26 10 362 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Mechanization seen to boost WV agricultural productivity By Ime Sornito -Thursday, July 25, 2024 ILOILO City – To enhance Western Visayas farmers’ productivity and ensure a prosperous harvest, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 6, together with the Korean Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (KAMICO), launched a two-day roadshow featuring the latest in farm machinery and technologies. The event, held at the Western Visayas Agricultural Research Center (DA-WESVIARC) in the Jaro district on Wednesday, July 24, was themed “Innovate Visayas: Food Security Through Right Mechanization.” It showcased a broad spectrum of agricultural machinery, ranging from land preparation to post-harvest tools, aimed at advancing modern agricultural practices across the region. The primary goal of the showcase was to streamline and simplify farming operations, thereby boosting productivity and maximizing farmers’ revenues. Among the technologies displayed were drone seeders, brown rice mills, tractors, precision seeders, mounted sprayers, lifting machines, and cultivators, all available for acquisition by various farmer cooperatives and associations. The roadshow was inaugurated by DA-6 regional executive director Dennis Arpia and prominent figures such as Philip Kim, president of FIT Corea Trading Philippines and KAMICO Country Representative; Hokyum Kim, director of TYM Korea; Sekjin Lee, president of Leshwa Industry; and PHilMech directors Dionisio G. Alvindia and Joel Dator, among others. Director Alvindia emphasized the event’s focus – introducing rice farmers to cutting-edge technologies that span from land preparation to post-harvest processes. He lamented the low awareness among farmers about utilizing new technologies to improve harvests. “We want to show our farmers that such machinery can significantly enhance their productivity and income,” said Alvindia. He also noted that while the cost of such machinery might seem prohibitive, the government, under the Rice Tariffication Law allocates P5 billion annually through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to aid farmers. Since 2019, PhilMech has distributed P3.7 billion worth of machinery to 1,364 cooperatives and associations under the RCEF mechanization program. During the event, one tractor was distributed to each of the following associations: Agtubabo Irrigators Association in Barotac Nuevo, Santo Semeba Irrigators Association in Anilao, the Municipal Local Government of Leon, and the Tubungan Multi-purpose Cooperative in Tubungan, Iloilo. Arpia expressed gratitude to KOMICA for bringing their latest farm mechanization technologies to the Visayas Region, helping farmers rise to the challenges posed by climate change. “Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., although not present today, stands firm in his belief that mechanization will significantly enhance the production capacities of Western Visayas,” Arpia said. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 25). Mechanization seen to boost WV agricultural productivity. Panay News, 3. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Mechanization seen to boost WV agricultural productivity Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – To enhance Western Visayas farmers’ productivity and ensure a prosperous harvest, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 6, together with the Korean Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (KAMICO), launched a two-day roadshow featuring the latest in farm machinery and technologies. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/mechanization-seen-to-boost-wv-agricultural-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 25, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Farm mechanization Western Visayas (Philippines) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document MPIW assures City Council of fair, transparent rate adjustment By Panay News -Thursday, July 25, 2024 h BY GEROME DALIPE IV ILOILO City – Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and cooperation with the City Council relative to its proposed water rate adjustment. It cited its five-year service improvement plan, project updates, and achievement submitted to the City Council to support its proposal. In ensuring transparency, MPIW emphasized that providing these documents allows the City Council to be completely informed on the areas where the proposed water rate adjustments will be allocated. Angelo David Berba, MPIW’s Chief Operating Officer, welcomed the positive result of the recently concluded council hearing conducted by local legislators at the City Council. “We are grateful to the City Council for giving due course and a favorable response to the documents we submitted. Their understanding of the proposed increase from P20 to P29 per cubic meter is crucial to addressing critical issues and ensuring sustainable water supply management in Iloilo City and our franchised areas,” said Berba. The City Council, convening as a Committee of the Whole, initiated an inquiry “in aid of legislation” on June 10 regarding MPIW’s proposal. This inquiry followed a request from former councilor and lawyer R Leone Gerochi to examine documents related to MPIW’s operations and agreements. MPIW clarified that certain documents requested, such as those related to joint ventures with Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) and water supply agreements, fall under the authority of MIWD for release. However, MPIW assured us of its commitment to help facilitate the disclosure process. Under the joint-venture agreement, MIWD acts as the regulatory body overseeing compliance, while MPIW manages operational aspects including distribution system maintenance, expansion, and rehabilitation. MPIW emphasized its cautious approach in releasing documents related to the joint venture annexes, citing the need to protect confidentiality provisions stipulated in contracts. Berba highlighted the company’s commitment to safeguarding sensitive information that could impact competitive advantage, violate contractual obligations, or compromise customer and employee confidentiality. “Alongside compliance with existing data privacy laws, we are committed to meeting legal requirements for transparency in public disclosure,” added Berba. Despite rising operational costs since 2019, including a 33% increase in bulk water prices, a 34% increase in fuel costs, a 74% increase in material costs, a 22% increase in chemical costs, a 25% increase in Labor costs, and continuous increase in permitting cost affecting project implementation MPIW has not adjusted its rates in six years. Comparatively, MPIW’s current rates remain among the lowest in Metro Iloilo. MIWD has officially submitted the tariff rate application to the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA), the application outlines detailed justifications for the proposed adjustment, emphasizing the need for sustainable financial planning to support the already substantial budget for the ongoing service improvements and operational efficiencies, ensuring improved water services for residents and customers. “We have meticulously studied and consulted on this rate adjustment to balance the need for necessary improvements while avoiding overcharging,” explained Berba during the June 10 committee hearing. MPIW’s proposed rate adjustment initially planned for 2021 but delayed due to the pandemic, represents its first adjustment since taking over operations in 2019. Citation Citation of the article Dalipe, G. (2024, July 25). MPIW assures City Council of fair, transparent rate adjustment. Panay News, 2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MPIW assures City Council of fair, transparent rate adjustment Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and cooperation with the City Council relative to its proposed water rate adjustment. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Dalipe, Gerome IV. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/mpiw-assures-city-council-of-fair-transparent-rate-adjustment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 25, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Water utilities--Rates Metro Pacific Iloilo Water Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Fight vs unregistered births in Western Visayas stepped up By Ime Sornito -Thursday, July 25, 2024 ILOILO City – A certificate of live birth is a high-value document for establishing identity. But according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there are still people in Western Visayas without it, their birth not having been registered. PSA-6 is thus encouraging most especially underprivileged groups, including indigenous peoples, Muslim Filipinos, senior citizens, and residents of geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), to participate in its Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP). A birth certificate is also crucial for accessing government benefits and assistance, said Nelida Amolar, officer-in-charge of PSA-6. Started in February 2022, BRAP aims to facilitate late registration of births for those who have never been registered. “The objective of this project is to allow people, especially from vulnerable sectors living in remote areas, to register their births late,” explained Amolar. Tackling the problem on unregistered births is being viewed with urgency now due to an ongoing Senate investigation that has caught national attention – the real identity of suspended Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo. Her nationality is being doubted and her late birth registration is being questioned. In Western Visayas, BRAP has so far successfully provided 28,226 individuals in the region with birth certificates, according to the PSA-6. Local Civil Registrar Officers (LCRO) from concerned local government units, along with PSA personnel, conduct ocular inspections to verify the identities of individuals before issuing birth certificates. However, individuals aged 18 and above who have not yet registered can also approach their LCRO or the PSA directly. “This initiative is a significant aid since late registration is free of charge and not burdensome,” Amolar added. To further increase accessibility, the PSA integrates mobile registration drives for the national identification system and conducts extensive information and education campaigns. The PSA reported significant progress, too, in the region’s registration with the Philippine Identification System, with 6.73 million out of 7.95 million residents in Western Visayas now registered. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 25) Fight vs unregistered births in Western Visayas stepped up. Panay News, 1&2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Fight vs unregistered births in Western Visayas stepped up Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – A certificate of live birth is a high-value document for establishing identity. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/fight-vs-unregistered-births-in-western-visayas-stepped-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 25, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Registers of births, etc. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document TRANSPORT TENSION: ‘Suspension’ of PUV modernization program divides transport stakeholders By Ime Sornito -Thursday, July 25, 2024 Passengers board a minibus in Iloilo City. Consolidated transport cooperatives and/or companies have secured millions of pesos in bank loans to buy minibuses in line with the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Suspending the program, they say, would be detrimental to their operation. ILOILO City — Desperate jeepney operators and drivers displaced by the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) see some glimmer of hope. Calls to suspend the PUVMP have surfaced in the Senate, following concerns raised about its implementation. Other transport stakeholders, however, are anxious. They warned that the suspension could lead to the bankruptcy of transport cooperatives or corporations already mired in bank loans. Senate President Francis Escudero, during the Senate Committee on Public Services hearing on Tuesday, July 23, prompted committee chair Sen. Raffy Tulfo to propose a resolution requesting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to halt the PUVMP temporarily. The move came after notable discrepancies were highlighted during the program’s rollout, which has faced criticism for its impact on local transport groups. Warren Gangoso, president of Manibela Panay United and the Villa Transport Association, welcomed the suspension proposal, citing negative experiences among members, some of whom have already left consolidated cooperatives or corporations due to unbearable conditions. “Our request is for the government to refine the program because we have many negative experiences with it,” Gangoso told Panay News. He clarified that while his group is not against the government’s transport modernization efforts, they seek a more robust and transparent system addressing cooperative-related financial and management issues before fully committing to the modernization drive. Gangoso, attended the Senate committee hearing on July 23, cited as example the P500 daily dividend promised to operators should they join transport cooperatives as consolidated members; this has not been fulfilled. But not all in the transport sector are happy with the Senate’s plan to call for PUVMP suspension. Raymundo Parcon, president of the Western Visayas Transport Cooperative (WVTC), voiced concerns about the financial implications of a suspension. The WVTC, which has taken a P200-million loan from state-owned Landbank of the Philippines for 95 “mini bus” units (so-called “modernized jeepneys), fears the inability to sustain payments if the program is paused. WVTC was given seven years to pay its loan. “Suspending it (PUVMP) now, after we’ve complied with the government’s modernization initiative, is painful for us,” Parcon said. WVTC is actually being allowed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to operate 552 mini buses; what it has bought so far and are operational is just 17 percent of this. “Modernization man bala, bag-uhon ang tanan. Ila gani slogan ‘Bagong Pilipinas’, modernize. Nagtuman kami sa programa nga modernization tapos gulpi nga kakason,” lamented Parcon. During the same Senate committee hearing, Escudero criticized the modernization plan as ill-conceived, pointing out the financial burdens it imposes on operators and drivers, with a vehicle cost of P2.5 million each being unfeasible under current conditions. He proposed a resolution to pause the PUVMP until all financial and operational concerns are thoroughly addressed. But Rizalito Alido, president of the Western Visayas Federation of Transport Cooperative and Corporation, hopes for an exemption for Iloilo City from the suspension, citing a local ordinance that implements an enhanced Local Public Transport Route Plan. The suspension could lead to the bankruptcy of transport cooperatives, he warned. Alido, who also serves as consultant of the Iloilo City Alliance Operators and Drivers Transport Cooperative (ICAODTC), this group may be forced to seek subsidy from the government to pay its bank loan. ICAODTC is operating 28 mini buses, costing P2.40 million each. The PUV modernization program, which overhauls the franchising system for safer and more comfortable public transportation, has been met with resistance from several stakeholders in the transport sectors, citing financial and livelihood displacement. Individual jeepney operators are required to give up their franchises in favor of consolidated transport cooperatives or corporations. Despite these challenges, President Marcos previously assured that the modernization would not cost any driver their job or livelihood. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 25) TRANSPORT TENSION: ‘Suspension’ of PUV modernization program divides transport stakeholders. Panay News, 1&2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Transport tension: ‘Suspension’ of PUV modernization program divides transport stakeholders Description An account of the resource ILOILO City — Desperate jeepney operators and drivers displaced by the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) see some glimmer of hope. Calls to suspend the PUVMP have surfaced in the Senate, following concerns raised about its implementation. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/transport-tension-suspension-of-puv-modernization-program-divides-transport-stakeholders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 25, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Transportation Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo officials praise PBBM’s 3rd SONA By Panay News -Tuesday, July 23, 2024 DEFENSOR, GORRICETA DEFENSOR, GORRICETA BY IME SORNITO and GEROME DALIPE IV ILOILO City – Ilonggo officials lauded President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) for what they described as its straightforward and focused approach. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., who attended the SONA at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, expressed satisfaction with the speech’s directness and emphasis on concrete accomplishments over the past two years. He was particularly pleased with the updates on agricultural programs and projects, which align with his administration’s goals of achieving food security for Ilonggos and contributing to the country’s overall needs. “The opening remarks about agriculture, followed by the President concluding with developments in the rice sector, coincide perfectly with our goals,” said Defensor. Defensor also highlighted the nearly P 20-billion Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP-II) in Calinog, which comprises three dams and spans over 80 kilometers of line canals. This project is anticipated to enhance agricultural development and the local economy by benefiting more than 25,000 farmers with a consistent irrigation supply. At the inauguration ceremony on July 16, President Marcos led the unveiling of the high dam marker and ceremonially activated the opening of the three dams, reinforcing the project’s significance. In education, Defensor appreciated the President’s acknowledgment of issues like reading proficiency among learners. “The focus on enhancing reading proficiency and critical thinking is something we are also committed to in our province,” he added. Although some expected infrastructure projects like the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Bridges and the development of Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan were not mentioned, Defensor remains confident that these initiatives will proceed as planned. Furthermore, Defensor supported the President’s firm stance against the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO), citing national security concerns and agreeing with the decision to ban POGO operations in the province. Second District’s Cong. Michael Gorriceta gave the SONA an almost perfect score, describing it as the best he had heard, filled with hope and strong messages, particularly regarding the West Philippine Sea and the POGO ban. Third District’s Cong. Lorenz Defensor and Uswag Ilonggo party-list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang also voiced their support for the President’s plans and declarations. Ang praised the President for addressing the Cebu-Negros-Panay backbone project, which aims to resolve power issues in Iloilo and Region 6. First District’s Cong. Janette Garin rated the SONA highly, noting its clear direction and emotional depth. “It was a speech from a leader with a Filipino heart, which our country needs during these challenging times,” said Garin. She particularly endorsed the focus on agriculture and education reforms linked with technological innovations. For her part, Iloilo City’s Cong. Julienne Baronda said Marcos demonstrated love when he said that “lagi po nating mahalin ang Pilipinas, lagi po nating mahalin ang Pilipino.” She said government policies for the revitalization of the agriculture sector – like imposing ceiling on the prices of rice and other commodities, the rolling out of more Kadiwa Centers, the distribution of agrarian reform lands, the seizing of billions-worth of smuggled rice, the feeding program for the so-called “food poor” programs – are aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens. Baronda added: “The increased PhilHealth coverage for stroke, pneumonia, and some types of cancer, and the fact that around 2.5 million Filipinos were stricken off the poverty list, prove that the government programs under PBBM’s administration impact the marginalized sectors.” Baronda said she was looking forward to the realization of policies favorable for overseas Filipino workers (who remitted $37 billion last year); the further eradication of crimes (including the further increase in the current 79% conviction rate of drug cases); and the creation of 200,000 jobs due to foreign investments. “The rockstar reception afforded to PBBM by functionaries and dignitaries assembled at the Batasang Pambansa and the applause and standing ovations spread throughout his hour-and-a-half speech are an imprimatur that he has exceeded our expectations as our chief executive,” Baronda summed up. Meanwhile, Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas congratulated President Marcos for delivering a comprehensive SONA. “As evident by the highlighted achievements of his administration, our President has indeed been doing very well over the past two years, showcasing his effective leadership and his ongoing commitment to excellence,” said Treñas. He noted that the present administration is “clearly on the right path, particularly in prioritizing crucial projects and programs in sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and agrarian reform. “As the city mayor, I assure the continued support of the Iloilo City Government to President Marcos Jr.’s leadership. Our vision for the city and its people aligns with his, and we are dedicated to working together for the overall welfare and advancement of the country,” said Treñas./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 23). Iloilo officials praise PBBM’s 3rd SONA. Panay News, 2&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo officials praise PBBM’s 3rd SONA Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Ilonggo officials lauded President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) for what they described as its straightforward and focused approach. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-officials-praise-pbbms-3rd-sona/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 23, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Marcos, Ferdinand R., Jr., 1957- Public officers Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document STRATEGIC INFRAS: PBBM’s 3rd SONA heralds game-changing projects in WV By Adrian Stewart Co -Tuesday, July 23, 2024 President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his third State of the Nation Address at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on Monday, July 22. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his third State of the Nation Address at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on Monday, July 22. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc MANILA – In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. highlighted two major infrastructure projects poised to transform the energy and agricultural sectors in Western Visayas. The completion of the Cebu-Negros-Panay (CNP) backbone project and the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project-Stage II (JRMP-II) mega dam in Calinog, Iloilo were presented as crucial developments in ensuring regional stability and growth. Cebu-Negros-Panay Backbone Project: Averting Power Outages The recently completed CNP backbone project has played a critical role in preventing power outages on Panay Island, particularly noted during a period from April to June when other parts of the country faced significant power shortages. “This project has successfully averted blackouts in Panay Island during critical periods of yellow and red alerts in the region,” said President Marcos. The P67.9-billion project enhances the power transmission reliability across the islands of Cebu, Negros, and Panay, facilitating energy transfers and accommodating new power plant developments in the Visayas grid. President Marcos said the transmission line is “one of the critical achievements” of his administration since he was able to fulfill the vision of a unified Philippine grid that was conceived in the 1980s. “Energy sharing and transfers between, among, and within the three island groups have now been made possible,” President Marcos said. “This is a defining moment not only for the power sector but for the entire country.” In April, the President led the ceremonial energization of the CNP 230-kV Backbone Project in Bacolod City, a project that he described then as “a big step” to address the power supply problems plaguing most especially Panay Island. The P67.9-billion CNP 230-kV Backbone Project, composed of CNP1, CNP2, CNP3 and Negros-Panay Interconnection Project Line 2 (NPIP L2), is intended to strengthen the grid and improve the reliability of power transmission in the islands of Cebu, Negros and Panay. It involved the construction of a high-voltage transmission line and associated substations to connect the islands of Cebu, Negros, and Panay. The energized CPN project will allow the increased transfer capacity among Cebu, Negros, and Panay islands and the dispatch of excess capacities from Mindanao to meet the demand in the Visayas grid. It will also accommodate the development of new power plants in the Visayas grid. Jalaur River Multipurpose Project-Stage II: Ensuring Water Security Meanwhile, the JRMP-II mega dam project represents a significant leap toward securing water resources for agriculture and local communities. “With the Jalaur project, nearly 32,000 hectares of land will be irrigated, ensuring water security, especially in underserved areas,” Marcos emphasized. This P20-billion initiative not only supports irrigation over 31,840 hectares benefitting around 25,000 farmers but also contributes to the energy sector by generating 6.6 megawatts of hydroelectric power. The project, currently 75.51 percent complete, is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. The July 16 inauguration by the President of the JRMP II water reservoir project, the largest outside Luzon, is a full-circle moment for the Marcos administration, taking place more than 40 years after the completion of its first stage in 1982, during the time of the President’s father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. JRMP II has three key components: irrigation development, environmental and watershed management, and institutional development. A portion of the water from the high dam’s reservoir will be utilized to supply the commercial and industrial bulk water requirements of Iloilo City and nearby municipalities. The project is also expected to generate 6.6 megawatts of hydroelectric power, which will help supplement the power supply on the Island of Panay./PN Citation Citation of the article Co, A. S. (2024, July 23). STRATEGIC INFRAS: PBBM’s 3rd SONA heralds game-changing projects in WV. Panay News, 1-2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Strategic infras: PBBM’s 3rd SONA heralds game-changing projects in WV Description An account of the resource MANILA – In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. highlighted two major infrastructure projects poised to transform the energy and agricultural sectors in Western Visayas. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Co, Adrian S. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/strategic-infras-pbbms-3rd-sona-heralds-game-changing-projects-in-wv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 23, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Western Visayas (Philippines) Marcos, Ferdinand R., Jr., 1957- Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document P235-M illegal drugs seized in 6 months in WV By Panay News -Wednesday, July 24, 2024 BY JB CERBAS ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) seized approximately P235 million worth of illegal drugs from 1,208 operations across Western Visayas in the first half of this year. From January to June, different police units confiscated 34,297 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P233 million and 20,200 grams of marijuana valued at P2.4 million. PRO-6 data also showed that 1,600 drug suspects were arrested. Here is the breakdown of the number of arrests per police unit: * Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (PPO) – 593 * Iloilo City Police Office (CPO) – 300 * Iloilo PPO – 270 * Bacolod CPO – 205 * Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6 – 72 * Capiz PPO – 67 * Aklan PPO – 39 * Antique PPO and Guimaras PPO – 27 each Brigadier General Jack Wanky, PRO-6 director, commended the police units and likewise emphasized the crucial role played by local government units, communities, and other stakeholders in providing vital information for the success of the campaign against illegal drugs. “May the number of arrests serve as a stern warning to those who still engage in the illegal drugs trade to stop and surrender to authorities. If you opt to continue in your illegal activity, surely you will end up in jail,” Wanky added. Citation Citation of the article Cerbas, JB. (2024, July 24). P235-M illegal drugs seized in 6 months in WV. Panay News, 4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource P235-M illegal drugs seized in 6 months in WV Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) seized approximately P235 million worth of illegal drugs from 1,208 operations across Western Visayas in the first half of this year. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Cerbas, JB Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/p235-m-illegal-drugs-seized-in-6-months-in-wv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 24, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Drug control Western Visayas (Philippines) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document WV economy surpasses P1 trillion mark in 2023; But region faces potential decline with NIR formation By Ime Sornito -Wednesday, July 24, 2024 Marlene Alviar, chief statistical specialist of the Philippine Statistics Authority Region 6, said 2023 marked the first time Western Visayas hit the trillion-peso Gross Domestic Product mark. She added that among the primary contributors to the economic acceleration last year were the services and industry sectors. ILOILO City – The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Western Visayas reached a milestone by exceeding P1 trillion in 2023, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed. The region’s GDP, which stood at P874.09 billion in 2021, climbed to P955.14 billion in 2022, marking a 9.3 percent growth, the highest among all regions in the country for that year. In 2023, the GDP further increased to P1.024 trillion, representing a 7.2 percent growth from the previous year. Marlene Alviar, chief statistical specialist of PSA Region 6, said 2023 marked the first time Western Visayas hit the trillion-peso GDP mark. “This signifies the monetary value of all products and services produced in the region,” Alviar explained. The primary contributors to the economic acceleration in 2023 were the services sector, contributing 62.7 percent or P542.05 billion, followed by the industry sector with 21.6 percent or P220.93 billion, and agriculture, forestry, and fisheries contributing 15.7 percent or P161.29 billion. In terms of growth rates among provinces and highly urbanized cities, Aklan led in 2022 with a growth of 22.5 percent, reaching P63.57 billion. It was followed by Bacolod City and Iloilo City with growth rates of 9.8 percent and 8.5 percent respectively. Other significant contributors included Guimaras, Capiz, Antique, and Negros Occidental. But the region faces potential economic shifts with the creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR), which separated Negros Occidental and Bacolod City from Western Visayas. “Negros Occidental and Bacolod City accounted for nearly 40 percent of the region’s GDP in 2022. With their potential separation, we anticipate a substantial reduction in the region’s GDP,” Alviar said. Despite the potential GDP reduction, Alviar remains confident that other provinces can compensate for the economic impact of Negros’ separation, citing sectors like fisheries, agriculture, and manufacturing as areas where provinces like Iloilo could excel. Additionally, the regional economic growth has broader implications for the well-being of the residents. “While the benefits of economic growth may not be immediately felt, they foster an environment that generates employment, thereby providing income that helps families afford basic needs,” explained Nelida Amolar, officer-in-charge of PSA-6. She also emphasized that booming industries and infrastructures facilitate easier and cheaper transportation of goods from rural areas to urban markets. Moreover, the economic upliftment has contributed to a decrease in the poverty rate from 18.1 percent in 2021 to 15.5 percent in 2023, significantly impacting the overall quality of life in the region. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 24). WV economy surpasses P1 trillion mark in 2023; But region faces potential decline with NIR formation. Panay News, 3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource WV economy surpasses P1 trillion mark in 2023; But region faces potential decline with NIR formation Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Western Visayas reached a milestone by exceeding P1 trillion in 2023, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/wv-economy-surpasses-p1-trillion-mark-in-2023-but-region-faces-potential-decline-with-nir-formation/#:~:text=Marlene%20Alviar%2C%20chief%20statistical%20specialist,peso%20Gross%20Domestic%20Product%20mark." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 24, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Western Visayas (Philippines) Negros Island (Philippines) Negros Island Region Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Be men and women of integrity, SC justice tells CPU law grads By Panay News -Wednesday, July 24, 2024 Supreme Court Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh served as the speaker during the Central Philippine University College of Law’s commencement rite of 30 law graduates on Monday, July 22. BY GEROME DALIPE IV ILOILO City – Supreme Court Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh urged graduates of the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Law to become men and women of integrity, particularly when they become lawyers. In her speech during the college’s commencement exercise, Singh underscored the importance of keeping one’s integrity, saying that in this modern world, only a few people have unquestionable integrity. “Pursue your dreams, but never forget that you must be ruled by the law and guided by your ethical values. Never lose sight of your goals. Remember that not all the money in the world can buy you a good name and reputation. It is the best legacy you can leave behind,” said Singh. Singh, the 194th associate justice of the tribunal, served as the speaker during the CPU College of Law’s commencement rite of 30 law graduates on July 22. In her speech, Justice Singh stressed that the true power of legal education lies in how members of the Bar choose to apply it. “It is my sincerest wish that you apply it not just with dedication, but with integrity. Integrity to me is the most precious commodity in the whole world. It is also the rarest. A lawyer with integrity acts with independence, propriety, fidelity, competence, diligence, equality, and accountability,” said Singh. The magistrate also encouraged the law graduates to “serve and pay back” to their families, schools, cities, and country. “Go forth and conquer. Today, your life commences on a new path of service not just for your family, but for the country coupled with the faith in God and the kindness of each other. You will be the instrument of good and beacon of hope,” said Singh. The magistrate said the law profession is now both empowered and beleaguered by technological advancements, noting the new mode of transforming how law is practiced is not always for the better. “As future lawyers, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our legal system. Legal education has given you the knowledge, the skills, and the tools to navigate this evolving landscape and to drive change,” said Singh. Remember that you are not just for yourself. You are becoming lawyers for society. You are all equipped to be in this noblest profession where you can make a positive impact on the lives of others. Singh said the commencement rite is a day of great celebrations as the college bestows upon the law graduates their Juris Doctor degrees, signifying the completion of four years of legal education. “But more than the ceremony, today also served as a chance for you to reflect on the journey that you have taken. It is the occasion to remind you of the purpose why you chose to take on this journey,” she added. Likewise, the magistrate said the commencement rite is also the celebration of love, patience, generosity, charity, and kindness. “Indeed, the study of the law is not a thing that can be achieved simply or easily. It requires the honing of a mind, deepened reasoning and critical thinking, and the acquisition of interpersonal skills that would make you ready to engage with your future clients and colleagues, and with justices and judges before whom you will appear. Most importantly, instilling ethical values that would guide you down the path you choose from here on,” said Singh. The magistrate reminded the graduates that being now full-pledged Juris Doctors “carries with it the gravitas that you should hold and keep from any impropriety or illegality.” “Remember that the title you earned today is not a mere ornament for showing off. Lawyering is the noblest profession. Without lawyers, no one will uphold the rule of law and society can exist and survive without the rule of law,” said Singh. Citation Citation of the article Dalipe, G. IV. (2024, July 24). Be men and women of integrity, SC justice tells CPU law grads. Panay News, 3. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Be men and women of integrity, SC justice tells CPU law grads Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Supreme Court Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh urged graduates of the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Law to become men and women of integrity, particularly when they become lawyers. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Dalipe, Gerome IV. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/be-men-and-women-of-integrity-sc-justice-tells-cpu-law-grads/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 24, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Justices Law students Central Philippine University Speeches Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Target missed: Western Visayas suffers from low vaccination rate – PBBM By Ime Sornito -Wednesday, July 24, 2024 A total of 160,897 children in Western Visayas are targets for routine immunization this 2024. However, only 49,191 children or 30.57% have been vaccinated as of June. ILOILO City – Western Visayas continues to face challenges in meeting national immunization targets, as highlighted by no less than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. himself during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA). Despite the Department of Health (DOH) prioritizing immunization as one of the eight key health outcomes, the region still records some of the lowest coverage rates in the country. During the SONA, President Marcos emphasized the administration’s commitment to enhancing health through preventive measures, including vaccinations, especially in regions like Western Visayas and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), where he said less than half of the targeted population is vaccinated. “Continuously, we chase after the goal of vaccinating our infants and children, particularly in these areas,” said Marcos. Dr. Adriano Suba-an, director of DOH Region 6, detailed these health priorities during a recent Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas hosted by the Philippine Information Agency. He noted that a comprehensive review led to the selection of these priorities, believing targeted interventions could significantly improve regional health outcomes. Despite these efforts, Region 6 has struggled to reach the target immunization rate of 95%. Since 2018, coverage rates have fluctuated: * 2018 – 63.15% * 2019 – 69.30% * 2020 – 71.02% * 2021 – 65.68% * 2022 – 59.52% * 2023 – 61.36% Routine immunizations in the region include vaccines for tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, BCG, hepatitis, measles, rubella, and the oral polio vaccine. Data from the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) showed 160,897 children in Western Visayas are targets for routine immunization this 2024. So far, 49,191 children or 30.57% have been vaccinated as of last month, indicating a significant shortfall. The vaccination coverage by province and highly urbanized cities in the first half of 2024 is as follows: * Aklan – 24.55% (3,004 of 12,236 children) * Antique – 31.99% (4,125 of 12,896 children) * Capiz – 30.55% (4,619 of 15,118 children) * Guimaras – 31.01% (1,136 of 3,663 children) * Iloilo – 32.48% (12,691 of 39,077 children) * Negros Occidental – 31.04% (17,731 of 57,118 children) * Bacolod City – 23.43% (2,643 of 11,280 children) * Iloilo City – 34.57% (3,242 of 9,509 children) Further efforts are needed as Region 6 plans to catch up on vaccinating an additional 111,706 children by the end of 2024. In 2023, the region’s accomplishment rate for routine immunization was at 61.36 percent, broken down (per province and highly urbanized cities) as follows: * Aklan – 51.04% * Antique – 59.53% * Capiz – 60.70% * Iloilo – 68.90% * Negros Occidental – 61.41% * Bacolod City – 40.24% * Iloilo City – 70.61% On the other hand, the regional accomplishment rates for measles-rubella and oral poliovirus vaccine supplemental immunization activity (MR-OPV SIA) in 2023 were 81.41%, with individual areas showing varied success: * Aklan – 66.72% * Antique – 68.6% * Capiz – 74.06% * Guimaras – 73.41% * Iloilo – 89.98% * Negros Occidental – 89.72% * Bacolod City – 64.74% * Iloilo City – 73.89% For Iloilo province, Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, head of the IPHO, urged parents to vaccinate their children against vaccine-preventable diseases, and acknowledged the role of health workers who have managed to reach an immunization rate of 68.90% in Iloilo Province in 2023, the highest in the region. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, July 24). Target missed: Western Visayas suffers from low vaccination rate – PBBM. Panay News, 1&2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Target missed: Western Visayas suffers from low vaccination rate – PBBM Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Western Visayas continues to face challenges in meeting national immunization targets, as highlighted by no less than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. himself during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA). Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/target-missed-western-visayas-suffers-from-low-vaccination-rate-pbbm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 24, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Vaccination Marcos, Ferdinand R., Jr., 1957- Western Visayas (Philippines) SONA