LGU Mahinog wins unlawful occupation case against Mantigue residents

Mahinog, Camiguin, December 20, 2012 - THE Local Government Unit of Mahinog won the unlawful occupation case filed against the remaining 23 households living in Mantigue island, after the Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) of Mahinog found all accused guilty of violation of Section 69 of Presidential Decree No. 1559 amending PD 705 or Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines.

In 18-page decision promulgated this morning December 20, 2012 penned by MCTC Judge Eduardo E. Chan, the trial court found all the remaining residents in Mantigue island "guilty beyond reasonable doubt" and sentenced all the accused to suffer the penalty of six months imprisonment and pay a fine in the amount of P1,000.00.

All the accused are further ordered evicted from the island, the court declared in its Decision.

This, after the LGU Mahinog represented by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla with the coordination of the office of the DENR spearheaded a campaign drive to free Mantigue island from illegal settlers and preserve the natural beauty and richness of this 6.9-hectare island which is 20-minute boat ride from barangay San Roque in the municipality of Mahinog.

LGU officials claimed growing population in the area is the primary cause of Mantigue Island’s environmental degradation and that drastic steps should be taken to save the environment. 

Based on the records, in 1926, Mantigue island was already declared as an unclassified public forest. In 1987 the island was declared alienable and disposable until in 1998 when the Secretary of DENR issued a reversion order declaring the island again as public forest land.

Citing the Regalian doctrine, the court said the classification of Mantigue island remained a forest land belonging to the state which placed the island “beyond the commerce of man.”

The court called it “inherently weak” accused defense of prior occupancy that they are already living the island even before 1975.

Citing a Supreme Court decision in the case of  Public Estates Authority v. Court of Appeals, the court ruled “where the land is not alienable and disposable, possession of the land, no matter how long, cannot confer ownership or possessory rights.”

The court declared although Mantigue island was declared alienable and disposable in 1987, still, the occupants “did not acquire vested right” to appropriate the area as their own.

The court stressed there was no evidence presented that their predecessors applied for a free patent with the government to support their private ownership over the portion they have occupied.

“Matters of private ownership call for proofs, it cannot be assumed,” the court ruled.

The court said while it sympathizes with the accused-occupants’ plight, it is bound to apply the law “strictly and judiciously.”

“The law is harsh, but it is the law,” the court explained.

The accused has fifteen days to appeal the decision.

Of the 40 households living in the Mantigue island, only 17 households had agreed to move out from the island to the new relocation site offered by the municipal government. The 23 households who insisted not to leave the island are the accused in this case.

Plant a tree, live happily

by Jocelyn O. Abao
Contributor

There is an old adage that says, “To be remembered one should write a book or plant a tree.”

The participants of a tree planting activity here on Monday not only planted trees to be remembered but rather to make a big difference in preserving our environment.

A mangrove tree planting event was spearheaded by LGU Mahinog in collaboration with the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group in the foreshore areas of barangay San Roque last April 16, 2012.

The said activity started at 7:00 in the morning and ended in the afternoon. After the event most of the participants felt too tired but felt great with what they have achieved.

The activity gave them a real sense of achievement and satisfaction because they were doing this to attain a more pleasant environment and for our future generations.

I remembered an article about a man from India who planted a forest. He lived in isolation for about 30 years in the forest just planting and taking care of his plants.

The message is clear: if this one man could plant a forest, then there's is no reason we can not just plant one tree?

As the saying goes, to be happy for a year, plant a garden; if you want to be happy for life, plant a tree.

Plant a tree and spend the rest of  your life in happiness.

(The contributor is a head teacher III of cluster schools under Mahinog district)

World-renowned photojournalist visits Camiguin to capture images of women in micro-credit

Photo by Raymundo C. Agaton Jr.

Pep Bonnet, a renowned international photojournalist visited Camiguin last February 8-9, 2012 to capture images of women in Micro Credit in Mantigue island in the municipality of Mahinog.

This was learned from Raymundo C. Agaton Jr. of PRRM Camiguin in a press release sent to Mahinog Trumpet.

Bonnet is from NOOR (an Arabic word meaning “light”), an international photo agency and foundation established in 2007 primarily to create and distribute compelling photojournalistic works with the aim to raise awareness, enhance an understanding of the world and contribute to visual history of mankind.

The NOOR photo agency solicited the help of Philippines Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) for its project “Women in Micro-Credit.”

PRRM is an NGO working in Camiguin for almost two decades now, with a mission to enhance the capacity of rural communities in the planning, advocacy and implementation of sustainable development, through an integrated program of education, livelihood, health, habitat, environment, and self-governance.

According to Agaton, Bonnet chose the island of Mantigue in Mahinog, Camiguin to shoot images of women engaged in seaweeds production.

“The images of women engaging in fishing in Mantigue Island is a very fascinating human interest story for this project,” Mr. Bonnet told Agaton during the visit.

Agaton said Bonnet’s exhibit of images will feature 10 countries including Philippines due for exhibition and possibly into a book by April of this year.

”This will portray microcredit as the most visible innovation in anti-poverty policy where it has been successful in bringing formal financial services to the poor,” Agaton said.

For his part, Mahinog town mayor Alex R. Jajalla said since these images will be seen all over the world, this is a good opportunity to promote Mantigue island as among the alternative ecotourism destination in the region.

Mantigue island, branded as "Restoring Paradise" after local government developed the area as eco tourism destination since 2007, has now become a popular tourist attraction in the province of Camiguin.

Photo by Raymundo C. Agaton Jr.

Mahinog thanks Japan for flood control projects

(Mayor Alex R. Jajalla delivering his welcome remarks at the inauguration ceremony)

MAHINOG, Camiguin, January 9, 2012– Town mayor Alex R. Jajalla expressed gratitude to the Japan government for the construction of P568-million worth of flood control projects at the inauguration ceremony here in barangay Pontod on Satuday.

“On behalf of the municipal government and the people of Mahinog, I wish to convey our endless gratitude to the Japanese government through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) represented today by His Excellency Akio Isomata, Minister for Economic Affairs, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, for extending its assistance in the completion of two Sabo dams and reconstruction of heavily damaged bridge that would help save lives and property particularly in the Municipality of Mahinog," the local chief executive said.

(The Embassy of Japan’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Mr. Akio Isomata delivering his remarks at the inauguration ceremony)

It can be recalled that Camiguin was hit by massive flash flood triggered by typhoon “Nanang” in 2001 that left untold death and destruction in various parts of the island province. The hardest hit was barangay Hubangon in the municipality of Mahinog.

Jajalla said with traumatic experiences after the flood, people were afraid every time it rains hard.

“The mere thought of knowing a tropical storm is coming, sends shivers down the spines of many people, especially in barangay Hubangon, the hardest hit during Nanang.”

“We were too scared every moment it rains very hard. We felt insecure and nervous, fearing the worst flood was to hit again,” Jajalla said.

He said after the project was in place, people can now sleep very well.

“Now with the huge Sabo dam in place, people will now feel safe and assured of safety as we will no longer fear being hit by flood as we know this dam is designed to control flooding, or lessen flood damage in low lying areas,” the mayor added.

(Upper Sabo dam site at Pontod, Mahinog, Camiguin)

Jajalla also acknowledged Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo and Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo for giving their best effort from conception to completion of this important project that will play a very important role in Camiguin's economy and disaster risk reduction management campaign.

(Minister Isomata (left) receiving plaque of recognition from Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo and Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo while DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson looks on)

“This project will not only provide the community for safer living condition; it will become an asset for greater economic productivity in this beautiful island of Camiguin,” Jajalla said.

“The new bridge that we also unveil today is more than just a bridge that links the entire province. This is, indeed, a bridge to the highway of opportunity that would drive trade and commerce, trigger local economy and generate job creation in the entire province,” the mayor added.

(The Embassy of Japan’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Mr. Akio Isomata (2nd from left), assisted by DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson (3rd from left), Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo (4th from L), Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo (5th from L) and Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla (6th from L), unveil the inaugural marker during the inauguration ceremony of the the P568-million sabo dam and bridge projects at barangay Pontod in the municipality of Mahinog recently)

Jajalla stressed though this project is a major achievement to celebrate, much work still remains to ensure that people are safe and better lives are achieved.

“After this project, more long-term and sustainable development approaches are still needed to be done,” he stressed.

“The issue on climate change must be tackled urgently, with fresh perspective, in the light of rapid climate change that led to an increase in natural disasters that hit most parts of the country this year including the massive flooding that hit Cagayan de Oro and Iligan recently.”

“We will continue to lobby developed country governments like Japan to show more urgency in dealing with climate change and continue to provide additional grant aid projects related to climate change,” he said.

The local chief executive expressed hope that JICA will return back to Camiguin for more development assistance projects that will improve the quality of life among Camiguingnons.

“His Excellency Minister Isomata, with thankful hearts, kindly convey our endless gratitude to your government and your people for making these projects possible."

"In the meantime, the people of the municipality of Mahinog will look forward to welcoming you back soon,” Jajalla concluded.

For his part, Isomata said that Japan will continue to help “in whatever way we can” to help Filipinos better prepare for natural disasters.

“This project reaffirms the continued commitment of Japan to extend cooperation in minimizing threats of disaster and we will continue to help Philippines in whatever way we can," he said.

However, he reminded the public not to become complacent with the project, but remain vigilant and prepared for disaster.

"Disaster happens when everybody is just about to forget it," he stressed.


Aside from Minister Isomata (6th from L), the inauguration was also graced by DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson (5th from L), Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo (7th from L), Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo (4th from L), Ms. Sachido Takeda (8th from L), Senior representative of the Philippine Office of Japan International Cooperation Agency, Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla (2nd from L), among others.

Saving Mother Earth

By Jocelyn O. Abao

Contributor

We are facing nowadays an environmental problem that caused death and destruction to human lives and properties. We experienced that bad effect of typhoon “Sendong” in our country, especially in Mindanao. Why these horrible event happened?

Why we are struggling to solve these problems of Climate Change?  The trees in the forest were cut by illegal loggers. The soil also was eroded because no roots were able to hold. We found garbage everywhere. Even though, various orientations were given by government and school officials, yet people continue destroying our nature.

Mother earth cried for help! It is not too late. Let’s open our eyes and do our job to restore the beauty of nature.

Let us save Mother Earth for our own good.

Municipal Govt of Mahinog endorses EDC’s Camiguin wind farm project

Reinero Medrano, manager of EDC Corporate Social Responsibility, made presentation on the wind farm project in Camiguin at the municipal council session

Mahinog, Camiguin – The Municipal Council of Mahinog recently endorsed the Lopez-led Energy Development Corp. (EDC) application to put up a wind farm in Camiguin particularly in Lowan hills in barangay Owakan in the town of Mahinog.

In February last year, the Dept. of Energy (DOE) approved a Wind Energy Service Contract (WESC) to the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) for the Camiguin Wind Project.

EDC is Philippine’s leading geothermal energy provider, accounting for 62% of the country’s installed geothermal capacity.

It operates 5 geothermal sites in Leyte, Bicol, Cotabato, Northern Negros and Southern Negros, including the Pantabangan-Masiway hydro power complex in Nueva Ecija.

When completed the wind farm project in Camiguin is expected to generate more than 15 Megawatts of energy, Reinero Medrano, EDC Corporate Social Responsibility Program Officer, said on Monday during the SB session.

It will augment the supply of power in Camiguin, or even sell its power excess to the mainland, he added.

“This project will harness the power of the wind in Camiguin to generate clean and renewable electricity and will establish Camiguin as one of the wind energy sites in the Philippines,” Medrano said.

He added, however, that as of now, an additional wind data gathering must be conducted at the site to validate the wind potential at a height ranging from 60 –84 meters.

A wind mast to be installed is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2012 and is expected to be complete after at least 2 to 4 weeks, Medrano disclosed.

The data gathering phase will begin immediately after the masts are installed, he added.

The project has 3 phases which include: 1) Wind data gathering; 2) Development, construction & installation of wind farm, substation facilities and power transmission line and its associated interconnection facilities; 3) Operations and maintenance of wind farm, substation facilities and power transmission line and its associated interconnection facilities.

To date, the country's first wind project and the biggest wind farm in Southeast Asia is the 33-MW wind farm of NorthWind Power Development Corp. located in Bangui, Ilocos Norte.

Mahinog gets 15 new trash bins from MCC

MAHINOG, Camiguin - More than 15 garbage containers have been received by this municipality from Mambajao Credit Cooperative (MCC) as part of its commitment to provide a greener, healthier, more cost-effective waste management system for the province of Camiguin.

The donation was also in support of the Lex’s Clean Mahinog Program of this municipality.

The municipal council on Monday passed a resolution to express the municipality’s appreciation and gratitude to Mambajao Credit Cooperative (MCC) for such donation.

The donation does not only help produce a clean environment, it also establishes a sense of civic mindedness towards environment, Councilor Liberato E. Babanto, the resolution's principal author, said.

It also raises people’s awareness to keep our town clean and pleasant place to live in, the resolution added.

The council said MCC definitely deserves commendation and appreciation for their concern to care for and protect our environment.

Mahinog to participate in Camiguin Tourism Expo on Oct. 18

THE Municipality of Mahinog will join the Camiguin Tourism Expo, a week-long exposition of Camiguin as an eco-tourism destination on Oct. 18 2011 in time of this year's Camiguin Lanzones Festival slated from Oct. 16-23.

Mayor Alex R. Jajalla said this will be Mahinog’s best opportunity to show what it can offer in terms of tourism industry, natural heritage, products and services.

The town’s foremost asset is Mantigue Island, a perfect place to be to unwind from any taxing activities due to its pristine waters, powder-fine white sand, clean and invigorating atmosphere.

Another emerging tourist attraction in Mahinog is the soon-to-open three-lane zip line that will pass through Benoni Lagoon (lake) to be operated by J and A Fishpen Resort and Restaurant.

Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo encouraged LGUs to develop potential destinations in their locality that can be promoted and marketed both internally and outside. These tourism sites, products and services will be showcased at the corporate booth that each local government unit will set up during the Lanzones Festival.

Giving their support to Mahinog’s exhibits are the Mahinog Municipal Tourism Council spearheaded by Dr. Bernabe Mendoza and Municipal Tourism Office under Ms. Mercy B. Jajalla.

LGU Mahinog to receive P1M award from DILG for excellent performance

MAHINOG, Camiguin - The Local Government Unit of Mahinog will receive a Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) of P1-million from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for their “good housekeeping” or excellent performance in good governance.

The recognition will be held on August 19, 2011 at Pearlmont Inn, Limketkai Drive, Cagayan de Oro City at which event the LGU Mahinog together with other LGU qualifiers in the region will be conferred with the "seal of good housekeeping," according to DILG-X regional director Loreto T. Bhagwani in a fax message sent to the office of the mayor of Mahinog.

The “good housekeeping seal” is given to LGUs that have excelled in key government areas which include planning, fiscal management, transparency and accountability, and valuing performance management.

These LGUs have also fully complied with the full disclosure policy and have no adverse reports from the Commission on Audit (COA).

The DILG established this program as a way of rewarding LGUs for their high performance, reports said.

Out of the 5 municipalities in the province of Camiguin, only the town of Mahinog passed the standards of the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) program, it was learned.

Among the 4th to 6th class municipalities and cities in the region (Northern Mindanao) that passed the standards are the following:

1. Sumilao Bukidnon

2. Mahinog, Camiguin

3. Aloran, Misamis Occidental

4. Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental

5. Don Victoriano, Misamis Occidental

6. Lopez Jaena, Misamis Occidental

7. Tudela, Misamis Occidental

8. Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte

9. Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte

10. Linamon, Lanao del Norte

11. Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte

12. Matungao, Lanao del Norte

13. Munai, Lanao del Norte

14. Salvador, Lanao del Norte

15. Alubijid, Misamis Oriental

16. Gitagum, Misamis Oriental

17. Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental

18. Libertad, Misamis Oriental

19. Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental

20. Tangub City

Mahinog mayor Alex R. Jajalla said that the prize will be used to augment funds for the establishment of a passenger terminal going to Mantigue Island in Katunggan Park, in sitio Queobe in barangay San Miguel.

Once the project is completed, ferry and passenger terminal going to Mantigue island will be relocated from barangay San Roque to Barangay San Miguel, where the Katunggan Park (that mangrove area) is located and a mangrove boardwalk was constructed.

For this year, the municipality allocated additional PhP 100,000.00 for the project, which may serve as counterpart fund of the LGU to the PCF.

The project is geared to boost tourism and local economic development in the town, local officials said in a resolution.

Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Bayan on Monday passed a resolution authorizing the mayor to sign the MOA with the DILG to access the PCF.

Mahinog to ink agreement with all towns in Camiguin for construction of sanitary landfills

A CLUSTERED sanitary landfill to be operated by the Provincial Government of Camiguin for the five towns in the province will soon be established in barangay Benhaan in the municipality of Mambajao, reports said.

As this developed, the Municipal Council today gives its authority to Mayor Alex R. Jajalla to sign a memorandum of agreement among the provincial government of Camiguin and other four towns in the province for the construction of a common sanitary landfill.

Republic Act (RA) 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management law, requires all local government units to shut down their open dumpsites and establish a sanitary landfill.

The landfill will replace the traditional open dumpsite which is environmentally hazardous. The law requires that solid waste must be segregated before these are brought to the sanitary landfill.

The municipality of Mahinog is still using open dumpsite which is the subject of several closure orders by the DENR.

Mayor Alex Jajalla admits continued operation of dumpsite poses danger to public health and environmental hazards in host communities.

The mayor also says closure of the existing open dumpsite and the adoption of sanitary landfill is an urgent priority for this local government as part of its solid waste management plan.

“This is part of our consistent campaign to protect the environment,” he added.

In Mahinog, its open dumpsite is located in sitio upper Kinabkaban in barangay San Roque.

Officials said establishment of sanitary landfills is expensive and maintenance may not be affordable for low class LGU like the Municipality of Mahinog.

Hence, the provincial government’s move to construct a cluster landfill that will serve the five towns including Mahinog was highly welcomed by the municipality, since this will finally solve the town’s problem of finding a final disposal site for solid wastes.

Once realized garbage collection and disposal processes are made easy and financial requirement can become less burdensome for each municipality, local officials said.

DepEd Camiguin holds summer BSP camp

by Jocelyn O. Abao
Contributor

The Department of Education (DepEd) Camiguin hosted the Summer BSP Camping last April 12 - 25, 2011 at Sagay, Camiguin.

DepEd officials say  the summer youth camp was aimed to prepare the young people to become responsible and duty oriented citizens in their respective locality. It also inculcates in minds of young people their vital role in caring for environment, among others.

The event was well participated by all five municipalities comprising the province of Camiguin.

Judge denies motion to dismiss criminal case against Mantigue is. occupants

MAHINOG, CAMIGUIN - A municipal court judge here has denied defense attorney’s "demurer to evidence" to persuade the court to dismiss the criminal case that the municipal government of Mahinog filed against Mantigue island residents accused for unlawful occupation in the said island declared as forest land.

Municipal Circuit Trial Court Judge Eduardo E. Chan made the ruling on March 10.

A "demurrer to evidence" has the same effect of a motion to dismiss, with the connotation that the evidence of the prosecution was not sufficient.

Defense lawyer argued that on the basis of Section 53 of P.D. No. 1559 occupants who entered in forest lands before May 19, 1975, without permit or authority can not be prosecuted. Their lawyer claimed since accused entered Mantigue island in 1968 or long before May 19, 1975 they can not be prosecuted.

In a two-page resolution, the court said it cannot concede with the defense arguments because Section 53 should be interpreted in relation to Section 69 of P.D. 1559. Unlawful occupation or destruction of forest lands is when any person who enters and occupies or possesses any forest land without authority under a license agreement, lease, license or permit, refuses to vacate the area when ordered to do so pursuant to the provision of Section 53 of P.D. No. 1559.

The court said, a perusal of evidence of the prosecution show that the accused entered, occupied and possessed a forest land without authority under a license agreement, lease, license or permit and that they refused to vacate the area when ordered to do so.

The court added, this elements taken together may somehow create the impression that accused are culpable of the crime charged. The issue of whether there was a proper demand for all the accused to vacate or was the person who made the demand was the proper authority are matters yet to be proven in full dress trial. For this reason the Demurer of evidence is set aside.

The case was calendared for further introduction of evidence.

The Municipal Government of Mahinog was represented by Provincial Prosecutor Renato Abbu, while the accused was represented by Atty. Gil Banaag.

New Zealand team in Camiguin to assess coastal resource project

New Zealand review team leader Rina Rosales (center) interacts with the members of Mahinog Coastal Law Enforcement Action team (Clean)

MAHINOG, Camiguin - A team from New Zealand Embassy arrived in Camiguin on Saturday to conduct mid-term assessment in the implementation of the five-year integrated coastal resource management project that started in 2007 in 40 coastal villages and five municipalities of the province.

With its rich and diverse coastal resources, Camiguin is one of the few provinces to get P116 million funding from the New Zealand Agency for International Aid (NZAid) to institutionalize its integrated coastal resource management program (ICRMP).

The project, according to the agreement, envisions to increase natural productivity and enhanced integrity of coastal and marine resources in the island province. At the same time it provides sustainable economic activities among the Camiguinons to improve quality of life.

According to Mahinog town coastal resources management officer Arlino C. Arca that through the project, major development and conservation activities in Mantigue Island in barangay San Roque and Burias Reef to make these areas as ecotourism sites have been undertaken. Water quality monitoring stations in Mantigue Island have been established.

He said the project has since generated significant incomes for the municipality and provided livelihood opportunities among the fisherfolks.

In addition, seven (7) marine protected areas have been established and rehabilitated in Mahinog alone while municipal waters in five municipalities have been delineated.

Morever, coastal law enforcement action networks (CLEAN) formerly the bantay dagat teams have been trained and mobilized to strengthen coastal law enforcement. Four patrol boats have been provided for this purpose.

Also in Mahinog, alternative livelihood and enterprise activities such as green mussel production project in barangay Benoni, among others, are being established.

The team, composed of Ms. Rina Rosales, team leader, Mr. Kenneth Mackay and Ms. Lourdes Padilla, will assess issues being faced in the implementation of the program and propose whether phase 2 of the project should be granted or not.

Their visit includes interaction with the technical working committee, the Governor and Mayors of the 5 municipalities of Camiguin and several beneficiary groups of the project.

Scientists discover endemic plant species in Camiguin

AFTER the discovery of "Kulasisi" (Loriculus camiguinensis) which scientists say can only be found in this volcanic pear shaped island of Camiguin in the northern part of Mindanao, Philippines, scientists discovered anew some interesting flower and plant species which are endemic in Camiguin.

A team of Singaporean scientists who recently visited Camiguin has confirmed that some interesting flower and plant species are found in the rain-forest of Camiguin, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) report says.

Most of the plants identified are endemic in the island.

Scientists identified these as red and yellow colored rhododendron orchid, begonia, nepenthes pitcher plant, spathoglottis orchid, aeschymanthus, balanophora plant, lopidium moss and the coral fugus.

They said bryophytes are chiefly terrestrial, nonvascular plants, like the mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.

Dr. Lesley C. Lubos who made the study on the diversity of bryophytes plants in Camiguin, has led to the discovery of these plants, the report says.

Lubos, a faculty member of the Liceo de Cagayan University, was among the Ten Outstanding Filipino Researchers in 2009 awarded during the 4th National Research Forum held in Aklan State University, Boracay, Aklan, on December 12, 2009.

Dr. Lubos, in a press release, said it took him a month to finish the study under the mentorship of Singaporean Bryologist and a herbarium keeper Dr. Benito C. Tan. The study focuses on the importance of bryophytes in preserving the forest ecosystem, he added.

Because of this study, more scientists are visiting the province and discovered some interesting endangered flowers and other plant species here.

As this developed, the provincial government, in cooperation with the Office of Lady McNiece in Singapore, Philippine Association of Institutions for Research and the Liceo the Cagayan University are now actively campaigning for the protection of the endangered plant and flower species in Camiguin.

A poster has been posted around the island showing the images of the flowers and plant bearing the slogan "Discover, Enjoy and Conserve the richness of the plant diversity in Camiguin Island."

Lgu Mahinog, DENR sign MOA for P525 thousand mangrove boardwalk project

Mahinog, Camiguin - The Municipal Government of Mahinog and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 10 recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the construction of the P525 thousand mangrove boardwalk projects in Queobe, in barangay San Miguel here.

The MOA was signed by Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla (left) for the municipal government of Mahinog and DENR regional technical director for research Danilo Cacanindin (center) on behalf of the DENR. Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle (right) was on hand to witness the signing.

According to municipal planning and development coordinator Engr. Benito C. Paderanga, P400 thousand comes from the DENR, while P125 thousand is the counterpart of the LGU Mahinog.

The LGU Mahinog has partially developed the area which is now known as Queobe Eco-Park and Training Center with the construction and establishment of amenities including dormitories, training center, cottages, campsite, parking area, flower garden and nursery.

Queobe Eco Park and Training Center

Paderanga said the over-all project objective are to pursue a sustainable ecological tourism development with emphasis on safeguarding and conserving the bio-diversity in the mangrove area.

The project was also aimed to provide a learning environment on mangrove existence specifically on ecological protection and enhancement.

Moreover, the project is expected to create employment opportunities, boost the local economy and generate income for the LGU, as well.

This wooden boardwalk located near Benoni lagoon and port area will provide safe recreational places for people to walk while enjoying the natural ambience and learning the unique characteristics of the mangrove ecosystem.

Queobe eco park has an excellent vantage point overlooking the mangrove boarwalk, Benoni lagoon, Benoni port, including Mantigue island. These are all parts of a development plan vigorously pursued by the municipal government of Mahinog, with the ultimate goal of optimizing the potential of the area in order to provide employment opportunities and boost the local economy.

Mangrove boardwalk project underway

Mahinog, Camiguin - THE construction of the 4-hundred thousand-peso boardwalk project will soon be underway along the mangrove forest in Queobe, barangay San Miguel, this municipality.

This project is part of eco-tourism initiatives that Mahinog municipal officials have been undertaking for the past years. This is funded by the DENR under the Coastal Resource Management Program of the municipality.

Mahinog Business Development Officer Willy Lobido said this project is part of the Queobe eco park development program and eyed as the jump off point to Mantigue island.

This wooden boardwalk located near Benoni lagoon and port area will provide safe recreational places for people to walk while enjoying the natural ambience and learning the unique characteristics of the mangrove ecosystem.

Mayor reorganizes sanitary police, picks former barangay executive to lead

Saligumba

IN an effort to maximize its efficiency, Mayor Alex R. Jajalla recently ordered the reorganization of the composition of the Sanitary "Pulis" (Sapul), the enforcement arm of the Lex's Clean Mahinog Program.

Under Executive Order No. 15-2010, the mayor named Romulo Y. Saligumba, a former barangay captain of Hubangon, as chief operating officer of the Lex's clean Mahinog.

The mayor also named Rufino Q. Llanto as first deputy; Ernesto S. Uyhamco as second deputy; Henry B. Ramirez; Antonio A. Daraman; Florelyn B. Ladesma; Genelen S. Gumera; Jowilyn P. Portrias; and 2 members from the PNP to be designated by the mayor, as members.

Lex's Clean Mahinog, an integral part of the A.L.E.X. 2 development agenda, is a program that instills into the minds of the people the values of cleanliness, cooperation, volunteerism and the concern for the environment, including health and safety.

A.L.E.X is an acronym for A- Agriculture and fishery development; L- Local government excellence, livelihood and local economy; E- Environmental care and Eco-tourism; X - eXpress delivery of basic services for social, health and security of the people.

Under the same Order, the Sapul was given the primary responsibility and authority to enforce Municipal Ordinance No. 2007 – 094, otherwise known as the Code of Cleanliness, Sanitation and Solid Waste Ordinance of the Municipality of Mahinog; and the ordinance against coconut theft.

The Sapul will conduct regular patrolling and monitoring activities at public places, streets, residences and business establishments to check on the compliance of the ordinance and issue citation tickets to the violators, among others.

Morever, the mayor also designated the office of the sanggunian secretary to act as Sapul secretariat, which shall handle its administrative, technical and liaising activities.

Local officials want EMB to monitor water quality in Mantigue island

Mahinog, Camiguin - In a resolution passed by the Municipal Council, local officials here have requested the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) to conduct a systematic and monthly observation on water quality in Mantigue island.

Mantigue Island is a 6.9 hectare nature sanctuary approximately 15 minutes from barangay San Roque in the town of Mahinog.

The resolution noted that while concerted efforts are underway to resurrect Mantigue island's viability as an eco tourism destination, increasing tourist influx threatens the quality of island's immediate coastal waters.

Councilor Kaiser A. Abao, the resolution's principal author, said it is critical that appropriate measures are taken now to avert problem situations in the future that affect human health and marine life in the islet.

He said the conduct of regular monitoring is to afford local government to be more aware what needs to be done for the island's long term sustainability.

"We do not want to experience another Boracay in the future," the councilor said.

In 1997, the people of Boracay Island, Philippines were shaken by the news that its coastal waters were declared unsafe for recreational activities due to presence of high levels of coliform.

The resolution was addressed to Dr. Sabdullah C. Abubacar, EMB, Regional Director, Region X, Cagayan de Oro City for his information and immediate favorable action.

Govt conservation projects benefit women in Mantigue Island

THROUGH the Camiguin Coastal Resource Management Project (CCRMP), Isabelita Portrias, 42, Pilar Portrias, 49, Wilma Pabillore, 28, Eva Portrias, 21, Robelyn Portrias, 21, and Marilyn Portrias, 37, became the project's first group of women to benefit from the project's interventions. Their families used to live in Mantigue Island, an islet identified by the local executives as a marine eco-park and which has been made a home for scores of illegal settlers from neighboring provinces.

Launched in 2007, the CCRMP which is funded by the New Zealand Agency for International Development (NZAID) seeks to address the complex issue of sustainable management of coastal resources and the promotion of sustainable economic activities in Camiguin Province, including Mantigue island.

Administratively, Manitigue falls under Municipality of Mahinog, one of the five municipalities of Camiguin. Families who have settled illegally in Mantigue island are voluntarily being relocated by the local government to a decent housing project located very close to the economic center of the municipality.

The relocation package also includes free transport off the island, livelihood opportunities, and a certain amount of cash to help the relocated families start anew. In addition, they have been assured to be the first to benefit from livelihood projects that would result from the rehabilitation of Mantigue Island.

A few months after they relocated, the women were organized and encouraged to attend a series of weekly trainings, designed to enhance their skills, particularly in cooking. Eventually, they were given the opportunity to cater to the meals of tourists and visitors to this island. As a group, they help each other in preparing and serving the meals.

Initially unsure of themselves, they have developed more confidence with every passing day and every meal they prepare. Receiving positive comments from their clients, made them more enthusiastic.

"Malipay jud mi kung muana sila na lami among luto," Wilma shared. (It really makes us happy when people commend us for our cooking).

What makes the whole thing more appetizing is the fact that these women have helped their families financially to the point that their husband have given up fishing to assist them full time in their catering venture.

"Dili na kayo mangisda amo mga bana kay tungod pud ani. Mutabang na lang sila namu dire," Wilma stressed. (Our husbands don't really go fishing anymore. They opt to help us here instead).

This reversal of roles has given the women of Mantigue a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper appreciation of their capabilities, and a stronger sense of security in their femininity.

"Daku jud kayo natabang. Makapalit na jud mig bugas ug gas," Wilma pointed out. (It has really helped a lot. We could now buy rice and gas)

"Nakapa-eskwela pud tawon ko sa akong mga anak," Marilyn shared. (I have been able to send my children to school as well).

Aside from the daily income they earned as caterers in Mantigue, the group sets aside twenty percent of their daily profit for debt servicing and capital. In less than three months, they have acquired several pots, cooking utensils, silver and china ware, and a cellular phone.

"Nakakat-on pud mi unsaun pag-atubang ug mga bisita. Sa una kay maulawon man mi," shared Pilar. (We also learned how to entertain and interact with both local and foreign guests. Before we did not have the guts to do so).

They admitted that due to the communication barrier, they found foreigners hard to deal with. In response to this, the CCRMP has been conducting an English language development program that they enthusiastically attended.

Another thing that they have learned is the value of sanitation in food preparation and in the home.

Most importantly, they have learned to value their harmonious camaraderie. They have realized that they need to work together as a team in order to sustain their efforts. Though there is still occasional argument, they are now quick to resolve their differences and forgive each other.

The twinkle in their eyes and their appreciative smiles reflect the gratitude they cannot articulate. The way they now carry themselves reflects a new sense of purpose and a new level of confidence. Their enthusiasm to learn and to improve all possible facets of their lives indicate hope that tomorrow will now be better for them and their children.

"Nagpasalamat gyud mi ug dako, kay ug wala pa ni, ambot nag unsa na lang kaha mi," says Pilar, the eldest of the group. (We are so grateful for this opportunity, without it, we wouldn't know what to do with our lives). (Mahinog IO with reports from CCRMP)

Prosecutor chides Añover for missing court hearings

Mahinog, Camiguin – Public Prosecutor Renato Abbu chided Sr. Francis Añover for her non appearance in court hearings and for her "unexplained" failure to present some of the accused in court on Tuesday during the continuation of trial in the unlawful occupation case filed by the municipal government and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) against illegal settlers living in Mantigue islet.

Añover, a religious sister of mercy based in Tacloban City, is a custodian of forty- seven (47) accused who were temporarily freed on her (Añover) recognizance. In her motion for bail on recognizance which was granted by the municipal trial court presided by Judge Eduardo E. Chan, Añover had promised to the court that she will show up and all the accused in every hearing.

Under the Revised Rules on Criminal Procedure, recognizance involves the release of an accused without bail to refutable person in the community.

According to her emissary, Añover is on six-month study leave in Manila.

"How could she have performed her function as custodian when she is studying in Manila," Abbu told the court.

The prosecution panel had asked the court to issue a show cause order against Añover and other accused to explain reasons for not attending the court hearings.

The next hearing will be on January 12, 2010. (Homer R. Jajalla, Mahinog Information Office)