31 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 Iloilo water levels show signs of dropping amid El Niño concerns By Ime Sornito -Wednesday, March 13, 2024 ILOILO – The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) is gathering reports from 43 local government units (LGUs) regarding the status of water sources across the province in light of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon. These reports from Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices (MENROs) cover the status of dams, wells, rivers, and other water sources. PGENRO head, Atty. Cesar Emmanuelle Buyco Jr., said, “Our water sources have indeed experienced a decrease in levels.” He expressed the urgency of determining the water levels, especially those affecting the Maasin Watershed in Maasin town, which is a primary source for water districts. Buyco explained that obtaining the actual status of the water sources is crucial for the provincial government, led by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., to implement mitigating measures and prevent a scenario where there is a lack of water supply, particularly for household use. He emphasized the collaborative effort required to address water supply issues, noting that Gov. Defensor has involved all provincial government offices in the initiative. The Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), for instance, is actively searching for potential water sources using equipment capable of detecting water presence. Despite the decrease in water levels reported by the MENROs, Buyco assured that, as of now, there has been no complete loss of water sources. PGENRO recently convened to discuss plans for better management of the Maasin Watershed to ensure its ability to continue supplying water, especially in the face of calamities such as El Niño. Cornelio Salinas, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), reported that some towns distant from water sources, like dams and water districts, were gradually experiencing a reduction in water supply for household use. “This situation is expected to persist until May,” Salinas said, predicting that the 1st District, which includes Oton, Tigbauan, Tubungan, Igbaras, Guimbal, Miag-ao, and San Joaquin, will be most affected by water scarcity in the upcoming weeks. Salinas believed that the central and northern towns would be less affected due to their proximity to water district lines, such as those of Dumangas-Barotac Nuevo Water District (DBNWD) and Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW). “For household water distribution, it should be okay from Maasin going to Iloilo City due to the dam and Metro Pacific’s line. The most affected will likely be the 1st District. Analytically, those towns far from our private and public water concessionaires will feel the impact,” said Salinas. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 13). Iloilo water levels show signs of dropping amid El Niño concerns. 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 Iloilo water levels show signs of dropping amid El Niño concerns Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) is gathering reports from 43 local government units (LGUs) regarding the status of water sources across the province in light of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon. 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-water-levels-show-signs-of-dropping-amid-el-nino-concerns/" 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 March 13, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Water levels El Niño Current El Niño Iloilo Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office 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 Prov’l El Niño Task Force focuses on 5 key sectors By Ime Sornito -Thursday, March 14, 2024 ILOILO – To cushion the impacts of El Niño, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) passed a resolution creating a taskforce. The formulation of the team, in reference to National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Memorandum Circular No. 05, Series of 2023, was made during a special meeting of the PDRRMC led by executive officer Colonel Cornelio Salinas and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, on Tuesday afternoon at Casa Real de Iloilo. “The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils as well as the local government units may adopt the National El Niño team structure, however, they may accordingly adjust the composition as deemed necessary,” read part of the memo. The Provincial El Niño Task Force shall be led by the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), with the PDRRMC being the implementing arm of the PDRRMC. Further, the PDRRMO shall also serve as co-presider during the Provincial El Niño Task Force meetings. Task force El Niño shall focus on five key sectors composed of the following: food security, water security, energy security, health security, and public safety. “These key sectors are tasked with carrying out the mitigation effects and implementation of actions and plans focused on their respective sectors while guided by the four DRRM Thematic Areas/Pillars. Likewise, these sectors are required to develop their respective sector plans, which, subsequently, shall be part of the provincial action plan,” said Salinas. For food security, the lead agency or office is the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAgRO), and members are the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (DWSD), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Iloilo, Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Iloilo, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Iloilo, National Food Authority (NFA)-Iloilo, National Irrigation Administration (NIA)-Iloilo and Guimaras, and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-Iloilo. For water security, the lead office is the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources (PGENRO), and the members are DILG, DOST, PAGASA, NIA, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), and the Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO). For energy sector, the lead office is the PPDO, and the members are the Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), National Telecommunication Office (NTC), and Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ILECO) I to III. For health security, the lead officer is the Provincial Health Office (PHO), and the members are the Hospital Management Office (HMO), Department of Education (DepEd), PSWDO, PPDO, PICAO, PGENRO, DOST, and DILG. FUNCTIONS AND TASKING * Tasked with carrying out mitigation efforts and implementing actions and plans focused on their respective sectors while guided by the DRRM Thematic Areas and Pillars. * Required to develop their respective plan, which subsequently shall be part of the Provincial Action Plan. * Develop comprehension strategies and plans for managing and responding to El Niño events, covering all sectors. * Assess the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with El Niño in different municipalities, including evaluating the impact on agriculture, water availability, infrastructure, and public health. * Allocated resources effectively to implement strategies and plans. Ensure that funds, personnel, and equipment are available to respond to El Niño-related challenges promptly. * Coordinated efforts among various government agencies, non-government organizations, and international partners involved in El Niño management * Facilitate collaboration and information sharing to ensure a unified response. Another resolution passed by the PDRRMC is to organize the Provincial Rapid/Post-Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis Team (R/PDANA) to enhance the province’s capacity to assess and respond to the impacts of disasters in a systematic manner. The team will be headed by the PDRRMO. The members are the Provincial Treasurer’s Office, PAgRO, PEO, PSWDO, HMO, PGENRO, and any PDRRMC member or accredited civil society organization. Salinas said they received reports, especially from the media, on the slow release of calamity damage reports, which is why there should be a team focusing on this. As of March 4, based on a partial report from the PAgRO, El Niño caused at least P487.828 million in damage, wherein damage to rice reached P422,610,445, for corn – P63,000,201, and high-value crops – P2,218,350. Here are the 16 towns that submitted reports of damages to rice: Tigbauan (P17,591,834), Oton (P32,475,326), Tubungan (P22,122,120), Anilao (P52,223,800), San Enrique (P2,956,879), Cabatuan (P42,881,524), Barotac Nuevo (P67,919,610), Miag-ao (P2,872,117.86), Mina (P7,962,403), Dingle (P7,338,811), Dumangas (P121,045,130), Igbaras (P1,529,505), Banate (P21,553,300), Zarraga (P913,008), San Miguel (P5,839,222), and Carles (15,385,850). About 8,504 rice farmers have been affected so far from the following towns: Tigbauan (424), Oton (631), Tubungan (780), Anilao (1,176), San Enrique (181), Cabatuan (1,023), Barotac Nuevo (937), Miag-ao (87), Mina (353), Dingle (110), Dumangas (1,489), Igbaras (42), Banate (504), Zarraga (12), San Miguel (125), and Carles (630). Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 14). Prov’l El Niño Task Force focuses on 5 key sectors. 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 Prov’l El Niño Task Force focuses on 5 key sectors Description An account of the resource ILOILO – To cushion the impacts of El Niño, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) passed a resolution creating a taskforce. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="ILOILO%20%E2%80%93%20To%20cushion%20the%20impacts%20of%20El%20Ni%C3%B1o,%20the%20Provincial%20Disaster%20Risk%20Reduction%20and%20Management%20Council%20(PDRRMC)%20passed%20a%20resolution%20creating%20a%20taskforce." 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 March 14, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource El Niño Current El Niño Iloilo Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 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 City nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site By Panay News -Thursday, March 14, 2024 The Eusebio Villanueva Building (previously, International Hotel) is among the prominent buildings on Calle Real, the historic street in Iloilo City. ILOILO CITY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2020-2022. BY GEROME DALIPE IV ILOILO City – This southern metropolis has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mayor Jerry Treñas announced yesterday the inclusion of the city’s historic street, Calle Real, in the tentative list of nominees for the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. “I have toyed with proposing an ordinance identifying Calle Real. Now, we await the final results of the workshop and use the same. We might be the first city with a Calle Real identified by UNESCO,” said Treñas. Calle Real, the momentous street located in the downtown area, is known for its well-preserved colonial-era buildings, which date back to the Spanish and American colonial periods. This former Commission on Audit building or Elizalde Building is also one of the heritage buildings along Calle Real. PN FILE PHOTO It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The street is also lined with shops, restaurants and cafes, making it a vibrant hub of activity in Iloilo City. On its website, UNESCO noted that Calle Real is a heritage zone designated by the Iloilo City Government, and a declared district and heritage zone by the National Historic Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). Calle Real also became part of the Sugar Cultural Landscape of Negros and Panay islands, alongside Silay City’s historic center, the Hawaiian-Philippine Company, Victorias Milling Company, Hacienda Santa Rosalia, Balay ni Tana Dicang, and the Aniceto Lacson Mansion. The above iconic sites have been nominated in UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list. The Hawaiian-Philippines Co. and Victorias Milling Corporation are operational sugar centers. Hacienda Santa Rosalia currently functions as a private home, with open tours for visitors around the ancestral mansion, chapel, and grounds conducted by the owner. The Balay ni Tana Dicang also operates as a museum managed by the private owner, while the Aniceto Lacson Mansion, with cooperation with the private owner, will be adaptively reused by the National Museum of the Philippines. “The Sugar Heritage Landscape of Western Visayas encapsulates the region’s journey of growth and development, which was significantly influenced by historical colonial ties and emblematic of globalization during its time,” UNESCO noted. Citation Citation of the article Dalipe, G. (2024, March 14). Iloilo City nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Panay News, 1. 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 City nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – This southern metropolis has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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/iloilo-city-nominated-as-unesco-world-heritage-site/" 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 March 14, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo (Philippines) Historic sites Unesco 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 Looting, water scarcity feared as El Niño worsens in Iloilo By Ime Sornito -Friday, March 15, 2024 ILOILO – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has issued a warning of potential extreme events, including looting and conflicts over water scarcity, as the El Niño phenomenon continues to impact Western Visayas. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has been directed to prepare for these eventualities. During a recent special meeting of the PDRRMC, concerns were raised regarding the possibility of crimes and conflicts over water shortages. According to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), El Niño could last until April or May, leading to water shortages for household and drinking purposes, as well as famine due to the inability to cultivate crops over prolonged periods. The situation could result in violent conflicts and looting, said Provincial Board member Rolanda Distura, chairman of the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. He stressed the importance of continuous monitoring by police stations, especially in areas with water resources. Reflecting on past experiences as the local chief executive of Dumangas town, Distura remarked that such scenarios are not new and emphasized the need for vigilance and preparedness. He urged disaster managers and PDRRMC members to look beyond immediate concerns and assess the capabilities and capacities for managing such extreme events. The PDRRMC and the Iloilo provincial government, led by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., have pledged support for all action plans of the IPPO to ensure peace and order during the El Niño period. The IPPO has been designated as the lead office for Public Safety, one of the five key sectors focused by the newly created Provincial El Niño Task Force. Other key sectors include Food Security, Water Security, Energy Security, and Health Security. The taskforce aims to concentrate on mitigation efforts and implementation of actions and plans to combat the effects of El Niño, and to develop comprehensive strategies for managing and responding to El Niño events across all sectors. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 15). Looting, water scarcity feared as El Niño worsens in Iloilo. 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 Looting, water scarcity feared as El Niño worsens in Iloilo Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has issued a warning of potential extreme events, including looting and conflicts over water scarcity, as the El Niño phenomenon continues to impact Western Visayas. 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/looting-water-scarcity-feared-as-el-nino-worsens-in-iloilo/" 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 March 15, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Water-supply El Niño Current El Niño Iloilo Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 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 Are Ilonggos ready for medical cannabis? Friday, March 15, 2024 Senate Bill No. 2573 states that the use of cannabis for medical purposes will be permitted “to treat or alleviate a qualified patient’s debilitating medical condition or symptoms.” BY GEROME DALIPE ILOILO City – The eloquent answer of Filipina-Australian beauty queen Catriona Gray during the 2018 Miss Universe pageant may still resonate with Filipinos when she declared her support for the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Like Gray, who stressed the importance of researching the effects of marijuana before legalizing it, the ongoing discourse on the legalization of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) in the country has gained support for its medical use, including Iloilo City officials. Mayor Jerry Treñas and Councilor Alan Zaldivar voiced their support for the use of marijuana for medical purposes when asked about their views on the legalization of marijuana. “For medical marijuana, I have no problem with it. When I was congressman, I heard that it is being used to treat terminal cancer patients to promote their well-being,” Treñas told reporters in a press conference. Zaldivar, the vice-chairman of the City Council health committee, said he supports the legalization of marijuana for medical, and not for recreational purposes. “As long as this will be based on medical study and approved by our health professional and concerned agencies, I support its legalization for medical use,” Zaldivar told Panay News. But are Ilonggos ready to use marijuana for medical purposes? “Oh, you will be surprised,” Treñas replied. The House of Representatives approved House Bill 6517, or the Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act, on its final reading on January 29, 2019. The bill aims to “legalize and regulate the medical use of cannabis,” with the overall goal of making it more accessible for Filipinos. At least 13 senators earlier signed Senate Bill No. 2573 containing Committee Report No. 210 and submitted by Senate committees on health and demography, public order and dangerous drugs, and finance. Those who signed the panel report are senators Robinhood Padilla, Christopher “Bong” Go, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Sonny Angara, JV Ejercito, Jinggoy Estrada, Mark Villar, Lito Lapid, Raffy Tulfo, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Grace Poe, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel Jr., and Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva. “The state shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. Pursuant thereto, the state shall legalize and regulate the medical use of cannabis, which has been confirmed to have beneficial and therapeutic uses for known debilitating medical conditions,” the bill reads. Under the proposal, the use of cannabis for medical purposes will be permitted “to treat or alleviate a qualified patient’s debilitating medical condition or symptoms.” “The medicalization of cannabis includes its acquisition, possession, transportation, delivery, dispensing, administration, cultivation, or manufacturing by private individuals or entities only for medical and research purposes,” the bill said. Upon its enactment, the government will establish Medical Cannabis Compassionate Centers (MCCC) and the Medical Cannabis Research and Safety Compliance Facility (MCRSCF) for research and testing. These new institutions will safeguard the distribution and research of medical cannabis in the country. A Philippine Medical Cannabis Authority or PMCA will also be created under the Department of Health (DOH), which will regulate the access and use of medical cannabis as well as the implementation of the measure. Under the bill, qualified patient is prohibited from doing the following: * Use cannabis for purposes other than for treatment of a debilitating medical condition and outside of the designated treatment facilities; * Use of cannabis with other illegal intoxicating or dangerous substances; and * Sell or give away medical cannabis. On the other hand, any physician is also barred from making the following: * Prescribe medical cannabis without an S2 license * Prescribe medical cannabis to any person who is not a qualified patient under this Act * Prescribe the use of medical cannabis for purposes other than for treatment of a debilitating medical condition * Prescribe medical cannabis in quantities more than the needed dosage. Citation Citation of the article Dalipe. G. (2024, March 15). Are Ilonggos ready for medical cannabis?. 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 Are Ilonggos ready for medical cannabis? Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – The eloquent answer of Filipina-Australian beauty queen Catriona Gray during the 2018 Miss Universe pageant may still resonate with Filipinos when she declared her support for the use of marijuana for medical purposes. 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/are-ilonggos-ready-for-medical-cannabis/" 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 March 15, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Cannabis Marijuana Ilonggos 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 Only 37% of 550K Iloilo households have access to potable water By Ime Sornito -Friday, March 15, 2024 Provincial Administrator Raul Banias convenes department heads of the Iloilo provincial government on Wednesday to discuss the lack of access to safe drinking water. Photos from Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Banias ILOILO – The provincial government is walking through possible solutions to the lack of access to safe drinking water for households this dry season. Of the province’s 43 local government units (LGUs), including Passi City, only 37 percent of the total 550,000 households have access to potable water, lower than the national average of 48 percent, according to the 2023 annual report of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Services collected by the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO). Provincial Administrator Raul Banias presented to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. the province’s state of access to safe drinking water on March 13. Two municipalities have the lowest percentages of access to safe drinking water: Concepcion with only seven percent and Ajuy with only one percent. “Kada banwa makita naton kon ano ang sitwasyon and medyo alarming gid,” Banias said in a Bombo Radyo Iloilo interview. In compliance with the governor’s directive to address the issue, he convened the concerned provincial government department offices, such as the IPHO, Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources, Provincial Agriculture Office, Provincial Engineering Office, and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. In their discussion, among the proposed steps to take is how they can hasten the rain harvesting and water impounding programs as Iloilo is facing the adverse effects of El Niño, which is expected to be a recurring weather and climate event. The provincial government will hold a Water Planning Workshop next month with expert resource persons and will also put in investments and funding in Iloilo’s Annual Investment Plan, Banias disclosed. “Ma-invite kami sang experts to further educate us on how to address this situation sang probinsya sang Iloilo,” he added. Banias explained that the provincial government annually allocates funds for the potable water system for the barangays. In 2024 alone, the fund for the project reached P30 million. But with this problem of access to safe drinking water, there is a likelihood that the fund will increase, the provincial administrator said. “Siguro i-increase ang aton allocation sa program sang provision sang potable water system para mapataas ang manubo nga percentage,” he also said. Banias noted that the provincial government wants to involve the water districts so that more consumers will be served. “Amo ni ang sitwasyon sa probinsya, and I think nabal-naman naton nga access to safe water is basic right sang tawo,” Banias noted. The provincial administrator is aware of the importance of access to safe drinking water because women in the household suffered the worst, especially the wives doing daily chores. And since March is National Women’s Month, Banias wants to pay close attention and come up with solutions as soon as possible. The provincial administrator is confident that addressing this is not far-fetched, citing that in 2022, the Iloilo provincial government focused on its campaign on zero open defecation (ZOD), which has been a success and has been named a Galing Pook Awardee. Under the ZOD campaign, all households in the province have a sanitary toilet. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 15). Only 37% of 550K Iloilo households have access to potable water. Panay News, 1 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 Only 37% of 550K Iloilo households have access to potable water Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The provincial government is walking through possible solutions to the lack of access to safe drinking water for households this dry season. 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/only-37-of-550k-iloilo-households-have-access-to-potable-water/" 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 March 15, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Water-supply Drinking water Iloilo Provincial Government 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 26 towns receive financial aid for disaster response upgrades By Ime Sornito -Monday, March 4, 2024 ILOILO – To enhance the disaster risk response and management capabilities of local government units (LGUs), the Iloilo provincial government released financial assistance to 26 municipalities for the procurement of essential equipment. A total of P46 million in checks was distributed. The aid distribution took place on Friday morning, March 1, at Casa Real de Iloilo. Municipal mayors, disaster risk reduction officers, and treasurers were present to receive the aid. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. spearheaded the event, with support from Cornelio Salinas, the chief of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Raul Banias, the provincial administrator. The occasion also featured the signing of Memoranda of Agreement, which formalized partnerships and underscored a shared commitment to the safety and resilience of the communities. “This reflects our collective commitment to building resilience and preparedness against potential challenges in our communities,” said Salinas. Governor Defensor said the assistance is intended to bridge the gap in disaster risk reduction and management systems and assets across municipalities. “The assets of one are the assets of everyone,” said Defensor. The assistance came in varied amounts depending upon the request of municipalities. The recipients were: FIRST DISTRICT * Guimbal – P1 million * Tigbauan – P1 million * Tubungan – P1 million * Igbaras – P1 million SECOND DISTRICT * Leon – P2 million * Sta. Barbara – P3 million * Leganes – P1 million * Zarraga – P1 million THIRD DISTRICT * Maasin – P3 million * Lambunao – P1 million * Pototan – P1.5 million * Mina – P1 million * Badiangan – P2 million * Bingawan – P1.5 million FOURTH DISTRICT * Dingle – P1.8 million * Anilao – P2 million * Banate – P1 million FIFTH DISTRICT * Barotac Viejo – P3.5 million * Ajuy – P6 million * Sara – P1.5 million * Concepcion – P1.5 million * San Dionisio – P1 million * Batad – P1.5 million * Carles – P3.2 million * San Rafael – P1 million * Balasan – P1 million Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 4). 26 towns receive financial aid for disaster response upgrades. 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 26 towns receive financial aid for disaster response upgrades. Description An account of the resource ILOILO – To enhance the disaster risk response and management capabilities of local government units (LGUs), the Iloilo provincial government released financial assistance to 26 municipalities for the procurement of essential equipment. 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/26-towns-receive-financial-aid-for-disaster-response-upgrades/" 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 March 4, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Emergency management Iloilo Provincial Government 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 Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. will attend the Senate inquiry on the power blackouts on Wednesday, Jan. 10, and the House inquiry on Jan. 11. The hearings will focus on gathering data necessary for legal action and reviewing relevant energy laws. ILOILO – The provincial government is contemplating a class action lawsuit against those responsible for the recent power blackouts affecting Panay Island, neighboring Guimaras Island, and parts of Negros. “We are examining this option because it has caused significant harm to our people, including damage to households, businesses, and more,” said Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. Defensor plans to attend the Senate inquiry on the blackout on Jan. 10 and the House inquiry on Jan. 11. These hearings will focus on gathering data necessary for legal action and reviewing relevant energy laws, such as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA), other related statutes, and the franchise of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). “A class action suit is being considered because of the widespread damage. While the power laws are relevant, we’re also looking into the Civil Code provisions. However, we’ll first attend the congressional hearings to gain more insights,” said Defensor. When asked if the NGCP would be the sole defendant in a potential lawsuit, Defensor said the outcome of the congressional hearings would guide this decision. “We’ll see how things develop. Currently, the NGCP, as the operator of the grid, is at the center of our investigation. However, this could change depending on the findings from the Congress,” he said. The governor emphasized the need to vindicate the damages suffered by our people, the province, the city, and the entirety of Panay, and to hold those responsible accountable.” Defensor is scheduled to participate as a resource person in the Senate Committee on Energy’s hearing on Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Senator Pecson Room, Senate Building, Pasay City, and in the House Committee on Energy’s inquiry on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in Conference Rooms 3 and 4 of the Ramon V. Mitra Building at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. Earlier, Defensor, along with Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, appealed to the Department of Energy (DOE) and Congress to use their authority to address the blackout issue in Panay Island, which is impeding economic growth and development in the region. “We’ve requested the executive branch to hold the power sector accountable to prevent future occurrences. This issue is hindering the development of Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, and the entire Region 6, which affects the country’s overall development,” Defensor said at a press conference on Jan. 4. The economic impact of the blackout on the province is still being assessed, but the governor noted that a formula is being developed to quantify its effect on businesses. The prolonged blackouts in Panay Island last week affected the livelihood and daily lives of people. Photo shows residents of Barangay Calaparan, Arevalo, Iloilo City playing by the seaside while waiting for their electricity supply to resume. Defensor also called for a review of power utilities’ compliance with their franchise mandates, as well as NGCP’s adherence to five directives issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. following similar outages in April 2023. These directives include updating stakeholders on the Visayas Grid status, synchronizing protection relays, expediting the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement, ensuring grid stability, and completing the third phase of the Cebu-Negros-Panay (CNP) backbone project by March 2024. The governor urged lawmakers to use their authority to enhance the energy sector, defining police power as the ability to prevent or stop societal harm, including power outages. “Legislative action might be necessary to improve the power sector,” he added. Defensor also implored the power sector to cooperate in preventing future crises. An emergency conference with the DOE, ERC, NGCP, Western Visayas governors, Iloilo mayors, and other stakeholders was convened on Thursday morning to address the blackout issues affecting Panay Island and other parts of Region 6 since Jan. 2. During the meeting, the NGCP committed to completing the CNP3 project by March 2024. This project involves connecting Negros and Cebu with an overhead line from Bacolod City to San Carlos City, and then to Toledo City, Cebu, via a submarine cable. The entire CNP project includes constructing a 238km, 230kV capacity transmission line linking Cebu, Negros, and Panay, along with the expansion of several substations. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, January 9). Blackout class suit: Iloilo prov’l gov’t considers legal action vs responsible parties. Panay New, 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 Blackout class suit: Iloilo prov’l gov’t considers legal action vs responsible parties Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The provincial government is contemplating a class action lawsuit against those responsible for the recent power blackouts affecting Panay Island, neighboring Guimaras Island, and parts of Negros. 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/blackout-class-suit-iloilo-provl-govt-considers-legal-action-vs-responsible-parties/?amp=1" 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 January 9, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Electric power failures Arthur R. Defensor Jr. Iloilo Provincial Government 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 Mayor Jerry Treñas receives his Outstanding Public Servant plaque and certificate from the representatives of the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. on Tuesday, March 19. BY NYARIKA DOMANAIS ILOILO City – The RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) has awarded Mayor Jerry Treñas as Outstanding Public Servant for his excellent performance in 2023. Representatives from the RPMD arrived in the city on Tuesday, March 19, to hand over the plaque and certificate to Treñas. “This prestigious accolade reflects a comprehensive performance assessment by our department, concluded in January 2024, and is a testament to the democratic voice and trust of the people of Iloilo City, who have bestowed Mayor Treñas with exceptionally high job performance and trust ratings,” read part of the certificate signed by Dr. Paul Martinez, a Global Affairs Analyst and the Executive Director of RPMD. Mayor Treñas expressed his gratitude to RPMD for the award, which he dedicates to all the Ilonggos. “This is validation of all the hard work and dedication of all the men and women in the city government, of course, with the support of our people and our various partners,” the city mayor said. The RPMD’s rigorous evaluation process examined the initiatives led by Mayor Treñas, gauging their impact on the city’s development and the residents’ quality of life. “This award not only celebrates Mayor Treñas’ substantial contributions to Iloilo City’s upliftment but also highlights his role as an exemplary leader capable of navigating the complexities of modern governance to foster sustainable community development,” the RPMD added. Citation Citation of the article Domanais, N. (2024, March 21). Treñas named Outstanding Public Servant. 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 Treñas named Outstanding Public Servant Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – The RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) has awarded Mayor Jerry Treñas as Outstanding Public Servant for his excellent performance in 2023. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Domanais, Nyarika Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/trenas-named-outstanding-public-servant/" 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 March 21, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Mayors Treñas, Jerry P. Awards Jerry P. Treñas 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 Police urged to prevent illegal gambling resurgence in Iloilo By Ime Sornito -Thursday, March 21, 2024 Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, director of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), paid a courtesy call to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. on March 13. ILOILO – Concerned about the potential proliferation of illegal gambling, particularly “bookies”, following the termination of the Small Town Lottery (STL) operator by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. asked the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to be aggressive in their campaign against illegal gambling. Defensor made the request during a recent courtesy call of PRO-6 regional director, Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky to his office. PCSO terminated the franchise of STL operator 7 Aces Games and Amusement Corporation on Feb. 28. “Based on the Philippine National Police’s experience, there is a tendency for illegal gambling to proliferate,” said Defensor. He added: “It was clear in our discussion with the new regional police director that we will be aggressive in monitoring the situation and preventing that from happening.” However, Defensor clarified that illegal gambling was just one of the issues he requested the police to focus on. They also discussed focusing on illegal drugs, illegal quarrying, illegal fishing, and other illegal activities that could potentially distract from the peace and order situation. When asked about the accomplishments of the IPPO headed by Police Colonel Ronaldo Palomo in illegal gambling activities, he mentioned that the director had accomplishments, but he did not have the exact figures. Defensor said he wants to level off with the PRO-6 regarding the statement that Palomo might be dismissed due to alleged weak performance in the illegal gambling campaign. “What is the basis, so that we will also be guided. Let’s first investigate the basis of that,” said Defensor. Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. (2024, March 21). Police urged to prevent illegal gambling resurgence in Iloilo. 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 Police urged to prevent illegal gambling resurgence in Iloilo Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Concerned about the potential proliferation of illegal gambling, particularly “bookies”, following the termination of the Small Town Lottery (STL) operator by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. asked the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to be aggressive in their campaign against illegal gambling. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="ILOILO%20%E2%80%93%20Concerned%20about%20the%20potential%20proliferation%20of%20illegal%20gambling,%20particularly%20%E2%80%9Cbookies%E2%80%9D,%20following%20the%20termination%20of%20the%20Small%20Town%20Lottery%20(STL)%20operator%20by%20the%20Philippine%20Charity%20Sweepstakes%20Office%20(PCSO),%20Gov.%20Arthur%20Defensor%20Jr.%20asked%20the%20Police%20Regional%20Office%206%20(PRO-6)%20and%20the%20Iloilo%20Police%20Provincial%20Office%20(IPPO)%20to%20be%20aggressive%20in%20their%20campaign%20against%20illegal%20gambling." 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 March 21, 2024 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Gambling