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.

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.

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.

New bridge to open, to be named after JICA

MAHINOG, Camiguin - IN a few days, motorists can already pass over the new Hubangon-Bugwak bridge.

After a year of reconstruction, this bridge which was badly damaged by typhoon Nanang in 2001, is about to open.

This project is part of the P495 M Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) assistance to the Philippines for the reconstruction of damaged Hubangon bridge and construction of two Sabo dams in barangay Puntod.

In grateful recognition of Japan's aid, the Municipal Council recently passed a resolution to request Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo to file a bill in Congress to name the new Hubangon-Bugwak bridge as “JICA Bridge.” The resolution was authored by councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan.

Municipal officials said JICA's financial grant is the single biggest assistance given by the Japanese government to the Philippines to assist the province of Camiguin cope with disaster after the 2001 typhoon Nanang that killed more than two hundred people in this island province.

Naming this bridge for JICA, according to the same official, symbolizes how much the people in Camiguin recognize the long standing friendship between the Philippines and Japan and the greatest financial contribution Japan gave to the province of Camiguin in addressing disaster risk reduction and environmental issues.

Mahinog inaugurates new P4.8M police building

MAHINOG, Camiguin — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has inaugurated on Wednesday morning its new building beside the municipal hall of Mahinog.

Eastern Mindanao Director for Integrated Police Operation PCSupt Victorino S. Panganiban and Police Regional Office (PRO-10) regional director Chief Superintendent Condrado E. Laza led the PNP in the inauguration and hand over ceremony.

Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla and Camiguin Police Provincial Director Senior Superintendent Edward S. Abejuela also graced the inauguration.

Senior Superintendent Celso G. Regencia (right), Chief of PRO 10 Logistic Development Division formally turned over the documents of the three-storey model police station building to Mahinog Chief of Police Inspector Edgar S. Anonoy (left) in a simple ceremony held at the rooftop of the new building.

The new building will now housed the administrative, investigation, police community relations and operations department.

In 2005, then Chief PNP Director General Arturo Lomibao led the ground breaking of the proposed new PNP building.

In November 2009, or four years later, a ground breaking and capsule laying ceremony was reenacted which was led by then PRO X regional director PCSupt Danilo T. Empedrad that finally started the construction of this long awaited project.

Mayor Jajalla said the realization of the new PNP building in Mahinog is a “dream come true” which is necessary to improve the morale and performance of the local police personnel.

“This is a big help in our law and order drive, boost the morale and performance of the police in fighting criminality,” the mayor said.

Eastern Mindanao Director for Integrated Police Operation PCSupt Victorino S. Panganiban

Panganiban said the new building is part of the PNP's mandate to support the peace and order programs of the local government units.

“The PNP will always adhere to what the local chief executive wishes to be – a better and peaceful locality," he said.

Police Regional Office (PRO-10) regional director Chief Superintendent Condrado E. Laza

For his part, Laza encouraged the municipal police personnel to be inspired with the new building which was praised as the most “ decent and beautiful” in the province.

He reminded the troops to be "not only decent in appearance but also in acts and deeds.”

He thanked the local government unit of Mahinog for helping the PNP towards realizing the newly completed installation that will serve the needs of the municipality.

Mahinog Response 143 chosen as official entry to Doon Po Sa Amin Learning Challenge

THE Camiguin National High School (CNHS) has chosen 

Mahinog Response 143 as its official entry to this year's Doon Po Sa Amin Learning Challenge under emergency response and disaster preparedness category.

Doon Po Sa Amin (DPSA) is a project initiated by Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) under its corporate social responsibility program Kabalikat, and is aimed at encouraging teachers and students to use computer and Internet technologies to generate web-based information and educational materials about their respective communities. This project is in line with Smart’s thrust to promote information and communications technology (ICT) integration in basic education.

One of the end goals of the project is to generate and consolidate rich local content for the promotion and development of communities. A rich local content defines the community, and its people, culture, and society – thus the name "Doon Po Sa Amin," which literally means "in our place".

Mahinog Response 143 was chosen due to its efforts to promote local volunteerism including their role in mitigating disaster in the community over the past 8 years. (HRJ)

The entry entitled "Heroes of Our time" is now published on the web. Click this link: http://www.mysmartschools.ph/web/response143/index.html

Investigation into ship grounding sought

Shuttle Ferry 1

October 4, 2010 - The Municipal Council of Mahinog today called for an investigation as to why MV Shuttle ferry 1 ran aground in Benoni channel past 1 p.m. yesterday, October 3.

This after Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan delivered a privilege speech at this morning's session of the municipal council, calling for a legislative action to avoid repetition of yesterday's incident.

MV Shuttle Ferry 1, a roll-on roll-off passenger and cargo vessel owned by Asian Marine Transport had just left the Port of Benoni and was headed Balingoan when the incident happened, according to Councilor Tan.

"All the passengers were safe," Tan said. "All the passengers were rescued by ML Hijos," he added.

He said a sister vessel MV Shuttle Ferry 11 all the way from Balingoan towed the grounded ship back to the port of Benoni, where rolling cargoes carried on the grounded ship were to be unloaded.

Tan

He said all the passengers suffered more than inconvenience and that passengers with their rolling cargoes (vehicles) had to wait until 8 p.m. to be finally transported to port of Balingoan.

In a resolution moved by Councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla, chairman of the committee on public order and safety, seconded by Councilor Jonard B. Labadan, the council called the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to suspend MV Shuttle Ferry 1's operation for the meantime until the investigation is complete.

The resolution stated there is a need for Marina, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to conduct an investigation as to the cause of the grounding to avoid similar incident in the future, which could endanger the safety of the riding public.

The council also called on Marina and other agencies to impose sanctions necessary against shipping company to avoid repetition of the incident.

"We believe that, as a matter of standard operating procedure, MV Shuttle Ferry 1 should not be allowed to operate for the meantime until the authority determines the cause of the incident," the councilors said in a two-page resolution.

The vessel will also have to be inspected to determine its seaworthiness, if the safety management system was followed and whether or not damage was done on the environment, the resolution added.

Ships are following the International Safety Management Code to ensure safety at sea and prevent damage to the environment.

The resolution was addressed to Marianito D. Mendoza, Regional Director, Marina, Regional Office X, Phase II, Port Area, Cagayan de Oro City.

Efren B. Bollozos, Port Manager, Port Management Office, PPA, Port Area, Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Commodore Eduardo B. Gongona, Commander, Coast Guard Districts Northern Mindanao (CGDNM), Corrales Extension, Macabalan, Cagayan De Oro.

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.

Quezon Street is no entry for vehicles coming from Benoni

NO ENTRY. Vehicle coming from Benoni like this motorela as shown in this picture is prohibited from going straight towards Quezon Street across a blind curve

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog presided by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle on Monday approved an ordinance to declare Pres. Manuel Quezon Street as no entry street for vehicles coming from Benoni and to install a no-entry sign in the area.

Councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla, who is the principal author of Municipal Ordinance No. 2010-028, said this road section along St. Michael's Church is considered accident-prone area because it is located right across the intersection and blind curves.

"We will pass this measure now rather than waiting for accidents to happen," Bequilla said in sponsoring the measure at the plenary session.

Under the ordinance, no vehicle coming from Benoni side shall enter Quezon Street except emergency vehicles like the police, ambulance and fire in emergency situation.

Also exempt from the ordinance are vehicles coming from Mambajao side and from upper section.

The ordinance was endorsed by the transport groups and several other local organizations who said the decision is a welcome move towards promoting road safety in the municipality.

During the committee meeting conducted by the Committee on Transportation chaired by Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan, the committee also recommended to prohibit loading and unloading at the road section immediately before and after the curve.

The committee observed that loading and unloading at the blind curve next or across to the entrance of Columbia St. Michael's Parish High School (CSMPHS) is dangerous, considering the distance between the curve and the school gate is too close.

Motorela and public utility vehicles from Benoni may unload at the right shoulder in front of Mahinog Central School immediately before the school gate. Students and pedestrians are advised to practice safe crossing habits before entering/crossing the street.

Present during the said committee hearing were Lybbie R. Balasabas, President, Habal-habal Riders Association; Efren R. Absuelo, Camiguin Van Operators; Narciso L. Abian, President, Sr. Citizens Association; Gene R. Ranalan, Mahinog Motorela Operators and Drivers Association; Rosario M. Vinan, Principal, Mahinog Central School; Romulo Y. Saliguma, Sanitary Pulis (SaPul) Chief Operating Officer; Arlino C. Arca, President, Market Vendors Association; Anita C. Estrobo, President, Mahinog Central School PTA; Engr. Rico L. Ranara, Municipal Engineer; Sr. Maria Corazon S. Basadre, Principal, CSMPHS.

The Ordinance was co-authored by Councilors Rey Lawrence K. Tan, Merlito G. Abao and Valentin F. Babanto.

Councilor urges LGU to enforce anti rabies ordinance

Councilor Merlito G. Abao

Mahinog, Camiguin – SB member and health committee chairman Merlito G. Abao on Monday urged the executive department to revive municipal ordinance 99-042 or anti rabies ordinance of 1999, a move to maintain the status of the municipality as rabies free.

The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) once declared Camiguin as "Rabies-Free Province."

Mahinog has zero-incidence of rabies cases.

As this developed, the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office (PVO) has intensified its Anti-Rabies Program in line with the National Rabies Control Program which seeks to attain a Rabies- Free Philippines in year 2020.

An information drive on the Anti-Rabies Act was conducted in Mahinog last week involving key officials from the municipal level down to the barangays.

Veterinarian Amor D. Labis, from the PVO presented the national rabies prevention and control program and the implementing mechanisms in sustaining rabies-free areas.

The ordinance requires owners of dogs 3 months of age and older to register their dogs and submit them for vaccination against rabies.

A Municipal Rabies Control Committee will be formed and vested with the main authority to implement the ordinance and other rabies control related measures.

According to the same ordinance, unregistered dogs over the age of 4 months or stray dogs regardless of age shall be seized and humanely destroyed.

Owner of a dog who has bitten any person is liable for all the treatment and expenses incurred by the bite victims.

Shipping operators warned vs. unsafe docking, undocking maneuver

Bequilla

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog is warning shipping companies plying between Benoni and Balingoan ports that action will be taken if they are found to be disregarding safety of life at sea requirements especially in docking and undocking maneuver.

This was the recommendation from the committee on public order and safety chaired by Councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla after conducting a committee investigation following Councilor Kaiser A. Abao's privilege speech calling the attention of the municipal council to a "near miss" incident involving M/V Shuttle Ferry 1 and M/L Hijos recently.

According to reports, Shuttle Ferry 1 and M/L Hijos came very close to colliding when Shuttle Ferry undocked while M/L Hijos was approaching the dock.

During investigation, Bequilla said both vessels were at fault for "failure to exercise safety management system" during the reported near miss incident.

According to the committee report, both vessels simply failed to establish radio contact and sounded its whistle indicating ship's movement intention, among others.

As part of their recommendation, the committee called on the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to exercise their authority against shipping operators who disregard safety of life at sea (solas) requirements.

PPA Terminal Manager Valiente D. Camay said he will immediately conduct a conference among shipping operators to treat this problem.

Teachers, parents thank Cong Romualdo for seawall extension project

by Lucita B. King

Contributor

Ms. Lucita B. King

THE construction of seawall along Benoni Elementary School has been completed and thanks for the support of Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo in making this project possible.

This seawall project which started in August 2009 and completed in May 2010 with the release of six million pesos through the congressional initiative of Camiguin Representative Pedro P. Romualdo stretches along the shorelines of Benoni Elementary School.

This project, which we have requested since I assumed as head teacher, will protect the school and ensure the safety of the children.

On behalf of Benoni Elementary School teachers and parents, we thank Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo for all the support he extended to the school.

Mahinog participates nationwide earthquake drill

Mahinog, Camiguin - To make sure residents remain alert and know what to do in case of an earthquake, a simultaneous drill was conducted here today at Mahinog Public Market, Mahinog Central School and Columbia St. Michael's Parish High School.

This activity was also conducted nationwide by all public and private schools, selected public government buildings and commercial establishments. The drill started at 9 a.m.

Spearheaded by the Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council (MDCC), the drill involved critical emergency response operations in the so-called “Golden Hour," or the critical first 72 hours after a quake.

This includes fire suppression, collapsed structure search and rescue, high angle rescue, and mass casualty incident management and evacuation.

Mayor's aide arrested for violating Comelec gun ban

Mahinog, Camiguin – A close aide and bodyguard of Guinsiliban town Mayor Raul Llacuna was arrested for violating Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 8714 or the Comelec Gun Ban and for illegal possession of firearms under Presidential Decree No. 1866, a report from the local PNP here says.

Facing charges is Manolo A. Pacturan, 45 years old, married and a resident of Guinsiliban, Camiguin.

He was arrested in barangay San Roque in the town of Mahinog during a checkpoint conducted by the PNP led by Mahinog chief of police P/Inspector Edgar S. Anonoy, with PO3 Jerry Jalagat, PO1 Anthony Zagado, PO1 Ray Abao and PO1 Jimmy Balbutin in compliance with a directive from the Comelec in connection with the May 10, 2010 national and local elections.

The suspect was aboard a Mitsubishi Lancer owned by Llacuna and driven by Roy Senara, 43 years old, married, when intercepted.

A 45 caliber pistol with one (1) magazine loaded with seven (7) live ammunition were seized from the suspect. The gun was placed inside the vehicle's compartment, according to police report.

"The suspect had no permit to carry it," Anonoy said, "and we already filed charges for illegal possession of firearms and violation of the Comelec gun ban against the suspect.”

"This is the first case of violation of Comelec gun ban in Mahinog and even in the entire province of Camiguin in connection with the 2010 polls," he added.

As this developed, the Municipal Council of Mahinog passed a resolution on Monday commending the elements of Mahinog PNP for a job well done. The resolution was authored by Councilor Leoncio P. Somobay, chairman of the committee on police and public safety.

In its resolution No. 8714, Comelec prohibits the carrying and transport of firearms, explosives and deadly weapons during the 150-day election period from Jan. 10, 2010 to June 9, 2010.

Under the same Comelec resolution, only bonafide members of PNP, AFP and law enforcement agencies in proper uniform and while in actual performance of official duty are authorized to bear firearms during the election period.

Under the law, those found guilty of illegal possession of firearms during the election season face a penalty of one to six years imprisonment and disqualification from holding public office.

Anonoy said the PNP would strictly impose the gun ban to ensure safe and peaceful elections in May. (Homer R. Jajalla, Mahinog Information Office)

Dengue prevention drive up in Camiguin

Mahinog, Camiguin— The rise of dengue cases alarmed residents here prompting local executives to mobilize its health personnel for a continuous dengue prevention drive.

Immediately, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) in coordination with the Municipal Health Office here (MHO) convened all barangay captains and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) leaders to discuss crucial concerns of the disease and measures to control its spread.

The measure is to heighten public awareness on the preventive measures against the dreaded dengue disease.

The latest surveillance report on dengue in Camiguin went up from 27 cases in 2008 to 91 reported cases in 2009.

With the recorded rise of 64 additional cases last year, the PHO however assures the public that there is no outbreak as these cases are sporadic in nature.

Areas with the highest number of reported cases are in the towns of Mambajao with 61 and Sagay recording about 18 dengue cases.

In Mahinog, there are 5 dengue cases admitted to Camiguin General Hospital for this month alone, a report from the municipal health office showed.

Earlier, a 5-year-old child from barangay Hubangon who lived in Mambajao had succumbed to dengue.

The PHO is now closely coordinating with the Department of Education (DepEd) for a massive dengue prevention and control information drive during parents-teachers meet.

About nine (9) parents-teachers meeting undertaken dengue orientation for this month alone and the information drive will continue for the rest of the year.

Earlier, the municipal health office under Dr. Juanita K. Llacuna advised residents to practice the “4S” which means search and destroy breeding places of mosquitoes, self-protection by wearing proper clothing, seek early consultation and say no to indiscriminate fogging.

Fogging is discouraged as it brings risks to individuals suffering from asthma.

Local health authorities call on everyone to cover water drums and water pails at all times to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, replace water in flower vases once a week, clean all water containers once a week and scrub the sides well to remove eggs of mosquitoes sticking to the sides.

Clean gutters of leaves and debris so that rain water will not collect as breeding places of mosquitoes, old tires used as roof support should be punctured or cut to avoid accumulation of water, collect and dispose all unusable tin cans, jars, bottles and other items that can collect and hold water.

According to the Web site of the Department of Health, dengue is an acute infectious disease manifested initially with fever. The transmitter of the disease is a day-biting mosquito, which lays eggs in clear and stagnant water.

Signs and Symptoms of the disease include sudden onset of high fever which may last 2 to 7 days, joint and muscle pain and pain behind the eyes, weakness, skin rashes - maculopapular rash or red tiny spots on the skin called petechiae, nose bleeding when fever starts to subside, abdominal pain, vomiting of coffee-colored matter and dark-colored stools.

The provincial capitol, schools and other government offices in Camiguin also undertake periodic clean up of its buildings and surrounding grounds to help stop the spread of the disease. (Homer R. Jajalla, Mahinog Information Office)

Groundbreaking ceremony held for 500 million sabo dam projects in Mahinog, Camiguin

Mahinog, Camiguin, January 8, 2010 – Japan's Minister for Economic Affairs Tomochika Uyama led the groundbreaking ceremony for the 1.013 billion yen (P500 million) Flood Disaster Mitigation Project in Camiguin Province yesterday in time of its 42nd Camiguin foundation day.

The Japanese minister was joined by Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo, Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo, Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla and other local officials here.

The groundbreaking rites was also attended by Secretary to the Ambassador Mr. Hirosato Yoshino, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) chief representative Mr. Norio Matsuda, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Project Management Office director Philip Menez and Ms. Yokiko Sano.

The entire project, which will be implemented by the DPWH, will cover the construction of two Sabo dams along Pontod river and the reconstruction of damaged Hubangon bridge, all in the municipality of Mahinog.

In his speech, Minister Uyama said the project was part of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) grant aid agreements between the Philippines and Japan that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed in Tokyo after their bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso in June last year.

This flood disaster mitigation project, he said, is designed to improve the standard of living in Camiguin through the development of its flood control system and enhancement of road network of its main highway.

"This project will boost economic activity in the region and improve the quality of life of the people," he said.

The minister also expressed hope that the project will enhance the "strategic partnership" between the Government of Japan and the people of Camiguin.

For his part, Congressman PPR had expressed gratefulness over the realization of the project and thanked also the Japanese leader for their past assistance extended to the province when he was still the governor.

He said in 2004 JICA had assisted the people of Camiguin in developing and implementing a non structural flood disaster prevention measures, which eventually made Camiguin the consistent winner in the national search for the best disaster coordinating councils.

Camiguin island suffered much loss and damage during Typhoon Nanang in November 2001, which resulted in approximately 250 dead and missing as well as estimated damages of over $5 million.

Governor JJ also conveyed his deep appreciation to the Japanese minister and the Japanese people for their assistance and cooperation extended to his province.

"It's a dream come true for Camiguin. This project would be of big help in our flood disaster mitigation program, Thank you Government and people of Japan," the grateful governor said.

The governor added that since this Sabo dam is a first of its kind in the country, this will become a potential tourist attraction in the province.

Mayor Jajalla, for his part, said this Sabo dam once completed will not only save many lives but also improve the people's living condition and contribute to socio economic development of the town.

"We are looking forward to more tourism and economic activities pouring in our town because of this multi million project. This would really contribute to job generation and economic opportunities among the people in this municipality and entire province," he said. (Homer R. Jajalla –Mahinog Information Office)

Mahinog gets new fire truck

Mahinog, Camiguin – A brand new fire truck will be delivered soon to this municipality to augment the Bureau of Fire Protection's (BFP) firefighting capability.

This was announced by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla and Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle at the LGU Christmas party on Friday.

The fire truck will be delivered before the end of this month if there are no changes in the delivery schedule to the BFP from their supplier, it was learned.

Mayor Jajalla said the provision of additional fire truck to Mahinog has been made possible through the congressional initiative of Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo.

At present the municipality, the gateway to Camiguin, has one unit fire truck.

Jajalla and Acle expressed their gratitude to Congressman Romualdo and BFP for helping the municipality boost its fire fighting capability.

"This new fire truck will really make a big difference in our fire prevention preparedness measures," Jajalla said.

Acle, for his part, welcomed the development as this will address the municipality's needs for fire fighting equipment.

Romualdo, in his letter to the mayor, expressed hope that this equipment will be put to good use and will be maintained well by the municipality.

"This is part of my commitment to our constituents to be fire and disaster-ready at all times," Romualdo said. (Mahinog IO)

Recall of SFO4 Heracleo Abian to Mahinog BFP sought

The Municipal Council presided by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle on Monday passed a resolution to request the Provincial Fire Marshal to return SFO4 Heracleo T. Abian back to Mahinog Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) station.

Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan who authored the resolution said it is for the best interest of the town to have a fire chief who hails from the town.

Before his assignment to the province, the former fire chief served with considerable distinction as the Municipal Fire Marshall in the municipality of Mahinog.

“During his watch in Mahinog, SF04 Abian had established a very good working rapport with the municipal officials and many of the local population in promoting the BFP’s mission to ensure public safety through the prevention of and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires,” the resolution reads in part.

“He had proven his efficiency in the field of public service not only during fire but also in times of typhoons, floods, earthquakes, vehicular accidents, and various other calamities in both his official and personal capacity,” said the councilors in the resolution.

“His return to his former station in Mahinog has a very considerable advantage on the part of the BFP of being able to act with dispatch and respond appropriately to special situations because he is a native and resident of Mahinog,” it added.

The resolution was transmitted to Fire/Sinsp Manuel Y. Uayan, Provincial Fire Marshal of Camiguin and a copy was also furnished to Fire/Ssupt Eleuterio N. Iturriaga, Regional Director, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Region X. (Mahinog IO)

RDCC-OCD conducts tsunami drill in Mahinog town

by Homer R. Jajalla

Mahinog, Camiguin (29 September) -- Scenario: A magnitude 7.5 earthquake spreads panic among the hundreds of residents in coastal barangays of San Roque and Benoni in the municipality of Mahinog as siren wails and alarm bells continuously ring, warning people to evacuate to higher grounds as tsunami is coming.

But of course, there was no tsunami coming.

The alarm was only part of a tsunami drill conducted by the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC), Office of the Civil Defense Region (OCD), in region 10, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHILVOLCS), in cooperation with the Provincial, Municipal and concerned Barangay Disaster Coordinating Councils (DCCs) here.

OCD Regional Director Carmilito A. Lupo said that tsunami drills were important for all people living in earthquake-prone province such as Camiguin.

He praised the municipal and barangay disaster coordinating councils for their initiative in conducting the drill, which, he said, was the "first tsunami drill ever conducted in region 10."

The tsunami of August 16, 1976, in the eastern and western Moro Gulf and the Sulu islands was the most devastating tsunami disaster in recent times in the Philippines wherein about 8,000 people were killed.

On November 15, 1994, a magnitude 7.1 hit Baco, Mindoro, near Verde Island that generated a local destructive tsunami. A total of 78 people were killed and 430 injured.

Tsunamis are waves that are produced when water in the sea is suddenly moved or displaced. The cause of movement is oftentimes a large earthquake that takes place underwater.

PHILVOLCS-10 Officer In-Charge Marcial P. Labininay said the signs that a tsunami is coming is when strong earthquake is felt in the community, followed by a sudden rise or fall of sea water, and unusual sound.

"When you see this, you must leave the place immediately and go to higher ground," the PHIVOLCS chief said.

PHILVOLCS also informed that it took only two to five minutes at the earliest up to 20 minutes after the earthquakes for the tsunami waves to hit the shores of Moro Gulf and Oriental Mindoro. (Mahinog IO)