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Abra farmers press DA: Address our concerns

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BANGUED, Abra -- Over  1,000 farmers and fisherfolk  here recently urged the Dept. of Agriculture to respond to their needs and concerns, in a forum in commemoration of Farmers’ Day with DA- Cordillera regional executive director Lorenzo Caranguian.
Farmers said they wanted immediate response for concerns like slope protection for eroded soil in riverside of Pidigan, small scale irrigation system for unirrigated garlic and ginger farms in Danglas and other towns, instgallation of concrete footings on muddy farms and paddocks, and water control system to limit excessive spring water flow in Abang, Bucay.
The DA awarded one  4-wheel drive tractor amounting over P900,000 to Dolores town under DA rice banner program and one   4-wheel drive tractor worth over P2,000,000 to provincial government under the DA corn banner program during the event.
Gov, Maria Jocelyn Bernos meanwhile told farmers that they will visit farms which were not yet included in their Biyaheng Bukid, a program the provincial government adapted from DA.
Other activities held for the farmers were raffle, bingo, parlor games, karerakit and horse racing. La Paz won the Best Kuliglig Float.
Also  present in the event which was part of Abra centennial celebration were  regional director Lilibeth L. Signey of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources who shared programs and projects for the fisherfolk  and vice governor Ronald Balao-as who welcomed visitors  and participants. -- Ginalyn B. Brioso



Ifugao town bans half-naked men in public places

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By Marcelo B. Lihgawon

LAMUT, Ifugao -- Going out half-naked or shirtless  in public places in this municipality is now prohibited with the approved “Anti-Ussub” (naked) ordinance.
Lamut, as the gateway municipality of the province, must set an example of orderliness, propriety and decency, local officials said in an ordinance they recently approved.
“The Sangguniang Bayan recognizes the need to bring about an atmosphere of decency to uphold higher morals and standards among the residents of the municipality. It has been observed that some people still roam around in public places oftentimes  shirtless or half-naked.
“It shall be unlawful for a half-naked or topless individual to drive any motorized or mechanical mode of transportation; walk or roam around national highway, enter offices and in attending or during public/social gatherings or programs except during cultural, government activities and traditional practices involving the wearing of the native attire,” the local law said.
Any person apprehended for violating the ordinance shall be penalized  P500 or undergo eight hours community service.
A penalty of P1,000 was set for for  second offense and P1,500  for third violation or imprisonment of not more than 10 days upon discretion of the court or both.


POLICE ROUNDUP

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Body found along Baguio Camp 8 road
BAGUIO CITY – A man’s body was found here around 6 a.m., March 12 on a road parapet here at Purok 3, Barangay Camp 8. The cadaver was later identified as that of Amorsolo Sabawil Mata-ag, 35, laborer, resident of Bontoc Village in the area. The body was discovered and reported by residents at the area. Police have yet to determine cause of Mata-ag’s death. 

Government employee shot dead in Villaviciosa
VILLAVICIOSA, Abra – A government employee was shot dead here Tuesday around 2:45 p.m. in Barangay Tuquib by still unidentified persons. Police identified the victim as Jonathan Salimbay Lagen, 31, married, resident of same place. 
Around 8 a.m.  earlier that day, the victim together with Jojo Lallita, Jay Lagen and Adelyn Lagen went to their farm to build a tobacco curing barn and left the place between 1:30 to 2 p.m. to get additional tools at their house. However, at about 2:45 p.m., Isagani, brother of Jonathan, found the victim lying along the pathway of a farm with blood oozing from his body. The victim had a gunshot wound on his chest that caused his instant death. No fired cartridge case was recovered from crime site.

Thief steals phone, demands P5,000 in exchange, nabbed
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – An alleged thief was arrested here Tuesday mid noon for transacting with the owner of a phone he reportedly stole that he would return the gadget if we was paid P5,000. 
A police report said Ronald Galvan Soriano, 30, single, vendor, of Purok 1, Irisan Baguio City was nabbed  at the waiting shed in front of La Trinidad Municipal Hall on complaint of Kevin Lander Gaoyen Chunchunen, 26 .
The report said the victim’s cousin, Charly Khane Hope Chunchunen Maganon, 21 told police her cousin’s Lenovo cell phone and cash amounting to P3,000 was stolen by unidentified person in Baguio City. After the said phone was stolen, the victim’s cousin and sister contacted its number and the suspect replied telling them to produce P5,000 in exchange of the phone.
They agreed to meet in front of La Trinidad municipal hall. Charly Kane then asked assistance from police. SPO2 Morris Balay-odao and other cops. They saw the suspect and Henesy Gaoyen Chunchunen, sister of the victim transacting and arrested the suspect. According to the suspect, he bought the said phone from an unidentified female. A case was prepared against Soriano for filing at the prosecutor’s office.

Man arrested for attempted murder
BANGUED, Abra – Cops arrested a man here Tuesday in Barangay Zone 7 for attempted murder. Arrested was Bernabe Garcia Bandillas, 34, single, unemployed, of Sitio Budac, Barangay An-anaao, Tayum town. Warrant of Arrest was issued by Judge Raphiel F Alzate, of RTC, Branch 1, Bangued, Abra who set bail of P5,000 for his temporary liberty.
The arrested person is now under the custody of Bangued police.

P200K bail set for man in illegal drugs case
STA. MARCELA, Apayao – Cops arrested a certain Jerry Usita Pablo in his residence here at Barangay Panay after Judge Francisco S. Donato of RTC, Branch 33 at Ballesteros, Cagayan issued warrant against him for violation of Republic Act 9165(illegal drugs). Donato set fixed bail of P200,000 for Pablo’s  temporary liberty. The accused was turned over to Ballesteros police.

Alarm and scandal lands man in jail
ATOK, Benguet – Cops arrested Serafin Masiong Fianza, 27, , farmer, here of Bekes, Paoay after Judge Danilo P. Camacho of RTC, Branch 62, La Trinidad, Benguet issued warrant against him for alarm and scandal, setting bail of P140,000 for his temporary liberty. Fianza was jailed at Atok police station.

Judge sets P100K bail for arrested laborer
BAUKO, Mountain Province – A laborer was nabbed here Tuesday at Soyokna, Sengyew for violation of Republic Act 7610. The suspect was named as Basilio Songotan Caligtan, 63, here of Pactil, Monamon Sur.
Judge Joseph Patnaan of RTC, Branch 35, Bontoc, Mountain Province issued warrant for his arrest setting bail of P100,000 for his temporary liberty.

Widow nabbed for 3 counts of estafa
BAGUIO CITY – A widow was nabbed here along Abanao Road Tuesday for estafa. Arrested was Maria Ditas Veron Espejo aka Ditas Espejo Enriquez, 57, self-employed, of Purok Dumilos, Tuding, Itogon, Benguet.
This after judges Maria Ligaya V. Itliong Rivera and Edilberto T. Claravall, both of Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region Branch 5, Baguio City issued arrest warrant against her for separate estafa cases. , issued on January 22, 2016 and issued by Hon Judge Edilberto T. Claraval, Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region Branch 60, Baguio. Bail of P100,00 for each case was set by both judges for her temporary liberty.
Espejo was detained at the city jail for females. While in jail later that day, police served arrest warrant against her for another case of estafa as ordered by Judge Emmanuel Cacho Rasing who set bail of P40,000.

Farmer lands in jail for robbery with violence
BAGUIO CITY – A farmer was arrested here Tuesday along Shanum Street for robbery with violence. The suspect was identified as Gervin Dacmeg Capacap, 29, of MD- 436 Balite Long Long, La Trinidad Benguet. Judge Ivan Kim B. Morales, Regional Trial Court, Branch 59, Baguio City who issued his arrest warrant set bail of P100,000 for his temporary liberty.

15-year-old nabbed for frustrated murder 
MANKAYAN, Benguet – A 15-year-old was arrested Tuesday here at Tubo, Sapid for frustrated murder. Arrested was Ferria Tumbaga Domongit aka Taya-an, of Mansanita, Ipil, Tabuk City. The suspect was  arrested after Judge Sergio T. Angnganay, of RTC, branch 64, Buguias, Benguet issued warrant and set bail fixed at P200,000.

Farmer, 63, accused of sexual abuse
ASIPULO, Ifugao – A 23 year-old single female here of Bila, Namal complained to police against one Victor Puddunan, 62, married, farmer resident of same address for sexual abuse.
Investigation disclosed that at about 12 noon of Sept. 19, 2007 when the victim and her three younger brothers were all asleep inside their room she was awakened when she felt that somebody was caressing her breasts.
The suspect continued caressing her breasts until she forcibly removed the suspect’s hand. Victim also revealed Puddunan touched her legs sometime on February 2008 inside her boarding house. She did not reveal the incident to her mother and older brothers and sisters out of fear. Case was referred to Prosecutor’s office of Lagawe, Ifugao.

Itogon building housing school canteens burned
ITOGON, Benguet – A building housing school canteens was burned here Tuesday around 7:30  p.m. at Saint Luis High School, Skyview, Virac,  The burned single-storey structure was made up of light materials being rented as school canteens by  Mercy Cunanan Nakihid, 55, widow; Rachel Busoy Ricardo, 46 and Mary Labinio.
Personnel of Itogon police, fire, environment personnel and Benguet Corp Safety Department responded and declared fire out around 9 p.m. The cause of fire and cost of damages were still being determined at press time. No one was injured person during the incident. According to  Nakihid and Ricardo, they closed and left their respective canteens at about 4 same date.
Richard Gorio Gingino, 51, driver of Fr. Manny Pannayo and convent maintenance worker said he noticed smoke coming out from the center part of the structure prompting him to call the attention of Father Panayo and informed teachers at their quarters.  Gingino and the teachers tried to suppress the fire but it spread fast.

Farmer arrested for firing gun threatens cops
KABAYAN, Benguet -- A farmer was arrested for illegal possession of firearm after he allegedly fired his gun near a wake here Monday at Sa-ngal, Bashoy. Suspect Walter Pasigon Tagure, 36, of Sayokong, Adaoay, while in the custody of the police also threatened cops.
Confiscated from Tagure was a Cal.45 pistol, two empty magazines, one black hip holster and one brown leather magazine pouch. Tagure served his sentence at New Bilibid Prison for the same offence in 2006 to 2008.

Two men nabbed for illegal logs
LAGAWE, Ifugao -- Two men were arrested after they failed to present documents to support their transport of lumber here at Sitio Attandi Monday night.
Prior to their arrest, a concerned citizen informed police illegal lumber will be transported from Barangay Munggayang, Kiangan to Poblacion South, Lagawe.
Immediately, Lagawe police set up a checkpoint and flagged down a dump truck driven by Romel A. Angel, 42, and his helper identified as Kenneth Ilanan Dumapi, 22. Pieces of lumber seized from them were brought to Ifugao provincial police office along with the suspects who were questioned on their “illegal operation.”
Charges are set to be filed against them in court.

2 die as trikes ram barra tree
MANAOAG, Pangasinan -- Rodel Ramos, 35, and Rey de Vera, 38, died when their motorcycles rammed a narra tree and steel railings here in Barangay Lelemaan and Magalong in Mabini, respectively. 

Baguio City PDEA  entrapment nets 4
BAGUIO CITY -- Two alleged members of a local drug group and two others were arrested by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Cordillera agents here in a buy-bust operation inside a hotel room along Kisad Road early last week.
Nalyn (not her real name), 33, of Crystal Cave, was nabbed when she reportedly sold shabu worth P3,000 to a PDEA operative.
Also arrested during the entrapment were alias Alma, 40, also of Crystal Cave; a certain Wilma,  39, of Labsan,  and Clifford Lacambra Remolar, 48 of QM Subdivision, a drug surrenderee.
Confiscated during the operation were four sachets containing suspected shabu, the buy-bust money and several drug paraphernalia.
The suspects, now detained in PDEA jail facility will be facing cases for illegal drugs.

Veggie porter nabbed for shabu
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Police and narcotics agents arrested a vegetable porter in his boarding house along here km 5, Barangay Pico morning of March 9.
The suspect identified as Mark John Curameng Riquizo, also known as John John , 22, allegedly sold shabu to a cop who acted as buyer that led to his arrest. Shabu and buy-bust money worth P500 were confiscated from his possession.

3 Tabuk illegal log transporters arrested
TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- Three log transporters were arrested after they were flagged down here at Hilltop, Bulo night of March 9.
Arrested were drivers Christian Bula-ay Benito, 38 and Fredy Bulaquit Dinanas, 36 including Amado Acgao Carlos, 28, all farmers and residents here of Barangay Cudal, Tabuk. Benito and Bulaquit were driving an Isuzu Elf, Mitsubishi Elf Canter and a Ford Fiera loaded with undetermined number of sawn lumber covered with black canvas going to Bulo, when they were flagged down.
Suspects failed to present necessary documents for the transport of said lumber that led to their arrest.
All suspects are now in jail while charges are being prepared against them in court.

Man arrested for shooting 2 victims 
PARACELIS, Mountain Province -- Police arrested a suspect identified as Rolly Macalling Samoy “aka” Along in his residence here at Sitio Mabaclao, Bantay night of March 8, for allegedly shooting two individuals in the area.
Samoy allegedly shot Lester Bumangit Ayagan, 31, farmer, hitting his head and right leg and also shot Mark Nachorpig Longid who was buying in the store but missed. The victim was brought by their neighbors to Paracelis District Hospital for medication but later referred to Tabuk Provincial Hospital.
Police got two empty shells of Cal. 22 and the firearm allegedly used by the suspect described as Cal.22 long barrel with black sling and one empty magazine in crime site.

Miner nabbed for firing gun
BAGUIO CITY -- Police arrested a miner along Magsaysay Road, here after he fired his handgun along the road at Bagto Side, Ucab, Itogon, Benguet night of March 8.
Prior to his arrest, suspect Yurie Nasudchian Naayao, 40, miner, of Bagto Side fired his gun along the road and rode a passenger jeep bound to Baguio.
The suspect was arrested with the help of a concerned citizen who pointed to the suspect as the culprit. A Cal .38 gun loaded with five bullets and one spent shell for Cal .38 were confiscated from his possession.

Thieves steal P250K,expensive laptop
BAGUIO CITY – Still unidentified thieves stole P250,000 collection money of an establishment here  and Del laptop valued at  P25,000
March 12 around 1 to 3 a.m. Police said the incident happened at the administration building of Baguio City Science Foundation at No. 6 Old Forestry Engineers Hill Barangay.
Complainant was Michelle R. Velasco, 39, resident of the building. Investigation disclosed the thieves entered the compound through the main gate then switched off the circuit breaker at the stairs and forcibly removed three jalousie glasses and entered the building. The robbers then took the cash money placed in the wooden drawer including the short circuit television (CCTV) monitoring laptop.
According to the caretaker of the establishment, Rosevemar Tamondong, 24, also resident of the building, she discovered the burglary around 5:30 a.m. after noticing the circuit breaker was switched off.

Two men mauled in Baguio’s Brookspoint
BAGUIO CITY – Two residents of Barangay Brooks Point here were mauled by two men without reason around 9 p.m. of March 11. Police named one victim as Cyrell Ganipis Padua, 33, who was mauled along the road by Jonas and Mark Anthony, both surnamed Sanchez and both residents of the area.  
Investigation disclosed the victim and his companion identified as  Henry Flores were walking along the road when they met the Sanchezes Without any reason, Anthony punched and kicked Flores but the latter managed to dodge the blows of the suspect. The incident was followed by an argument wherein Padua tried to pacify the two. The Sanchezes took turns punching Padua causing hematoma on his right eye and nasal bone fracture as reflected in medico-legal certificate duly signed by Dr. Josephine Ann P. Ramos of Baguio General Hospital. A case was filed against the suspects for physical injuries.





Baguio lawyer found dead inside apartment

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BAGUIO CITY – A lawyer’s body was discovered here inside a house located at No. 70 Lower Kitma, Bakakeng Central Tuesday around 7:40 p.m.
                The body was identified as that of Manuel Zamora Dominguez, 54, single, resident of the house. His body was found by his sister Cristina Zamora Dominguez, 63, single, resident of Parisas Compound, Bakakeng.
Cristina told police she last saw her brother alive when she visited him Monday around 8 p.m. and gave him food for dinner.
                She said around 7:40 p.m. on Tuesday, she visited him again and found her brother sprawled on the floor.
               She tried to shake his brother but noticed that he was not responding and breathing thus she called out for help. 
                Police investigation showed no signs of forcible entry at the apartment of the dead lawyer while his personal belongings were all found intact.
                There were no visible signs of external injuries on the body.

                The cadaver was brought to Saint Peter’s Funeral Home, here along km 4, Marcos Highway, around 10 p.m. for autopsy and embalming. 

Ms Agoo crowned Mutya Ti La Union in star-studded show

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AGOO, La Union -- For the 6th consecutive year, a beauty from Agoo, Ms. Carina Cariño, continues the winning streak when she was crowned Mutia Ti La Union 2017 here last week in a star-studded show.
                Former title holders from Agoo were Aiyanna Camille Mikiewicz (2012), Kimberle Mae Penchon (2013), Maria Heide Ronato (2014), Alessandra Casimiro (2015) and Trizha Ocampo (2016).
                Cariño is also the daughter of former Mutia ti La Union 1987, Nora Gebilaguin- Cariño, who won exactly 30 years ago.
                The event was celebrated with star-studded showbiz personalities such as the hosts for the show, Boy Abunda and Aiai delas Alas and judged by Jasmine Curtis- Smith, Rep. Geraldine Roman, Albert Martinez, Dr. Hayden Kho and Miss Universe 2015, Ms. Pia Wurtzbach.
                Cariño also won other awards such as Miss Sillag, Miss Beautiful Skin and Best in Evening Gown in the competition.

                Other major awards next to the Mutia Ti La Union crown are Mutia Ti Turismo, Ms. Shawntel Michole Cruz from Sto. Tomas, and Mutia Ti Kalikasan, Ms. Ranzee Kayle Bantiding from Pugo, 1st Runner Up, Ms. Katherine Joy Adona from Balaoan and 2nd Runner Up, Ms. Darlene Mae Caoile from Luna.

44 nabbed, 21 guns, P120K shabu taken in Ilocos

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By Myds Supnad

CAMP FLORENDO, San Fernando City La Union – Barely a week after assuming as Region 1 police director, Chief Supt.  Charlo C. Collado has scored major breakthrough in campaign against illegal drugs and loose guns with arrest of 44 persons, confiscation of 21 illegal guns and P120,000 worth of shabu, it was reported here last week.
Collado said the arrest and confiscation of illegal guns are drugs were made in coordination with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
                 In Pug-os, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, Senior Supt Rey de Peralta,  police director, reported Cherry Ann Sinco, alleged leader of Casin drug group, was arrested after police confiscated from her five sachets of shabu in  buy-bust operation.
                In another report, Peralta said Man-man Olivar of Daclapan, Cabugao also yielded two sachets of shabu.

Meanwhile, 13 persons were arrested for having in their possession illegally cut logs while eight other persons were nabbed for illegal gambling.  

New RDC chair to prioritize Cordillera dev’t, autonomy

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By Redjie Melvic Cawis and Karen Valle Copa

BAGUIO CITY-- Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan vowed to prioritize  development of Cordillera with the quest for regional autonomy as he seats as  new  chairman of the Cordillera Regional Development Council.
President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed recently Domogan as new RDC chair.
                “The development of the region will be prioritized, all the needs and concerns of each of the provinces in the region will be studied and will be prioritized,” Domogan said.
                He added he will be working with local government units and line agencies to ensure that concerns of the region in terms of development and progress will be attained.
                Domogan  said development of the region is  a major reason for quest for regional autonomy.
                He added support to Cordillera autonomy is also in line with the aspiration for federalism by the President.
                He added pronouncements by President Duterte of his support to regional autonomy were relayed by presidential peace adviser  Sec.  Jesus Dureza in  Tabuk City, Kalinga.
                Meanwhile, National Economic and Development Authority-CAR Regional Director Milagros Rimando said appointment of Domogan as new RDC chairman would be good for the Cordillera.
                “Aside from the friendship of President Duterte and Mayor Domogan, the strong political ties of both leaders would be advantageous for the development and attainment of autonomy of the Cordillera region,” Rimando said.

                She added that Domogan’s leadership as RDC chairman would be complementary as he also leads the Regional Peace and Order Council.  

House edict stops Halsema toll despite DPWH opposition

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By Erlindo Agwilang Jr.

TUBLAY, Benguet -- Despite opposition from the Department of Public Works and Highways and a Cordillera congressmen, the special committee on North Luzon Growth Quadrangle approved House Bill 4570, a measure seeking to abolish the Baguio-Bontoc Halsema Highway National Toll Road and terminating the collection of toll fees therein.
                Principal sponsor Mountain Province Rep. Maximo B. Dalog said there was need to unburden motorists particularly farmers regularly using the route along this town to transport vegetables and farm products from toll fee collection, which he believed is actually being collected redundantly considering that the motor vehicle user’s charge is also being imposed by the government to motor vehicle owners.
                Of  28 committee members, only Baguio Rep. Mark O. Go was opposed to the measure saying there was no compelling reason to terminate the collection of fees.
                Although in favor, Reps. Ronald M. Cosalan of Benguet and Allen Jesse Mangaoang of Kalinga, also co-authors of the bill said they were concerned about the 12 current employees who may be displaced once the toll road is abolished.
                Rep. Luisa Lloren Cuaresma of Nueva Vizcaya was quick to guarantee that the employees affected will not be removed as they can be easily absorbed by their mother unit in the department considering that their positions are plantilla items.
                After hearing all position and comments of committee members and resource persons from the DPWH, HB 4570 was approved subject to the compliance of the agency to resolve the issue over the 12 plantilla positions that will be affected.
                Also submitted to the committee were various manifestations and resolutions supporting the abolition from the different local government units of Mountain Province, Benguet and Baguio City namely: City Council of Baguio City, Association of Barangay Captains of Baguio City, City Councilors League of Tabuk City; Governor’s Office,  Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang Bayan of Mankayan, La Trinidad, Kabayan, Buguias, all of Benguet Benguet.
                Other supporters of the bill included Office of the Governor, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sanggunian Bayan of Sagada, Besao,  Sadanga and  Bontoc, all of Mountain Province.



Probe ordered on 2 Abra NPA attacks; 5 cops hurt, guns seized

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By Larry Madarang and Aldwin Quitasol

CAMP BADO DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet – The regional police office here has created a special investigation task group headed by Senior Supt. Gregorio Lim, deputy regional director for administration, to probe cops and check  operational lapses  when five members of Philippine National Police were injured while assorted firearms were seized by the New People’s Army in two clashes in Malibcong, Abra last week.
The NPA claimed responsibility for the attacks. 
Around 30 communist rebels raided the town’s police station, which is temporarily housed at the abandoned home of Malibcong Mayor Benido Bacuyag.
The guerrillas occupied the station for an hour and took seven M16 rifles, three pistols and four mobile phones.
 This, as Abra Gov. Jocelyn Valera-Bernos said all policemen deployed in Malibcong were pulled out and relieved with those coming from the Cordillera regional headquarters.
Abra is presently on heightened alert.
Regional police director Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Oco Sarona, earlier identified the wounded policemen in N PA clashes as as: PO2 Jessie Pastores Trinidad and police inspectors 1 Marlon Banigan De Lapaz, Gerome Pacapac Baldos, Von Harold Layao and Kennon Batanes Sanggoy.
They are now receiving medical treatment at a hospital in the capital town of Bangued.
The five, Sarona said, were part of the convoy with Senior Supt.  Alexander Tagum, Abra police director and Supt. Allen Bauding, head of Provincial Public Safety Company.
The convoy was on its way to reinforce elements of Malibcong police when they were ambushed at Malibcong’s Malanas Bridge at Barangay Poblacion, around at 11 a.m., March 13.
The lead vehicle, Sarona said was hit when an improvised explosive device exploded, followed by burst of fire that led to wounding of policemen.
Earlier around 7:30 p.m., March 12, New People’s Army guerillas led by a certain Ka Payas attacked the Malibcong municipal police station.
According to reports, there was an initial 10-minute exchange of gunfire between the police and NPA members when village elders intervened and begged the policemen to cease firing to avoid civilian casualties who might be caught in the cross fire.
However, reports said, the rebels, outnumbering the policemen disarmed the cops and carted away their weapons.
Police inventory said, seven long firearms, three short firearms, assorted ammunition and assorted personal and office gadgets were taken by the rebels.
No policeman was hurt during the incident.
This, as the regional Chadli Molintas Command of the New People’s Army Cordillera cited in a statement red commanders and fighters of the Agustin Begnalen Command of NPA Abra on what it claimed to be a successful raid on  the police station in Barangay Poblacion.
According to CMC, the NPA managed to put the police station under their control for about an hour. The NPA command claimed the NPA guerillas were able to confiscate 10 government arms ammunition including 6 M16 rifles, 1 M203, 2 9mm and Cal.45r pistols. The rebels also carted away ammunition of different caliber, 2 rifle grenades, ammo vests and uniforms.
The CMC said the raid on the Malibcong police station was in response to directive of the central committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and National Operational Command of the NPA to launch tactical offensives against the armed forces of the government and as an act of defense amidst declaration of an all-out war by President Rodrigo Duterte against the revolutionary movement.

The NPA command added the attacks were also in response to alleged abuses of Malibcong police of local folks human rights and disrespect of indigenous socio-political system, said CMC spokesperson Martin Montana. 

Church head urges follow up work on heritage sites

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HAPPY WEEKEND
By Gina Dizon

BONTOC, MOUNTAIN PROVINCE - Responding to a resolution hastening work  on the declaration of   old buildings in the Mission Compound as heritage sites during the recent  convention here of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Philippines (EDNP),  Diocesan Bishop Brent Alawas  forwarded that initial work  be followed up from concerned offices.  
                Delegates from the more than a century-old Church of St Mary the Virgin  (CSMV) in their congregational  resolution identified  four centennial-old old structures  namely the Girl’s Dorm, Boys Dorm or the Lyceum,  Mission Office and the Printing and Carpentry Shop at Latang be declared as  heritage buildings  and undergo restoration.
                Bishop Alawas said he has already given his endorsement in 2014  to a  separate petition forwarded by interested person and CSMV member Angel Luke Bagano to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for the  restoration and preservation of said  structures  as heritage sites.
                The NHCP in its  guidelines  accommodates petition of a concerned citizen/ stakeholder, private owner, government  agency and the NHCP itself with   supporting  documents in the recognition of a heritage site or building.
                Earlier,Alawas in his message during the 2012  centennial program of  St Mary’s School urged  that efforts be done towards the designation of the Girls Dormitory as a Heritage House by the  NHCP  and to seek their assistance in the preservation and maintenance of the centennial building.
                NHCP guidelines  provide that historic sites and structures listed in the National Registry shall enjoy the support and protection of the NHCP subject to the availability of funds.  The  National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009" or RA 10066  provides that the National  Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) may provide financial assistance in the form of a grant for conservation or research on cultural property.
                The RA 10066 identifies provisions for the application of a potential heritage  site as a national cultural treasure shall commence upon the filing of a petition by the owner, stakeholder or any interested person, with the NCCA  which shall refer the matter to the appropriate cultural agency.
                Upon verification of the suitability of the property as a national cultural property, the cultural agency concerned shall send notice of hearing to the owner and stakeholders including, but not limited to, local government units, local culture and arts council, local tourism councils, non-government conservation organizations, and schools, may be allowed to file their support or opposition to the petition.
                The Sangguniang Bayan of Sagada through a resolution has favorably endorsed the petition of  Bagano to the NHCP to declare the Mission Compound as a historic and   heritage site.

BB nutritionist-dietitians’ group bags 6thnat’l award

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HEALTH
Imelda O. Degay

BAGUIO CITY -- In less than two decades, the Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines – Baguio-Benguet Chapter received its 6th Most Outstanding Chapter award at the national level. 
The award recognized effort of officers and members in enabling the organization remain true to its commitment in promoting good nutrition and healthy lifestyle through activities in 2016. 
The chapter has sustained its professional education programs, technical assistance to groups, agencies and communities and  linkages  with government and non-government organizations  in delivery of nutrition and dietetic services among others. 
The award was recently received by immediate past president, Dr. Pelin Belino accompanied by delegates from Cordillera, mostly chapter officers,  on the occasion of the 62nd national NDAP Convention at Marriot Hotel , Pasay City. 
The first national award was received in 2001 and succeeding awards were given in 2006, 2008, 2009 ending with the Hall of Fame in 2010. 
The chapter acknowledged support of officers and members, their respective employers and superiors, partner agencies like National Nutrition Council-CAR, DSWD-CAR, Benguet State University, local government units, communities and clients.
 In the same event, BSU faculty  SherilynBalauro also bagged the Nutritionist-Dietitian of the Year (2016)  award for  her efforts to advance her profession including outstanding work performance as educator, instructional manual development, extension and research involvement. She’s the 4th nutritionist-dietitian from the region  to receive an individual award from mother NDAP.
Then  DOH-CAR nutritionist , past vice president for Luzon  and chapter president Imelda Aboy was most outstanding provincial ND in 2008. 
The same award was received by Yasmin Abing of Benguet General Hospital in 2012. 
In 2011, this writer who served as past president and BOD was awarded   Outstanding ND in education and research.
For 2017 and 2018,  the NDAP-BBC looks forward to more enhanced activities while consciously striving to further develop its members. 
It will be participating in  the Duting Tan Dukto component of the Strawberry Festival.
It will continue to hold the pre-nutrition month seminar every June (June 8 for this year) and do outreach activities.

New activities include   a quarterly symposia on itopics such as art of emceeing (April 22), “nutrition in the workplace” and environment-related projects among others.   July is Nutrition Month.

NCCA funds 10 Benguet Schools of Living Tradition

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ARTS AND CULTURE
Susan C. Aro

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Preservation of the province’s culture and tradition was boosted as the National Commission on Culture and the Arts allotted funds again this year to School of Living Tradition (SLT) projects.
With the aim of preserving cultural heritage in its living form in the generations to come, SLTs are carried out through a living master or culture bearer possessing the skills and techniques of traditional art or craft through a non-formal, oral and with practical demonstrations.  
Prudencio said the SLTs have big impact in terms of cultural preservation with the goal to let the youth appreciate the traditional practices of their ancestors. Taught are performing arts, indigenous food making and handicrafts.
The approved projects which are in the form of crafts and performing arts are : Training on Ibaloy Performing Arts  by  the Kamora National High School (KNHS); Training on Banayakeo Traditional Bamboo Crafting local government unit of Poblacion Atok ; Training and Workshop for Skilled Gong ‘Gangsa” Makers Cum Production of the Bedbed Senior Citizens Association of Mankayan; Training on Ibaloy Performing Arts of LGU Topdac, Atok; Installation of Local Cultural Icon-Doligen Legendary Rock of LGU Poblacion, Bakun; Bobok-Bisal Cultural Festival of the LGU of Bobok-Bisal, Bokod; Tapey Festival of LGU Poblacion, Bokod, Kapangan Museum Enhancement of  LGU Kapangan; and Sagawsaw Ekip Cultural Festival.
Due its geographical location, Baguio City is also included in the list. The approved proposal is entitled “Multiculturalism and Ethnic Identity: Experiencing Authenticity in the City” to be implemented by the University of Baguio Alumni Foundation.
The NCCA is regularly funding SLT proposals of the Ibaloy and Kankana-ey cluster for the past years. Last year, SLT Center was established Datakan, Kapangan which is intended as a convergence venue for SLTs.


K12’s senior high support private schools

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EDUCATION 
Gina P. Dizon

SAGADA, Mountain Province -- With private schools having to source their  own income, the senior high school  program of the Department of Education’s K12 curriculum has proven to be a good source of  finances for private learning institutions.
There are five private schools offering senior high school in Mountain Province namely St Mary School in Sagada, St James High in Besao and three in Bontoc-  St Vincent's High , Xijen College and Mt Province State Polytechnique College  (MPSPC) .  
Former SMS principal Nemia Lite and now with the Dept. of Education-Mountain Province division  said senior high school is indeed helping much in the  financial upkeep of private schools. Lite helped in the application of SMS and her alma mater St James high school get registered as partners of Dep Ed in the department's senior high school program.
A  P17,500 subsidy per  student is given as educational support fund to a  Grade 11 and 12  student.
For St. Mary’s School of Sagada, senior high school students avail of the government assistance to students and teachers in private education through its education service contractive program for its P20,000 per student tuition fee. The government  gives P17,500 for students who finished in  public school and  P14,000 for those who finished in a private school. 
Private schools are suffering from financial  deficits through the years but have managed to  get through with support from donations from their respective alumni, parents and teachers,  and friends.
Enrollment before 1995 showed SMS had been  enrolling some 300 to 400 students per  year. The establishment of nearby Sagada National High School in 1995  however drastically brought the enrollment down by  half. While enrollment has  shown  a significant increase in 2006 due to aggressive  recruitment and promise of scholarship programs, enrollment  reached a 145 to 170 enrollment through the years till  it reached  208 in 2016-2017 due to the opening of senior high school it was learned. 
With the incorporation of senior high school, finances has somehow  alleviated  the  private learning institution’s  perennial deficit for the past years, SMS principal Raquel Killy said.  
There are 64 senior high school students of SMS. Of the 64 are 26 Grade 11 students who have enrolled in science engineering and math (STEM) one of four strands of  senior high school.  Others are  registered  in subjects covering humanities and social sciences (HUMSS). 
Science and math has been the focus of  SMS for quite some time with enough computers, hooked to the internet, and equipped with chemistry and  biology  laboratory.
Killy  said there is still a need to improve the facilities of the school as additional classrooms  to anticipate the coming in of Grade 12.
SMS though managed to  keep to its  toes and forwarded  a P12,000  tuition fee with  subsidy from the government of 6,000 and increased to the current 18,500 with 6,500 to 8,500  subsidy from the  government of what is called ESF for its regular junior high school.
With an P18,500 tuition fee which increased through the  years,  students  receive  subsidy from  government  assistance program  to students and teachers in private education through its   education  service contracting program. the subsidy is  8,500 for grade 7 and 8; and 7500 for grades 9; and 6,500 for grade 10.
Of the current 208  enrolled students less the 64 SHS students  are 62  directly sponsored students  either by alumni or their  relatives. Of the 62 are 19 indigent scholars availing of  financial grants from sponsors. Killy hopes  direct sponsors shall  pay their pledges promptly to  avoid deficit.
Parents who pay tuition of their  children amount to some P10,000 to P12,000 per  school year less government subsidy. There are some 130 students who pay the full tuition fee less the  educational school fund of
P6,000  year.
St. Mary's School  was founded by American missionary Rev. John Staunton in 1904, which was then referred to as a mission school of the Episcopal Church in the Philippines (ECP) financed by her mother church Episcopal Church in the USA (ECUSA).  The  ECP became administratively and financially autonomous in 1990 making the school face financial constraints since then. 

As part of its financial upkeep from student's tuition fees, the school gets subsidy from Dep-Ed and pledges from alumni and friends. Same is true with sister school St James of Besao.

Episcopal Church supports DENR’s Lopez, closure of 23 mining firms

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By Gina Dizon

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Philippines in their recent diocesan convention  urged President Rodrigo Duterte to stand firm in his  appointment  of Environment Sec. Gina Lopez and retain her to  bring to realization to good work the her agency is doing to protect the environment.
As of press time, Lopez’s fate as Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources chief  is currently under decision of  Commission on Appointments.
The diocesan convention supported the order of  Lopez to close 23 mining firms and cancel the Mineral Production Sharing Agreements  (MPSA)  of 75 mining  corporations for destroying the watersheds; and allow  restoration and rehabilitation of damaged watersheds.
Diocesan participants while they were  in favor of the resolution also called for necessary measures by government to ensure livelihood of miners and other employees who shall be laid off from their jobs.
Another resolution was forwarded to be formulated following some comments that it’s not only large scale mining  operations destroying the environment but also  small scale mining and cement factories.
Meantime, the diocesan convention participants overwhelmingly opposed the death penalty bill as it against the right to life  and forwarded  their full opposition to extrajudicial killings being done in the war  against drugs. 


Tabuk micro- coop gets SSF equipment aid

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CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga -- A mini-cooperative joined list of more than 24 beneficiaries in the province that received equipment assistance under the Shared Services Facility project of the Department Trade and Industry here.
Sunshine Molintas of DTI-Kalinga reported Kalinga Tawid Development Coop. was latest recipient of dehydrator, band sealer, meat/bone cutter, grinder, chest freezer, chiller and fermentation jars costing P692, 700.
DTI-Kalinga director Grace Baluyan, who turned over the equipments urged the recipients to use the equipments to boost their micro-enterprise saying good performance under the program qualifies the beneficiary to other assistance from the agency.
Meanwhile, Manuel Onalan, KTDC Manager, said the equipment would be great boost to their business.
KTDC is engaged in the processing of coffee, juice, malungay and production of legumes and heirloom rice.   
Under the SSFP, DTI grants equipment aid to micro-cooperators to help and promote organized small entrepreneurship in the countryside.The aid is awarded under a six-year conditional term.
If the recipient-cooperator stops operation of business within the six-year period, DTI can recall the equipments and awards the same to another proponent-cooperator.
But if the business opened by beneficiary-cooperator grows and surpasses the six-year conditional period, DTI turns-over full ownership of the equipments to the cooperator.

The SSF Project was launched in the province in 2012 and had contributed largely in the growth and development of micro-processors. -- Larry T. Lopez

WHO: Baguio one of most polluted cities in Philippines

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By Dexter A. See

BAGUIO CITY – The World Health Organization named Baguio City as one of the most polluted cities in the Philippines country.
A WHO report said there were  49 micrograms per cubic meter of pollutants in the city’s air based on the test results reported in one of the air quality testing machines installed at the foot of Session Road, right at the heart of the city where many vehicles traverse and where most businesses are located.
Manila and Cebu came in second and third with 22 micrograms per cubic meter each.
According to Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr., said results were partly because of the presence of too many vehicles roaming around the city’s central business district.
He said the situation will expose individuals in high risk status to contracting dreaded diseases such as cancer, stroke or heart ailments.
Following this, the city council approved on first reading a proposed ordinance providing for a Carless Day along Session Road and for other purposes it may serve.
 The ordinance authored by Yangot. stated all motor vehicles will be prohibited to traverse along the stretch of Session Road starting from its foot up to the area fronting the Bank of the Philippine Islands Session and Baguio Post Office.
Yangot clarified in extreme cases such as emergencies or events involving possible threats to life and limb, police cars, fire trucks, emergency medical service vehicles, ambulances among others may enter the declared carless zone to perform their assigned duties and responsibilities.
Under the proposed ordinance, violators of the local legislative measure shall be penalized with a fine of P1,000 for the first offense, P3000 or imprisonment of not more than three months but not less than one month or both fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court for the second offense and a fine of P5,000 or imprisonment of not more than six months but not less than three months or both fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court for the third offense.
Yangot said the local government has to act with dispatch to effectively and efficiently address the serious concern considering the health of the public is at stake.
Yangot said the proposed legislation for the adoption of a Carless Day along Session Road will avoid pollution from motor vehicle fumes and decrease the amount of pollutants in the air and also as support to recreation that restores family bonds, friendship and a sense of community involvement to help bring back the seemingly lost connection between man and nature.

He said Carless Day would be beneficial so business persons could  meet new people and learn new things that would improve their operations.

DepEd Benguet pushes sports tourneys to boost medal hauls

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Coaches told: Reign in temper 

By Augustin Dao-anis

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet—Alarmed by its medal standing in the recently concluded 2017 Cordillera administrative Region Athletic Association Meet, provincial Education officials urged its coaches to initiate sports competitions in schools to expose athletes in different levels of tournaments.
An evaluation meeting called for by the Benguet Division Office found out most of the province’s athletes lacked exposure to sports tournaments.
Dean Mark Monang, Benguet provincial government sports coordinator, said during the meeting that there was need to expose the athletes to competitions.
To encourage athletes, the provincial government gives cash incentives to athletes who earned gold, silver, or bronze medal in regional or higher sports competitions as stipulated in provincial ordinance number made in 2015.
Coaches admitted most athletes only participate in DepEd-organized sports competitions like district and provincial athletic meets, which only happen once a year.
Benguet sports coordinator Ceasar Luma-ang and Lucio B. Alawas, school governance and operations development chief, urged coaches to submit sports competition proposals or training designs.
They also required the coaches to submit list of priority sports equipment to be purchased.            
Luma-ang said he supports any move of coaches or trainers in enlisting their athletes to any sports tournaments organized by private organizations provided protocol is observed.
Benguet only earned 33 gold medals, which is lower than its 43 gold medals in last year’s CARAA Meet.
Meanwhile, Alawas cautioned the hot-tempered coaches to control their emotions and observe decency and respect especially during critical judgments during games. “We cannot avoid being angry at times but we should do the proper way,” he said.
Benguet Schools Division Superintendent Federico P. Martin said he received a letter from tournament managers concerning an issue of a coach who allegedly assaulted officiating officials due to unfair officiating last CARAA Meet.
Despite this, Martin recommended inclusion of the coach to the Palarong Pambansa next month.
Meanwhile, Diego Dumapis, a Benguet sports analyst, said there is need for a sports psychologist for the province.

“The coaches should be guided on how they treat their athletes, which would affect their performance,” Dumapis said. “There are coaches, who get angry or shout at their athletes. That should not be.”

Teams vs anomalies, drugs formed in Lagawe, Ifugao

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By Marcelo B. Lihgawon

LAGAWE, Ifugao -- Mayor Martin Habawel, Jr  of this capital town has ordered creation of teams to fight illegal drugs in barangays of this capital town. 
Dubbed “Mamamayang ayaw sa anomalya, mamamayang ayaw sa iligal na droga (Masa Masid),” a team will be formed in 20 barangays of this municipality.
“This is to heighten community involvement by mobilizing the support of local stakeholders, volunteers, civic organizations, faith-based organizations, and the private sectors in the fight against illegal drugs, criminality and corruption,” he  said.
The team will be composed of barangay captain, chairman of the peace and order committee and a representative from nongovernment organization in the community.
The team will be tasked to conduct information and education campaigns, organize forums, seminars and related activities on prevention and demand reduction, coordinate and partner with the schools for possible partnership on information drive against illegal drugs, and secure the support of local media such as radio, print and on the use of social media.
It will also encourage the support of interfaith leaders in incorporating anti-illegal drug advocacy in their services and forge partnership with local organizations whose primary mission is to fight illegal drugs.  

Masa Masid is a barangay-based anti-criminality, anti-corruption, and anti-illegal drugs program which encourages multi-sectoral partnership to intensify the spirit of volunteerism at the community level. 

3 cops, bopap commended for public service

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BAGUIO CITY – Special commendations were given to three city cops  and certificate of commendation to a punong barangay for dedicated public service and active participation in the city’s anti-criminality program.
SP04 Efren Anapen was cited for providing immediate assistance to a visitor and motorist who had a vehicular problem while traversing  Loakan access road extension earlier this month.
Also commended were SPO3 Virgilio Rebollido Jr. and PO3 Danny Bomogao for apprehending an individual wanted for the crime of robbery with violence that occurred this January along Upper Magsaysay Avenue.
Upper Magsaysay punong barangay Prescilla Dacanay was recognized for active participation in city police’s anti-criminality campaign.
“Such noble contribution bespeaks of her invaluable support to the relentless crime prevention and solution efforts of the BCPO to accomplish its mandate of maintaining peace and order in the City of Baguio, worthy or praise and admiration,” Dacanay’s commendation stated.

Signed by acting city police director Ramil Saculles, the commendations were handed over by city officials headed by Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Rep. Mark Go and Vice-Mayor Edison Bilog in Monday’s flag-raising ceremonies at city hall.- Gaby Keith and Rebecca Tial 

MP Lang-ay Festival to feature ‘Kataguan caravan for a cause’

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Scenic spots’ viewing to raise funds for dialysis patients 

By Wabilyn M. Lomong-oy

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- Among highlights of the 50th Mountain Province founding anniversary and 13th Lang-ay Festival is “Kataguan caravan for a cause” (Drive for life) to be held third time with this year’s event set on April 6 to raise funds in favor of dialysis patients from Mountain Province.
The Kataguan Dialysis Patients Organization, Inc. in partnership with the office of Rep. Maximo Dalog conceptualized Kataguan Caravan which was first conducted on April 24, 2015 wherein 54 vehicles joined the activity.  
The Kataguan Dialysis Patients Organization is composed of kidney patients from Mountain Province who are having hemodialysis treatments in different dialysis centers in the country.
It was organized in January 2015 by six patients of Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center. 
Later in January 31, 2015, the first meeting was called and attended by 27 kidney patients who elected their officers.
There are now 104 kidney patients who are members of the group.
The caravan was organized in order to help dialysis patients generate funds for their weekly treatment.
It is also a way of showcasing the bayanihan system wherein the welfare of those in need are prioritized.  
Dalog in an interview said the annual caravan does not only aim to raise funds in favor of dialysis patients but also promote tourism in the province.
He solicited assistance of the public to help by sponsoring tickets of P2,000, P1,000, and P250.
Participants for the caravan will assemble 6 a.m. at Eyeb grounds in this capital town then proceed to Dawdawan, Sabangan.
Since the caravan is also considered a fun ride, stopovers are labeled for the participants to see the beauty of Mountain Province.
First stop is Mt. Polis in Bagnen, Bauko. From there, the ride will continue to Sagada via Taccong Road.
Stopovers will follow at Data Saddle. From there itinerary includes “view of the Sleeping Beauty at Balangagan Cave, walk to the mouth of Sumaguing Cave, then to Lumiang Burial Cave, all in the tourist town of Sagada.
Then participants will proceed to Poblacion Sagada to pray at the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin, then to Sagada Stable, Staunton Road for lunch and a program.
The caravan is expected to draw participants from not only from the province but also local tourists from Baguio and Manila.

Proceeds generated from the activity will be turned over immediately to the organization after the caravan. 
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