Mayor Alex R.Jajalla bares gains, plans for final term

Mayor Alex R. Jajalla delivering his 3rd  inaugural address

July 8, 2013, Mahinog, Camiguin - Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla rallied Mahinognons to work with his administration with "combined commitment and action" as he bared plans for the municipality in his third and final term in office.

The mayor expressed this in his inaugural address at the inaugural session of the 19th Municipal Council (Sangguniang Bayan) on July 8, 2013 at the SB session hall.

Full text of his Inaugural Speech:

Distinguish members of the 19th Municipal Council of Mahinog headed by the Honorable Vice Mayor Rogerio Cagas Acle, their family members, barangay captains, heads of national and municipal departments and agencies, friends, ladies and gentlemen, good morning!

In my two terms as your local chief executive, the cohesive efforts of the executive and legislative departments resulted to seamless execution of programs and projects for the municipality, precisely, the reason why we have livelihood projects for cooperatives and people’s organizations, we have protected our land and seascapes, increase collection of revenues, just compensation to LGU-paid workers, the LEXs Clean Mahinog Program manned by the Sanitary Police (SAPOL), the jobs and revenue generated by our tourism projects: Mantigue Island Nature Park (MINAP) and the Queobe Eco Park and Training Center, the downstream services of tourism prominently MAMSA, the local education assistance program for the youth, social pension program for the elderly and PWDs, and the health care and protective services we rendered to all Mahinognons.

Manifesting that we are trudging the right track, we are recipient of numerous awards as benchmark of exemplified quality of services and hard work we rendered to our constituents such as the Seal of Good Housekeeping; the Most Outstanding Sangguniang Bayan in Region X for 4th to 6th Class Municipalities - Local Legislative Award of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Councilors League (PCL); and Regional Winner and National Nominee – Gawad “Kalasag” Search for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance 2012 – Best Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council – 4th to 6th Class Municipality; to name a few.

And who can forget our triumph on skills, creativeness and beauty mostly excelled by our youths: the Miss Buahanan; multiple Champion – Tableau and Street Dancing Competitions during Lanzones Festival; and the long list of awards in singing, dancing, cooking, sports and even the recognition of our barangays in the province-wide Inter-Barangay Kalanrakas sa Kabataan.

Thank you so much Vice Mayor Roger and the Sangguniang Bayan members for your cooperation and support in the development and promotion of good governance towards improving living conditions of our people. I extend further my heartfelt gratitude to the department heads and their staff and the barangay captains for their unequivocal backing to this administration.

Riding on the momentum of successful run of A.L.E.X. acronym, the third edition is now unveiled to be branded again as A.L.E.X. 3 Development Agenda with A – stands for Agriculture and Fishery Development; L – Local Government Excellence, Livelihood and Local Economy; E – Environmental Care and Eco-Tourism; and X – eXpress Delivery of Basic Services for Social, Health and Security of the People.

Let me present to you a glimpse of the thrusts and development direction the A.L.E.X. 3 Development Agenda will undertake for the next three years.

A - Agriculture and Fishery Development

Partnership with cooperatives and people’s organization will be pursued to address food security and unemployment problem as main emphasis of Local Poverty Reduction Action Plan for funding under the Bottoms Up Budgeting with projects include goat and native chicken production, ornamental and organic vegetable production and the provision of access to the agricultural areas through the farm-to-market roads. That is aside from sustaining the intervention on livestock production and animal protection through insemination, animal vaccination and treatment services as well as crop production.

For the Coastal Resource Management Program, we will improve the bio-diversity of the seven (7) Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) through coral reef enhancement and sustained seaborne patrolling and surveillance to increase fish catch. We will exhaust other alternative livelihood for our fisher folks and maximize the potential of Taguines Lagoon as experimental area for new marine species and introduce for production to our fisher folks to ease fishing pressure in our MPAs and municipal waters in entirety.

L - Local Government Excellence, Livelihood and Local Economy

To professionalize the delivery of public services and good governance, Strategic Performance Management System or SPMS will be introduced for the improvement of individual employee efficiency and organizational effectiveness that will result to clients’ satisfaction. This is in addition to strict adherence to the Full Disclosure of Local Budget and Finances, and Bids and Public Offerings.

Efforts in collecting revenues from traditional sources be intensified with the effectivity of the revenue code and widen the base for sources of income by opening new income generating projects so that collection will increase and efficiency rate will soar.

Priority infrastructure projects that the LGU will push are public transpo terminal in barangay Benoni and the jump off point to Mantigue Island in barangay San Roque. It will ease up traffic and congestion in both areas on top of generating revenue for Mahinog.

E - Environmental Care and Eco-Tourism

Initiatives like enforcement of environmental and sanitation laws, coastal clean up and tree planting to upkeep the environment together with our partners, the barangays, NGOs, volunteers and students, will be sustained. Tree planting activity be expanded to the river banks and spring sources to help protect the danger zones and ensure sustainable supply of potable water to Mahinognons.

Full implementation of LEXs Clean Mahinog Program is a must for us to live in a clean and orderly environment and self impose prerequisite to dispose our garbage to the sanitary landfill in Benhaan, Mambajao managed by the Provincial Government of Camiguin.

Without let up, the Mahinog Business Development Office (MBDO) focuses its effort to enhance the facilities and services of existing economic enterprises, Mantigue Island Nature Park, Queobe Eco Park and Training Center and Taguines Lagoon Aqua Sports Facility. That is aside from developing the Katunggan Park in Queobe area, the potential of mariculture in the same area and Taguines Lagoon and the land acquisition phase of Macao Spring. Aggressive marketing promotion is inevitable to concretize our share of tourist arrivals in Camiguin. This is in the name of investment and employment generation and increase income to the LGU to lessen IRA dependency.

eXpress Delivery of Basic Services for Social, Health and Security of the People

Social service providers have their sight in implementing the 4Ps program, the AICS and Death Aid financial assistance, livelihood programs, supplemental feeding and day care center services. Expansion of Social Pension Program to elderly and person with disability be pursued.

The Municipal Health Office will work on the accreditation of lying-in facility, implementation of maternal care package and new born screening and the expansion of TB-DOTS area for National Tuberculosis Program.

For our youth, we have the Local Education Assistance Program or LEAP, the SPES program and Extended Government Internship Program (E-GIP). We will exhaust our energy to acquire the affected lots, as the home of Mahinog National High School II.

The vanguard on security, the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection, will be hands on in securing our constituents 24/7 along with the MDRRMC and the volunteers of Mahinog Response 143. Securing our people is must, thus the importance to form a composite rescue group for commission during emergency.

To formulate the details, I cause the issuance of Executive Order No. 18, series of 2013, directing agencies concerned to prepare the final perspective of A.L.E.X. 3 Development Agenda in two months’ time subject for presentation to this August body and for us to embrace it as LGU Mahinog’s Executive-Legislative Agenda or ELA.

With our combined commitment and action, with Gov JJ and Congressman XJ at the helm, and the unequivocal support of the Sangguniang Bayan members headed by Vice Mayor Roger, I am optimistic that we can improve the lives of Mahinognon and a progressive municipality ahead.

God Bless Mahinog! Lungsod Ko, Garbo Ko, Mahal Ko!

Maayong Buntag sa tanan.

Mahinog to host 1st triathlon race on March 30

THE  Municipal Tourism Council of Mahinog will host the first off road triathlon race on March 30, 2013, Black Saturday.

Mahinog Tourism Council President Dr. Bernabe Mendoza said the triathlon will consist of 1.5-km swim in the famous serene, clear water of Benoni lagoon, followed by a 18-km off road bike race on the hinterlands of San Miguel, Tacangon, Jang, Puntod, San Jose, Hubangon, Binaliwan, Poblacion,San Roque and back to Benoni and will end with a multi-looping 10-km run around the circumferential road in Benoni lagoon.

“Mahinog is the best place for triathlon because it offers stunning scenery that triathletes can swim, bike and run,” he said.

He said country’s seasoned and fast-rising triathletes are expected to join the race spread in different age categories.

Mahinog Tourism Officer Mercy B. Jajalla said the event could promote Mahinog as the sports tourism site and attract more national or international events like these in Camiguin particularly in the town of Mahinog.

“This is intended to promote the beauty of Camiguin especially the town of Mahinog as tourism destination, especially in the field of sports tourism," she said.

“We should work to make this event a success so that we can also promote sports tourism in Camiguin and attract more tourists to visit the province,” she added.

Mahinog is known for its Mantigue island, Macao cold spring and Benoni lagoon.

At night the event will culminate with the awarding ceremony, fire dance show and live band at Benoni Lagoon. (HRJ)

Further information can be found on http://camiguintriathlon.com/

Mahinog National High School to be renamed Sixto A. Abao National High School

Late Mayor Sixto Abao

THE Mahinog Municipal Council has unanimously voted to pass a resolution endorsing the renaming of Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon after the late mayor Sixto A. Abao.

This after Camiguin Representative Pedro P. Romualdo filed House Bill No. 6915 known as an "Act Changing the name of Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon, Municipality of Mahinog, Province of Camiguin to Sixto A. Abao National High School."

Romualdo said the present Mahinog National High School was established through the efforts of the late mayor Sixto A. Abao who is known for his deep concern and passion in education. 

It is the clamor of the residents of Mahinog that in order to perpetuate the memory of the late Sixto A. Abao,  the Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon be renamed in his honor, Romualdo said in the bill’s explanatory note.

During the creation of Mahinog as a town in July 1, 1948 by virtue of Executive Order No. 122 of President Manuel L. Roxas, then mayor Sixto A. Abao had shown us the importance of education in his own barangay when he chose the Mahinog High School, the first secondary public school in the island of Camiguin, to be established in his native barangay of Hubangon instead of the town hall and seat of government of Mahinog to be established in his barangay, the members of the Municipal Council said in their resolution endorsing the bill.

Through the effort of then mayor Sixto A. Abao, the family of Cabeza Celedeno Abao, his close relative, agreed to an exchange of property where the said school was established and that the house made of hardwood owned by the latter became the original structure of the school, the resolution added.

“Firstly, we honor the late Sixto A. Abao for his outstanding achievement and exemplary work as the first Mayor of the town of Mahinog.”

“Secondly, we honor this man for his burning passion for education and commitment to public service that led to the establishment of the first secondary public school in Camiguin now known as Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon,” the resolution said.

Once HB No. 6915 becomes a law, the newly established Mahinog National High School II in barangay Poblacion will be automatically renamed Mahinog National High School. (HRJ)

60 pairs wed on Valentine's Day in Mahinog

Mahinog, Camiguin, February 14, 2013 - A total of 60 couples from the municipality of Mahinog said "I Do" today, Valentine's Day, in a biggest mass wedding event held at the Roman Catholic Church here.

The event was sponsored by the Provincial Government of Camiguin, which provided the meals, gift items, marriage license fees, and church stipend for the participants.

Governor Romualdo said the mass wedding was aimed to help unmarried couples who have no finances to spend for a church or civil wedding, legalize their union and receive the holy matrimony.

The Municipal Government of Mahinog co-sponsored the event through the processing of the required documents, venue, and other wedding preparations.

Dubbed as "Kasalan ng Mahinog," the mass wedding, which was officiated by Rev. Fr. Scott Escanilla, was believed to be one of the largest in the province in recent history.

“This is the biggest wedding that I ever officiated,” the parish priest of Mahinog said.

The couples and their families were very grateful to the Governor for sponsoring the event and making their wedding possible.

Aside from Mahinog, another mass wedding was also held in Catarman town today.

Romualdo said, after this very first Kasalan sa Mahinog, he assured there would be another one that would be held in the near future not only in Mahinog but also in other municipalities of Camiguin.

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.

Mahinog lauds local police for outstanding achievements

Mahinog Police Station 

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog recently commended the municipal police station for their unrelenting efforts in making sure that the municipality is a very safe place to live.

The award was given to members of the Mahinog Police Station after the flag raising ceremony on Monday. 

Authored by Hon. Erlindo G. Bequilla, chairman of the committee on peace and order, fire and public safety, the resolution was signed by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle and approved by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla.

Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal

“Through the relentless efforts of the Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal, Chief of Police, the peace and order situation of the whole municipality remains undisturbed, peaceful, safe to live and do business,” the resolution states.

The MPS has been active in their police community relations activities which include earthquake drill, random check points, law enforcement enhancement seminars, barangay peace action team trainings, symposium regarding child related laws, illegal drugs and illegal gambling, including tree planting activities, and feeding program.

Through heightened police visibility, a handful of crime incidents were only recorded.

“Maximum police visibility was observed through the beat patrol system which aims to deter criminality within the municipality,” the resolution states.

“Crime incidents were constrained at the lowest level due to the crime prevention efforts undertaken by the said police station with the participation of the local government unit, other government agencies and the community in the campaign against criminality,” the resolution notes.

“The accomplishment of Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal is another proof that the police is doing their best to ensure the safety and protection of the residents,” the resolution states.

“This recognition of the exemplary performance of Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal, Chief of Police will surely uplift the morale of the personnel of the said police station,” the members of the municipal council said.

President Aquino signs into law Mahinog National High School II

PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III has signed into law a bill establishing a national high school in barangay Poblacion in the municipality of Mahinog, province of Camiguin to be known as Mahinog National High School II.

Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo, the principal author of the new law, said the Chief Executive has inked Republic Act 10234 or Mahinog National High School II law last October 29, 2012.

He said the new law responds to the clamor from parents and community leaders to provide free public secondary education to our young students in Mahinog and in the peripheral barangays of Guinsiliban as well as Mambajao.

RA 10234 shall take effect 15 days after its publication in any newspaper of general circulation. The new law is already posted in the Official Gazette. http://www.gov.ph/2012/10/29/republic-act-no-10234/

Earlier, the Municipal Council of Mahinog passed Municipal Ordinance No. 2011-136 to acquire or whenever necessary expropriate the private properties owned by Grace & Josefina C. Kempis, Luz Densing and Prudencia Vivares all located in Poblacion to be used as school site for the proposed Mahinog National High School II.

Under the new law, the Secretary of the Department of Education was directed to include in the Department's program the operationalization of the Mahinog National High School II and the funding of which shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Mahinog contingent scores four consecutive wins in Camiguin Lanzones Fest, eyeing to join Sinulog Fest 2013

Mahinog, Camiguin, Oct. 29, 2012 - For four consecutive years, the contingents from the Municipality of Mahinog was declared as the grand champion in the recently concluded 33rd Camiguin Lanzones Festival held at Camiguin Tourism Complex in Balbagon, Mambajao, Camiguin on Saturday.

Mahinog won the coveted title in what was generally considered a tight match between the contingents from the municipality of Sagay with the large crowd enthralled by their amazing performances.

With their phenomenal victory, Mahinog contingent is eyeing to join for the first time in the Sinulog Festival Grand Parade in Cebu City this coming January 2013, Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla disclosed during the “Pasalamat” (thank you) program held at the municipal hall grounds on Monday.

“We are now considering the possibility of joining the Sinulog Festival in Cebu next year,” Mayor Jajalla said quoting the statement of Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo during the declaration of winners at Camiguin Tourism Center.

Mahinog contingent which also copped the Music Showdown and Lanzones Festival Queen, was represented by the students from Columbia St. Michael’s Parish High School and was choreographed by multi-awarded choreographer Harold B. Antallan who also grabbed the Best Choreographer Award.

Lanzones Festival Achievement Records

Municipality of Mahinog

(For Street Dancing and Tableau Competitions)

Public and private sectors meet to improve local economy in Mahinog

Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla welcomes participants to the LRED workshop

Mahinog, Camiguin (August 9, 2012) -  Local Government officials and leaders of private sectors participated today in the Local and Regional Economic Development (LRED) Sensitizing Workshop conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at Queobe Eco Park and Training Center.

Camiguin DTI Provincial Director Joselito S. Enot gives the opening remarks during the LRED workshop

The workshop, the first in a series of four different workshops to be facilitated by the DTI, is to identify and implement local projects to boost the local economy, especially those that can be done from 6 months to one year.

DTI Provincial Director Joselito S. Enot said he sees the potential of Mahinog as an emerging growth area in Camiguin.

For one, he said, the presence of the principal port in Benoni gives the municipality a competitive advantage over other towns in the province.

In addition to the port is the presence of tourist destinations like Mantigue island and Zipline in Benoni lagoon, which can be compared to other prime destinations in the country.

These potentials, he said, if fully tapped, can bring in more economic development in the town.

Mahinog Mayor Alex Jajalla praised the DTI for introducing the LRED concept in Mahinog.

LRED is a process by which stakeholders from both public and private sectors are mobilized to become partners in a joint effort to improve the economy of a locality and increase its competitiveness.

“LRED intervention is a big step to create more jobs, small business enterprises and income especially for our residents,” Jajalla said.

To achieve this, he emphasized, both the public and private sectors need to play key roles to do their part to drive the economic development of the town. (Homer R. Jajalla)

Mahinog to ask funds from national government to rebuild infrastructure damaged by flashfloods

THE Municipal Planning and Development Office here reported that the estimated cost for rehabilitation or total reconstruction of public infrastructure damaged by flashfloods amounted to P218,400,000.00

This was according to municipal planning and development coordinator Engr. Benito C. Paderanga who appeared at the Sangguniang Bayan session on Monday to present the DANA (Disaster Analysis and Needs Assessment) report to the legislative council.

Last July 26, 2012, parts of the municipality were flooded due to non stop rains and a total of 344 families or 1,209 persons have been displaced by the flashfloods.

Water distribution systems have been damaged by floods, resulting in about 90 percent of the population in the affected barangays to be waterless.

Parts of barangay San Roque and Poblacion were submerged in floodwater after river control dikes collapsed, causing immediate flooding in rice field areas and homes located near river banks.

Other affected barangays include Owakan, Pontod, Benoni, San Jose and Hubangon.

Municipal agriculturist Sospis Leo Tabuan said that the damage on irrigation facilities made it difficult for farmers to be able to plant this cropping season.

In a resolution passed by the Sanguniang Bayan, the municipal government has requested Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo and Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo to make representation with the national government to extend financial assistance to rebuild infrastructure damaged by the recent flashfloods.

Among the projects include the rehabilitation of box culvert and reconstruction of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) in sitio Comon in barangay Pontod in the amount of four hundred thousand pesos (P400, 000.00).

Rehabilitation of box culvert and reconstruction of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) in sitios Langcangan and Jang in barangay Poblacion (Divine Mercy Chapel) in the amount of three hundred thousand pesos (P300, 000.00).

Construction of Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) in sitios Langcangan and Jang in barangay Poblacion (Divine Mercy Chapel) in the amount of P50 million.

Reconstruction/construction of river control dike at barangay San Roque in the amount of P10 million.

Construction of additional river control dike (both sides) at barangay San Roque in the amount of P150 million.

Reconstruction of damaged Irrigation System at barangays Poblacion and San Roque in the amount of P7 million.

Rehabilitation of damaged waterworks system in barangays Poblacion, Benoni, Hubangon, San Jose, San Roque, Pontod and Owakan in the amount seven hundred thousand pesos (P700,000.00). Homer R. Jajalla

Municipal Council passes resolution granting “Camiguin Ning Dughan” official recognition

Councilor Liberato "Liber" E. Babanto during the Mahinog charter day celebration July 1, 2012 where he recited his own  poem entitled, "Camiguin ning dughan."

Mahinog, Camiguin - The Municipal Council here recently approved a resolution granting “Camiguin Ning Dughan” official recognition of the municipality of Mahinog in the province of Camiguin.

The poem was composed by Liberato E. Babanto, member of the 18th municipal council.

The resolution says the words in the poem “Camiguin Ning Dughan" gives an accurate description of the gifts of nature, charm and heritage of the province of Camiguin that few places possess and attract people from all over the globe.

“The writer does a good job of portraying the homely qualities found in Camiguin, the same qualities where one finds in a good home -- beauty, joy, security and prosperity,” the resolution reads.

“Granting this poem official recognition will be helpful in maintaining a common bond of pride and love for every Camiguingnon in their home island province of Camiguin, a beautiful island blessed with natural attractions, warm, very friendly and hospitable people,” the resolution notes.

“The poem expresses the hopes, ambitions and pride of the people of the Mahinog, Camiguin; now therefore be it resolved, That Sangguniang Bayan  of Mahinog (Municipal Council) hereby grants “Camiguin Ning Dughan” composed by Liberato E. Babanto official recognition of the municipality of Mahinog, Camiguin,” the council declares.

Liberato E. Babanto, a long time and acclaimed public servant, is a gifted poet and has written many encouraging and inspiring poems and several of those formed part of the record of the Municipal Council.

Full text of the poem:

CAMIGUIN NING DUGHAN

Balak ni Liberato "Liber" E. Babanto

Pamalandungan ta ang tubig nga nagdagayday sa kasapaan

Mahilom ug malinawon dha sa kagabhion

Dili angayan kahadlokan ang kangitngit

Kon may makita kang bitoon sa kalangitan

Himoa kining dan-ag sa imong giagian

Ug kon may makita kang gabon sa kapanganuran

Hinumdumi ang gabon kong mahimong ulan

Sama usab sa tubig sa kasapaan

Sukda niini ang giladmon

diha sa imong kaugalingon

Sama niining balak Mahinognon

Nagaulohan "Camiguin Ning Dughan"

Isla nga mugna sa kinaiyahan

Gipalibutan sa matin-aw halapad kadagatan

Bulawanong hiyas o gawi sa mga katawhan

Mapahiyumon matahum kababayen-an

Kinaiyanhong mga gasa sa palibot gitugahan

Halos anaa ang tanan

Kon sa halayong dapit pagalantawon

Napahimutang kini nga labing malinawon

Nagkurba-kurba nga kabungturan

Berde nga mga kabukiran

Maoy larawan motapot sa panumduman.

Nagkadaiyang tubig niini ang mibuhagay

Gawas sa mga mahabog nga busay

Anaay maaslom, mabugnaw ug mainit sa kanunay

Andam ug tagana gamiton aron magdalit ug kalipay

Sumala sa mga maalamon

Pito ka bulkan ang naangkon

Duha lamang ang nagmadasigon

Dihang tuig 1871 bulan kadto sa Mayo

Karaan Vulcan sa Bonbon, Catarman miboto

Ug 1951 Vulcan Hibok-hibok mibuga sa mainit nga lava

Usa sa pinakasikat nga prutas mao ang lanzones

Gibantog tibook kalibutan usa's pinakatam-is

Busa kapatagan man o kabungturan

Gidasig ang tanan lanzones matamnan

Lanzones Festival usa's pinakadakong kasaulogan

Sa mga Kamiguingnon gitambayayongan

Nagkadaiyang sector nagtampohan

Aron pag-apil sa mga kalihokan

Panahon sa mahal nga adlaw Kamiguin ang puntarya

Sa mga lumad o dumuduong aron paglibot sa isla

Ug kon mahapitan mo ang estasyon sa Krus didto sa Walkway

Agi'g paghandum sa sakripisyo sa bukid sa kalbaryo

Imo usab dayon malantaw ang dakung Krus sa nalubog nga sementeryo

Concreto nga kadalanan gipalibutan

Apil pa gani ang mga barangay sa kabukiran

Nahitabo kini sa mga Romualdo nga pamunuan

Suportado sa mga katawhan

Dugay nang gipangandoy zipline miabot sa katumanan

Benoni Taquines Lagoon ang napahimutangan

J & A fisphen nga pagdumala

Dugang pagdani sa mga turista

Duha ka isla sa Mantigue ug White Island

Gihandom sa mga dumudoong madalikyatan

Katahum sa palibot imong masaksihan

Apil pa ang ilalom sa kadagatan

Salamat sa mga pamunuan ug agencia hingtungdan

Mga naupaw nga dapit sa kakahoyan gipangtamnan

Proteksyon kini sa kinaiyahan ug katalagman

Resulta nga madali pagbag-o sa kapanahunan

Mabuhay Camiguin yuta kong natawhan

Gugma ug pagmahal nahipatik ning dughan

Kon ugaling ikaw pasipad-an

Bugtong kong kinabuhi ikaw akong halaran.

Mayor Alex Jajala receives award from PNP

MAHINOG Mayor Alex R. Jajalla is one of the three local chief executives in Region X who received award from the Philippine National Police (PNP) in region 10 during its 17th Police Community Relations (PCR) Month held at the PNP-10 headquarters in Cagayan de Oro City, July 4, 2012, said Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal, Chief of Police of Mahinog, Camiguin.

At the flag raising ceremony here this morning, Sabanal said the award that Mayor Jajalla received is in recognition of his full support to the mission and duty of the PNP to continually maintain the law and order and bring about peace and safety of the people in communities in our areas of responsibility (AOR).

Other awardees for local chief executives were Governor Herminia M. Ramiro of Misamis Occidental and Mayor Mario T. Okinlay of Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

Police Chief Superintendent Jufel Adriatico, PNP-Northern Mindanao director, presented the awards assisted by Cagayan de Oro Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya who served as guest of honor and speaker for the occasion.

Senate passes bill creating Mahinog National High School 2 on second reading

Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo

THE Senate on June 06, 2012 approved on second reading a bill which would establish a national high school in barangay Poblacion in the municipality of Mahinog.

The approval came after the Senate Commitee on Education, Arts and Culture chaired by Senator Edgardo J. Angara and Committee on Finance chaired by Senator Franklin M. Drilon submitted its joint committee report recommending its "approval without amendment" on the bill.

In his sponsorship speech of House Bill No. 547, Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo said the clamor for a national high school in the Poblacion came from parents, community leaders and young students in the past years.

“Many families were not able to send their kids in the past years to pursue high school education due to dwindling and limited family income,” Romualdo said.

“With the establishment of a Mahinog National High School II in barangay Poblacion, it is expected that more students will be given a chance to go back to school,” the solon added.

Romualdo told local officials that he hoped this bill will be approved on third reading during the third regular session of the 15th Congress.

The measure was approved by the Committee on Basic Education during the 14th Congress but was not taken up due to lack of time in the plenary.

Port authorities urged to restore Benoni lighthouse

Benoni Lighthouse

IN A RESOLUTION filed by Councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla, the Municipal Council here asked the Philippine Coast Guard in Northern Mindanao to restore at once the Benoni lighthouse to its original condition.

The Benoni Port Lighthouse which stands at Punta San Roque in the municipality of Mahinog was constructed in late 1980’s to guide fishermen and seafarers during night time and during stormy weather situations, among others.

Bequilla said it has been a long time since the said lighthouse stopped being functional.

He said Benoni Port was not only a major port in the province of Camiguin but also served a safe harbor for ships during stormy weather.

In addition, the council also asked the Philippine Ports Authority to restore the two channel buoys located along the Benoni channel back to its original condition.

The two lighted buoys which were installed to guide vessels entering or leaving Benoni port, were also found to be not fully functional.

"These channel markers broke down and did not serve its purpose due to lack of maintenance," Bequilla observed.

He said being an all-weather- port, it is necessary to keep the lighthouse and channel buoys functional at all times to ensure boating safety during nighttime.

Bequilla was a former ship captain before he became a town councilor of Mahinog.

Mahinog town councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla

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.

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 town is grand slam champion in 2011 Camiguin Lanzones Festival

MAHINOG, CAMIGUIN, Oct 24, 2011 – Residents and supporters here were jubilant as contingents from this town made waves again and this year grabbed the grand slam title in the recently concluded 32nd Camiguin Lanzones Festival held in the capital town of Mambajao.

For three (3) consecutive years, Mahinog town landed first placer in both street dancing and ground demonstration (tableau) competitions.

Mahinog Contingent

“Winning this award is not easy, and it’s the hard work and prayers that made this possible,” multi-awarded choreographer Harold Antallan said during the victory program and caravan at the municipal hall this morning.

Harold Antallan

Mahinog contingents amazed everyone with their awesome and high speed performance upon which the audience that gathered at Camiguin Tourism Complex erupted into thunderous applause and cheers from start to end.

“We feel very triumphant today and we will work hard to keep that spirit alive in our own daily struggles as a people and as a community,” Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla said in a press statement.

The five members of the board of judges unanimously picked Mahinog LGU represented by Columbia St. Michael's Parish High School and Mahinog National High School as winner in ground demonstration (tableau) competition.

Second place went to Mambajao LGU represented by Yumbing National High School while the Provincial Government of Camiguin represented by Fatima College of Camiguin (FCC) got the third place.

In street dancing, Mahinog got the first place, while FCC and Mambajao Nat'l High School got the second and third place respectively.

Mahinog also got the grand prize award in Music Showdown and Diwata Showdown, Second placer in both Festival Queen and King Showdown, and third placer in Kabog Showdown.

Meanwhile, Mahinog’s Charmaine R. Soldevilla was also chosen Mutya sa Buahanan 2011. Soldevilla also bagged the Natural Beauty Award, People’s Choice, Best in Gown and six (6) other corporate awards.

Mutya sa Buahanan 2011 Charmaine R. Soldevilla

32nd Camiguin Lanzones Festival List of Winners:

Ground Presentation (Tableau) Category
1st Place - Columbia SMPHS & MNHS (Mahinog LGU)
2nd Place - Yumbing National High School (Mambajao LGU)
3rd Place - Fatima College of Camiguin (Prov'l Gov't of Camiguin)
4th Place - Camiguin National High School (Catarman LGU)
5th Place - Mambajao Nat'l High School (DPWH, Cong. PPR, & Contractors' Group)

Street Dancing Category
1st Place - Columbia SMPHS & MNHS (Mahinog LGU)
2nd Place - Fatima College of Camiguin (Prov'l Gov't of Camiguin)
3rd Place - Mambajao Nat'l High School (DPWH, Cong. PPR, & Contractors' Group)
4th Place - Camiguin Polytechnic State College (Bankers Asso., Businessmen, & Nat'l Agencies)
5th Place - Camiguin National High School (Catarman LGU)

Music Showdown
1st Place - Columbia SMPHS & MNHS (Mahinog LGU)
2nd Place - Camiguin Polytechnic State College (Bankers Asso., Businessmen, & Nat'l Agencies)
3rd Place - Yumbing National High School (Mambajao LGU)

Kabog Showdown
1st Place - Yumbing National High School (Mambajao LGU)
2nd Place - Fatima College of Camiguin (Prov'l Gov't of Camiguin)
3rd Place - Columbia SMPHS (Mahinog LGU)

Diwata Showdown
1st Place - Columbia SMPHS (Mahinog LGU)
2nd Place - Fatima College of Camiguin (Prov'l Gov't of Camiguin)
3rd Place - Mambajao Nat'l High School (DPWH, Cong. PPR, & Contractors' Group)

King & Queen Showdown
1st Place (K&Q) - Yumbing National High School (Mambajao LGU)
2nd Place (K&Q) - Columbia SMPHS (Mahinog LGU)
3rd Place (K) - Mambajao Nat'l High School (DPWH, Cong. PPR, & Contractors' Group); (Q) Sagay NHS (Sagay LGU)

Kalanrakas sa Kabataan

1st Place – Mambajao Central School

2nd Place – Benoni Elementary School of Mahinog

3rd Place – Pontod Elementary School of Mahinog

Mahinog alderman named model municipal councilor by press media group

EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD. Councilor Liberato E. Babanto, member of the Municipal Council of Mahinog in the province of Camiguin shows the plaque he received in recognition of being chosen as Model Municipal Councilor and Foremost Advocate of Good Government of the Philippines given by Press Media Affair Center Sept. 17, 2011 at Manila Hotel.

Camiguin’s first zipline set to rise in Mahinog

Site development plan for the zipline project in Benoni Lagoon

in the town of Mahinog, Camiguin

Mahinog, Camiguin – J and A Fishpen and Restaurant announced it will open a three-lane zipline this coming December in Benoni Lagoon here.

This was learned from Apolinario B. Alambatin of J and A Fishpen and Restaurant during a project presentation at the Municipal Council Session presided over by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle this morning Sept. 19, 2011.

Alambatin said this will be the first zipline in the island province of Camiguin and this can be found in municipality of Mahinog.

The zipline has a distance of more than 700 meters from station 1 to station 2 that will cross over a lagoon, the first zipline in the region across a body of water, which makes the ride even more exciting.

An additional 360-meter zipline is also being eyed in same area.

Meanwhile, the municipal council here passed a resolution endorsing this project seen to boost tourism industry in the island province of Camiguin especially in the town of Mahinog.