By Henrylito D. Tacio

EVER heard of skimboarding? Also known as skimming or skiffle boarding, it is a boardsport in which a skimboard is used to ride on an incoming wave.

A sleeker version of a surfboard, a typical skimboard is made of smoothed marine plywood and fiberglass. The estimated weight is six kilograms since it does not require much buoyancy.

"Unlike surfing," Wikipedia explains "skimboarding begins on the beach, with the skimboarder running and dropping their board onto the thin wash of previous waves. They use their momentum to `skim' out to breaking waves, which they then catch back into shore in a manner similar to surfing."

Another aspect of skimboarding is the so-called "flatland", which involves performing tricks derived from skateboarding on the wash of waves without catching shore breaks.

Today, this extreme water sport is already popular in the United States, Canada, Australia, Spain, China, Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore.

In the Philippines, skimboarding was first introduced in Tanauan, Leyte, which has earned the title as the Skimboarding Capital of the Philippines.

There is an interesting story on how skimboarding came to the Philippines. American tourist Tim Garret visited Tanauan to court a beautiful lady. During his free time, he went skimboarding at the beach. What he did caught the attention of the locals. In no time, almost every beach aficionados wanted to try the unique water sports.

Other areas where there are beaches followed suit: Davao City, Samal Island, Davao Oriental, Sarangani, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Bicol. Some of them have hosted skimboarding competitions.

Last April 3-5, Mati City convened the first Mindanao Open Skimboarding Competition at Dahican Beach.

If you put together the white sands of Boracay and the breathtaking waves of Siargao together, then Dahican Beach would be that place

Located at the eastern part of the capital of the province of Davao Oriental, it is noted for its clear waters and its 7-kilometer pure and fine white sand shore.

"You don't have to go to Boracay to experience white sand. We have it here," Michael N. Rabat, owner of the Villa Merced Hotel, said in an exclusive interview.

His claim has been supported by an American visitor, who had been also been to Boracay. "I have not seen such a wonderful beach, not even in Boracay. The Dahican Beach is a South sea dreams come true."

Unlike in Siargao - the surfing capital of the Philippines, Dahican Beach is a perfect spot for skimboarding as the waves are not too huge.

In fact, some people are talking about making Dahican Beach as the Skimboarding Capital of Mindanao. .

"There are several reasons why it should be called as such," says Richard L. Villacorte, the city administrator. "For one, our sand here is white unlike others which are dark or black. For another, the water is pristine and blue crystal. But most importantly, the waves are what skimboarders are looking for - not so tall and not too short."

Marlon S. Binarao, a 26-year-old skimboarder from General Santos City, agrees. "The waves here are great, compared to what we have in Sarangani, where we practice skimboarding," he says.

Ted V. Villanueva even suggested further calling Dahican as the new skimboarding capital of the Philippines.

"Unlike those in Tanauan, where the waves are only two to three feet, the waves in Dahican are great - from 8 to 12 feet," contends the 23-year-old skimboarder from Zambales.

Tourism officer Dashiel Indelible, Jr. is very happy to hear those accolades. After all, Mati Mayor Michelle N. Rabat is very supportive of skimboarding.

"She believes skimboarding will not only help develop the skills on water sports of the local youth but also boosts the city's tourism industry," he points out.

Actually, the recent skimboarding tournament is the sixth. Mati had hosted previous competitions but the participants were mostly locals, according to Villacorte.

The recent contest was open supposedly only to those coming from Mindanao, but there were contenders from Leyte and Zambales. Almost 50 skimboarders vied for the top categories.

"Actually, we have only two categories: beginners and experts," says Pedro G. Plaza, who organized the event. Winning the beginner's category was Mati's Jhasper Jeb Consigna. The first and second runner-ups went to Crisanto Cuizon and Joel Prones, both from Tandag, Surigao del Sur.

In the expert category, Mati's Sonny "Boy" Aporbo was declared champion, while Tandag's Aldon Pamogas got the first runner-up. Mati's Rodel Patawi settled for the second runner-up.

Although skimboarding is an increasingly popular activity on the beach with waves, there are many types of dangers that skimboarders can face on a daily basis.

Wikipedia informs: "It is not uncommon to see fractures or dislocations of the lower limbs, some requiring serious medical attention. Lacerations, twisted ankles and bruises are also common, due to impacts with the board itself, or rocks, logs and other obstacles present on beaches."

Many injuries that skimboarders suffer happen over a long period of time. Such injuries include fractures, leg pains, and shin splints, among others. Some of these injuries can be prevented by stretching before and after a session.

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 03:33 AM

DAAN NA NI XA NGA MGA PICS:):):):):)
http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/534/f4b44fd6cae046eaa60b51f.jpg (http://img202.imageshack.us/i/f4b44fd6cae046eaa60b51f.jpg/)

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/3480/49f2cc9cbf82456cac2e3be.jpg (http://img40.imageshack.us/i/49f2cc9cbf82456cac2e3be.jpg/)

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/4329/9ab0da8b2bb04d99a1591c0l.jpg (http://img651.imageshack.us/i/9ab0da8b2bb04d99a1591c0l.jpg/)

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/7120/3e01ab0bd51a42a2a23470d.jpg (http://img17.imageshack.us/i/3e01ab0bd51a42a2a23470d.jpg/)

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9492/2ada28bd5d24479e8d176bc.jpg (http://img27.imageshack.us/i/2ada28bd5d24479e8d176bc.jpg/)

davaoeagle

April 10th, 2010, 03:42 AM

^

Nice pics, Scarletwitch. I swam in that beach many years ago and by how it looks now tells me it is still a paradise the locals and the tourists could enjoy. :okay:

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 03:53 AM

^

Nice pics, Scarletwitch. I swam in that beach many years ago and by how it looks now tells me it is still a paradise the locals and the tourists could enjoy. :okay:

Ako nga taga mati kay wa pa kaligo diha....bisita lang sa site pati sa masao, sleeping dino, waniban bista bisita lng baktas sa shoreline, drama...hahahhaha...mahadlok sa dagat kay nalamus naman...hehehhe...ironically naa ko sa pantalan ga trabaho....:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

davaoeagle

April 10th, 2010, 03:58 AM

^

:rofl:

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 04:33 AM

SLEEPING DINO:lol::lol::lol::lol:

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/1989/dsc6455.jpg (http://img530.imageshack.us/i/dsc6455.jpg/)

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 04:35 AM

LATE NA TO PERO I'M SO HAPPY...:):):):)

MATI-PNP IS BEST RURAL POLICE STATION IN THE COUNTRY
2/2/2010
by Neela G. Duallo

After all the hurdles have been met, after the painstaking efforts to comply even with the toughest of their work, and after they went through the evaluation for their nomination in the search for The Best Rural Police Station, the Mati-PNP bagged the very prestigious recognition.

In the Awarding Ceremony held in Manila last week, with the presence of no less than President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and PNP Director General Jesus Versoza, five members of the Mati PNP led by Mati Chief of Police Pol. Supt. Fermin Valdez, Deputy Chief Sr. Pol. Inspector Lesli Ann Lerios, SPO3 Napoleon Aguinaldo, SPO1 Fred Landoy, and PO3 Federico Pelobello received the award, all beaming and exuding with pride and triumph.

Earlier, Mati-PNP was already scuffling with emotions as they were included in the Top 3 finalists for the said award.

“The evaluators consolidated their assessment and submit their assessment and endorsement to the PNP Director General who rendered the decision,” Mati Chief of Police Fermin Valdez said.

Though being one of the three finalists is in itself, already a big honor for Mati, but there is reason to hope for the best.

Among the basis in choosing the Best Rural Police Station is the performance of the station, and the administrative operation.

Mayor Michelle Rabat is happy with the achievement of the Mati-PNP.

“I have always been supportive to the Mati Police. I am very particular with their need, that is why the city government is trying to provide with such, like the computers, digital camera, and most importantly, their fuel for their operations,” the Mayor explained.

The Mati-PNP is very grateful to the city government for all the support because the Station could not have brought home the honour if not because of the consistency of Mayor Michelle Rabat’s support .

After, the city government will be working on the new building for the Mati-PNP.

“We already have the site for the new building, a 1,800 square meters lot. It will be a counter parting scheme with the PNP.

Also in the top three are the Tiwi Police Station in Albay, and Zamboangueta in Negros Oriental.

The two contenders are fourth class municipalities, while Mati is a first class municipality before it became a component city.

City Vice-Mayor Cesar de Erio said that any Matinian could feel the honor and the pride with the accomplishment.

“Though just like any other police stations, Mati-PNP is not perfect, who is anyway? And admittedly there are isolated cases that the Station has to really look into, but Mati-PNP is working on that, and with the award, I hope it will boost their morals and will lead to a more energetic and effective teamwork in complying to their tasks,” he added.

:banana::banana::banana:

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 04:40 AM

PROVINCIAL CAPITOL OF THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO ORIENTAL (ON TOP OF A HILL OVERLOOKING THE BEAUTIFUL PUJADA BAY)

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/7111/img0782tt.jpg (http://img94.imageshack.us/i/img0782tt.jpg/)

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 04:45 AM

MATI PUBLIC MARKET (MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL)

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/8749/matipublicmarket2.jpg (http://img515.imageshack.us/i/matipublicmarket2.jpg/)

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/7811/story1811.jpg (http://img260.imageshack.us/i/story1811.jpg/)

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/5588/matipublicmarket1.jpg (http://img706.imageshack.us/i/matipublicmarket1.jpg/)

scarletwitch.wanda

April 10th, 2010, 04:49 AM

MATI CENTENNIAL PUBLIC TERMINAL

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/7331/1959146782l.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/1959146782l.jpg/)

rex abad

April 10th, 2010, 04:17 PM

MATI CENTENNIAL PUBLIC TERMINAL

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/7331/1959146782l.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/1959146782l.jpg/)

madayaw!!! pero mingaw...midnight guro gkuha...:lol::lol:

davaoeagle

April 10th, 2010, 06:53 PM

^

Madayaw gayud an kanmu pictures. :okay:

scarletwitch.wanda

April 11th, 2010, 09:21 AM

madayaw!!! pero mingaw...midnight guro gkuha...:lol::lol:

Actually, that was taken during the construction period, pina-polish na lang nila....:lol::lol::lol::lol:

dinabaw

April 13th, 2010, 01:46 PM

:cheers:

Dahican Beach, Mindanao’s great skimboarding capital
Monday, 12 April 2010 00:00
PDF
by Jims Vincent Capuno

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/9540/1406619766d42c24ba5cozr.jpg (http://img15.imageshack.us/i/1406619766d42c24ba5cozr.jpg/)

The world-famous Boracay is noted for its white sand. Siargao in Surigao del Norte is noted for its challenging. Now, if you put wind, sand and waves together in one place, where would that be?
The answer to that question is most likely Dahican Beach in the City of Mati, Davao Oriental. Its seven-kilometer stretch of white sand beach faces the Pacific Ocean. Although its waves and currents can be scary and treacherous during the monsoon months, the beach is a perfect spot for skimboarding.
“You don’t have to go to Boracay to experience white sand,” says Michael N. Rabat, the brother of the city mayor, who toured us around the place the first time we visited Mati. “The area is secluded, peaceful, and far from the madding crowd.”
Dahican Beach is about 15 minutes from the heart of the city. You have to pass over rough roads before reaching the beach. The good thing is that there is no entrance fee and it is open to anyone – whether locals or foreigners.
A recent American visitor, who had also been to Boracay, hailed: “I have not seen such a wonderful beach, not even in Boracay. The Dahican Beach is a South Sea dream come true.”
“I believe that with the right and responsible development, the coastline (of Dahican) can be converted into a world class tourist destination,” one recent visitor wrote in his blog. We definitely agree to that.
Dahican Beach was the venue of the first Mindanao Open Skimboarding Competition recently. Some 50 young and adult skimboarders participated in the event. Some of them were wondering whether Dahican Beach is the skimboarding capital of Mindanao.
“There are several reasons why it should be called such,” says Richard L. Villacorte, the city administrator. “For one, our sand here is white unlike others which are dark or black. For another, the water is pristine and crystal blue. But most important, the waves are what skimboarders are looking for – not so high and not too low but something in-between.”
Marlon S. Binarao, a 26-year-old skimboarder from General Santos City, agrees. “The waves here are great compared to what we have in Sarangani where we practice skimboarding,” he said.
Ted V. Villanueva even suggested further calling Dahican as the new skimboarding capital of the Philippines. “Unlike those in Tanauan, where the waves are only three to five feet high, the waves in Dahican are great – from six to eight feet,” enthused the 23-year-old skimboarder from Zambales.
Tourism officer Dashiel Indelible, Jr. Thought such accolade is music to his ear. After all, Mati Mayor Michelle N. Rabat is very supportive of skimboarding. “She believes skimboarding will not only help develop skills in water sports of our local youth but will also boost the city’s tourism industry,” he pointed out.
Actually, the recent skimboarding tournament was the sixth. Mati had hosted previous competitions, but the participants were mainly locals, according to Villacorte. The recent contest was open supposedly only to those coming from Mindanao, but there were contenders from Leyte and Zambales.
“Actually, competition was in only two categories: beginners and experts,” said Pedro G. Plaza, who co-organized the event together with the mayor. Winning the beginner’s category was Mati’s Jhasper Jeb Consigna. The first and second runner-up honors went to Crisanto Cuizon and Joel Prones, in that order. The two came from Tandag, Surigao del Sur.
In the expert category, Mati’s Sonny “Boy” Aporbo was declared champion while Tandag’s Aldon Pamogas was first runner-up, with Mati’s Rodel Patawi settling for third place.
Also known as skimming or skiffle boarding, skimboarding is a boardsport in which a skimboard is used to ride on an incoming wave. A sleeker version of a surfboard, a typical skimboard is made of smoothed marine plywood and fiberglass. The average weight is six kilograms since it does not require much buoyancy.
“Unlike surfing,” Wikipedia explains, “skimboarding begins on the beach, with skimboarders running and dropping their board onto the thin wash of previous waves. They use their momentum to ‘skim’ out to breaking waves, which they then catch back into shore, in a manner similar to surfing.”
Another aspect of skimboarding is the so-called “flatland” which involves performing tricks derived from skateboarding on the wash of waves without catching shorebreaks.
Today, this extreme water sport is already popular in the United States, Canada, Australia, Spain, China, Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore. In the Philippines, skimboarding was first introduced in Tanauan, Leyte, which has earned the title of Skimboarding Capital of the Philippines.
There is an interesting story on how skimboarding came to the Philippines. American tourist Tim Garret visited Tanauan to court a beautiful lady. During his free time, he went skimboarding at the beach. What he did caught the attention of the locals. In no time, almost every beach aficionados wanted to try the unique watersport.
Although skimboarding is an increasingly popular activity along beaches, there are many types of dangers that skimboarders can face on a daily basis. Wikipedia informs: “It is not uncommon to see fractures or dislocations of the lower limbs, some requiring serious medical attention. Lacerations, twisted ankles and bruises are also common due to impact with the board itself, or rocks, logs and other obstacles present off beaches.”
Many injuries that skimboarders suffer happen over a long period of time. Such injuries include fractures, leg pains, and shin splints, among others. Some of these injuries can be prevented by stretching before and after a session.
For further details about Dahican and other places of interest in Mati, visit the City Tourism Office, or call the office at this number: (087) 3883-234. The email address is matitourismoffice@yahoo.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Also try to visit this website on Mati’s skimboarding activities: http://www.amihanteam.com.

Edge Davao (http://www.edgedavao.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2357:dahican-beach-mindanaos-great-skimboarding-capital&catid=63:destinations&Itemid=89)

bustero

May 4th, 2010, 08:28 AM

aha dito pala napunta ang mati thread, tagal ko na hinahanap, hello to all!

dinabaw

May 5th, 2010, 03:39 AM

Davao del Sur: The pride of the South
Monday, 03 May 2010 00:00
PDF
by Jims Vincent Capuno

“We’re proud to be from Davao Del Sur!” Wherever you go when visiting the towns of Davao del Sur, you will see this sign in schools, government offices and even in private establishments.
They have something to be proud of, especially when it comes to its tourist destinations and attractions. It’s not only fun, fun, fun. See, walk, hike, climb, soar, swim, dive, ponder, marvel, and learn. These are the other things you can do while visiting Davao del Sur.
The province of Davao del Sur is composed of 14 towns, namely: Bansalan, Don Marcelino, Hagonoy, Jose Abad Santos, Kiblawan, Magsaysay, Malalag, Malita, Matan-ao, Padada, Santa Cruz, Santa Maria, Sarangani, and Sulop. The only city is Digos, which is also the province’s capital.
The province is home to several festivals. Every January 15, Digos celebrates the Saulogon Festival. Jose Abad Santos commemorates the Kapyaan Festival in February. April is the month of Pista sa Kinaiyahan in Santa Cruz. Kapatagan in Digos comes alive on June during their Dorong Festival. September has two festivals: Padigosan in Digos and Bansaulog in Bansalan.
If you are looking for a province where you can relax, swim and dive, don’t go too far. They’re all here. In Sarangani, situated in the southernmost tip of the province, you have several options. To name a few beaches: Mabila, Huway, Manando, Baetong, Mangahos, Laker, Patuco, and Sarangani. You can also go to the Olaniban Island, a privately-owned coconut-filled island which can be reached by pump boat.
If the real Boracay is too far and expensive for you, why not go to Mariscal Beach Resort, touted to be the “little Boracay of Davao del Sur.” Located six kilometers away from the town proper of Santa Maria, it offers white sand shore, open-air cottages, dressing rooms, and canteen. Three other known beach resorts in Santa Maria are Gloria, Giger, and Hiquiana.
Malita, some 62 kilometers south of Digos, has four fine beaches to visit: Lacampco and Palmas Oro Beach Resorts (privately-owned), Malita Beach Park (developed through the assistance of Department of Tourism), and Terra Beach (located at barangay New Argao).
Digos City also boasts its own beach resorts: Dawis Beach Club and Resort (with fine natural sand, corals and colorful fish), Bolinaon Beach Resorts (an array of privately-owned commercial establishments), and Aplaya Beach (where you can find cottages, videoke bars and dining places).
If you love diving, then don’t miss the fish sanctuary within the Malalag coastal area in barangay Bulacan. Underwater cave in Sarangani can be explored by diving through its underwater opening. In Padada, you can do your thing at the Piape Reef, which is covered with a variety of corals. The area is submerged during the high tide and visible during the low tide.
The depth of Tubalan Cove in Malita is ideal for scuba diving while the surface is an invitation to water skiers.
If history is your thing, then you should not miss Davao del Sur. In 1528, the Spaniards explored Mindanao when Alvaro de Saavedra went through the Sarangani Islands on the southwestern tip of Davao Gulf. Ruy Lopez de Villalobos skirted the eastern coasts of this province. In fact, there is a Fort Villalobos Fort situated in Sarangani.
Davao del Sur also figured out in history during the Japanese occupation. In Padada, there is a 4-kilometer Japanese cave that passes the provincial road going to Kiblawan. In Hagonoy, there is a Tologan Japanese tunnel, which served as a garage for the heavy equipment used by Japanese soldiers.
Davao del Sur is noted for its natural waterfalls. Malita has three well-known falls: Kipanan (consisting of 10 falls of varying widths and heights), Kablolan (with two falls, one 30 feet in height while the other is 50 feet in height), and Indalugong (waterfall plunging from a height of 80 feet).
But the mother of all falls in Davao del Sur is the Tudaya Falls. The tallest waterfalls in Mount Apo National Park (100 meters in height and 50-meter diameter pool), it can be reached for six hours trek via Sibulan trail or three hours via Kapatagan.
Those who like mountain climbing and trekking, they can start with the Mount Tangali “Highland Resort” in Malalag. About 900 meters above sea level, it is surrounded with virgin forest and home to various wildlife species. The temperature is cool and foggy.
Mount Apo is shared by Santa Cruz, Bansalan, and Digos. However, best scaling the country’s highest peak can be staged via Kapatagan area, located 30 kilometers northwest of Digos City.
If you enjoy eco-adventure activities, you can do river tubing, a simpler version of white-water rafting using inflatable tire, in Sibulan River, Darong, Sta. Cruz and aqua-sports activities in Malalag, Sta. Maria, Jose Abad Santos, Sarangani, Sta. Cruz, and in other towns of the province.
Davao del Sur is also noted for its man-made attractions. In Bansalan, there’s the Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT), a sustainable farming system. People from all over the world come to barangay Kinuskusan just to see how the system works. Its former director, Rev. Harold R. Watson, clinched a Ramon Magsaysay Award (considered the Nobel Prize of Asia) for encouraging international utilization of the scheme.
Magsaysay is known for its three man-made swimming resorts: Narvaza-Kalapaw and Kamonsilan in Barayong and Encar, just 1.5 kilometers away from the poblacion. On your way to this town, you can see wide areas planted to rice. In fact, the town is known as the “rice granary of Davao del Sur.”
“A province of culture” is how some people describe Davao del Sur. In Bansalan, you can visit the Bitaug Weaving Center managed by Salinta Monon, the 1998 Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan winner. In Matan-ao, don’t fail to go to the Savoy B’laan Cultural Village, about nine kilometers away from the town proper. Home mostly to B’laan (90 percent of the people), you can learn anything about this tribe.
Davao Del Sur was created under Republic Act. No. 4867 on May 8, 1967 and started as a province on July 1, 1967. It is bounded by Davao City in the north; by Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Kidapawan City in the west; by the Celebes Sea, Sarangani Province, and General Santos City in the south; and by the Davao Gulf in the east. Its capital is Digos City; Davao City used to be a part of the province until it was made an independent city.
The western part of the province is dominated by Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak. Mount Tanglao and Mount Latian are two other landmarks in the hinterlands. Wide fertile valleys are found between the mountain ranges and the narrow coastal plains in the east.
Davao del Sur is blessed with a favorable climate characterized by wet and dry seasons. The coldest time is during the months of December and January and the hottest is during the months of April and May. The province is outside the typhoon belt.
Because of its favorable climate and fertile soil, Davao del Sur is primarily an agricultural province. It is popularly known as coconut country since coconut is its major commercial crop. Its rice and corn production is more than sufficient for its population. Other crops grown are bananas, cacao, ramie, coffee, fruits and vegetables.
Welcome to Davao del Sur!

Edge Davao (http://www.edgedavao.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2471:davao-del-sur-the-pride-of-the-south&catid=63:destinations&Itemid=89)

dinabaw

May 5th, 2010, 02:38 PM

http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/3725/45775928087750f43c95o.jpg (http://img688.imageshack.us/i/45775928087750f43c95o.jpg/)
Little Boracay, Sta. Maria, Davao del Sur

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7017/4580427358dd66b9f54cb.jpg (http://img339.imageshack.us/i/4580427358dd66b9f54cb.jpg/)
Pearl Vendors, Samal Island

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/597/45802882572f194bb1f9b.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/i/45802882572f194bb1f9b.jpg/)
Wishing Island, Samal

Maki Eduardo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kriseduardo/)

coolerman

May 7th, 2010, 04:25 PM

guys, for the information to all, dile si CAGAS ang mayor sa DIGOS, pobre japun ang DIGOS kai si LATASA ang amongg mayor dinhi, kapoi na kaayo mi, gnahan na kaayo mi ilisan xa.. si CAGAS ra ang pag asa sa probinsya ug sa city, katung sports complex.. kang dodo CAGAS to na project, xa jud ang naningkamot ato, daghan boardmembers ang dile gusto ato except sa iyang asawa na si DIDI cagas.. ang mudagang mayor run si JOSEF CAGAS, nephew ni DODO... although dile ta gnhan ug political dynasty.. well.. lets choose the lesser evil, GOdbless to all, =)

dinabaw

May 18th, 2010, 03:40 AM

Manila Bulletin, Travel & Tourism Section (May 13, 2010)
"LURE OF MATI" Article by Jojie Alcantara

http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/4631/27750419735186263380495.jpg (http://img62.imageshack.us/i/27750419735186263380495.jpg/)

JOJIE ALCANTARA PHOTOS: Danggit being dried out, skimboarder in Dahican, Skimboarder with orange board, and large photo of Rhonson with surfboard facing Pacific Sea (Tropical Kanakbai Resort), Sleeping dinosaur island and Waniban Island.

RHONSON NG PHOTOS: Large photo of sunrise in Dahican, aquamarine waters of Oak Island, local boys in mangrove sanctuary

dinabaw

May 18th, 2010, 03:46 AM

davaoeagle

May 18th, 2010, 06:18 AM

dinabaw

May 19th, 2010, 03:27 AM

^^ hehe sir eagol ana dyud ba ang pag pronounce sa Mati ...Matee?

The Vow

May 19th, 2010, 07:59 AM

kinsa nakadaog mayor sa Digos/? ask lng:)

davaoeagle

May 19th, 2010, 02:26 PM

^^ hehe sir eagol ana dyud ba ang pag pronounce sa Mati ...Matee?

para socy ba paminawon....:lol:

dinabaw

May 20th, 2010, 04:02 AM

^^ diba sa Del Sur naa pud matee. :lol:

davaoeagle

May 20th, 2010, 05:03 AM

^^ lahi pud to ug spelling...maaaaatti. :lol:

OT:

btw, nang spam ko sa inyo sa FB. :lol:

coolerman

May 20th, 2010, 08:21 AM

digos: mayor penyas..

dinabaw

June 1st, 2010, 03:26 AM

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/3498/up3i19dkbdepk182h3.jpg (http://img228.imageshack.us/i/up3i19dkbdepk182h3.jpg/)
Picture of Eagle's Point lighthouse in Malalag, Davao del Sur

topix (http://www.topix.com/album/detail/ph/davao/OGSQP3U4BOS1P7RM)

liquidcrew

June 11th, 2010, 10:39 AM

Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. opened another station at Digos City, Davao del Sur on May 8, 2010. The station, operated by dealer Susan Abellana of 8888 Phoenix Gasolinera, is located at Super Highway, Tienda Aplaya, Digos

A motorcade preceded the opening ceremonies, which was graced by Phoenix executives and the dealer’s guests.

http://www.phoenixphilippines.com/photo/pnx_digos_aplaya/2.jpg

http://www.phoenixphilippines.com/photo/pnx_digos_aplaya/1.jpg

jhunix

June 11th, 2010, 10:58 AM

CJ Toyota Tsusho Philippines, Inc. breaks ground

http://www.anflocor.com/images/stories/anfloimages/DSC_0434.jpg

CJ Toyota Tsusho Philippines, Inc. finally broke ground last week at the plant site in Darong, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

The newest project, with an estimated cost of USD 47.1 million, will operate a production of xylose, a natural sweetener derived from coconut shells. It is mainly produced as raw material of xylitol which is known to be one of the major functional sweeteners used in the production of gum.

The company has the capacity to produce 15,000 metric tons of xylose per year. This will be exported to various markets outside the Philippines. Majority of which are Japan, Korea, and the European Union States.

The project is expected to finish by January 2011 where it is foreseen to generate big employment opportunities especially in the locality where the plant is located.

It was warmly accepted by the province headed by Governor Douglas Cagas who said that it is “a very welcome development for the entire province of Davao del Sur. We need more incomes for our people, more jobs, [and] more utilization of our raw resources.”

The Korean Ambassador Choi Joong Kyung was also present on the event. “I have always believed that the best possible partnership between Filipinos and Koreans is in (the agriculture) sector where the Philippines has a big potential. The combination produced by Korea’s technical artistry with the Philippines’ natural environment and skilled manpower will produce pioneering results,” said Choi.

CJ TPI is made up of four partner companies which CJ President Kim Jin Soo tagged as a “dream team”: CJ Cheiljedang Corporation, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Binggrae Co., Ltd., and the Anflo Management & Investment Corporation (ANFLOCOR) that is the local company among the four.

“I’m confident that all the elements [of the four companies] will be put together in one bowl to generate one of the strongest players in this business world,” remarked Kim.
Also among the dignitaries who graced the ceremonies were Cong. Marc Cagas of Davao del Sur, Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez, along with the executives of the four companies led by their respective heads namely CJ President Kim Jin Soo, Toyota Tsusho Corporation Managing Director Makoto Hyodo, Binggrae President Lee Kun Young, and ANFLOCOR Chairman Don Antonio O. Floirendo, Sr.

http://www.anflocor.com/images/stories/anfloimages/DSC_0443.jpg
:cheers:

:cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers:

rodincouch

June 11th, 2010, 03:41 PM

nice! more jobs! uswag dabaw!

rodincouch

June 15th, 2010, 05:27 AM

http://www.mindanaotimes.net/?p=9522

Mati City eyed to become trading hub
Written by: Francisco , Carmelito Q.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010

MATI CITY officials are envisioning their city to become a trading center in the Davao Region.
Councilor Rey P. Oliveros, chair of the city council committee on tourism, said there is already a plan to make the three-year old city into a trading point within the three provinces considering that there are already infrastructure facilities that would complement the plan.
“At present, Mati City has all the indications of becoming the rural-type of Singapore or Hong Kong in the next 25 years. We also aim at making Mati City not just the center of tourism in the Davao Region but also the central hub of exporting agricultural products from Southern Mindanao to the world,” he said during the Kapihan sa Dabaw at Cafe Rysus of SM City Davao.
He pointed out that there is already a negotiation between the city government and the agricultural producers of Compostela Valley to use the wharf as their transhipment point considering that travelling between the two provinces will only take about an hour compared with a three-hour travel between Compostela Valley and Tagum City in Davao del Norte where another wharf is located.
Oliveros added that the city government has appealed before the national government to improve the road between Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental and the one between Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental to allow easy access in moving cargoes and people.

Three years ago, the Philippine Ports Authority reported the completion of the P60 million expansion of the wharf which will become the docking area for ships that will transport the products of
Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental to the markets.
The wharf was used in the past by traders from Cebu that used to buy raw materials the province like copra and corn. Its use slowed down when local traders decided to strengthen their presence in the province.
Davao Oriental is considered as the biggest producer of copra in the country.
Of late, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau reported that several buyers of ore have been using the port as the province is also considered as among the biggest producers of mineral ores in Mindanao.
Richard L. Villacorte, city administrator, also told the TIMES that Bachelor Express Inc., a big bus company plying the Mindanao routes, has filed an application with the Land Transportation, Franchising and Regulatory Board to ply the route between Davao City, Davao Oriental and Surigao del Sur.
“This will heighten trading in the city,” said Villacorte, pointing out consumers from Surigao del
Sur may decide to stop in Mati City instead of proceeding to the city if it has big malls and other trading-related facilities.

The airport, on the other hand, has only been used sparsely since its construction during the of the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos. Oliveros said that the airport can be used to service flights between the city and the rest of the country.
However, the plan to make the city a trading center hinges on the decision of the Supreme Court on its cityhood status.
The city is among the 16 new cities in the country which have fought that their creation be declared legal after the League of Cities asked the courts that they failed to qualify to become component cities.
The argument was based on the provision of the Local Government Code which only required a city to have a P20 million local income so that it could be declared a city. However, Congress amended the provision by increasing the requirement to P100 million.
It was the same Congress, however, which approved the creation of the cities whose legality was eventually approved by the Supreme Court. The League of Cities has already asked the High Court to reverse its decision as this will affect their internal revenue allotment, the portion of the national revenue distributed among local government. (With report from JOEY DALUMPINES)

regjeex

June 24th, 2010, 09:00 AM

A teenager rides the waves with his locally-made skimboard off the coast of Digos City in Davao del Sur on Wednesday. www.gmanews.tv

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab140/regjeex/digoscity.jpg

davaoeagle

June 24th, 2010, 11:40 PM

Business World
Corporate News
Posted on 09:11 PM, June 24, 2010
Local miner begins hunt for
deposits in three Davao Oriental towns

DAVAO CITY -- Oz Metals Exploration and Development Corp., a local firm, will start a mineral exploration project covering 1,400 hectares in three towns in Davao Oriental after signing an agreement with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

The project will have an initial investment of P5.5 million as the company seeks to locate high-grade mineral deposits in the mining site. The agreement allows the company to explore the area for two years, although the contract is renewable for a similar period but not exceeding four years for nonmetallic minerals and six years for metallic minerals.

The company is required to submit an exploration work program which provides the description of the “expected and considered acceptable impacts” of the projects in the area, regional director Edilberto L. Arreza said in a statement.

Records of the Mines bureau showed there are two major exploration permits issued in the region. The biggest tenement holder is Sagittarius Mines, Inc. in Kiblawan, Daval del Sur for gold, copper and silver, followed by Bunawan Mining Corp. also for copper, gold and silver in Banay-banay, Davao Oriental.

Under the agreement, Oz Metals will relinquish 20% of the area during the first two years of exploration and “at least 10% of the remaining area annually during the renewed exploration period.” The company is prohibited from venturing into commercial extraction or construction of infrastructure designed for mining production.

The agreement also does not automatically grant beneficial ownership of the minerals to the company. “The permittee shall assume the exploration risks and shall not be entitled to reimbursement of its expenses,” it said.

Environment assistant secretary Jeremias L. Dolino in an earlier forum here said the country’s mining industry is on a comeback as he projected a 30% growth in 2010 with a gross investment of P110.4 billion, up from P105 billion last year.

Mineral exports, meanwhile, are expected to hit $3 billion this year or 80% higher compared with the $1.6 billion posted last year. The government also expects $1.2-billion investments in mining this year or nearly double last year’s figures of $640.2 million. -- Joel B. Escovilla

scarletwitch.wanda

June 25th, 2010, 11:16 AM

My DAVAO ORIENTAL
http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/4085/davor1.jpg (http://img339.imageshack.us/i/davor1.jpg/)

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/2388/davor2.jpg (http://img571.imageshack.us/i/davor2.jpg/)

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/6130/davor3.jpg (http://img695.imageshack.us/i/davor3.jpg/)

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/3212/davor8.jpg (http://img248.imageshack.us/i/davor8.jpg/)

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/1398/davor5.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/i/davor5.jpg/)

http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/4784/davor4.jpg (http://img692.imageshack.us/i/davor4.jpg/)

http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/7181/davor6.jpg (http://img64.imageshack.us/i/davor6.jpg/)

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/4296/davor7.jpg (http://img704.imageshack.us/i/davor7.jpg/)

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/3630/million1.jpg (http://img155.imageshack.us/i/million1.jpg/)

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/4514/million2.jpg (http://img694.imageshack.us/i/million2.jpg/)

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/3151/million3.jpg (http://img28.imageshack.us/i/million3.jpg/)

scarletwitch.wanda

June 25th, 2010, 11:31 AM

The turtles have returned to Dahican
By BEN O, TESIORNA
June 19, 2010, 5:38pm

MATI CITY, Davao Oriental – After more than two decades of disappearance, the sea turtles have started returning to its nesting place in the picturesque Dahican beach here — a testimony that nature could return to its unspoiled state if only humans would learn how to take care and protect it.

Since April of this year, several nesting sites of different varieties of sea turtles were sighted along the 17-kilometer beach front of Dahican. The last time there was a sighting of nesting sea turtles in the area was 25 years ago.

The population of sea turtles in Dahican had slowly dwindled when eating of the turtles by the locales and selling of their carapace became rampant.

According to Jun Plaza, head of the Amihan group taking care of the nesting sites, they have already released close to 500 young turtles to the sea just this month alone.

He said the sea turtles started arriving in multitude on June 12, the Philippine Independence Day. He said they have recorded at least five nesting sites since June 12 and have been releasing the turtles immediately upon hatching.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Coast Guard have been coordinating with the city government of Mati under Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat for the protection and preservation of the nesting sites and the sea turtles.

Fishing boats have been requested to clear the area where the sea turtles make their entry from the sea to the beach.

It was learned that several adult sea turtles caught in other parts of Mati have been released in Dahican by the authorities. It is believed that these same turtles are the ones coming back to Dahican to lay their eggs.

The name Dahican comes from the local dialect which means "digging place", as sea turtles are known to dig holes before laying their eggs and covering them up afterwards.

At present, Dahican remains to be the most visited tourist site in Mati City because of its white sand, clear blue water, and huge waves suitable for skimboarding and surfing. The local government has no plans of minimizing the aquasports activities in Dahican but is, at the same time, amplifying its protection and preservation efforts on the sea turtles with the help of the residents of Dahican and of whole Mati City.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/262733/the-turtles-have-returned-dahican

scarletwitch.wanda

June 25th, 2010, 11:32 AM

Million Trees Movement for Davao Oriental marks 1st anniversary

Davao City (15 June) -- The Provincial Government of Davao Oriental under Governor Corazon T. Nuñez-Malanyaon had launched the Million Trees Movement as a local contribution to the abatement of global warming and an adaptation action for climate change.

Its launching activity last June 22, 2009 was a synchronized tree planting along the national road from the Welcome Park in Barangay Pintatagan, Banaybanay to the exit in the last barangay of Boston going to Lingig, Surigao.

The provincial government was able to deliver a total of more or less 125,000 assorted tree seedlings to component LGUs and recorded planted seedlings of more or less 65,000 hills. However, with the onset of the dry season and road expansions in some portions of the national highway, many of the planted seedlings did not survive.

Dante M. Ganir, officer-in-charge of the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) of the LGU-Davao Oriental bared that as a follow-up for the movement, ENRO has plantable seedlings of more or less 25,000 at present in its nursery in Magay, Don Martin Marundan, Mati City. It can provide the required seedlings for tree planting activity, with still enough stock to assist other agencies and entities such as the academe, NGOs and POs who might be interested to participate in the Provincial Tree Planting Day celebration.

Prior to the Provincial Tree Planting Day, field survey and inventory were conducted by ENRO personnel to every municipalities on the priority areas of their respective barangays for a series of replanting activities. A total of more or less 10,000 seedlings were being planted in the Scenic Highways from June 7-18, 2010 in coordination of ENRO with component LGUs through their respective municipal mayors, city mayor, C/MENROs and concerned punong barangays, likewise with agencies such as DENR, DPWH, NGOs/POs and the academe.

Moreover, ENRO Nursery in Magay, Don Martin Marundan, Mati City is now regularly producing assorted seedlings while another one in Pintatagan, Banaybanay which is part of the Agro-forestry Project of the Kilos Asenso Program, is about to operate within this month of June.

As part of the continuing activities, on June 22, 2010, Tuesday, 6:00 AM, the Provincial Government will once again be conducting a tree-planting activity as our celebration of the 1st Anniversary of the Provincial Tree-Planting Day of Davao Oriental at the Government Center Compound located at Barangay Dahican, City of Mati. As such, Memorandum Circular No. 01, s. 2010 of the Honorable Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon was issued enjoining all government agencies to participate in this year?s Tree Planting activity as part of the week-long celebration of the 43rd Araw ng Davao Oriental.

After this activity, thru the coordination of ENRO with all agencies/entities, replanting will continue in developing and enhancement of the Scenic Highway to pursue the implementation of the Million Trees Movement through continuous conduct of massive re-greening activities. (Sarx Lanos)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&fi=p100615.htm&no=54

scarletwitch.wanda

June 25th, 2010, 11:33 AM

More BPO firms sought

DAVAO CITY -- This city’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector is developing a program that will promote other cities in the Davao region for outsourcing investments in the next five years.

Teolulo T. Pasawa, the regional government’s ICT lead official, noted in a recent interview that investments from the industry have been cornered by Davao City in recent years, even as some neighboring urban centers could also host business process outsourcing (BPO) operations.

Mr. Pasawa said the plan will involve the promotion to ICT investors of the cities of Tagum, Panabo and Samal in Davao del Norte, Digos City in Davao del Sur and Mati City in Davao Oriental.

"The plan is very important because this will put these cities on the [industry] map," Mr. Pasawa told BusinessWorld.

"We need to seize the opportunity and the plan will guide us [to see] what the other cities in the region need to become good investment areas."

Mr. Pasawa noted that, based on the assessment of the Department of Trade and Industry, the country is next only to India in terms of attracting BPO investments, even as other countries in most other regions -- from Latin America to Eastern Europe to Africa -- have been moving to cash in on this sector.

Some of the cities, such as Mati in Davao Oriental and Tagum in Davao del Norte, have already included ICT as among the industry areas that they want developed.

Mary Michelle N. Rabat, Mati City mayor, said in an earlier interview that her administration is looking at how it could develop a local ICT sector, considering that connectivity remains a problem there.

But Ben Y. Melasa, speaking for the regional office of Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co., said last year that telecommunication providers have been trying to improve Internet connectivity not just in the city but also in other parts of the region.

Mr. Pasawa said that while there may be a significant increase in ICT businesses in the city and other parts of the region, it is now more difficult to track these activities because of the growing recruitment of home-based employees by small US outsourcing firms.

Besides an annual government-industry survey that named Davao as the top "next wave" city for ICT investments in the Philippines, US-based consultancy International Data Corp. had counted in October last year the same city among the top 10 offshore locations in the country, placing 10th.

Mr. Pasawa said the plan for the region would particularly look into the preparedness of the cities in hosting ICT investments, particularly involving connectivity and policies.

"Based on our initial assessment, the policy framework of the cities within the region [in relation to the industry] are similar and ICT-friendly," Mr. Pasawa noted.

Davao region has been recognized for its comparatively big human resources pool since it generates about 15,000 college graduates annually.

The Information Technology Association of Davao has noted that big companies have taken notice of the local talent pool, setting up their operations in here in the last three years, said Erriberto P. Barriga, Jr., president of the association. -- C. Q. Francisco

http://www.bworldonline.com/main/content.php?id=12743

scarletwitch.wanda

June 25th, 2010, 11:34 AM

Mati poised to declare moratorium on logging
By BEN O. TESIORNA, Correspondent
June 21, 2010, 8:56am

MATI CITY, Davao Oriental – The City Government of Mati is set to declare a moratorium on logging activities that will affect all future applications in the said city. The move came after the death of 52-year old broadcaster, Jessie Camangyan, who was said to have been criticizing the logging activities in the entire province before he was shot dead by an unknown assailant during a fiesta celebration in Manay town last June 14.

On Monday, the City Council of Mati passed a resolution enjoining Mati Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat to declare a moratorium on the extraction and utilization of forest resources within the City of Mati and to implement actions towards protection of forest resources and watershed areas.

Mayor Rabat readily issued an executive order declaring her administration’s policy against logging. The city chief executive also ordered for a comprehensive inventory of the forest resources, actual delineation and demarcation of protected areas and buffer zones for protection, and other studies identifying the forest resources of the city and other watershed areas.

Rabat also wanted a city-base map showing coverage of forest areas and other parameters, such as tenurial instruments in these areas; forest use regulation measures identified in the city ordinances such as the City Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Rabat’s order however explicitly stated that all existing permits and issuances by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Davao Oriental will not be affected by the declared moratorium.

The moratorium only prohibits issuance of permits and other instruments for the extraction and utilization of forest products, either in public or private lands, and especially in watershed areas. The city is also reviewing all permits and other instruments issued before the declaration of the moratorium.

During the moratorium, the city government will be strictly monitoring forest products transported to and from Mati including those passing thru the city.

Rabat warned that violators of the moratorium order will be dealt with accordingly. She said the city government could easily suspend the permit to operate of their respective businesses in Mati and would file appropriate legal actions against them, be they private individuals or public officials.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/262968/mati-poised-declare-moratorium-logging