ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Media friends joined by Governor Migs Dominguez pose for a photo after the governor delivered his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8. Governor Migs cited in his SOPA the media as Sarangani’s partner in reversing the negative image of Mindanao. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Monday, February 8, 2010
Media friends
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Media friends joined by Governor Migs Dominguez pose for a photo after the governor delivered his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8. Governor Migs cited in his SOPA the media as Sarangani’s partner in reversing the negative image of Mindanao. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Centerpiece of governance
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez stresses education and poverty alleviation as the centerpieces of his governance during his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8, at the provincial gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Winning back Sarangani's pride
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez emphasizes on his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8, of bringing back the pride Sarangani through good governance and to be an “envy of provinces in the country”. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
State of the Province Address
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez delivers his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8, attended by Capitol employees and sector representatives of the province. The 44-minute Filipino-English piece garnered 29 applauses, the loudest of which are the governor’s centerpieces of governance particularly in education. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Poised for SOPA
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez takes his seat beside Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon minutes before he delivers his State of the Province Address to Sarangani constituency Monday, February 8. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Entrance
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 8, 2010) – Governor Migs Dominguez makes his entrance before giving his State of the Province Address Monday, February 8, at the provincial gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
New Library
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Mayor Elsie Perrett assisted by Governor Migs Dominguez cuts the ribbon during the inauguration of Kipalkuda Elementary School library. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANIINFORMATION OFFICE)New books
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Mayor Elsie Perrett checks books of the newly inaugurated Kipalkuda Elementary School library.(Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)Migs with residents of barangay Upo
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez flashes a smile as residents greet him during his 33rd birthday celebration at barangay Upo. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Migs with children of barangay Upo
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez plays with children of barangay Upo during his birthday celebration with the community. The provincial government conducted medical outreach as part of the governor's birthday celebration with free lunch provided by the governor. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Induction of officers
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez inducts officers of Kapitbahayan Resettlement and Housing Project in Valencia village Friday, February 5. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATIONOFFICE)
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Medical outreach
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez shares a light moment with volunteers of medical outreach of the provincial government as part of the celebration of his 33rd birthday Friday,February 5. The governor also provided lunch for the patients and residents that attended his celebration. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANIINFORMATION OFFICE)
Pays attention
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 7, 2010) - Municipal midwife Rosalinda Roxas huddles with Governor Migs Dominguez before the ground breaking ceremony for the expansion and improvement of rural health unit ofbarangay Malalag funded by YACAP party list Friday, February 5. (CocoySexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Mangudadatu sees Gibo as the best hope for reform and progress in Mindanao
News ReleaseFebruary 5, 2010
Ref: Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene “Migs” Dominguez
Lakas-Kampi-CMD national president
Buluan town vice-mayor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu said his support forLakas-Kampi CMD presidential candidate Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. has not diminished, and hailed his program of reform and progress forMindanao as the best to turn the conflict-torn island into an economic powerhouse.
"I believe that Secretary Teodoro is the most effectiveand most competent candidate for president who will bring the best program of reform to Mindanao ," said Mangudadatu, the ruling party’scandidate for governor in Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region forMuslim Mindanao (ARMM).
Facing the media Tuesday, Mangudadatu said he had no ill-feelings towards Teodoro after the former defense chief had reminded the Maguindanao leader that the Ampatuans—the powerful clan that had an iron-grip control of the province for a decade—were particularly violent.
"Mahal na mahal kita, Toto. May pagkabayolente ang mga taong yan. (I care a lot about you, Toto. Those are violent people),"Mangudadatu quoted Teodoro as warning him.
Mangudadatu revealed this conversation in his testimony during the resumption of the hearing on Andal Ampatuan Jr.’s petition for bail before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.
That remark, he said, was made when Teodoro sought out Mangudadatu sometime last year before the latter’s wife, relatives,political allies and journalists accompanying them were killed November 23 on their way to Shariff Aguak to register Mangudadatu’s candidacy for governor.
Ampatuan Jr. has been tagged by witnesses asthe mastermind of the politically-motivated killings and is nowdetained at the National Bureau of Investigation facility in Manila .
“I'm a party man and my support for Secretary Teodoro hasnot been tainted or diminished,” Mangudadatu said in Pilipino. “What he told me was a friendly remark. I do not see howhe should be blamed for that,” he said.
The Ampatuans were in fact helping Sen.. Manny Villar inhis quest of the presidency as the Nacionalista Party standard-bearer,he said, adding: “Villar even spent the night in the house of theAmpatuans” when he came to visit.
It is no secret in Maguindanao that Villar had received help from the Ampatuans in the past, although the Ampatuans were knownLakas-Kampi CMD stalwarts in the region, Mangudadatu said.
In his economic blueprint for Mindanao, Teodoro sees a sustainable peace in Mindanao as a key agenda in tapping its full potential in agriculture and food production that in turn could ensure the country's food security.
“We cannot have peace and progress with armed groups still holding out. The national government under Teodoro will not compromise its sovereignty and will work to secure a government monopoly of force in Mindanao ," the Lakas standard bearer stressed.
Ref: Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene “Migs” Dominguez
Lakas-Kampi-CMD national president
Buluan town vice-mayor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu said his support forLakas-Kampi CMD presidential candidate Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. has not diminished, and hailed his program of reform and progress forMindanao as the best to turn the conflict-torn island into an economic powerhouse.
"I believe that Secretary Teodoro is the most effectiveand most competent candidate for president who will bring the best program of reform to Mindanao ," said Mangudadatu, the ruling party’scandidate for governor in Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region forMuslim Mindanao (ARMM).
Facing the media Tuesday, Mangudadatu said he had no ill-feelings towards Teodoro after the former defense chief had reminded the Maguindanao leader that the Ampatuans—the powerful clan that had an iron-grip control of the province for a decade—were particularly violent.
"Mahal na mahal kita, Toto. May pagkabayolente ang mga taong yan. (I care a lot about you, Toto. Those are violent people),"Mangudadatu quoted Teodoro as warning him.
Mangudadatu revealed this conversation in his testimony during the resumption of the hearing on Andal Ampatuan Jr.’s petition for bail before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.
That remark, he said, was made when Teodoro sought out Mangudadatu sometime last year before the latter’s wife, relatives,political allies and journalists accompanying them were killed November 23 on their way to Shariff Aguak to register Mangudadatu’s candidacy for governor.
Ampatuan Jr. has been tagged by witnesses asthe mastermind of the politically-motivated killings and is nowdetained at the National Bureau of Investigation facility in Manila .
“I'm a party man and my support for Secretary Teodoro hasnot been tainted or diminished,” Mangudadatu said in Pilipino. “What he told me was a friendly remark. I do not see howhe should be blamed for that,” he said.
The Ampatuans were in fact helping Sen.. Manny Villar inhis quest of the presidency as the Nacionalista Party standard-bearer,he said, adding: “Villar even spent the night in the house of theAmpatuans” when he came to visit.
It is no secret in Maguindanao that Villar had received help from the Ampatuans in the past, although the Ampatuans were knownLakas-Kampi CMD stalwarts in the region, Mangudadatu said.
In his economic blueprint for Mindanao, Teodoro sees a sustainable peace in Mindanao as a key agenda in tapping its full potential in agriculture and food production that in turn could ensure the country's food security.
“We cannot have peace and progress with armed groups still holding out. The national government under Teodoro will not compromise its sovereignty and will work to secure a government monopoly of force in Mindanao ," the Lakas standard bearer stressed.
Birthday message
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez celebrates his 33rd birthday with residents of barangay Upo and adjacent villages during the medical outreach conducted by the provincial government Friday, February 5. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Gov. Migs birthday
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez celebrates his 33rd birthday by conducting a medical outreach and serving free lunch to residents of barangay Upo Friday, February 5. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Ground breaking
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez leads the cutting of ribbon during the ground breaking ceremony for the expansion and improvement of rural health unit of barangay Malalag funded by YACAP party list Friday, February 5. Also in photo (from right to left) are provincial health officer Antonio Yasana, Department of Health regional director Abdullah Dumama Jr. and Mayor Elsie Perrett. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Happy birthday Gov. Migs
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) – Women’s group and teachers render a birthday song to Governor Migs Dominguez as he celebrates his 33rd birthday Friday, February 5, before the blessing, inauguration and turn over ceremony of Kipalkuda Elementary School library. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
High five
KIAMBA, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) - A child greets Governor Migs Dominguez as he arrives at barangay Salakit, Kiamba to induct officers of Kapitbahayan Resettlement and Housing Project in Valencia village Friday, February 5. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Hospital visit
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez talks to a patient during his visit to the Municipal Hospital of Maitum Friday, February 5. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Gov. Migs spends birthday with villagers
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 6, 2010) – Instead of spending a day of relaxation away from his busy life as the provincial governor, Gov. Migs Dominguez celebrated his 33rd birthday to give hope and inspiration to villagers in the municipality of Maitum through a series of activities Friday (February 5).
Known for his political will, the governor sees the importance of giving time to the residents of far flung barangays in the province by visiting a few villages in Maitum, where he celebrated his birthday.
Clad in white polo and jeans, Dominguez's first stop was in barangay New La Union where he formally turned over a school library to the representatives of Kipalkuda Elementary School.
"Ang pinakamabisang susi upang makalabas sa kahirapan ay magkaroon ng kaledad na edukasyon. Sa mga magulang, sana ang pagcelebrate natin hindi lang dahil birthday ko kundi dahil maliwanag ang kinabukasan ng inyong mga anak," he said.
Several residents in the barangay also received PhilHealth Cards through their barangay health workers. The giving of cards was a surprise for the villagers who never expected such "gift" from the governor.
Earlier before noontime, Dominguez, together with Maitum Mayor Elsie Perrett and some board members, proceeded to Upo Elementary School in barangay Upo where a big crowd awaited for him.
The event was also graced with Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, and businessman Roy Chiongbian, who will run for Congress in the province in May 2010 polls.
"This is the true leader, he gives instead he receives," said Solon, who recognized the governor's effort in supporting a provincial outreach composed of a free medical mission, a feeding program, and the giving out of PhilHealth cards to the residents of at least six barangays.
The provincial outreach was also supported by the Chiongbian Group of Companies, the 73rd Infantry Battalion headed by Col. Edgardo de Leon, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies.
Dominguez said the giving of health cards is one of the initiatives of the provincial government in order to improve health services for the poor.
The governor also graced the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion and improvement of rural health unit of Malalag in the same municipality.
The project was funded by the Yacap Partylist through the effort of the governor and the municipal mayor of Maitum.
"We are very fortunate that we were able to experience the help and services extended by our governor," Perrett said.Meanwhile, to complete his series of visits, Dominguez led the officers of Kapitbahayan Resettlement and Housing Project in Valencia village in Salakit, Kiamba to take oath before the rest of the members of the association.
The resettlement area was intended for flood victims in the coastal areas of barangay Salakit. The project targets to benefit 100 families. (Joy Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Known for his political will, the governor sees the importance of giving time to the residents of far flung barangays in the province by visiting a few villages in Maitum, where he celebrated his birthday.
Clad in white polo and jeans, Dominguez's first stop was in barangay New La Union where he formally turned over a school library to the representatives of Kipalkuda Elementary School.
"Ang pinakamabisang susi upang makalabas sa kahirapan ay magkaroon ng kaledad na edukasyon. Sa mga magulang, sana ang pagcelebrate natin hindi lang dahil birthday ko kundi dahil maliwanag ang kinabukasan ng inyong mga anak," he said.
Several residents in the barangay also received PhilHealth Cards through their barangay health workers. The giving of cards was a surprise for the villagers who never expected such "gift" from the governor.
Earlier before noontime, Dominguez, together with Maitum Mayor Elsie Perrett and some board members, proceeded to Upo Elementary School in barangay Upo where a big crowd awaited for him.
The event was also graced with Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, and businessman Roy Chiongbian, who will run for Congress in the province in May 2010 polls.
"This is the true leader, he gives instead he receives," said Solon, who recognized the governor's effort in supporting a provincial outreach composed of a free medical mission, a feeding program, and the giving out of PhilHealth cards to the residents of at least six barangays.
The provincial outreach was also supported by the Chiongbian Group of Companies, the 73rd Infantry Battalion headed by Col. Edgardo de Leon, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies.
Dominguez said the giving of health cards is one of the initiatives of the provincial government in order to improve health services for the poor.
The governor also graced the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion and improvement of rural health unit of Malalag in the same municipality.
The project was funded by the Yacap Partylist through the effort of the governor and the municipal mayor of Maitum.
"We are very fortunate that we were able to experience the help and services extended by our governor," Perrett said.Meanwhile, to complete his series of visits, Dominguez led the officers of Kapitbahayan Resettlement and Housing Project in Valencia village in Salakit, Kiamba to take oath before the rest of the members of the association.
The resettlement area was intended for flood victims in the coastal areas of barangay Salakit. The project targets to benefit 100 families. (Joy Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Nasa receives five housing units from government
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) – Flood victims received from government on Thursday (February 4) five housing units worth P250,000 through the Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance (Nasa) in Juanicoville, Purok Diamalod, barangay Lun Padidu.
Lina Sotomil, community affairs officer III of the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO), said there will be another 45 housing units which are targeted to be completed before the first quarter of the year ends.
"This project, the Shelter Assistance Program, has a budget allocation of P2.5 million for 50 houses. The budget came from the regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)," she said.
The project is a joint program of the DSWD, Province of Sarangani, and the Municipality of Malapatan."The MOA signing (of the project) was in September 2009, while the construction started in November 27. DSWD purchased the materials for the construction of the houses while the municipal and provincial government served as counterparts," Sotomil explained.
She said DSWD came up with a list of the victims of typhoon Frank last year, who were identified to be the beneficiaries of the project.She added that the provincial government has spent millions of pesos for the construction of a seawall in the area to protect the coastal residents, but has later realized to purchase a 7-hectare land that cost more than P5 million which now served as the resettlement area for the coastal residents.
Sotomil also said that after the turn-over of the 45 housing units in March, the beneficiaries, who were only required to spend 72 working days for the project construction, will then be allowed to choose their housing unit."We still cannot give the units to the individuals (members of the association) because none of them has already rendered 72 working days. We have a "bayanihan" system here so that all of the units will be completed," she said, adding that the beneficiaries have not spent a single centavo for the construction of the houses.
It was learned that another 50 houses will be constructed in the same area. It will also cost P2.5 million. But Sotomil shared that they are still working on for the release of the budget for the project's second phase with the regional office of the DSWD.
Meanwhile, Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon spearheaded the turn-over of the housing units to the Nasa members. He encouraged them to display unity in the community saying, "Thank you for your perseverance, it is really important that you have unity and know what are your needs because you yourself are making this community."
The vice governor also expressed his gratitude to the members of the Oxfam, (Oxfam is an international organization that conducts disaster management training in the province), who were also present in the turn-over ceremony.
He said the initiatives and projects of the government are also realized because of the assistance of the government's partners. He also mentioned that Governor Migs Dominguez is committing P30,000 for the establishment of jetmatic water system in the area. (Joy Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Lina Sotomil, community affairs officer III of the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO), said there will be another 45 housing units which are targeted to be completed before the first quarter of the year ends.
"This project, the Shelter Assistance Program, has a budget allocation of P2.5 million for 50 houses. The budget came from the regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)," she said.
The project is a joint program of the DSWD, Province of Sarangani, and the Municipality of Malapatan."The MOA signing (of the project) was in September 2009, while the construction started in November 27. DSWD purchased the materials for the construction of the houses while the municipal and provincial government served as counterparts," Sotomil explained.
She said DSWD came up with a list of the victims of typhoon Frank last year, who were identified to be the beneficiaries of the project.She added that the provincial government has spent millions of pesos for the construction of a seawall in the area to protect the coastal residents, but has later realized to purchase a 7-hectare land that cost more than P5 million which now served as the resettlement area for the coastal residents.
Sotomil also said that after the turn-over of the 45 housing units in March, the beneficiaries, who were only required to spend 72 working days for the project construction, will then be allowed to choose their housing unit."We still cannot give the units to the individuals (members of the association) because none of them has already rendered 72 working days. We have a "bayanihan" system here so that all of the units will be completed," she said, adding that the beneficiaries have not spent a single centavo for the construction of the houses.
It was learned that another 50 houses will be constructed in the same area. It will also cost P2.5 million. But Sotomil shared that they are still working on for the release of the budget for the project's second phase with the regional office of the DSWD.
Meanwhile, Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon spearheaded the turn-over of the housing units to the Nasa members. He encouraged them to display unity in the community saying, "Thank you for your perseverance, it is really important that you have unity and know what are your needs because you yourself are making this community."
The vice governor also expressed his gratitude to the members of the Oxfam, (Oxfam is an international organization that conducts disaster management training in the province), who were also present in the turn-over ceremony.
He said the initiatives and projects of the government are also realized because of the assistance of the government's partners. He also mentioned that Governor Migs Dominguez is committing P30,000 for the establishment of jetmatic water system in the area. (Joy Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Words of challenge
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon delivers his words of challenge to villagers of Juanicoville Thursday, February 4, during the turn over ceremony of five houses to members of Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance. Another 45 houses are scheduled to be awarded to beneficiaries next month. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Symbolic turn over
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon in a symbolic turn over of keys to beneficiaries and members of Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Ribbon cutting
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon leads the cutting of ribbon Thursday, February 4, at Juanicoville, a shelter assistance project of the government. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Juanicoville
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - 45 houses at Juanicoville are expected to be completed this March as seen in this photo taken during the turn over ceremony of five houses to members of Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance Thursday, February 4. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Induction
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon inducts officers of Juanicoville kapitbahayan womens association Thursday, February 4, during the turn over ceremony of five houses to members of Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
House inspection
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon inspects a newly constructed house Thursday, February 4, at Juanicoville after the turn over ceremony of five houses to members of Neighborhood Association for Shelter Assistance. Another 45 houses are scheduled to be awarded to beneficiaries next month. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
News Release
February 3, 2010
Ref: Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene “Migs” Dominguez
Lakas-Kampi-CMD national president
Gibo asks Comelec to reconsider Namfrel bid for accreditationLakas-Kampi CMD presidential candidate Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. has urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to reconsider its decision not to accredit the watchdog group Namfrel in the May presidential elections, warning of dire consequences if the credibility of the 2010 polls come under question.
“Right now, the country is on the edge chaos and many Filipinos are pinning their hopes on a credible election in 2010 toset things right, especially in the transition of government.Questions about a less-than-credible election will inevitably lead to further discord and trouble for the country,” said Teodoro, as he vouched for the credibility of the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections as an election watchdog group.
Namfrel’s unparalleled record of credibility and performance in 22 national and local elections since 1983 “more than justifies allowing it to keep watch in the May elections,” the 1989Bar topnotcher and Harvard-trained lawyer said.
The election watchdog group relies on a nationwide networkof civic volunteers in monitoring the electoral exercise for possible fraud and other irregularities, especially in electoral hot spots.
Namfrel and the CBCP’s social arm, the National Secretariat for Social Action-Justice and Peace (NASSA) headed by Bishop Broderick Pabillo filed last December a joint petition to be accredited as an election watchdog in the May elections.
Namfrel wantsto conduct an unofficial quick count in areas where automated elections will not be implemented, and perform manual random audit in areas where automation will be carried out.
The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting(PPCRV), however, objected to Namfrel-NASSA’s petition, claiming that the latter only duplicates the functions already granted to the former by the poll body. Election lawyer Sixto Brillantes also objected tothe Namfrel-NASSA petition.
"To my mind leaving out Namfrel—which has gained expertise through the decades it worked since 1983 to ensure that elections are transparent and credible—will only work to the disadvantage of the Comelec and the credibility of the elections in general,” Teodoro said.
He added: “The more eyes watching, the more credible theelection results will become.” Teodoro said Namfrel’s reputation has gained international notice, having been invited by the United Nations and UNDP to monitor elections in Cambodia.
Its volunteers have worked as trainers, members of observer teams, and resource persons in Afghanistan and 30 other countries. These are Argentina, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile,China, Cote D’Ivoire, Denmark, Haiti, Hong Kong, Indonesia,Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan,Peru, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka,Taiwan, Thailand, Timor Leste, the United States and Zambia.
For its work, Namfrel has received high-profilenominations, among them to the Nobel Peace Prize from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the International Human RightsLaw Group.
Reports indicated that Namfrel has asked the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to help mediate itsongoing squabble with the PPCRV.
Ref: Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene “Migs” Dominguez
Lakas-Kampi-CMD national president
Gibo asks Comelec to reconsider Namfrel bid for accreditationLakas-Kampi CMD presidential candidate Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. has urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to reconsider its decision not to accredit the watchdog group Namfrel in the May presidential elections, warning of dire consequences if the credibility of the 2010 polls come under question.
“Right now, the country is on the edge chaos and many Filipinos are pinning their hopes on a credible election in 2010 toset things right, especially in the transition of government.Questions about a less-than-credible election will inevitably lead to further discord and trouble for the country,” said Teodoro, as he vouched for the credibility of the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections as an election watchdog group.
Namfrel’s unparalleled record of credibility and performance in 22 national and local elections since 1983 “more than justifies allowing it to keep watch in the May elections,” the 1989Bar topnotcher and Harvard-trained lawyer said.
The election watchdog group relies on a nationwide networkof civic volunteers in monitoring the electoral exercise for possible fraud and other irregularities, especially in electoral hot spots.
Namfrel and the CBCP’s social arm, the National Secretariat for Social Action-Justice and Peace (NASSA) headed by Bishop Broderick Pabillo filed last December a joint petition to be accredited as an election watchdog in the May elections.
Namfrel wantsto conduct an unofficial quick count in areas where automated elections will not be implemented, and perform manual random audit in areas where automation will be carried out.
The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting(PPCRV), however, objected to Namfrel-NASSA’s petition, claiming that the latter only duplicates the functions already granted to the former by the poll body. Election lawyer Sixto Brillantes also objected tothe Namfrel-NASSA petition.
"To my mind leaving out Namfrel—which has gained expertise through the decades it worked since 1983 to ensure that elections are transparent and credible—will only work to the disadvantage of the Comelec and the credibility of the elections in general,” Teodoro said.
He added: “The more eyes watching, the more credible theelection results will become.” Teodoro said Namfrel’s reputation has gained international notice, having been invited by the United Nations and UNDP to monitor elections in Cambodia.
Its volunteers have worked as trainers, members of observer teams, and resource persons in Afghanistan and 30 other countries. These are Argentina, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile,China, Cote D’Ivoire, Denmark, Haiti, Hong Kong, Indonesia,Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan,Peru, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka,Taiwan, Thailand, Timor Leste, the United States and Zambia.
For its work, Namfrel has received high-profilenominations, among them to the Nobel Peace Prize from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the International Human RightsLaw Group.
Reports indicated that Namfrel has asked the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to help mediate itsongoing squabble with the PPCRV.
Education
KIAMBA, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Kiamba Central Elementary School pupils spend their time reviewing notes at municipal plaza during the ecumenical service on February 3. (KIAMBA NEWS CENTER/Abner P. Arzaga)Offering
KIAMBA, Sarangani (February 5, 2010)- Mayor Rom Falgui leads the symbolic offering with municipal councilors Eva Villamor and Janet Pabayo during the ecumenical service for the tri-people February 3 at the Municipal Plaza. (KIAMBA NEWS CENTER/Abner P. Arzaga)
Encouragement
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Mayor Elsie Perrett congratulates and gives her words of encouragement to the graduates of the Season Long Training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Farmers Field School (FFS) on Rice at FEIMCO Compound, barangay Old Poblacion on Februay 3. (MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)
Integrated Pest Management
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Gabriel Dominquez, regional IPM Coordinator, tells graduates to put into practice what they learned in this Season Long Training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Farmers Field School (FFS) on Rice on February 2 at FEIMCO Compound, barangay Old Poblacion. The graduates went through field school for 120 days held every Friday. (MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)
Graduation
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) – Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Farmers Field School (FFS) graduates receive their certificate of graduation from Mayor Elsie Perrett and Gabriel Dominguez, regional IPM coordinator. (MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)
Graduates
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Twenty-four farmers managed to finish the four-day Integrated Pest Management field school. Oscar Cabrido, one of the farmer-graduates, said the field school taught them the proper way to manage pests. "Daku kaayo ni nga tabang para sa amo nga mag-uuma aron madaghan ang among abot." (MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)
Ilocos Sur visitors
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) - Sangguniang Bayan members from Nagcaoayan, Ilocos Sur who are attending the Philippine Councilors League national convention in General Santos City take time to visit their relatives in Maitum. They paid a courtesy call to Mayor Elsie Perrett who warmly welcomed them. (MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)
Philhealth
MALAPATAN, Sarangani (February 5, 2010) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon leads the distribution of Philhealth cards together with Mayor Jorge Sambaga (right) to beneficiaries at the municipal gym on February 2. (MALAPATAN INFORMATION OFFICE/Jules Ebbal)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Migs listens
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 2, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez listens to a resident before the Philhealth card distribution Tuesday, February 2, at the Capitol gym for 1,726 beneficiaries from Alabel and 337 beneficiaries from Malapatan. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Migs speech
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 2, 2010) - Governor Migs Dominguez delivers his pre-birthday message before residents of Alabel Tuesday, February 2, at the Capitol gym. The governor is set to celebrate his birthday with villagers on Friday and deliver his State of the Province Address before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on February 8. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Philhealth card
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 2, 2010) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon leads the distribution of Philhealth cards to 1,726 beneficiaries from Alabel Tuesday, February 2, at the Capitol gym. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Respect
ALABEL, Sarangani (February 2, 2010) - Joel Aton of Southern Philippines Power Corporation pays respect to an old Blaan woman after the distribution of Philhealth cards to 1,726 beneficiaries from Alabel by the provincial government Tuesday, February 2. Aton is running for municipal councilor under the SARRO Lakas-Kampi-CMD party. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Monday, February 1, 2010
Gibo Teodoro for President Movement
GENERAL SANTOS CITY (February 2, 2010) - Lakas-Kampi-CMD president Migs Dominguez, governor of Sarangani, in an open forum during the gathering of supporters of Gibo Teodoro for President Movement Monday, February 1, at a seafood restaurant in General Santos City.
Gibo open forum
GENERAL SANTOS CITY (February 2, 2010) – Lakas-Kampi-CMD president Migs Dominguez, governor of Sarangani, listens as Gensan-based media man Joe Gadayan ask questions in an open forum during the gathering of supporters of Gibo Teodoro for President Movement Monday, February 1, at a seafood restaurant in General Santos City.
Europian Union representative
KIAMBA, Sarangani (February 1, 2010) - Mayor Rom Falgui (right) chats with European Union representative Emily Mercado, regarding the rehabilitation and status of the burned barangay hall, a Day Care Center and barangay stage of barangay Gasi. (KIAMBA NEWS CENTER/Abner Arzaga)
Volunteer nurses
KIAMBA, Sarangani (February 1, 2010) - Volunteer nurses from Cronasia Foundation College, Inc., render services at barangay Gasi initiated by the Act for Peace and the municipal government. (KIAMBA NEWS CENTER/Abner Arzaga)
Eat-all-you-can
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 1, 2010) – A resident enjoys grilled bangsi (flying fish) Saturday, January 30. This eat-all-you-can feature of Bangsi Festival offers hundreds of kilos of fresh bangsi for the public to partake. (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Bangsi grill
MAITUM, Sarangani (February 1, 2010) – Residents grill bangsi (flying fish) Saturday, January 30, as the municipality celebrates Bangsi Festival with “Sugba sugba sa Kadalanan”, a free offering of grilled bangsi to tourists and residents. (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Old Poblacion
MAITUM, Sarangani (January 30, 2010) – Fishers from Old Poblacion village venture into Celebes Sea Friday, January 29, in search for food and livelihood. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Bangsi Festival-Notre Dame of Maitum
MAITUM, Sarangani (January 30, 2010) – The Notre Dame of Maitum contingent performs at the street dance competition as one of the highlights of 3rd Bangsi Festival Saturday, January 30, with the theme “Masaganang Maitum”. The festival is named after the town’s prime product, marinated bangsi (flying fish). (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
Bangsi Festival-Malalag National High School
MAITUM, Sarangani (January 30, 2010) – The Malalag National High School contingent performs at the street dance competition as one of the highlights of 3rd Bangsi Festival Saturday, January 30, with the theme “Masaganang Maitum”. The festival is named after the town’s prime product, marinated bangsi (flying fish). (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
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