Makasining Lahi participates in HIV-AIDS awareness seminar

GO FOR PREVENTION, THERE IS STILL NO CURE

20 December 2013 –Members of the Makasining Lahi ng Tacurong (below) listen to LGU Sanitary Inspector Marlow Buenacosa (above)as he explains the symptoms of various sexually-transmitted diseases during the HIV-AIDS Awareness Seminar. Buenacosa included STDs in his talk that focused on how to prevent HIV-AIDS. He stressed that there are only three ways to acquire HIV [and that there is no known cure for the disease so far]: penetrative sexual contact; blood and blood products; and mother to child transmission. An increasing number of HIV cases in the region have been noted. However, there has been no documented case in Tacurong. Gender and Development (GAD) focal person Nancy Bawe reminded the participants that “it is our primary duty to take care and protect ourselves,” regardless of our gender preference. Awareness seminars were conducted this year among various sectors in the city as part of the LGU’s GAD advocacy. LGU-Tacurong, with the gay community, organized the Makasining Lahi ng Tacurong to empower the LGBT sector in the city. 

Radyo Natin FM joins Inugyunay Fest '13

In celebration of their 16^th year, Radyo Natin 94.5 FM Tacurong and Radyo Natin 101.3 FM Isulan brought glee to the Inugyunay Festival with “Radyo Natin @ Sweet 16” last Monday, December 16. The night was filled with intensity as different dance crews from Tacurong City and neighbour towns join the Dance Stars Ultimate Hiphop Competition. Familiar faces also graced the event such as Daniel Padilla and Coco Martin in the Ka-look-alike competition. City Guys Attraction (for the hiphop competition) and Junior Colasito a.k.a. Coco Martin (Ka-look-alike competition) were announced as winners for their respective events. DJ Ate Cheska all the way from Radyo Natin Center, Manila was the special guest of the RN 16^th year anniversary. Prizes and giveaways were given to the audience as part of their appreciation for the support and response to the radio station. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano-LGU Information)

Inugyunay Kasalang Bayan 2013 delights 17 couples

 In the photo, brides get ready for their long-awaited bridal walk. 

Seventeen couples said their ‘I Dos’ in LGU-Tacurong City’s Kasalang Bayan 2013 on Tuesday, December 17. Mayor Lina Montilla and LGU heads of offices stood as witnesses in the church wedding. The city government shouldered wedding expenses including church and seminar fees, sponsor fees, CENOMAR fees, meals and snacks during baptism and wedding day, and decorations. The City Planning and Development Coordinating Office and the City Civil Registry Office spearheads the annual Kasalang Bayan since 2005 to help couples who are living together to legalize their union as husband and wife. (Photo & Text: Jez Billano LGU-Information)

Dillera: Unity can outshine the brightest fireworks

16 December 2013—DOT XII Regional Director Nelly Nita Dillera stressed that unity, more than the grand pyrotechnics display, defines Tacurong and Inugyunay Festival. Dillera, the festival opening’s guest speaker, lauded LGU-Tacurong and its people for staying united that leads to the success of different programs in the city. “Unity can outshine even the brightest fireworks,” said RD Dillera. LGU-Tacurong cancelled its annual grand fireworks display to facilitate aid to typhoon-hit areas in the Visayas. It donated 800 thousand pesos to typhoon victims in Iloilo and Capiz; the employees association also donated 160 thousand pesos in addition to relief packs, hygiene kits, etc. After the program, Mayor Lina O. Montilla led the lighting of the City Hall lights and miniature Christmas village at the city grounds.

Gay Community gives back through Christmas Mardi Gras

15 December 2013 – The pre-opening of the Inugyunay Festival set off through the “Christmas Mardi Gras for a Cause”initiated by the Makasining Lahi – an organization composed of the gay community in Tacurong City – in cooperation with the city government of Tacurong. Members of the Makasining Lahi strut their costumes in the torch parade followed by a programme which provided entertainment and laughter to everyone watching the show. Highlight of the event was the gift giving to children from the Federation of Persons with Disabilities in Tacurong City. Hon. Psyche M. Sucaldito, Chairperson of the Christmas Mardi Gras, commended the organization for conducting the activity for the first time and moreover, for putting up a show that helps the community. President of Makasining Lahi Anthony Elvas promised that this event will progress further in the coming years so as to lend a hand to more people. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano)

Paunat sang Kusog 2013

In the photo, City Councilor Rodrigo Jamorabon leads representatives of each team during the opening of Tacurong LGU Inter-Office Palaro and Socio-cultural Activities or LIPS XVI on December 10, 2013. LGU-Tacurong City and Tacurong City Employees Association (TACEA) conducts this event annually to encourage employees to live a healthy lifestyle and to develop their team spirit. “Let us not forget the essence of LIPS: to keep our mind and body healthy to be able to serve the citizens well,” said Mayor Lina Montilla. LIPS XVI, dubbed as Paunat sang Kusog 2013, will run until December 12, 2013. Awarding ceremonies will be on December 13, 2013.  Jezereel Billano (LGU Information)

Tacurong makes it to the list of most competitive cities in PH

The city government of Tacurong was identified as 22^nd among the National Competitive Council’s Top 50 Most Competitive Cities for the year 2012. Tacurong City was also ranked 8^th among LGUs with the least number of steps—with its 3 steps—required for processing business renewals. Tacurong scored 54.65 in the survey that covered 122 cities nationwide. The results were based on three major factors: economic dynamism, government efficiency, and basic infrastructure. In the photo, City Mayor Lina O. Montilla receives the plaque of recognition from City DILG Officer Alberto Sero and City Planning and Development Coordinator Jaime Cedullo in a turnover ceremony on December 9, 2013. During the ceremony, Mayor Montilla and the city councilors also received certificates of recognition for being a Sandugo Kabalikat of the National Blood Services Program-DOH XII. Jezereel Billano (LGU-Information)

New ‘Liga’ officials sworn in

Newly-elected officials of the Tacurong Liga ng mga Barangay were sworn into office on December 10, 2013 at the City Mayor’s Office. Barangay Upper Katungal Chairperson Hernane Fermo (second from right) was elected President succeeding Silvestre Llanto, who has already served his last term as chairperson of Barangay D’Ledesma.  Mayor Lina O. Montilla with City DILG Officer Alberto Sero Jr. facilitated the officials’ oath-taking ceremony. The Liga ng mga Barangay represents the barangay units in the local sanggunian. It ‘raises issues and concerns affecting the barangay government; and through proper and legal means, secures corresponding solutions’. Jezereel Billano (LGU-Information)

Highlighting Inugyunay

With the cancellation of the annual grand fireworks display in Tacurong, people are asking: what, then, is the highlight of this year’s Inugyunay Festival?

Pure entertainment

If you fancy extravagant and colorful carnival costumes, the festival’s best part may be Makasining Lahi’s Christmas Mardi Gras on Dec 15, 7PM, at the City Gymnasium.

Looking for hip and cool choreographies? Radyo Natin FM’s Hip-Hop Contest on December 16, 7PM may just be the highlight you are looking for. 

Want to sing your heart out with local bands? Head to the City Gymnasium on December 16, 7PM for the Musikahan 2013 or support the ROTArock: Battle of the Bands for a Cause (December 21, 7PM) sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tacurong and Rotaract Club of Talakudong.

Adding to the festival’s musical vibe is the Search for Singing Peacekeepers and the Inter-agency Christmas Carol Competition. Both events will be conducted on December 18 at 5PM and 7PM, respectively.

Prepare for an amusing night on December 22, 7PM with the Whimsical Variety and Comedy Show at the City Gymnasium. 

Adrenalin rush

Inugyunay Festival will also guarantee energy-filled activities such as the Open League Basketball Tournament on November 23-December 10 and the National Dart Tournament on December 6-8.

Tacurong taekwondo jins will be expecting your support in the 3^rd Mindanao Inter-School Taekwondo Tournament on December 14-15 or you may want to cheer for drops and spins during the National Table Tennis Tournament on December 26-27.

Grab a snack or enjoy inasal ala Tacurong after all the thrilling sports activities! Visit the Inugyunay Food Plaza which will run from December 18 to 23 at the City Hall Ground.

Goodwill

The annual Inugyunay sa Paskwa is a thanks-giving festival. For that reason, the city government and different sectors work hand-in-hand to gather and bring enjoyment to Tacurongnons.  Aside from entertainment, public service activities are also conducted.

If you want to witness couples simultaneously exchanging I do’s, then be at the Nuestra Señora dela Candelaria Parish on December 17, 8AM for the Kasalang Bayan. Ceremony for couples who opted for a civil wedding is on December 18, 8:30AM at the City Gymnasium. The city government sponsors the annual Kasalang Bayan to legalize bonds of couples who have been living together but cannot afford wedding expenses.

Living by the Christmas tradition of giving and sharing, the city government will also conduct a gift-giving activity for indigent families on December 20, 5PM, City Gymnasium.

If you want to see our educators and business professionals reveal their talents share their advocacies, watch out for the Education Sector’s Night on December 19 and the Business Sector’s Night on December 20, 7PM at the City Gymnasium.

The Tacurong youth will also be giving their best during the Inter-school Skills Competition on December 19, 9AM-5PM.

The city government will wrap up the festival with Gab-i sang Pasalamat kag Pasidungog on December 23, 7PM, at the City Gymnasium. This activity is devoted to recognize the philanthropy of organizations during calamities and disasters. It is also for those whose invaluable contribution led to the success of the LGU’s projects and programs.

The Inugyunay highlight

So, what really is this year’s festival highlight? I hope that we all remember the meaning of inugyunay. This Hiligaynon word means ‘to unite’.  All these years, the festival’s best part is always the people—warm, welcoming, united in service and thanks-giving.

The Inugyunay sa Paskwa 2013, which will officially open on December 16, 5PM at the City Hall Ground, has been cut with grand spectacles as the city’s way of showing sympathy with the disaster-hit areas in the Visayas. 

(Jezereel Louise Billano-LGU Information)

Turnover ceremonies organized in nine barangays

In fulfilment of DILG Memorandum Circular 2013-115, “Inventory and Turnover of Barangay Financial Records and Properties,” nine barangays in Tacurong City have undergone turnover ceremonies to ensure smooth transition of administration from 2 December to 4 December, 2013.

Brgy. New Passi, Brgy. Baras, Brgy. Calean, Brgy. New Carmen, Brgy. San Emmanuel, Brgy. San Pablo, Brgy. San Rafael, Brgy. D Ledesma, and Brgy. Poblacion were the primary subjects of the said ceremony for these are the barangays with newly elected chairs and several kagawads.

The outgoing Punong Barangay, Barangay Kagawad, Barangay Secretary, Barangay Treasurer, and bookkeeper/representative from the city government were tasked to conduct or update the inventory of all properties, finances, and documents of the barangay beginning 1 October, 2013 until 15 November, 2013. They also see to it that all financial records and transactions are intact and all officials in actual possession of, or entrusted with, the custody or control or supplies or property are held accountable for such. All documents were assembled such as but not limited to the following: legislative records, administrative records, and supplies and transcripts of lupon meetings and cases, registry of barangay inhabitants and list of members of barangay assembly. They made use of the prescribed forms in the turnover of responsibilities; organized a turnover ceremony to include briefing on the State of Barangay Governance, Financial Performance and Key Challenges to the incoming set of officials; and ensured that all outgoing barangay officials secure clearance from the Barangay Treasurer. The Barangay Treasurer who is applying for property clearance shall secure such clearance from the Punong Barangay.

The handing over of the financial records, legislative records, barangay properties, barangay administrative records, and lupon settlement records were assisted by the respective secretary and treasurer of each barangay and witnessed by Elma Bides, CPA (City Accountant), Tomas R. Robles, MBA (City General Services Officer) represented by Vicente Subaldo (Supply Officer III) in some barangays, Alberto P. Sero, Jr. (City Local Government Operations Officer), city staff, barangay officials, and employees.

During the briefing of the state of barangay governance and key challenges, Mr. Sero put emphasis on the value of having a turnover ceremony for it signals the actual transfer of all necessary documents and equipment, and would also put clarity and organization for the next administration. He also commended each barangay’s achievements and noted suggestions that would further improve the status of the community.

Both the City Accountant and City General Services Officer provided updates and reminders for all barangay leaders regarding financial performance and property and equipment management performance respectively.

The said activity also paved way for barangay officials to raise questions and elucidate some information related to better their own barangays. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano)

LGU to cancel Inugyunay fireworks display; sends aid to typhoon victims

In the wake of the typhoon devastation in the Visayas that cost thousands of lives and to sympathize with the victims’ families, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tacurong decided to cancel some of the spectacles in the Inugyunay Festival in December, including the much-anticipated fireworks display.

On November 26, Mayor Lina Montilla and other city officials went to Iloilo to personally hand over to typhoon victims the cash assistance amounting to P800 thousand. Of said amount, P100 thousand each will be given to Passi City in Iloilo Province and Roxas City in Capiz. Twelve towns of Iloilo will also receive P50 thousand each. The city officials also brought the P20,000.00 donated by the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

Mayor Montilla was joined by Vice Mayor Joseph Lechonsito, Councilor Psyche Sucaldito, Councilor Rodrigo Jamorabon, Councilor Welson Ferrer and ABC President Silvestre Llanto. Tacurong City Employees Association president Amelia Bochorno also joined the group in their travel to Iloilo to hand over the association’s assistance amounting to P160 thousand.

Relief packs such as food, clothing, hygiene kits and wireless cellphone chargers donated by employees and private individuals and organizations have also been delivered to affected areas through the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Meanwhile, the decision of the Inugyunay Festival Committee to cancel some of the big events in the Christmas festival in December is seen as a fitting way of commiserating with the families of typhoon victims who are still grieving the death of their loved ones and loss of their properties.

However, aside from the spectacular fireworks display, other events in the festival including the nightly presentations, will still push through.

Mayor Montilla said that observing the annual Inugyunay Festival without the lavish celebration is one of our simple ways of sympathizing with our fellow Filipinos ravaged by the super typhoon in the Visayas.

As of November 27 report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) 5,500 individuals were reported dead, 26,136 and 1,757 are still missing. (LGU Tacurong Information)

18-day campaign to end violence against women kicks off

Spearheaded by the Men Oppose Violence Against Women and Children Everywhere (MOVE) with the local government unit, the regional kick-off of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women took place at the city grounds last November 25, 6:00 o’clock in the evening. This year’s theme says “End Violence Against Women (VAW) Now! It’s our Duty.”

Delegates from the different sectors of the community gathered for this advocacy to protect the rights of women. Employees of the city hall, delegations from the different barangays in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat Electric Cooperative (SUKELCO), Sultan Kudarat Water District (SKWD), Notre Dame of Tacurong College (NDTC), Philippine National Police (PNP), and guests from the neighbouring cities/municipalities were present along with Tacurong City Mayor Lina Montilla, Vice Mayor Joseph Jorge Lechonsito, City Councilors, and other key officials.

Gender and Development Committee Chairperson Hon. Psyche Sucaldito provided the rationale of the activity. Under the signed Republic Act 10398, November 25 of every year is declared as the “National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children.” The law also mandates key agencies to conduct activities that would raise public awareness regarding VAW.

As a symbol of the kick-off, lighting of the fountains was fronted by Mayor Montilla, Vice Mayor Lechonsito, Councilor Sucaldito, and Councilor Charito Collado. Simultaneous lighting of candles by all of the participants followed the said ceremony.

“Violence against women is everybody’s duty,” said Mayor Montilla in her message. She added that all citizens regardless of each one’s status have the capacity to help end violence against women. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano-LGU Tacurong City)

Defective weighing scales disposed for consumer protection

In line with the continuing efforts of the city government of Tacurong to protect consumer rights, the City Treasury Office with the Economic Enterprise Management and Slaughterhouse Team and Department of Trade and Industry disposed 76 confiscated weighing scales on November 20, 2013.

Confiscated weighing scales that were all found dubious, defective, and beyond repair were brought to the City Engineering Office and was rolled over by a 60-ton road roller truck. These were then burned and buried.

Over 100 weighing scales in varied kilogram categories (10-100 kilos) were confiscated from stall owners in the public market and peddlers around the city since 2012. Upon confiscation, these were brought to the Public Market Office for repair and documentation. “Confiscated items that were found repairable were fixed and handed back to the owners with corresponding certificates,” said City Treasurer Jessie P. Batchar. (Romulo Paclibar Jr. & Jezereel Louise Billano—LGU Tacurong City)

LGU receives commendation for effective riparian zone management

The city government of Tacurong was recognized as the Most Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU) for its remarkable support in the Riparian Zone Management Program for Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Climate Change Adaptation.

Barangay Baras in Tacurong City was also recognized as one of the most outstanding Barangay Riparian Zone Management Councils in Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.

The LGU received a plaque of recognition while Barangay Baras received a certificate and Php15,000.00 cash prize from the Allah Valley Landscape Development Alliance or AVLDA. These were awarded during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Summit on 21 November 2013, Provincial Capitol, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.

LGU-Tacurong, composed of its Office for the Development of Cooperatives, City Planning & Development Office, and City Environment and Natural Resources Office, continuously take active roles in the rehabilitation and protection of The Kapingkong River and other tributaries. Annual planting of trees, bamboo and vetiver grass in riparian zones started in June 2009. These activities are sustained through the help of AVLDA, non-government organizations, national line agencies, land owners, and other stakeholders.

On June 2009, a total of 3,300 bamboos and trees were planted along river banks and creeks of 10 barangays in Tacurong. On July 2010, an Agroforest Nursery Development Project in Barangay Baras was developed. Through this project, four thousand cutting of various bamboo species were prepared for planting. The cuttings were planted on October 2010. Another tree, bamboo, and vetiver planting activity was conducted on October 2012.

A bamboo and vetiver bagging activity was conducted at the nursery site of Barangay Baras. During this activity, three thousand bags were utilized. Bamboo and vetiver cuttings prepared during this activity will be used in the next planting activities.

Riparian zone management program implementation is one of the key elements of Tacurong City’s DRRM Plan. (Elizabeth Buenacosa & Jezereel Louise Billano—LGU Tacurong)

Photo News: Oath-taking Ceremony of Newly-elected Barangay Officials

Move Forward, Serve the People. 25 November 2013—Tacurong City Mayor Lina O. Montilla, during the Oath-taking Ceremony of Newly-Elected Barangay Officials, urged public servants to put aside political differences and to unite for the good of Tacurongnons. Montilla facilitated the oath of office of one hundred sixty newly-elected officials of the city’s 20 barangays. “Instead of a mass oath-taking..na sabay-sabay ang lahat ng opisyales ng 20 barangays, we decided that each set of barangay officials will take their turn..for them to feel the solemnity of their oath,” said City Local Government Operations Officer Alberto P. Sero Jr. The officials were accompanied by their families during the ceremony. Newly-elected barangay officials will officially assume office on November 30, 2013 at 12:00 o’clock in the afternoon.  

40 family-beneficiaries of Project PAGLAUM undergo orientation

Representatives of 40 family-beneficiaries attended the orientation-familiarization of Project PAGLAUM – Panata at Adhikain Gutom ay wakasan Lingap, edukasyon, kalusugan, Asal na mabuti ay isulong at Ugaling makamtan ay Malinis, matiwasay at maunlad na pamayanan -- on 23 November, GSP Training Hall, Tacurong City.

Project PAGLAUM is Tacurong City’s program for the Millennium Development Goals Family-based Actions for Children and their Environs in the Slums (MDG-FACES) of the United Nations. Tacurong City, as a dynamic partner of the National Government through Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) selected 40 families from the slums – identified in Purok 11 of Barangay Poblacion – to improve their quality of life specially the children.

The objective of this project is to achieve all eight MDG goals and better the lives of the beneficiaries. During the program, Mr. Alberto Sero, City Local Government Operations Officer, said that the only requirement of the program for its beneficiaries is their commitment and their trust. He also mentioned that the program is somehow alike to City Hall sa Barangay, but more focused on a smaller community, the purok.

The whole-day event included several team building activities that allowed interaction among the members of the project, full-length information of the MDG FACES, the election of officers, and enrolment of children beneficiaries. In the concluding portions of the orientation-familiarization, beneficiaries, project heads and members, partners, together with the Miss Nancy Bawe (CSWD representative), Mr. Jaime Cedullo (City Planning and Dev’t Coordinator), Mr. Albert Sero (CLGOO), Hon. Psyche M. Sucaldito (SP Member and MDG FACES-PMT Leader), and City Mayor Lina O. Montilla, signed the Pledge of Commitment Wall as portrayal to their dedication on the project.

Mayor Montilla, in her message, said that the LGU will help in acquiring all the goals of MDG FACES. She further said that the cooperation and support of everyone involved will be important to accomplish this program of DILG. She hopes for the success of the program and serve as an inspiration to other places in terms of implementation of this UN project.

The Memorandum of Agreement was signed last September 12, 2013 at the Bayview Park Hotel, Manila. Present at the MOA signing were Hon. Lina O. Montilla, Local Government Government Academy (LGA) of the DILG, represented by LGA Exec. Director Marivel C. Sacendoncillo and DILG XII, represented by OIC Regional Director Reynaldo M. Bungubung. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano)

Cities, towns in Capiz, Iloilo to receive 800K aid

Two cities and 12 towns in Capiz and Iloilo devastated by Super typhoon Yolanda earlier this month will receive Php800,000.00 aid from the City Government of Tacurong.

Of the said amount, Roxas City in Capiz and Passi City in Iloilo will receive Php100,000 each. The remaining amount will be divided to 12 towns in Iloilo (Estancia, Balasan Ajuy, Concepcion, Barotac Viejo, Carles, San Rafael, Lemery, Batad, Sara, Anilao, and San Dionisio) with Php50,000.00 each.

The 6th Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tacurong approved Resolution 097-2013 that authorizes City Mayor Lina O. Montilla to allocate Php800,000.00 from the city’s 5% Calamity Fund. This action was preceded by a resolution of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council headed by Montilla.

In addition to the PhP800K, the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. donated PhP20,000.00. “Organizations, even individuals in the city have responded to the needs of our brothers and sisters in Visayas. Let us work as one to help them rebuild their lives,” said Montilla.

Montilla and other city officials will personally hand the cash donations to local chief executives of the beneficiaries on November 26, 2013.

Relief packs (food, clothing, hygiene kits) donated by employees and private individuals and organizations have also been delivered to affected areas through the City Social Welfare and development Office. 

Moreover, the Tacurong City Employees Association (TACEA) have already prepared PhP160,000.00 for Yolanda victims. Fifty thousand pesos will be donated through the Philippine Independent Public Sector Employees Association (PIPSEA) as aid to fellow government employees.

Super Typhoon Yolanda, dubbed as most powerful typhoon of 2013, had the strongest winds that brought devastating storm surges in Central Philippines. It caused an enormous loss of lives, and property and infrastructure. Yolanda hit land on November 8, 2013 leaving at least 4,000 dead and millions of people homeless.

 Jezereel Louise C. Billano (LGU-Information)

Photo News: Tacurong City Crisis Intervention Center for Women and Children receives Certificate of Accreditation

Tacurong City Crisis Intervention Center for Women and Children receives Certificate of Accreditation from DSWD Standard Bureau. The City Crisis Intervention Center for Women and Children satisfactorily complied with the First Level standards in the implementation of residential and community-based programs and services for women and children. This is in compliance with the provision of Section 23, Republic Act 4373 ‘An Act to Regulate the Practice of Social Work and the Operations of Social Work Agencies in the Philippines and for Other Purposes. The certificate is valid from June 21, 2013 to June 20, 2016. 

Treasury Office achieves 103% tax collection efficiency

The Tacurong City Treasury Office (CTO) has collected PhP 71.6M from tax and non-tax revenues, 103% greater than the FY 2013 target PhP 69.2M as of 18 November, reports CTO Administrative Officer Romulo Paclibar.

By achieving local revenue collection target, the city government is able to sustain its operational expenditures on its programs and projects.

According to City Treasurer Jessie P. Batchar, this achievement is a primary effect of the effective implementation of the Local Revenue Code. The city revenue code was amended in 2012 and was fully implemented this year.

Among the collection strategies that the office employs, Paclibar cited the conduct of house-to-house tax bills distribution and house-to-house collection as an effective means to achieve collection efficiency. “Sometimes it is not enough to just post notices. We have to reach out, and we do it in a very professional manner,” Paclibar said.

The office also continues to enhance its tax education campaign in coordination with schools and barangays in the city. “We conduct our campaign throughout the year, asking time slots during barangays’ general assembly and parents-teachers meetings,” Paclibar added.

Tax revenues include real property tax and business and other taxes while non-tax revenues include regulatory fees, service or user charges, and receipts from economic enterprises and other fees.

The office expects to increase the collection efficiency in the remaining days of FY 2013.

Jezereel Louise C. Billano (LGU-Information)

PIA Director General: Maximize social media for nation-building

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena challenged 76 information officers of local government units and national line agencies in Region XII to take full advantage of social media for nation-building.

DG Oquiñena was the keynote speaker during the opening program of PIA XII’s 3-day Seminar-Workshop on e-newsletter Production in General Santos City, 6 November 2013.

DG Oquiñena said that it is important to reach out to the online community and mobilize people for social good. According to him, the increasing trend of Internet and social media users in the country is a good reason for government offices to strengthen their online presence. This will allow government offices through its information officers to share timely information that will be helpful in empowering people and communities. He also emphasized the importance of stepping up the quality of content uploaded to government websites and social media accounts.

Moreover, DG Oquiñena encouraged information officers to share good stories that would build the hopes of the ‘successor generation’. "We write to inspire people..and to let the young generation see that there is hope for our country," said DG Oquiñena.

PIA XII organized the seminar-workshop to refresh/orient information officers on the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools that will be beneficial in strengthening each agency’s online presence through e-newsletters, social media networks, etc. Among the topics were  eNewsletter design and layout; eNewsletter using online templates; maximizing use of new media for government information and development communication; disseminating e-newsletter via hosting sites and maximizing Twitter, FB, blogs, etc.

Resource speakers were PIA Central Visayas Regional Director Minerva Neuman and PIA Cebu Information Center Manager Rachelle Nessia. (Jezereel Louise C. Billano-LGU Information)

Tacurong’s Most Outstanding Coops recognized in Cooperative Month culmination

Cooperatives all over Tacurong City gathered last October 31, 2013 as they finish the month-long celebration of the Coop Month held at the city gymnasium. About 17 cooperatives joined the occasion as well as the other activities held the entire month.

In the culmination, several cooperatives stood out and named Most Outstanding Cooperative 2013 in their respective categories. These are the following: Sultan Kudarat State University MPC (Medium Category); North Tacurong Teachers & Employees MPC (Small Category); and Sultan Kudarat Multi Cab Operators MPC (Micro Category). Certificates of recognition were also given to the volunteer doctors and nurses during the cooperative medical services – one of the activities for the coop month.

Sangguniang Panlungsod Member and Chairman of Committee on Cooperative, Hon. Joselito L. Cajandig, Sr. mentioned in his message that the celebration of this event is a good indicator that cooperatives are alive and kicking in the city of Tacurong. Assistant Regional Director (CDA-KEO) Engr, Doreen Ancheta, meanwhile, emphasized in her inspirational message the value of cooperatives in creating good change in the society thus reducing the poverty rate in the country – which is the focus of this year’s theme: Cooperative paves the way for inclusive growth.

Mr. Nestor C. Leguro, City Cooperative Officer, expressed his congratulations to all winners and thanked everyone who has been part of the success of the Coop Month 2013.

The culminating activity continued with the giving of prizes for winners of the ball games, an open forum, and parlor games participated by the members of the different cooperatives. (Ariesha Faith Martinez Dimaano)

Tacurong CPOC members meet ahead of Undas observance

Mayor Lina Montilla convened yesterday the members of the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) in an effort to beef up the security ahead of the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day in Tacurong City.

Said meeting was also the local government’s compliance to Memorandum Circular No. 2013-123 issued by DILG Secretary Mar Roxas directing all local chief executives of Local Government Units (LGU) to “implement necessary measures towards a peaceful and meaningful observance of Undas 2013”. 

The CPOC meeting inside the Conference Room of the Office of the City Mayor was attended by Tacurong City Chief of Police Supt. Junny Buenacosa, 601^st Deputy Brigade Commander Lt. Col. Dece Yabo, Vice Mayor Joseph Lechonsito, Councilors Rodrigo Jamorabon and Psyche Sucaldito, Liga ng mga Barangay President Silvestre Llanto, City Administrator Eduardo Nicolo, and Local Government Operations Officer Alberto Sero, Jr. among others.

Supt. Buenacosa presented to the council the security plan that was already implemented on the eve of Undas. Deployment and mobilization of law enforcers, tanods, rescuers, and medical teams in all public places and critical areas, and most especially in the cemeteries were among the priorities presented.

The chief of police also informed the public that some traffic rerouting will be done and the main road going to the public cemetery in New Isabela will be closed to vehicles to avoid traffic congestion.

Only those tricycles rented by the city government and are offering free rides are allowed to go around the cemetery roads.

Meanwhile, the public is enjoined to abide by some of the prohibited acts during Undas, especially the bringing of deadly weapons, drinking, and gambling inside the cemeteries. (Allan Freno)

BLT parents learn key steps in food sanitation

Parents of Busog Lusog Talino (BLT) Program beneficiaries in Josue Alcasid Elementary School, Brgy. Baras, Tacurong City learned five key steps in food sanitation during the Food Handlers Class conducted on October 25, 2013.

BLT parents cook and prepare the food of 40 schoolchildren for the daily feeding program that is why Mr. Marlow Buenacosa, Head of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Section of the Office for City Health Services, reminded them of these five steps: 1) maging malinis; 2) ihiwalay ang hilaw sa luto; 3) lutuing mabuti ang pagkain; 4) panatilihing nasa ligtas na temperature ang pagkain; at 5) gumamit ng malinis at ligtas na tubig at mga sangkap sa pagluluto.  

Buenacosa also stressed on the importance of proper hand-washing in observing good hygiene and proper food handling. “Ini nga programa, gihiwat para mabusog kag magmaayo ang lawas sang kabataan ta pero kung hindi tama ang pagpreparar sang pagkaon nila, mahimo pa sila nga masakiton,” Mr. Buenacosa said.

The city government of Tacurong, Jollibee Foundation’s local implementing partner for BLT program in the city, sees the need to conduct activities that would guide the BLT parents in the fulfillment of their role in the program. “We need to sustain the commitment of parents for the health of our pupils,” Principal Ronnie Formacion said.

LGU-Tacurong provides ingredients and recipes weekly while BLT program coordinators and principals in each school supervise the daily feeding.

“Daku ang pasalamat namon sa BLT kay damu kami nabal-an nga bag-o, mga recipe nga healthy para sa mga bata, mga natun-an nga hindi mabaydan,” said Mrs. Tessie Corpuz, BLT coordinator of Josue Alcasid Elementary School.

The Food Handlers Class will also be conducted in three other school beneficiaries in Tacurong come first week of November 2013.

The BLT program aims to work with local government units nationwide to feed 40 of each school’s Grade 1 and 2 pupils identified as wasted and severely wasted. Pupils are fed daily or 136 days within a school year.

Jezereel Louise C. Billano (LGU-Information)

B.I.T.E.S. among Top 8 Inter-local Health Zone nationwide

Inter-Local Health Zone composed of Bagumbayan, Isulan, Tacurong, Esperanza, and Sen. Ninoy Aquino (B.I.T.E.S.) was adjudged as one of the Top 8 health clusters in the country for year 2012.

          

An evaluation team from the Department of Health (DOH) Central Office conducted a site evaluation on 21 October 2013. Evaluators Dr. Anthony Kho, Ma. Olga Bulasa, and Janice Feliciano shared their observations and insights in an exit conference conducted on 22 October 2013 in Palm Bistro, Tacurong City. Present during the conference were Bagumbayan Mayor Bernardita Bitoonon, Isulan Mayor Diosdado Pallasigue, Tacurong City Mayor Lina O. Montilla, and Esperanza Mayor Helen Latog.

During the conference, DOH evaluators stressed the importance of program documentation and the role of policy-makers in sustaining the efforts of B.I.T.E.S.

          

B.I.T.E.S. was also lauded for its program in ensuring availability of blood supply for the improvement of maternal health in the province of Sultan Kudarat. This program is in support of the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goal #5—improvement of maternal health by reducing maternal mortality.

         

B.I.T.E.S. works with the Philippine Red Cross to provide immediate and free blood supply to indigent mothers in their area of coverage.   

Through B.I.T.E.S., a number of private hospitals entered into a memorandum of agreement with local government units granting indigent patients for OB and surgical services with No Balance Billing or NBB. For each patient, BITEs pays P3,000.00 to private hospitals.

Mayors and health officers of B.I.T.E.S. hold quarterly meetings to discuss health concerns in their areas and decide on solutions. They also hold emergency and special meetings to discuss urgent concerns on health system and delivery.

The national winner for 2012 Best Inter-Local Health Zone will be announced on November 2013 while awarding ceremonies will be held on December 11, 2013. (Jezereel Louise C. Billano-LGU Tacurong Information)

TACEAn Nueva Gracia Alog crowned Hiyas ng PSEAS 2013

Ms. Nueva Gracia Alog, a member of the Tacurong City Employees Association (TACEA), was crowned Hiyas ng PSEAS 2013 among 12 candidates representing employees associations of municipal, city, and provincial government units in Region XII.

The pageant was part of the socio-cultural celebration of the 13^th Foundation Anniversary of the PSEAS or Public Sector Employees Alliance in SOCSKSARGEN on 18 October 2013 in Coco Beach, Glan, Sarangani.

Alog seized the crown with her wit and grace especially during the final interview. To the question “Are you in favor of death penalty as punishment for public servants who will be found guilty of graft and corruption?” Alog answered “No. Though they have committed such sin, I still do not believe they deserve death as a punishment. I still believe in life. But definitely, we are after their imprisonment”. Alog, 31, was the second TACEAn to win the title. Hiyas ng PSEAS 2012 was TACEAn Ma. Teresa Dinero.

TACEAns were unstoppable in showing their support for Alog during the event. “Everytime I hear the applause of my fellow TACEANs, I felt more confident walking on that stage,” she said. In her speech before LGU-Tacurong employees on 21 October 2013, Ms. Alog was all tears while thanking the city government and her family for the support that gave her the drive to excel in the competition.

“Now that I am Hiyas, I can say that I have accomplished something and have proven my worth not just as an individual but as a part of the TACEA and LGU-Tacurong family,” the newly crowned Hiyas 2013 said.

The representative of the General Santos City Employees Association was declared 1^st runner-up while the Sarangani Province Employes Union representative was declared second runner-up. Others who made it to Top 5 were T’boli Rank and File Employees Association (3^rdrunner-up) and Tupi Local Government Employees Association (4^thrunner-up).

This year’s pageant was open to PSEAS union members who are 30 years old and above.

Aside from conquering the Hiyas ng PSEAS 2013, TACEA also ruled the dance floor during the Pop Dance Competition. TACEA Dance Crew was declared as Pop Dance Champion, beating 9 other contenders.

“This success means so much to TACEA since we value each member’s involvement in all our endeavors,” TACEA President Amelia Bochorno said.

PSEAS Socio-Cultural Competition is conducted every two years. 

PSEAS is an alliance of 24 public sector employee unions in Region XII.   Jezereel Louise C. Billano

Senator Guingona gives educational assistance to college students in Sultan Kudarat

Around 1,500 students enrolled in different campuses of Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) have availed of educational assistance from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of Senator Teofisto Guingona III for the first semester of school year 2013-2014. Senator Guingona allocated P10 Million Pesos for 2,000 student beneficiaries in the Province of Sultan Kudarat. Each student will receive not more than P5, 000.00 assistance.

The beneficiaries of the educational assistance are students residing in the municipalities of Isulan, Bagumbayan, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Bagumbayan, Kalamansig, Lebak, President Quirino, and Lambayong. Students residing in the City of Tacurong were also among the beneficiaries. The city government under Mayor Lina Montilla is the implementing Local Government Unit of said educational assistance.

Another 500 students who will enroll at SKSU in second semester of this school year are expected to avail of the remaining funds intended for the educational assistance.

Utilization of Senator Guingona’s educational aid to the beneficiaries is authorized by the Department of Budget and Management under SARO No. G-13-00691.

E-Bamboo Processing Center launched in Tacurong

             The Talakudong Bamboo Craft Makers Association was one of the recipients of Department of Trade and Industry’s project dubbed as “Shared Service Facility (SSF)” – through the E-Bamboo processing center – for MSMEs which was launched last October 14, 2013 at Villarde Compound, San Pablo, Tacurong City.

            Attended by members of the Talakudong bamboo producers and processors, regional and provincial representatives from DTI, and representatives from the local government unit of Tacurong, the launch put emphasis on the proponent-cooperator-beneficiary partnership as well as the advantages and opportunities derived from having the facilities provided for MSME’s such as the pole cutter, twin ripsaw, and treatment vat.

           Ma. Teresa T. Chua, Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist of DTI Region XII, said in her inspirational message that if the association manages to progress with the primary equipment given,  they could extend help for product development through trainings in order for them to be competent in the market.

              After the presentation of equipment and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement, President of Talakudong Producers and Processors Gerry Palmes expressed his appreciation and thanks as this assistance would mark a good change in the industry they are in. Furthermore, Josephine M. Ubaldo, Community Training and Employment Coordinator, said that financial assistance may be given when development is observed.

         The total cost for the equipment is said to be Php 400,000.00. (Ariesha Faith Martinez Dimaano)

Senior Citizens culminate Elderly Week Celebration

              A total of 687 participants from all 20 barangays in Tacurong City took part in the conclusion of the Elderly Week. Through the partnership of the Federation of Senior Citizens Association and the local government, the event pushed through last October 8, 2013, at the Tacurong City Gymnasium with the theme: “Nakatatanda Pagtulungang Isulong Benepisyo’t Karapatan Tungo sa Masaya at Masaganang Pamayanan.”

              The whole-day activity started with a holy mass followed by an opening program attended by key officials and guests. Present in the said program were: Violeta S. Muyuela, Office of Senior Citizens Head; Eufemia L. Robles, City Social Welfare and Development Head; Lilia Pama, Federation of Senior Citizens Association Head; Hon. Remus P. Segura, City Councilor; Hon. Charito L. Collado, SP Chairman on Social Services; and Hon. Lina O. Montilla, Tacurong City Mayor.

            Mayor Montilla, in her inspirational message, emphasized the value of providing appropriate facilities and services to senior citizens. She further said that projects that cater to the welfare of the elderly shall be continued – putting emphasis on the free blood chemistry tests that will be implemented next year. The development of the senior citizen center was also mentioned, together with the improvement of identification cards for availing special services. According to Mayor Montilla, this is how the government shall give back to the contribution of this sector to the city of goodwill.

              The event continued as senior citizens from the different barangays showcased their talents in the song solo, song duet, skit-drama, folk dance, and chorus presentations. (Ariesha Faith Martinez Dimaano)

Team Tacurong bags overall championship in taekwondo regional tourney

Tacurong City continues to solidify its elite status in the region’s taekwondo circle.

Eight taekwondo jins won gold medals in the contact sparring of the tournament dubbed 2^nd Department of Education Region XII Inter-School Taekwondo Championship and Team Standard Poomsae held at SM City in General Santos on October 6, 2013.

The gold medals amassed by the team were good enough to declare Tacurong as the overall champion in the tournament participated by more than 100 players coming from other parts of the region including South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani, and General Santos City. The team got the overall championship despite not having participated in the standard poomsae events.

The gold medalists were: Charles Naecolt Saavedra (playing coach), Andrea Camille Origenes, Hannah Mikaela Bochorno, Jane Marie Oderette Dañozo, Eric James Bedia, Regine Marie Paba, Alfredo de Tomas, and Jetro Castro.

Four other Tacurong players bagged silver medals, while four more settled for bronzes.

The players who battled for the gold medal matches but failed short and settled for silver medals were Kiana Andrea Mirador, Kurt Sheldon Gacho, Florence Ann Mogan, and Zayton Mamasalido. Bronze medalists included Vassili Purazo, Jomer Sotto, Maxine Jayna Palpalatoc, Jan Dexter dela Fuente, and John Daniel Espino.

In the said tournament, the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) Region 12-A collaborated for the second time with the Department of Education (DepEd) headed by Regioanl Director Allan Farnazo.

PTA Regional Director Robert Joshua Danao said that their Association’s tie up with the DepEd is beneficial to the players’ training preparations especially those who aspire to play for the Cotabato Regional Athletic Association (CRAA) annual tournament and eventually the Palarong Pambansa.

City Councilor and Tacurong City Taekwondo Coordinator Rodrigo Jamorabon also appreciated the collaboration between the PTA and the DepEd. “The two institutions should be working closely since most young players trained by the various taekwondo clubs in the region are those who mostly play for their schools too,” he said.

After Team Tacurong’s successful campaign in the last tournament, players are already gearing up to defend their title. The pressure is huge since the next scheduled tournament in November will be hosted by the city government of Tacurong.

“Foremost, we are always after with the quality of our players’ performance every tournament because the improvement they show in each tournament gives them chances to become scholars when they go to college and to eventually play on bigger tournaments. Any time we get the championship title, we take it as a big bonus,” Jamorabon added.

Jamorabon is also thankful to the continued support of Mayor Lina Montilla in sports and youth development. “The annual budget allocated by the city government for various sports disciplines including taekwondo is a proof of that support,” he said. (by Allan Freno, LGU Tacurong Information)

LGU-Tacurong personnel under job order contract undergo orientation

About 150 personnel under job order contract in the local government participated and took part on the orientation/reorientation spearheaded by the City Human Resource Management Office of Tacurong last September 24-26 and October 1-2, 2013. This event was a five-batch activity scheduled for the different offices in the LGU and was held at the conference room of the Association of Barangay Council Hall.

The said orientation envisions to provide newly-hired employees of the essential information regarding Tacurong City, inform them about the policies and regulations being implemented by the city government for conformity, and lastly mold them into better citizens of the City of Goodwill. As for old job order employees, the reorientation was a refresher of the information and subject matters discussed.

Five major topics were discussed during the orientation: the history of Tacurong City; the official seal of the Tacurong – its symbol and its meaning; the local government unit policies; the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) and Citizen’s Charter; and public service excellence.

This is an annual activity conducted by the CHRM Office headed by Mrs. Nenita G. Albito, MPA. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano)