BY: FERDZ M. BRIZO / FB EYE
FANTASTIC/WALASTIC:
The Department of Health has acknowledged Catanduanes province with the Green Achiever award at the provincial level in the Salud Bicolnon program. Additionally, LGU Virac, along with other areas in Masbate and Sorsogon, has been recognized with the Green Achiever Award. Several municipalities in eleven towns have also received distinctions in various categories.
This recognition serves as evidence of the effective performance of our local governments in addressing health concerns. Congratulations to all!
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The Local Government Unit of Baras receives accolades from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), securing the Seal of Good Local Governance 2023 at the National Awarding Ceremony on December 13, 2023, held at Manila Hotel.
DILG Secretary Ben Abalos personally presents the award. Led by Mayor Paolo Teves, the LGU accepts the honor, coupled with a 1.8M cash incentive. Mayor Teves expresses deep gratitude, especially to department heads and Baras employees, emphasizing its role as inspiration for further dedication to town compliance with local governance standards. This signifies the community’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate to the people.
BVOX POPULI VOX DEI
The Catanduanes Provincial Board makes a strategic reversal of the Mining Ordinance on December 4, following Vice Governor Peter Cua’s privilege speech. The decision aligns with the pulse of various sectors expressing opposition to the proposal.
Despite the Board’s efforts to address the needs of the citizens, they decide to set aside such initiatives in favor of the concerns raised by the residents. A heated discussion unfolds at the Public Forum on Mining held at the State University Gymnasium on December 11, 2023, attended by diverse sectors and featuring the participation of religious leaders, including Bishop Manolo Delos Santos of the Diocese of Virac, the Muslim community, and various organizations and experts.
The forum, titled “MINING IN CATANDUANES, BOON OR BANE,” was broadcasted live on Radyo Peryodiko 87.9 DZBP-FM and the social media accounts of Radyo Peryodiko and CatSU. Experts provided insights into the advantages and disadvantages of mining, discussing its potential impact on residents’ safety and the affected areas. CatSU President Dr. Patrick Allain Azanza, acknowledging his anti-mining stance, respects diverse perspectives.
EYE IN THE SKY:
In our Radyo Peryodiko program suggests a livelihood summit as a potential solution to unemployment in Catanduanes, driven by the decline in abaca and other local livelihoods.
Key government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry, TESDA, DOLE, and the Department of Agriculture, may collaborate to boost livelihood opportunities. Involving private entities such as cooperatives is also encouraged to facilitate product disposal.
During a Radyo Peryodiko program, PD Arcangel Rodriguez highlights the NC-POOR, proposing a livelihood program for impoverished families and individuals.
TESDA introduces the Tsuper Iskolar Scholarship Program targeting 225 drivers for skills training in various fields. PD Rodriguez confirms that the skills training will take place at Cabugao School of Handicraft and Cottage Industry (CSHCI) and Provincial Training Center in the town of Baras. The program includes courses like Driving NC II, HILOT (Wellness Massage) NC II, Masonry NC I, and Tile Setting NC II.
The initiative aims to benefit UV Express, Jeepney, and Tricycle Drivers, extending the opportunity to their relatives. While awaiting approval from TESDA Central Office, enrollment is open on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participants will receive various benefits, including free training/tuition fees, assessment fees, and a P350 per day allowance, known as the Training Support Fund. Upon completion, all participants will receive a Training Certificate and National Certificate from TESDA. The community expresses gratitude to TESDA for this opportunity. (Weekly Column of Ferdz Brizo at BICOL PERYODIKO Newspaper in Catanduanes)
