Camiguin lost a great man

Mahinog, Camiguin, April 24, 2013 - CAMIGUIN Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo passed away early morning April 24 due to pneumonia. He was 77 years old.

Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla said the municipality was deeply saddened by the loss of a great man and father of Camiguin’s progress and development.

"Today is a truly sad day for Camiguin. We mourn the loss of a great leader, a great man, who was doing great things for Camiguin,” Jajalla said.

“Congressman Romualdo will always be remembered for bringing unprecedented progress for Camiguin and improving the quality of life for every Camiguingnon,” he added.

“Our province owe the late congressman an enduring debt of gratitude for the wonderful development that we enjoy in the province today,” he said.

Romualdo was running for a third and last term as congressman in the coming May 13, 2013 polls.

Romualdo’s candidacy will be substituted by his grandson Atty. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, the office of the Governor announced in a memorandum signed by OIC Governor Leo G. Lasacar.

Romualdo served as congressman representing the Lone District of Camiguin from 1987 to 1998, and from 2007 to his death.

From 1998 to 2007, he was elected governor of the province.

Romualdo, a lawyer, was a delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention.

In the municipal hall, the Philippine Flag is flown at half-staff, by order of the mayor. (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.

Camiguin not joining 2013 Sinulog

Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo addressing a  large crowd that had gathered to witness the Camiguin Lanzones Festival held last Oct. 22-28, 2012.

CONTRARY to earlier expectations, Camiguin is not joining Cebu’s Sinulog Festival in 2013.

This was confirmed by Junos B. Llanto, President of Columbia St. Michael’s Parish High School (CSMPHS) Alumni Association in his post in Columbian Journal. 

Read article http://csmphs.blogspot.com/2012/11/gov-jj-no-sinulog-next-year.html

This announcement came after Llanto, Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla and four others met with Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo at the latter’s office in the provincial capitol Wednesday, November 7, 2012.

CSMPHS of Mahinog, Camiguin, the Lanzones Festival defending champion, was ready to represent the province of Camiguin in the famed Sinulog Festival in Cebu City in 2013 but Gov. Romualdo said the province is not yet ready to join at this time.

In said meeting, the provincial chief executive, according to Llanto, gave his reasons why Camiguin is not joining the Sinulog next year.

“We’ve had enough the last time we were in Cebu to participate in the Sinulog,” Romualdo said. “Accommodation of our participants in Cebu was not well-taken-cared-of – not even a single Government Official in Cebu greeted or checked on how we were,” He added.

“Sinulog may be possible on 2014,” Romualdo said, “but still, we have to lay down everything before we get to Cebu. But for next year? We don’t have a budget on that.”

The last time that Camiguin contingents participated in the Sinulog was in 2007. In 2006 Camiguin won the Free Interpretation Grand Prize.

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.

Camiguin posts 17.15% increase in tourist arrivals for the first half of the year

Provincial Tourism Officer Candice Naomi L. Boromeo

A TOTAL of 183,162 local and foreign tourists were recorded to have visited the island, from January to June, this year.

“This figure, was actually 26,816 tourists or 17.15 percent higher compared to 156,346 tourists during the same period, last year,” Candice Naomi L. Boromeo, Provincial Tourism Officer, said.

Records at the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO), also, show that the most number of tourists visited the island during the 2nd quarter with 131,181, compared to the 1st quarter with only 49,981.

Of this figure, domestic tourists registered at 145,460, followed by “Panaad” or traditional walk of penitence during the Holy Week, 33,215, foreign tourists, 4,264, “balikbayans” or Filipinos living abroad but are in the country for a vacation, 257.

The PTO data also show that the most number of tourists visited Camiguin during the month of April with 60,222, followed by May, 42,515, and June, 30,444.

During the 1st quarter, the month of March recorded the most number of tourists with 23,781, followed by January, 15,344 and lowest in February with 10,856.

Meanwhile, Borromeo said Camiguin posted an increase of 15,404 visitors or 5.07 percent, last year, from the previous full year’s bulk of 319,168 in 2010.

It also recorded, in 2009, some 303,764 tourist arrivals, posting some 21,595 or 7.65 percent increase from the 2008 figure.

She, however, noted that the figure covers only guests and visitors staying in cottages and hotels.

The month of April continually posts the highest influx of visitors, as tourist and Christian devotees, alike, flock the island to observe or experience the 64-km ‘Panaad,’ she said.

This was followed by October, as another tourist come on in the island, the ‘Lanzones Festival’ is celebrated every third week of the month.

During this occasion, the island comes alive in a weeklong festivity which showcases the province agri-cottage exhibits and food trade expo, indigenous sports and highlighted with the tableau of local culture portrayed though dances.

Borromeo said the PTO, likewise, records bigger number of tourist arrivals during vacation times, specifically, in the months of May and December with the majority of the arrivals composed mostly of domestic tourists.

“Foreign and ‘balikbayan’ tourist still post increases from January to June, this year, compared to last year,” she added. (Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA 10)

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

Camiguin tightens standards on sewage disposal

WORKING to preserve the beauty of its pristine spring waters and beaches, the island-province of Camiguin now sharpens its policy on sanitary facilities.

Governor Jurdin Jesus Romualdo recently formed a technical working group to specially look into establishments selling food items or providing accommodations such as hotels, motels, lodging houses, resorts, restaurants, beach cottages, canteens, and kitchenettes.

The team, composed of the Provincial Health Officer, Provincial Sanitary Inspector, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, Provincial Engineer and the Provincial Tourism Officer was ordered by the Governor to inspect immediately all target establishments.

Initially, the group has covered almost all operators in Mambajao, where most number of the business establishments is also located.

Provincial Sanitary Inspector Vergelio W. Oyan said that the establishments they have inspected as of press time were all found to be sanitary although he noted that most of the septic tanks checked were old and needs to cleaned or better yet replaced with newer septic tanks, designed to retain and recycle waste water.

Aside from the sewage disposal system, the team also looks into the water supply level, manner of solid waste disposal, as well as on status of the cottages and buildings.

After series of inspection, the local government will formulate and adopt plan and programs that will help maintain safe sanitation in the province.

Being a tourist frequented island, the Governor felt the need to prioritize the protection of seawater from any source of contamination. (Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA 10)

31st Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2010 Schedule of Activities

Here's the official and updated 31st Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2010 Schedule of Activities released by the office of the Provincial Governor.

October 06, 2010 Wednesday

9:00 a.m. - Kalanrakas sa Sagay Venue: Sagay Gym

October 18, 2010 Monday

8:00 a.m. - Flag Raising Ceremony

8:30 a.m. - Holy Thanksgiving Mass Venue: San Nicolas Parish Church

- Motorcade in Mahinog, Guinsiliban, Sagay and Catarman

8:00 a.m. - Soft Opening of Ugmad 2010 Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

9:00 a.m. - Kalanrakas sa Mahinog Venue: Mahinog Plaza

1:00 p.m. - Motorcade in Mambajao

1:30 p.m. - Opening Ceremony Inter-municipality basketball tournament Venue: Mahinog Gym

1:30 p.m. - Pictorials Mutya sa Buahanan (Miss Camiguin Tourism 2010) @ Provincial Capitol Swimming Pool

2:00 p.m. -Grand Opening Ceremonies 31st Camiguin Lanzones Festival Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center, Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies (UGMAD) Viewing of Exhibits

3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. -Ugmad 2010, Financiang Forum for MSMEs and Investment priorities project orientation (DTI/Chamber)

8:00 p.m. - Buahanan sa Ugmad Presents “San Miguel Oktoberfest” Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

October 19, 2010 Tuesday

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Ugmad 2010 Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center, National Children's Month Provincial Culmination Program (PSWDO)

9:00 a.m. - Kalanrakas sa Catarman

1:00 p.m. - Kalanrakas sa Guinsiliban

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Ugmad 2010 @ Camiguin Tourism Center

1:30 p.m. - Continuation inter-municipality basketball tournament @ Catarman Gym

2:00 p.m.. - Music & Kabog Showdowns Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

8:00 p.m. - Mutya sa Buahanan Pre-Pageant (Talents’ Night, Swimsuit Presentation & Awarding of Corporate Awards Venue: Guinsiliban Gymnasium

8:00 p.m. - Buahanan sa Ugmad Presents “San Miguel Oktoberfest” Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

October 20, 2010 Wednesday

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Ugmade 2010, Palarong Pinoy, (PVO, BMEG, & PCA) @ Camiguin Tourism Center

9:00 p.m. - Kalanrakas sa Mambajao Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

10:00 a.m.- Opening Ceremony 1st Gov. JJ's Cup Men's Open Singles Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

1:30 p.m. - Continuation inter municipality basketball tournament @ Mambajao Gym

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Ugmad 2010, Palarong Pinoy

6:00 p.m. - Ugmad 2010 CPSC Cultural Presentation

8:00 p.m. - GMA 7 Kapuso Night Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

October 21, 2010 (Thursday)

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Ugmad 2010

- Ag Ikagi Ki Kinamiging (DepED) - Folk Dance Competition (DepED)

- Anti-smoking Campaign

- Opening Ceremonies Mobile Passporting System and Job Fair (Mun. PESO)

8:00 a.m. - Continuation 1st Gov. JJ's Cup Men's Open Singles Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

9:00 a.m. - Opening Ceremonies Ladies-Open Beach Volleyball @ Camiguin Tourism Center

10:00 a.m. - Opening Badminton Tournament Inter Municipality and Open Categories @ Mambajao Central School

1:30 p.m. - Continuation Inter Municipality Basketball Tournament @ Guinsiliban Gym

1:30 P.M. Festival King & Queen Showdown and Diwata Showdown Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Mobile Passporting System and Job Fair @ Camiguin Tourism Center

- Ugmad sa Kalikasan Beauty Contest (Deped)

6:00 p.m. - FCC Cultural Presentation Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

8:00 P.M. Buahanan sa Ugmad Presents “San Miguel Oktoberfest” Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

October 22, 2010 (Friday)

7:30 a.m. - Continuation Ladies Open Beach Volleyball @ Camiguin Tourism Center

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Mobile Passporting System and Job Fair @ Camiguin Tourism Center, Ugmad 2010 Tourism Skills Demonstration

8:00 a.m. - Continuation 1st Gov. JJ's Cup Men's Open Singles Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

10:00 a.m. - Opening Ceremony 4th Gov. JJ's Cup Team Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

1:00 pm. - 5:00 p.m. - Mobile Passporting System and Job Fair Caravan

-Ugmad 2010 Parlor Games by CSAT

-Cooking Demo of Coco Sugar by PCA

1:30 p.m. -Continuation Inter Municipality Basketball Tournament @ Sagay Gym

2:00 p.m. - Unano Bulls Basketball Exhibition @ Lagunde Basketball Court

6:00 p.m. - Ugmad 2010, Band and Hip-Hop Competition (Paras Beach Resort)

8:00 P.M. Mutya sa Buahanan 2010 Beauty Pageant (Miss Camiguin Tourism) Venue: Old Municipal Building

October 23, 2010 Saturday

7:30 a.m. - Continuation Ladies Open Beach Volleyball

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Ugmad 2010, Palarong Pinoy & Lanzones Eating Contest (PAO)

8:00 a.m. - Continuation 1st Gov. JJ's Cup Men's Open Singles Tennis Tournament and 4th Gov. JJ's Cup Team Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Inter-Agency Street Dancing Category from Old Parola Wharf to Poblacion Barangay Hall

- Kalanrakas sa Kabataan (Charivari Street Dancing) from Provincial Plaza to Camiguin Tourism Center

- Awarding Ceremonies: Kalanrakas Sa Kabataan Venue: Camiguin Tourism Center

9:00 a.m. - Lanzones Festival Chess Tournament @ SP Session Hall

1:30 p.m. - Continuation Inter Municipality Basketball Tournament @ Mambajao Gym

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 pm - Ugmad 2010 Palarong Pinoy and Lanzones Eating Contest

1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Inter-Agency Category Ground Demonstration @ Camiguin Tourism Center

-Awarding Ceremony Street Dancing & Ground Presentation Categories

3:00 p.m. - Exhibition Match Singles & Doubles (Top National Players) @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

8:00 p.m. - Boxing Tournament @ Old Parola Strip

8:00 p.m. - Buahanan sa Ugmad Presents "San Miguel Oktoberfest" @ Camiguin Tourism Center

October 24, 2010 Sunday

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 nn - Ugmad 2010, Mga Larong Pinoy and Lanzones Eating Contest

8:00 a.m. - Championship 1st Gov. JJ's Cup Men's Open Singles Tennis Tournament and 4th Gov. JJ's Cup Team Tennis Tournament @ Camiguin Capitol Tennis Courts

1:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Ugmad 2010, Palarong Pinoy & Lanzones Eating Contest

1:30 p.m. - Championship Inter Municipality Basketball Tournament @ Mambajao Gym

DFA to hold mobile passporting in Camiguin Oct. 21-22

OCTOBER 12, 2010, Mahinog, Camiguin -Applicants in the province of Camiguin need not go to Cagayan de Oro to get a passport as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) passport services will be conducting its mobile passporting system in the province of Camiguin come October 21-22 at the Camiguin Tourism Center in Balbagon, Mambajao, municipal public employment office manager Elvera V. Capagngan announced today.

She said DFA will conduct its passport services together with the National Statistics Office (NSO) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to help facilitate the fast issuance of passports.

She said residents who are interested to avail of the service need to bring the required documents and application fee.

For first time applicants, they should have birth certificate in security paper (Secpa) or certified true copy of their birth certificate duly authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO), marriage certificate in Secpa or marriage contract from local civil registrar duly authenticated by the NSO, proper IDs expired or valid, and at least three copies of passport-sized photo with royal blue background and with a collar attire.

Those who will be renewing their passport need only to bring their old passport with photocopy of pages 1, 2 and last, at least three copies of passport size photo and with royal blue background and with a collar attire.

For minor applicants who are travelling with parents, they should present birth certificate in Secpa or birth certificate from LCR duly authenticated by the NSO, baptismal certificate, or School ID, personal appearance of either parent, original and photocopy of parent's passport, three copies passport-sized photo with royal blue background and with a collar attire.

For minors who are travelling unaccompanied by either parent, applicants should have birth certificate in Secpa or birth certificate from LCR duly authenticated by the NSO, baptismal certificate, or School ID, personal appearance of either parent, affidavit of support and consent indicating the name of traveling companion and relationship to the minor, DSWD clearance, original and photocopy of passport of travelling companion, and three copies passport-sized photo with royal blue background and attire with collar.

Capagngan reminded that personal appearance is a must for all applicants, first time or renewal, except when applicant is eight years old and below or mentally physically incapacitated.

An application fee of P750.00 will be charged per applicant.

The mobile passporting service will be sponsored by the Provincial Government in cooperation with the Public Employment Service Office (Peso) Provincial Federation in the province of Camiguin and Department of Labor and Employment Region X.

Camiguin gets GMA-7 as exclusive media partner for 31st Lanzones Fest

GMA-7 is the official and exclusive television network for the 31st Camiguin Lanzones Festival on October 18-23, 2010, a source from the provincial tourism office confirmed today.

The lineup of activities include GMA 7 Kapuso Night on October 20, 8:00 a.m. at Camiguin Tourism Center.

According to GMA TV 12 Cagayan de Oro Sales and Marketing Representative Pinky Flor Y. Khu at a meeting today with Mahinog local officials, the festivity will be exclusively covered by GMA network and that a TV special to feature the 31st Lanzones Festival 2010 highlights will be telecast over GMA Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao and General Santos City.

Photo shows (l-r) GMA TV 12 Cagayan de Oro Sales and Marketing Representative Sheena Krist C. Lapoy, Mahinog Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle, GMA Sales and Marketing Representative Pinky Flor Y. Khu during a meeting today with local officials at the SB session hall (Photo by Homer R. Jajalla)

Campaign vs rabies gets boost in Benoni elementary school

by Lucita B. King

Head Teacher, Benoni Elementary School

Contributor

THE anti rabies drive of the municipal government of Mahinog has received its needed boost from public school with having anti rabies program to be part of our teaching curriculum.

Rabies awareness campaign will be a school-year round campaign in Benoni elementary school through making it part of our teaching/health curriculum.

Recognizing that rabies remains a serious public health problem in the country, public schools play important role to build rabies awareness among school children by teaching them how to prevent and control rabies.

We all know that children are vulnerable to dog bites. They often play with animals and are less likely to report such bites or scratches to their parents.

According to the Department of Health, rabies is an infectious disease that destroy the nerve cells of part of the brain and this can cause death. Towards this concern, the municipality of Mahinog is implementing an ordinance to control and eliminate rabies.

Under the municipality's rabies prevention and control program, the Department of Education was tasked to strengthen rabies education program through school health/teaching curriculum. This will integrate proper information and education on responsible dog ownership in the relevant subjects in the elementary and high school levels.

The province is also continuously implementing the program including massive anti rabies vaccination and encouraging resident to bring their dogs to the municipal agriculture office for proper registration and vaccination.

And to complement dog vaccination, health personnel is also conducting massive free vaccination of children around the province to provide them protection against rabies.
In the municipality of Mahinog, there are four pilot elementary schools where school children have received free rabies prophylaxis. Rabies prophylaxis is administered in three doses, day 0, day 7 and day 21/28.

The four pilot schools include Benoni Elementary School, Mahinog Central School, Puntod Elementary School and Hubangon Elementary.

Governor bares priority agenda

GIVEN the fresh mandate and renewed challenge of steering Camiguin towards a vision of sustainable and equitable progress, Governor Jurdin Jesus "JJ" M. Romualdo challenge his partner LGUs, GOs, NGOs, GFIs and NGAs to be prime movers of development.

Using the same slogan "continuity of progress?" his top priority now is to enhance the joint executive and legislative fiscal reforms through effective and efficient E-Governance, revenue generation projects and inter-municipal enterprise development.

Secondly, Governor Romualdo sets to continue implementing relevant infrastructure projects and facilities. He said this will give more focus on farm to market roads and enhancement of the Camiguin Electric Cooperative (CAMELCO) facilities seeking to put an end to constant power woes.

He said he will continually address and fight poverty by facilitating growth in the provincial economy to able to provide more employment and livelihood opportunities.

He will tap all resources necessary to harness agricultural productivity, environmental protection and promote the tourism industry.

His fourth policy agenda is centered on coastal law enforcement and protection. He likewise mentioned the enforcement of strict traffic laws and regulations.

As infra and economic development programs are in place, Governor Romualdo also acknowledge the need for social development intervention that could reinforce the implementation of basic social services such as health care, peace and order, disaster risk management, education, skills development and other gender responsive program for children and senior citizens.

The Governor's new policy agenda was designed to make Camiguin a prime tourism destination while maintaining its healthy, peaceful and orderly environment. (PIA-10)

Farmers' production goes up in Camiguin after government intervention

AIMED at increasing local farmers’ production and reducing its dependence from the mainland, the Provincial Government through the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) spent about Php5.5 million on crop production projects in 2009.

As a result, the crop sector shared almost 60 percent (%) of the total agricultural output last year. Such increase is expected to put down the market value of farms products thus making it more affordable to the public.

The palay production showed an increase of 11 percent (%), while corn increased at 2 percent (%). Other products that contributed to a better yield are banana, root crop, coconut and lanzones fruits.

To sustain the growth, the provincial government has invested on agri-infrastructure projects and completed last year the construction of the Multi-Purpose Drying Pavement and the rehabilitation of communal irrigation projects.

PAO also reported the release of Php1 million worth of loan assistance in 2009 for different livelihood programs under the Plant Now Pay Later program (PNPL).

Rice and coconut farmers likewise continue to enjoy the fertilizer subsidy program. (Mahinog IO, with a report from Jorie C. Valcorza / PIA)

Gov JJ bares accomplishments on Camiguin’s 42nd Anniversary

“Makanunayong Kalambuan sa Naghi-usang Kamigingnon” spells up Camiguin’s 42nd Foundation Week Celebration theme.

The celebration runs from January 7 to 9 and the official kick-off was highlighted by the Governor’s State of the Province Address.

While acknowledging President Arroyo’s support as key to the province major accomplishments, Governor “JJ” Romualdo likewise challenges his constituents not to cease in generating best results.

“Inch by inch, higher and higher we will continue to accomplish best results through good governance,” he said.

The tourism industry remains the fastest growing sector, having been recognized as one of the major tourist destination in the country; its economic benefits contributed much to the local economy.

The 3-day observance features lots of fun-filled activities like the palarong pinoy, pista sa nayon, acrobatic shows, sports tournament, cultural shows and nightly street parties.

One of the celebration highlight was the groundbreaking of the 495 million Sabu Dam and Hubangon bridge project funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

According to Gov. Romualdo this is the biggest funding assistance in the history of the provincial government’s foreign assisted projects.

He said the project will not only protect the people in flashfloods prone areas but also generates more jobs for the people in the locality. (Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA 10)

Pontod barangay officials ask funding assistance from Governor JJ for covered court

by Homer R. Jajalla

THE BARANGAY Council of barangay Puntod this municipality passed a resolution requesting the Honorable Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo, Governor of the province of Camiguin, for funding of the project: construction of covered court in barangay Pontod, Mahinog.

The said project will benefit hundreds of audience both barangay residents and from other neighboring communities.

Barangay officials said that with the construction of a covered court, barangay residents and guests will no longer brave the scorching heat of the sun nor be caught by the cold rain during public assemblies and other barangay activities. (Mahinog Information Office)

Curfew hours for minors enforced in Camiguin

by Homer R. Jajalla

“Children are one of the most important assets of the nation. Recognizing their vital role in shaping the country’s destiny, the Constitution lends its support to the promotion of their welfare to enable them to develop physically, morally, spiritually, intellectually, and socially, in a wholesome and normal manner and thus, transform them into healthy, upright, intelligent and useful citizens and potential community leaders.”

Thus declared Camiguin Provincial Ordinance No. 2008-09, entitled, an ordinance fixing curfew hours to minors below 18 years old within the province of Camiguin from 10:00 in the evening to 4:00 in the morning.

The ordinance prohibits young ones from loitering or roaming around in public places or open space whether public or private from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am unless with justifiable reason such as: the minor is attending civic or academic activities but with parental consent, 2) when minor is doing errand during emergency cases, 3) attending vigil or holy observance but in company of parents and guardians, 3) attending in any social or cultural presentations, night classes, group discussions, provided he/she will come home at a designated time, among others.

A violator of the ordinance shall be reprimanded but his/her apprehension must be recorded and marked confidential in a logbook of the Provincial/Municipal Social Welfare Office before the minor will be turned over to the parents. A one lecture, skills training, and seminar will also be given in the following day.

A two-day community service will also be imposed upon minors who commit the same offense for the second time and P250.00 fine for the third time.

The provincial governor, vice governor, SP members, social welfare officer, teachers, mayors, police, barangay captains and civilian volunteer personnel were empowered to strictly enforce the ordinance. (Mahinog Information Office)

Guv JJ to distribute essential health care package to pupils

by Homer R. Jajalla

MAHINOG, Camiguin (1 July) –Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo announced at Mahinog Charter Day program here that the government will distribute free toothbrush, toothpaste, bath soap, and deworming tablets to elementary pupils in public schools throughout the province starting this school year.

This is part of the memorandum of agreement that he signed recently on behalf of the provincial government with Fit For School Inc., Department of Education (DepEd) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) for the implementation of the Essential Health Care Package (EHCP) intended to improve the health conditions of elementary pupils in public schools.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) stipulates that DepEd as the implementing arm should ensure the quality implementation and appropriate utilization of materials, and to manage overall accomplishment of the project while the local government provides the financial means to ensure timely procurement of needed materials.

Fit for school Inc., for their part, will assist DepEd and the local government unit (LGUs) by providing technical assistance and support in institutionalizing EHCP.

A basic orientation workshop immediately followed after the Essential Health Care Package MOA signing.

Camiguin Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Gretchen Cabalang attuned the participants by revealing the present health status of Filipino Children and EHCP interventions.

Democrito Figueroa Jr., Fit for School, Inc. Senior Project Officer, also disclosed common implementation deficiencies as well as best practices of well performing EHCP in other regions.

After thorough exchange of inputs, project implementers were able to come up with their own strategic action plan for this year.

Meanwhile, Xavier University also signed an agreement with Fit for School Inc. to provide scientific evidence with respect to health outcome, school attendance, school performance and behavior change of students under EHCP in the island province. (PIA-Mahinog Information Office)

PGMA gives P96 million for Camiguin hospital equipments, sports complex, farm-to-market roads

December 24, 2008 - Camiguin Gov. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has released P31 million for the upgrading of the Camiguin General Hospital (CGH) and the acquisition of modern medical equipment, and the construction of a Physical and Occupational Rehabilitation Building and a Pediatrics and Septic Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Romualdo said once completed this will qualify CGH as a medical tourism destination.

He added that other notable infrastructure projects involved the initial release of P25 million for the completion of the Camiguin Tourism Pavilion Center cum sports complex, and the allocation of P40 million for the establishment of farm-to-market roads which, together with the FIELDS program, increased the province’s palay production output by 11 percent this year.

In an interview over radio station DXCC-RMN on Wednesday morning, the President said she launched a massive government infrastructure program aimed at building up the economy particularly in Mindanao to generate job opportunities.

She made special mention of Camiguin for its tourism potential.

Speaking in the Cebuano dialect, the President said she led last May a historic RO-RO caravan from Luzon to Mindanao under her Strong Republic Nautical Highway program passing through Bohol and Camiguin.

The President said the RO-RO route has resulted in faster and easier access for goods, passengers and tourists via the Jagna-Mambajao route.

Romualdo said the launching of the Jagna-Mambajao RO-RO route has increased by ten-fold the passenger and tourist arrivals in Camiguin. (Mahinog Municipal Information Office)

PGMA gives P96 million for Camiguin hospital equipments, sports complex, farm-to-market roads

December 24, 2008 - Camiguin Gov. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has released P31 million for the upgrading of the Camiguin General Hospital (CGH) and the acquisition of modern medical equipment, and the construction of a Physical and Occupational Rehabilitation Building and a Pediatrics and Septic Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Romualdo said once completed this will qualify CGH as a medical tourism destination.

He added that other notable infrastructure projects involved the initial release of P25 million for the completion of the Camiguin Tourism Pavilion Center cum sports complex, and the allocation of P40 million for the establishment of farm-to-market roads which, together with the FIELDS program, increased the province’s palay production output by 11 percent this year.

In an interview over radio station DXCC-RMN on Wednesday morning, the President said she launched a massive government infrastructure program aimed at building up the economy particularly in Mindanao to generate job opportunities.

She made special mention of Camiguin for its tourism potential.

Speaking in the Cebuano dialect, the President said she led last May a historic RO-RO caravan from Luzon to Mindanao under her Strong Republic Nautical Highway program passing through Bohol and Camiguin.

The President said the RO-RO route has resulted in faster and easier access for goods, passengers and tourists via the Jagna-Mambajao route.

Romualdo said the launching of the Jagna-Mambajao RO-RO route has increased by ten-fold the passenger and tourist arrivals in Camiguin. (Mahinog Municipal Information Office)

JICA study team arrives in Camiguin to check on Sabo Dam proposal

A TECHNICAL team of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is in Camiguin to appraise and evaluate the technical and economic viability of constructing two flood control dams in the Sabo River along Sitio Pontod, Barangay Hubangon in Mahinog town and restoring Hubangon Bridge.

The technical team arrived last August 7, headed by Satoru Mimura, director of JICA's Disaster Management Division II, Global Environment Department, according to Engr. Ronnie Almazor, project coordinator of the Provincial Planning and Development Office.

Mimura is accompanied by Fuyuki Sagara, JICA project coordinator and a technical group from CT Engineering International Co., Ltd., a Japanese consulting firm hired by JICA to help conduct the Basic Design Study.

The study team will stay until September 15 to conduct site surveys and collect necessary data and information on the condition of Sabo River and the bridge both located in Hubangon.

The Basic Design study will provide necessary document for the appraisal of the project by the Government of Japan if it is suitable for the Grant Aid Scheme.

Last June 2006 the Philippine Government has requested for a Grant Aid Flood Disaster Mitigation from the Government of Japan for the province of Camiguin.

The Grant Aid scheme provides the recipient country with non-reimbursable funds to procure the facilities, equipment and services for its economic and social development.

Before its approval, the proposal has to undergo several stages from field surveys, which includes meteorological survey, ground and river topographic surveys, geotechnical investigation, hydrological condition survey of the project site.

The findings will then be analyzed in Japan and submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

The institutional capability of the recipient agency to maintain and operate the facilities and equipment will also affect the decision of the Japan Government for the Grant Aid. (PIA-MisOrOccCam)