CLEAN UP SURIGAO…CLEAN UP THE WORLD

The Provincial Environment and Management Office (PEMO) in partnership with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte through the (ACES) program Advocacy for a Clean Environment and its Sustainability jointly implemented the “ Clean up Surigao…Clean up the world” project last September 18, 2009 through the support of the provincial government.

The Local Government Unit of Gigaquit under the supervision of Hon. Carlos M. Egay Sr. supported the said program with the theme: “Communities Uniting to Combat Climate Change”. The chief officers in the community were challenged to undergo “zero waste” process which eliminates waste as an efficient way of looking at the materials to be used in the resource recovery center.

The Government employees in the municipality were divided into five (5) groups. Each has an assigned area in the cleaning process. The venue for the said activity was Sitio Baoy, Brgy. San Isidro, Gigaquit, SDN particularly the dam irrigation which served as the "port area" going to the hinterlands of the three (3) barangays (LASICAM).

The weighing of collectible wastes was also done by the assessor’s office to determine the quantity of waste and also for segregation purposes. The non-biodegradable item was placed in the newly established (MRF) Material Recovery Facility. All recyclable items must be handled in the most resourceful way. This is one way also of achieving a clean environment and minimizing destructions from calamities that certainly ruined the lives of the people in the community. As concerned citizens in this municipality, we were called to be united in order to combat climate change. Good motivation would be dependent on everyone, provided they are more educated and knowledgeable regarding environmental concerns. Prevention is the most essential way in fulfilling this kind of goal.

Doot Beach Operation Linis 2009

Prior to the Las-ay and Jinawa Festivals . . .

First Las-ay Festival

Doot new beach ground
October 31, 2009

Submitted by Miss J. Galanida / Municipal Tourism Office

Gigaquit is well-known for its nipa wine called "Gigaquit Rum”. Through the efforts of the Local Government of Gigaquit and the Gigaquit Agra-Multi Purpose Cooperative (GIAMUPCO) the manufacturer and producer of the famous wine, the “Gigaquit Rum” was identified as the One Town One Product (OTOP) of the municipality. With great pride it was also adopted by the Provincial Government as the "OTOP" of Surigao del Norte.

Accordingly, the Local Tourism Office of the Gigaquit Local Government launched the “1st Las-ay Festival” last October 31, 2009 at Doot Beach, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. Another objective was to utilize what is given by mother earth and mother nature . . . our Doot Beach. The masses positively responded and cooperated by sharing their time and money during the festival. Government employees, barangay officials and the general public gave great support to the event through their attendance . . . their contribution in promoting our local product and other tourism assets. Tickets amounting to 100/person were sold to those who wanted to avail of the unlimited meals and drinks (las-ay).

Various activities were involved . . . the bar tendering competition and wine mixing served as the highlight of the affair. Contestants were HRM students from several colleges in Surigao City namely; Surigao Education Center, Philippine Women’s University and Center for Healthcare Profession. The core point during wine mixing is they used the "GR" as the main ingredient. The flavorings depends on the choice of each competitor.

From First Las-ay Festival 2009

The winner was the Center for Healthcare Profession. They were awarded with cash gifts and certificates.

The spokesperson during the event was the Regional Director of Department of Tourism Ms. Letecia Dc. Tan assisted by the Provincial Tourism Operations Officer Mr. Romeo P. Edillor and company.

From First Las-ay Festival 2009

The Augustinians and GNSHIans also participated assisted by their respective faculty staff by giving intermission numbers. Other entertainment were performed by the Mamanwa Tribe of Brgy. Mahanub, an acoustic band from Surigao City, Rodol (the Gigaquitnon pianist), and DJ R-Cue.

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The Local Tourism Office would like to extend its wholehearted appreciation to the sponsors who fully supported the activity . . . the municipal officials, college and high school departments from the aforementioned schools, all the committees and individuals who shared time and effort for the success of the festival.

The 2nd ROBERT ACE S. BARBERS, SEARCH FOR THE CLEAN AND GREEN MUNICIPALITY

The Provincial Government of Surigao Del Norte through the Provincial Environment and Management Office conducted the second “Search for the Clean and Green Municipality” competed by various municipalities from both mainland and Siargao Islands, last October 26, 2009. The Local Government Unit of Gigaquit was part of the itinerary on that scheduled date. The evaluators came from selected departments in the province such as: Provincial Health Office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Interior and Local Government, Provincial Tourism and Culture Office and Provincial Planning and Development Office. Through the implementation of such initial hauling plan in the municipality, various educational campaign and information were also done by some officials concerned on the segregation of wastes and the existence of compost pit.

The evaluation procedures were guided by the department heads of the municipality, particularly the on-site visitation in schools both secondary and elementary level, rural health centers, barangay chapters and the practiced of waste segregation of the constituents through the existence of a resource recovery center. The purok Makiangayon in barangay Alambique served to be the model site for winning the 1st prize during the last purok fencing contest. The garden area in the health center was also visited featuring different kinds of vegetables in gardening procedures.

Through this project, it is hoped that the constituents may realize the importance of having a clean environment leading to a better and productive community.

ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Seminar

In relation to RA 9003, Hon. Mayor Carlos M. Egay is deeply committed in the implementation of the ecological solid waste management program in our municipality. Significant events and activities were initiated by the Local Government Unit of Gigaquit relevant to the program.

A series of on-site visits were done by members of ESWM board and TWG, Vice-Mayor and members of Sangguniang Bayan, Brgy. Captains and Mayor Egay himself. These sites include the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) of the municipality of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, and the facility of the Surigao del Norte provincial government.





The local government hosted a seminar inviting the Provincial Environment & Monitoring Office for the preparation of the ten-year solid waste management plan of the municipality. The most recent activity was a two-day “Strategic Planning and Seminar Workshop on Solid Waste Management” participated by the members of the board and technical working group of LGU-Gigaquit and key officials of all the thirteen (13) barangays, last September 24-25, 2009 at Gigaquit Multi Purpose Building.



The said training was conducted by a team from LGU of Sto. Tomas headed by their ESWM Specialist, Mr. Charlemagne Fernandez. Every barangay was guided and assisted in the creation of their respective ecological solid waste management program. The highlight of the seminar is the signing of “Pagpanumpa sa Katungdanan” by the members of the Barangay Ecological Solid Waste committees, followed by an oath of sustaining the implementation of their ESWM program. A massive information and education campaign were conducted by the Technical Working Group, in the schools and barangays during assembly. Mr. Fernandez also urged for an inspection of every household of municipal employees to determine whether the segregation of wastes is practiced and what is the availability of compost pit in their respective areas.

To date, the municipal garbage hauling plan is on the stage of initial implementation. And the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) of the municipality is now operational.

Municipal Solid Waste Management Board
Chairperson - Hon. Carlos M.Egay
V-Chairman - Hon. Felixberto Jala

Members
William R. Enario - ENRO-Designate
Hon. Domingo R.Cubelo - Chairman SB Committee on Environment
Hon. Loreto B. Laurena - ABC President
Mr. Rodelio S. Torregosa - MPDO
Engr. Restituto E. Mira Jr. - Mun. Engr.
Mrs. Lucila Virtudazo-Mun - Tresurer
Mrs. Caremncita G. Naldoza - DepEd District Supervisor
Dr. Roland E. Mira - Municipal Health Officer
Mrs. Rosalina A. Sering - DILG MLGOO
Mrs. Elvira A. Egay, Ph.D - NGO Representative
Mr. Hilario T. Go, - Business Sector Rep.
Hon. Eduardo A. Neuda - Brgy. Captain Alambique
Mr. Marcelino S. Verano - Mun. Agriculturist
Mr. Leslie S. Pingal - Consultant on Tourism

Double Treat Festivals!

Due to bad weather the Gigaquit Wine Festival was postponed to October 31, 2009. Here is your chance to book that flight and witness this memorable event!

The following day is November 1 which is not only All Saints Day but also The Jinawa Festival in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte!

Have a full-packed vacation this semestral break! Come and Visit Gigaquit!

Purok Fencing Contest

Photo credit:  http://www.turbosquid.com

The Purok Fencing Contest has a big part and significance in relation to the town’s festivity, to orderly manage the environmental assets of the community, through giving procedures and implementing environmental policies. The said contest was applicable exclusively for the two barangays in the urban area. The actual evaluation segment was manifested last August 20, 2009, barangay Alambique was the first to undergo evaluation procedures containing of 6 puroks, the area was observed its cleanliness and orderliness during the day.

The evaluators were four (4) municipal officials from different departments, namely Marcelino Verano, Marilyn Perral, Rosalina Sering and Ersalito Babia sanitary aide. The basis for judging is simply cleanliness and orderliness of the area, depending on how ideal and creative they are which adds fine ambiance. A good environment is a replica of the town. The clean and green program has an important role through implementation of environmental policies. Every barangay chapters particularly the puroks must be observant and conscious and most importantly environment friendly.

After barangay Alambique was observed, came barangay Ipil, containing 6 puroks, majority of them lived near the creeks surrounded by nipa trees which are prone to floods. Eventually, the human wastes were found not in proper place due to lack of knowledge and funds for the preservation of environment. Establishment of barangay purok is undertaken by some responsible officials who managed to improve the surroundings. The simplest form of conservation is self-discipline in order to attain immediate recovery from environmental problems establishing programs that will encourage the folks to properly manage their lifestyle.

Town Fiesta 2009 Awarding Night

Photo credit:  http://graylingchamber.com/

Gigaquit
August 28, 2009

The most essential part in celebrating different kinds of affair is the awarding ceremony which everybody waits as a result of achieving fulfillment. The awarding night was scheduled on the day of the festivity last August 28, 2009 at the Municipal Multipurpose Bldg., conducted by the Mayors Office Department under the leadership. Alvin Egay, Administrative Officer together with the SK President Vanessa Jane Go. This was participated by the selected municipal officials and the chief executive of the town Hon. Carlos M. Egay, who gave message to individuals and participating teams.

Below are the winners who would receive special prizes and certificates of recognition/appreciations in behalf of giving and sharing efforts. The said recognition was given especially to the barangay captains for truly giving time and effort and to the public for responding properly in due time of the festivity. Cash prizes are dependable to the budgetary allotment form different categories of the activities through sponsoring assistance coordinated by the LGU-Gigaquit for actual implementation.

PRESENTATION OF WINNERS

1. Purok Fencing Contest

Barangay Alambique - Consolations - Purok 2 & 1
3rd Prize - Purok 4
2nd Prize - Purok 6
1st Prize - Purok 3

Barangay Ipil - 3rd Prize - Purok 3
2nd Prize - Purok 2
1st Prize - Purok 1


2. 3rd ROMARATE BASKETBALL CUP

Barangay Poniente - 5th Place
Barangay Camboayon - 4th Place
Barangay San Isidro - 3rd Place
Barangay Alambique - 2nd Place
Barangay Ipil - 1st Place


3. Drum and Lyre Competition

Taganito National High School - 3rd Place
Gigaquit National School of Home Industries - 2nd Place
Claver National High School - 1st Place

“A walk for a cause”

Photo credit:  http://secouncil.blogspot.jp

Gigaquit
August 19, 2009

Another year has come in celebrating the towns annual festivity through its 159th fiesta celebration honoring Patron Saint Augustine every 28th day of August. This festivity is not only a time for celebration but most importantly a time for expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty God for giving us an opportunity to celebrate for the graces He bestowed upon all Gigaquitnons.

It has been a tradition and Filipino culture to celebrate in spite of the present global economic crisis that our country is facing nowadays, still we show much fun and happiness because of the Filipinos optimistic behavior.

The Local Government Unit of Gigaquit conceptualized varied fiesta activities to make this celebration more meaningful and enjoyable . . . that will be cherished by everyone like . . . Walk for cause activity, Inter- barangay basketball tournament, Boxing, Variety Show, Mutya ng Parokya, Field demonstration and Search for Miss Gigaquit Coronation night aside from important novena masses and other religious activities of the Catholic Parish. This year’s activity is under the leadership of appointed season director Dra. Elvira Egay PH.D.

“A walk for a cause” was a great event wherein many townspeople came together in one journey. It received positive responses from the masses, joining the true essence of friendship and camaraderie towards others. The sponsoring groups played an important role catering and organizing to make the activity more enjoyable and fun.

It was scheduled last August 19, 2009 Wednesday at 6am after novena mass as part of the religious activity. The participating individuals assembled at the church quadrangle. The destination area was at the point of Barangay San Isidro along the provincial road. There was an admission fee worth 50 pesos but not mandatory, only for those willing and wanted to have breakfast and snacks as well.

The activity itself showed the unity and solidarity of Gigaquitnons. It raised funds wherein the proceeds will be for the various projects of the Parish.

“2nd Mayor Carlos M. Egay Amateur Boxing Tournament”

Gigaquit
August 23, 2009

Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is idolized by most people in the world. Considered to be the pride of every Filipino, his ability and strong determination is a good motivation to those who want to follow his journey to success.



Here in Gigaquit, we have potential fighters who actively patronize boxing. Hence, the “2nd Mayor Carlos M. Egay amateur boxing tournament” was organized for those who wanted to experience being inside the ring. It was held at the Municipal Multi-Purpose Bldg. last August 23, 2009. It was participated by 13 barangays each with a maximum of 2-3 contingents. The final 14 pairings was divided into two sets and were drawn by lot for them to know their opponenets. Two hired round girls added the entertainment of the night.


The general admission ticket was P50 per person, while the ring side seats were charged P100. All tickets were sold out during that evening. The boxing coordinator Mr. Bong Eupeña was surprised for the full support and participation of all male Gigaquitnons. Like in every game, there always be a winner and loser ...each of the latter received consolations worth P400 while the winners got P500 each.

The excited audience

The hired officiates for the event duly administered the selection and judging process. That was a risky activity but this kind of occasion brought nothing less than total excitement to all Gigaquitnons. It inculcated in the minds of the audience that every trial is like a fight, we may fall sometimes but in the end we could be among the best fighters. Life is so amazing!

  The boxing officials


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"Cong. Romarate Basketball Tournament 2009”

Photo credit:  http://bestclipartblog.com

Sportsfest is the highest form of enjoyment for adventurous sports lovers. Basketball is considered to be the most popular sport of all time globally. That is why the fiesta basketball tournament easily turned to reality through the sponsorship by 2nd District Congressman Guillermo Romarate, Jr., in cooperation with the Gigaquit Local Government Unit. The energetic LGU personnel made this a fully enjoyable occasion and gave opportunity to those individuals capable of showing their athletic prowess.

There were 10 participating teams from different barangays. During the opening of the said tournament, each team provided a muse to add color during the parade. The muses projected themselves during the presentation of the barangay teams as they ramp on stage at the basketball quadrangle. Miss Aireen Sebial representing barangay Villafranca was declared as winner, being the favorite of the audience.

The game proper started last August 15, 2009. It was scheduled every weekend of the following weeks. It was hosted by the Mayors Office through the leadership of Mr. Alvin Egay as the basketball coordinator. He received able assistance as a game will not be exciting without the help of some hired referees and officiates. Every team showed tenacity to win and get the prize but eventually only one team would be declared as Champion.

As the game went further for its final week last August 21, 2009, Barangay Ipil and Alambique fought for championship. The strong Barangay Ipil team won as what have been expected. They have been winning for the last consecutive years. Their continuous success is a great pride of their barangay and a good motivation among young boys in their locality. May we congratulate the Barangay Ipil team and officials for actively participate and winning the prize. Keep it up folks!

Town Fiesta 2009 Opening Program

Gigaquit
August 25, 2009

Like in every occasion, there will always opening in different ways at different events. Since we had been celebrating our festivity, we are grateful to conduct an opening program for the representation of the incoming events and activities befitting a fiesta celebration.

The first part was held last August 25, 2009 at the Municipal Plaza beginning with a parade participated by the municipal and barangay personnel, students from secondary and elementary level, all teaching staffs, contingents from Claver and Taganito National High School, Mutya ng Parokya candidates, GCES Little King and Queen and candidates for Miss Gigaquit 2009. To officially open the celebration, a ribbon cutting was done headed by our Mayor assisted by the Vice-Mayor, SB Members, Mutya ng Parokya and Ms. Gigaquit 2009. The candidates for the Mutya ng Parokya, and Ms. Gigaquit were presented. Followed by some sponsoring groups and BEC leaders and the GCES Little King and Queen Candidates.

The highlight of the occassion was the Drum and Lyre Competition participated by three secondary schools from Claver, Taganito and Gigaquit contingents. They gave their whole best as if that is the last performance in their entire lives. They conquered the huge crowed evoking mixed emotions, tensions and anticipations. The judging is based on their ability and organization as a team. The Claver National High School possessed the best winning appearance and declared as winner. Their choreography was almost perfect and the ability of the performers are also good compared to others. The second prize went out to our contingent the GNSHIans who produced resourcefulness and creativity. Meanwhile the third prize went to Taganito High, the funniest performance ever happened who brought joy to the audience and to the judges because of its uniqueness.

There’s a saying that goes ”it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, what matters most is how you play the game”. It is a good motivation to individuals who’s joining different affairs as this enables them to fully understand the true essence of a game. The event would not be realized and possibly wasted without their the participation of all the contingents.

On the same day, the second part of the program was a “variety show” that showcased the importance of nature. Specifically, the aquatic resources served as the motif and the main course of the celebration. The show has big significance and revelation on what’s already happening to our environment. In many cases, lots of environmental problems have existed caused by cruelty of men searching for mineral resources. Through this event we captured the message and meaning by the actions of the performers. It also showed causes and effects of environmental problems and the effective solutions.

The performers were selected GNSHIans and Augustinian dancers, choreographed by Romel Asilum. Selected teaching staff in various elementary schools headed by the District Supervisor Carmencita Naldoza also showed their talents in acting by portraying ways on how a man proposes marriage. The government employees under the leadership of our Mayor Carlos M. Egay also showed their talent in singing the new released Gigaquit Hymn instructed by Dr. Roland Mira, the Municipal Health Officer.

The activity was positively responded by the public specially students from different school level and municipal and barangay officials. Admission fee was only P20, not totally a burden to anyone for it was just a small amount. The collectible amount will proceed to the various projects in the municipality.

Nutrition Month (July 2009)

Gigaquit
July 31, 2009

Nutrition Celebration is a long month activity celebrated in one evolution. The national agencies concerned in health particularly (DOH) Department of Health plays a big role by implementing programs which will widen the importance of nutrition in the lives of the masses specifically during the feeding process. The programs must be applicable in school, barangay chapters, and municipal health centers including the Provincial Health Office.

Councilor Manongas (brown shirt) and Vice-Mayor Jala (blue polo shirt)

That is why, last July 31, 2009 the town celebrates its nutrition program and culmination held at the Municipal Multi purpose Bldg., with the theme: “Wastong Nutrisyon Kailangan, Lifestyle Diseases Iwasan”. The said activity was hosted by the Nutrition Office through the leadership of Mrs. Nelma Bausing Municipal Nutrition Officer and personnel. A thanksgiving mass was also done by Fr. Jun A. Balberia parish priest in town. This was participated by some government employees, municipal officials, barangay officials, teachers from different year level and the general public.

The main reason of the event was to present the newly elected officers of Barangay Nutrition Scholars coming from the selected barangay areas and for some idealistic explanation about “task of the nutrition program in the Philippines and the significance of the nutrition month celebration” by Dr. Elvira A. Egay the Gigaquit Women’s Federation President.

Mayor Egay inducting the new officers.

An inspirational talk was conveyed by the Vice Chairman as well as vice mayor in town Hon. Felixberto Jala. A brief explanation also about the importance of gardening was given by the Municipal Agriculturist Officer Marcelino Verano.

Mr. Marcelino Verano

The event ended with full knowledge and aspirations learned from the expertise of some mentioned person. Hopefully the masses will surely apply concerning each health through giving also health measures and tips for choosing the right nutrients imminent from the food eaten. Moreover, the activity is a sort of educational purposes.

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Public Hearing on Gigaquit Water System Project

The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) is a national agency that provides facilities for construction of water systems and financial assistance through grants and/or loans, as well as establishment of necessary procedures. Hence, the Local Government Unit of Gigaquit hosted by the Engineering Department conducted a public hearing last May 21, 2009 held at the Municipal Multi-purpose Hall in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte through the leadership of Engr. Restituto E. Mira, Jr. who is the acting General Manager of the water system project.

The said event received positive response from selected barangays such as: Alambique, Ipil, Villafranca and San Isidro and some 224 residents from the same. It was attended by local chief executive Hon. Carlos M. Egay, Sr. assisted by the Vice-Mayor Felixberto Jala, SB members, Brgy. Captains of the said barangays and members of Gigaquit Water District who fully participated despite of their busy work schedules.

The speakers during the event are the representatives from LWUA namely; Engr. Alfredo Bayanin, Engr. Felizardo Salazar and Miss Lizelle Zabalo. Also invited were the General Managers of the water districts of Placer and Bacuag.

The purpose of the said activity was to visualize through the help of Power Point presentations the specified data, detailed costs of equipments, objectives of the project, budgetary funds and most importantly, the result of the fundamental study on the exact rates payable by the households in the selected areas. It was clearly explained by the speakers and concluded that each household in certain areas will pay the amount based on the result of their computation.

In addition, the Gigaquit Water District Council will be planning for higher connections of the system for wider utilization by more households. This time around, those selected areas will benefit on its first action provided by a limited meter of G.I pipe.

An open forum was initiated for further clarifications. It ended fruitfully and the people agreed about certain policies and regulations.

More photos below . . .

State of Municipality Address (SOMA) 2009

State of the Municipality Address (SOMA) 2009

Delivered by Hon. Mayor Carlos M. Egay, Sr.

At noon of June 30, 2007, I stood on this same platform to deliver my inaugural address as Municipal Mayor of this municipality. During that occasion, I echoed the theme of my electoral campaign in the election of 2007 which was ‘BUHION AN GIGAQUIT”.

From the very first day in office, therefore, as municipal mayor I focused my attention on that theme. What is “Buhion an Gigaquit”? Why did I choose this theme? The reason is plain and simple. Our town whose establishment dates back according to our unwritten history several hundred years ago, has not moved forward enough. On the contrary, we had retrogressed in terms of developing the natural resources that once were in abundance in our municipality. Our marine resources had been fully depleted, our vast mountain ranges had become bald and deforested of their cover. And our rice fields in the lowland have not produced enough to make our economy vibrant and progressive.

On this note, therefore, we have resolved to anchor the course of our municipal administration towards making our communities productive again. Our marine resources, agricultural fields and mountain areas would become live aspects of production.

The rationale for all our governmental actions, activities, programs and projects during the past one-half years, therefore, had been directed towards goal of bringing life back to our national resources.

AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

In the agricultural sector, we distributed certified palay seeds to 423 farmers with a value of P482, 400.80. We also distributed assorted vegetable seeds to 591 farmers. Our municipal nursery which was constructed on an area which we bought from its private owners had produced 498 pieces of grafted mango, 124 pcs. of gemelina, 156 pcs. Majogany and 45 pcs. mangium seedlings which were distributed to several farmers for free, except in the case of grafted mango seedlings which we sold for a total sale of P9,960.00. We also distributed foliar fertilizers to 976 farmers and bacterial inoculant to 80 farmers which were utilized in their palay production. We also distributed 1,500 pcs. of banana plantlets in Villafranca, Lahi, Poniente, and Mahanub.

In fisheries, we distributed carp fingerlings at barangays Lahi, Villaflor, Poniente, San Antonio and Sico-sico and bangus and tilapia fingerlings to small fishpond owners of barangays Anibongan, Ipil, San Antonio, Villafranca and Alambique. We were able to establish fish shelter at barangays Ipil, Alambique and Anibongan for a cost of P67, 910.00. We also conducted seaborne patrol to protect our municipal waters from illegal fishing resulting in several apprehensions of fishing gears of liba-liba operators where we were able to collect a fine of P95, 000.00. The apprehensions were made mainly with the assistance of the Alambique Fisherfolks Association.

For livestock, we dispersed and redispersed several heads of cattle at barangay Villafranca, Lahi, Villaflor and Mahanub, swine at barangay San Isidro, San Antonio, Mahanub, Ipil and Alambique and caber chickens. We also conducted health management activities consisting of deworming of 121 heads of large cattles and 182 heads of small animals benefiting 227 farmers. We treated 312 heads of swine for common diseases and 401 heads for nutritional deficiency. We castrated 320 heads of swine and vaccinated for anti-rabies 46 heads of dogs. On research and development we conducted a mudcrab culture research at barangay Villaflor valued at P306, 000.00. Technology demonstrations were conducted on water melon at barangay Villaflor valued at P98, 125.00, on corn at barangay Villaflor valued at P19, 200.00, and on rice at barangays Villafranca and San Isidro valued at P39, 700.00. We sent on a visit and observation tour on the vermi culture project at Moncayo, Compostela Valley so that we may have our own vermin culture project. We have actually started this vermin culture project at the municipal nursery. On trainings and seminar, we conducted the fishery law enforcement training with 45 fisherfolks in attendance, a marine protected area and participatory coastal resources assessment training for 45 participants and a natural resources management training and validation for 25 participants. Organic farming seminars were given at Villaflor, Villafranca, Mahanub and San Antonio to 96 farmers.

We also gave support by way of infrastructure projects for our farmers by constructing a multi-purpose dryer pavement at barangay Villaflor valued at P107, 000.00. We have on-going projects on the construction of a flatbed mechanical dryer at barangay Villaflor for an estimated cost of P500, 000.00 with a 40% accomplishment already and a solar dryer and mini ware house project at barangay Mahanub for an estimated cost of P500, 000.00 with a 65% accomplishment report already. This is under the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) with funding from MRDP of P2M and counterpart given by our municipality of P500, 000.00. Other projects lined up under this MRDP will be implemented this year.

In order to invigorate corn production, we put up under CPAR project a corn mill at barangay Villaflor and a rice and corn mill at barangay Sico-sico. Both projects are still on-going with initial testing already done for the operation of the corn mill at barangay Villaflor.

INFRASTRUCTURE

On infrastructure, we have accomplished such projects as would benefit the various sectors which we are mandated to serve, in support of the programs of said sectors.
We have finished the construction of the Anibongan farm-to-market road with a cost of P2M and a counterpart fund of P500, 000.00 coming from the municipality. We have improved the canal concrete cover of our CLAGIBA irrigation system in the areas of Camboayon, San Isidro and San Antonio. In Camboayon we concreted 150 lineal meters of canal valued at P300, 000.00, at Poniente 1,600 lineal meters valued at P600,000.00, at Villaflor 1,700 lineal meters of irrigation canal valued at P700,000.00, at San Isidro 1 km. of irrigation canal valued at P999,000.00. We were able to pave with concrete Egay St. with a length of 157 lineal meters for a cost of P681, 000.00, Decillos St. with 146.9 lineal meters for a cost of 642,000.00, and Señoren St. with a length of 150 lineal meters for a cost of P610, 000.00. We also constructed box culverts and canal linings along Egay St., Eliot St., Zamora St. and Navallo St. We were able to improve the municipal park and plaza costing P150,000.00, repair and improve the Sangguniang Bayan session hall costing P50,000.00, improve and rehabilitate the multi-purpose building and tennis court costing P70,000.00, improve and rehabilitate the basketball court and stage costing P40,000.00. We completed the improvement of the Senior Citizen’s building costing P30, 000.00 and constructed two (2) units of waiting shed at P75, 000.00. We also repaired and rehabilitated the Doot foot bridge costing P105, 000.00, repaired and rehabilitated the Doot beach cottages and function hall costing P50, 000.00 and constructed three (3) units floating cottages costing P10, 854.00. We also constructed for the benefit of the residents of barangay San Isidro the public clothes washing structure locally known as “Labhanan” costing P54, 000.00.

FINANCE

In the field of finance we were able to collect business taxes and licenses for Calendar Year 2007 in the amount of P238, 724.63 and for Calendar Year 2008 the amount of P575, 850.04. On fees and charges we were able to collect for Calendar Year 2007 the sum of P237, 902.69 and Calendar Year 2008 the sum of P565, 417.65. On economic enterprises, we were able to collect P141, 988.27 in Calendar Year 2007 and the following year the sum of 234.019.95. On real property taxes, we collected for Calendar Year 2007 the sum of P1, 114,971.21 and in Calendar Year 2008, the sum of P1, 229,837.43. We intensified collection of taxes because of the requirement that our municipality should be able to increase its collection of local revenues and not to depend solely on Internal Revenue Allotment from the national government in order for us to avail of percentage discounts in the equity requirements for some of the projects that were nationally funded and projects that we were able to get from non-government funding agencies.

On the assessment of real properties, we completed the Logofind tax mapping project in April of 2008 as a result of which we were able to assess more lands, buildings and machineries for taxation purposes. We were able also to revise at the same time the value of such properties in the general revision of tax declarations in the year 2008, thus the possibility of increasing our real property taxes by this year and succeeding years.

BUDGET

We budgeted wisely the funds that came to us from our share of the Internal Revenue Allotment and those that were collected from local revenue sources in accordance with the guidelines promulgated by the Department of Budget and Management on local budgeting. We came out with the executive budget on time, which was approved on time by the Sangguniang Bayan and reviewed on time by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of this province. In fact our Municipal Budget Office had received recognition for such early accomplishment. We balanced our budget and spent funds that hewed closely to the budget so that we did not incur any deficit after the end of the calendar year.

As to the shares of the barangays on the collected real property taxes and the community tax certificates we distributed them to the corresponding barangays in the year 2007 and in the year 2008. We increased the budget for barangay assistance mandated in the local government from P1,000.00 to P5,000.00 and released the same to the corresponding barangays in 2008. We also placed in our budget our assistance for honorarium of barangay tanods.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Along the activity of social work, the Office of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development continued with its usual program for children 0-18 years old consisting of day care services, supplemental feeding, child abuse referrals and children in conflict with the law and supervised neighborhood play. For THE youth of 18 years up to 30 years the MSWD continued with its program on “Unlad sa Kabataan” and referral for job. For the needy adult 30 years old to 60 years old the MSWD continue with its services for solo parents, assistance to individuals in crisis situation, food for work and referrals to the Rural Health Unit and violence against women and children. For older persons 60 years old and above, the MSWD continued with its neighborhood support services and issuance of Senior Citizen’s ID and referrals for hospitalization. For persons with disabilities the MSWD gave provision of assistive devices as well as referrals for hospitalization. For families, the MSWD gave parent effectiveness service, marriage counseling service, pre-marriage counseling, violence against women and children and referrals for hospitalization. These activities were continued in the year 2008 by the MSWD Office of this municipality.

We fixed our eyes on the implementation of our nutrition program by coming out with an executive order on nutrition which would give emphasis or the production by the community of vegetable plants and trees that have high nutrition value. One of the principal aspects of the nutrition program of the municipality is the program known as “Kalamunggay” in “Every-Home” in order to emphasize not only the high nutritional value of this plant, but of the proper habit of eating Kalamunggay..

On the population program, the Municipal Population Office continued with its implementation of regular population programs such as the municipal responsible parenting program, the family planning program and the programs on the status of women. We participated in the Pop quiz at the provincial nd municipal levels and organized PopDev clubs at the high school level at the GNSHI.

LOCAL GOVERNANCE

On local governance, we presented the state of local governance report for this municipality to guide us in the manner of local governance during our term of office. We conducted the barangay development planning workshop and the executive and legislative agenda formulation workshop. We completed the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the Executive and Legislative Agenda commonly known as the ELA and the Municipal Annual Investment Plan all of which are required for proper planning and programming. We also participated in the formulation and the institutionalization of the Hinatuan Passage Development Alliance (HIPADA) with the mayor of Surigao City and Municipal Mayors of Malimono, San Francisco, Tagana-an,Placer, Bacuag and Claver in order to develop the areas along the Hinatuan passage.

We reorganized all the local special bodies created pursuant to the Local Government Code, namely, the Local School Board, the Local Health Board, the Municipal Development Council and the Peace and Order Council.

We also started the implementation of a municipal data base through the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) and enrolled in the SCALOG program for capability-building sponsored by the Spanish government.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE

Our barangay counterparts and their subsidiary units, namely, the puroks, did not miss our attention. The barangay assistance fund mandated to be given to the barangays by the Local Government Code which we increased from P1, 000.00 for P5, 000.00 per barangay per year, is only a miniscule part of the total assistance that we gave to each of the thirteen barangays. Our barangay officials in attendance with us this afternoon can attest to this fact. Our assistance to barangays reached P _537,797.57_______.

We also gave assistance to the various schools of our municipality not only from funds of the Special Education Fund (SEF) but also from the general fund and the 20% development fund of the municipality, for their various school activities.

Our indigents are the beneficiaries of a large portion of our assistance given through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. To whom we doled out to the sick and the infirm the victims of accidents calamities and violence and the families of the diseased, close to P300, 000.00. We also enrolled in the Philhealth program __100___ residents of our municipality from LGU funds, along with about 1,200 residents who are beneficiaries of the Philhealth program of Cong. Guillermo A. Romarate, Jr.

We loaned to farmers the sum of P 255,000.00 last 2007-2008 with repayment accomplishment of 78% of the amount loaned.

PEACE AND ORDER

For the year 2003 our police station registered a total crime random of twelve (12) while in 2008 the crime volume was 21, representing a 47% increase of crime incidents last year.

The crime volume for 2007 showed that 25% of the commissions were for index crime, meaning the more serious and sender crimes, while 75% were for non-index crime. The 2008 record for the crime volume indicated a serious situation, wherein 15 out of 21 crime incidents were for index crime.

HEALTH

Our children are our principal concern when it comes to our health program. Thus, we placed great emphasis on the determination of their nutritional status under the operation timbang activity of the municipal health office and of the municipal nutrition office. We have focused our attention on 105 severely malnourished children in our municipality.

We achieved a 91% accomplishment on our targetted beneficiaries on our expanded program on immunization (EPI) as well as an average of 95% accomplishment on our targetted children under the Garantisadong Pambata program.

In the last quarter of last year, we opened our birthing space in the municipal health station to our pregnant women where they may give birth safely thereby avoiding the hazard of birthing through trained “hilots”.

The second killer disease in Gigaquit after incidence of deaths from heart diseases is tuberculosis. Thus, we appropriated last year the sum of P 300,000.00 for the special TB-DOTS program which focused on case findings for TB-related illness and on medication of TB patients.

Our Municipal Health Office focused its attention on the national filariasis control program by conducting mass treatment to some 15,000 residents and on the schistosomiasis control program where, out of 836 stools examined, 63 were found positive who are now undergoing treatment.

SPECIAL CONCERNS / PROJECTS

Potable water supply had been lacking always in Gigaquit. We who are living in the poblacion had been dependent on shallow water wells for our drinking water supply. Thus, late in 2007 and the first semester of 2008, we were able to come out with a project feasibility study with the assistance of New Zealand Aid and the National Economic Development Authority, as well as a program of work, for a waterwork system that would provide Level III water supply for our people. We marketed our project proposal to possible fund donors and two government banks, the Land Bank and DBP who were interested to give loan for a high interest rate of 13% which we considered untenable considering our financial resources.

Fortunately, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) gave us the g0-signal to come out with a definite proposal for the project. We then re-organized the Gigaquit Water District which was organized way back in 2003 by former Mayor Elvira A. Egay, but which had become moribund after her term of office ended the following year. We are now on the verge of actually starting the project.

We have tourism potentials in our locality. We had Cuyapnit Cave assed by an experienced cover who discovered along the way in going Cuyapnit cave the grandeur of the lagoon and its enclosing limestone and rock formation. We also requested for the assessment of Nagubat Island for deep sea diving. Assessments had been found positive for possible tourism destinations which, upon initial look by the Department of Tourism people, provision was made for initiating activities leading to the establishment of these areas as tourism destinations.

Out town does not have big manufacturing industries and commercial establishment, such that we have to provide, livelihood projects whenever and wherever possible. We were able to get funding from the Community Fund Assistance for Development (CFAD) component of the Mindanao Rural Development Project (MRDP) in the amount of P 2m. Several livelihood and small infrastructure projects for agriculture have been lined up for implementation, some of which are on-going. The rest are waiting for the release of P1.5m for the project funding from MRDP.

OTHER ASSISTED PROJECTS

Most of the town’s other assisted projects came from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of Congressman Guillermo A. Romarate, Jr. He also assisted us in causing the release of funds for projects that did not come from his PDAF.

The biggest amount received from Congressman Romarate’s PDAF is the P1M equity stand by resource fund for our waterworks project. He also gave a total of P1.2M to finish the Mahanub covered court. A SARO in the amount of P500, 000.00 has been released by DBM for the completion of the covered court of Villaflor, P300, 000.00 for the completion of the barangay office of Poniente and P 250,000.00 for the completion of the barangay office of Villafranca. The sum of P270, 000.00 for the school stage of the Gigaquit Elementary School is now with the 1^st Engineering District of Surigao del Norte and the sum of P55, 000.00 for the Alambique Barangay Offices now released for implementation.

Assistance was given by the good congressman for the release of P2M for the Anibongan farm-to-market road which was complete in the last quarter of last year, and that of the San Isidro-Lahi FTMR in the sum of P1M. Also about the end of Last year, Congressman Romarate caused the release of P 3M from DPWH for the Mahanub-Program FTMR.

We were able to procure from the PDAF of Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr. the sum of P4.5M for the construction of the Alambique-Anibongan bridge at the mouth of the Alambique river. The release of the sum was made with the assistance of Congressman Francisco T. Matugas of the 1^st

Congressional district whose concern is still for us Gigaquitnons.

Of course, Cong. Romarate provided us with an ambulance, Cong. Matugas also assisted us in the release of the patrol jeep for our PNP station.

OUR MISSION FOR 2009

WATER SUPPLY
We hope to be able to start implementing our waterworks system this year. Only last week, I was able to talk with LWUA Board of Trustees Chairman Prospero “Butch” Pichay, Jr. in the company of Cong. Francisco Matugas, in the LWUA office of Chairman Pichay. He pledge not only to approve the proposed project with an initial funding of P13.6m, but also to give a grant portion of the amount that will be allocated for this project, while the rest would constitute as our loan from LWUA. If given a grant, the proposed water rates for our water consumption would go down by at least fifty percent.
This waterworks project will get its supply from pump water located at sitio Kalubihan in Barangay San Isidro. Given the fact that Chairman Bucth Pichay has made arrangements with the National Electrification Administration to treat the electricity consumption of water districts that supply proposed water to their waterworks system as residential, then definitely the operational cost for electricity consumption of our waterworks system, will be lesser.

TOURISM
The DOT regional office has become very interested in helping develop our Cuyapnit cave, Baoy dam and Nagubat and Cagban islets for tourism. Initially, the Regional Director has pledged three pumpboats for these areas.
We will be requesting funding for some infrastructure requirements for the Cuyapnit Cave. We are preparing for our Gigaquit rum wine festival and the already started Jinawa festival as our tourism come-on for this year.

LIVELIHOOD
Even as we continue the implementation of our proposed livelihood projects in the CFAD component of MRDP, this year we are looking forward to being involved in the next round of CFAD projects for 2009. We have set aside in our 2009 budget the amount of P500, 000.00 as our counter part fund for this program.

We hope to able to avail of other funding sources for livelihood projects not only from the Government but also from non-government sectors.

ONE-TOWN-ONE-PRODUCT
Our Gigaquit rum is our identified one-town-one-product in the OTOP program of the Department of Trade and Industry. We will continue with solving our packaging problem for our Gigaquit rum with the P200, 000.00 assistance we have received from the Philippines Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP), which is now being implemented through the Surigao Economic Development Foundation (SEDF).
We will look into other sources of funds for the packaging aspect of our product to make it viable and at the same time competitive with other wine products now in the market. As already stated, we will go into massive promotion of this product as soon as our packaging will have been solved.

NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Consonant with our cry in “Buhion An Gigaquit” to give life back to our natural resources, we will be implementing our Natural Resource Management (NRM) program as our MRDP component. We have assessed initially the areas for undertaking NRM activities covering barangay Alambique, Ipil, Villaflor, San Isidro, Mahanub and the LASICAM area.

Next week on February 11 World Bank assessment team will be in our town to orient our LGU and certain people’s organization regarding this NRM program, and to look over our identified areas for implementation of agro-forestry and coastal resources projects in the identified barangays.

We will put up definitely a material recovery facility (MRF) leading to the establishement of an organic fertilizer plant.

INFRASTRUCTURE
For this year, we will be constructing the Alambique-Anibongan bridge with P4.5M the San Isidro-Lahi FTMR with P1M, the Villaflor-Poyo-Poyo FTMR, with P2M and Mahanub-Program FTMR with P3M.

Depending on the approval by Cong. Romarate of our proposals for funding from his PDAF, we will be constructing a multi-purpose covered court for barangay Lahi and barangay Camam-onan to the tune of P1M each.

We have to rehabilitate our damaged beach and we will initiate it with funding from our unprogramed increase in our IRA this year, to construct water breakers which would facilitate the stay of the sand that will be brought back to the shore by the action of the sea waves.

Only two municipal streets in the poblacion are not concreted. We hope to be able to pave these last two streets by the end of the first semester this year.

We will be constructing a mechanical flat-bed dryer in San Antonio and more multi-purpose dryer pavements (MPDP) in as many areas in our barangays who are ready to put up their sites.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, I wish to state that it is our desire and hope and wish that this year will bring us more improvements vis-a-vis our felt-need minimum basic needs.

I would be remiss in ending my report if I do not acknowledge the help and assistance so easily given by the Honorable Vice Mayor Felixberto R. Jala and the members of the Sangguniang Bayan the Honorable Juanita Pepino, Rose Tejada, Lita Parba, Randy Coleto, Anacorito Manongas, Mamerto Sebial, Domingo Cubelo, Chandru Bonite, Loreto Laurena and Vanessa Jane Go. I also thank profusely the department heads for their wonderful cooperation to us.

I wish to express finally my acknowledgement of gratitude to our Congressman Guillermo A. Romarate, Jr. and Congressman Francisco T. Matugas for their invaluable support to all our endeavors.


Thank you.

SUMMER 2009 ART WORKSHOP

Children from the poblacion, from Barangays Ipil and Alambique, which ranges from 5-12 years old were encouraged and invited to join the 1^st Summer Art Workshop. It was a 5-days training hosted by the LGU coordinated under the Mayor’s Office headed by Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Egay. The supervisions and assistance was supported by some (SPES) who joined together for the good cause.

The activity took place last April 27 to May 1, 2009 at the Municipal Townhouse Building, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte with a registration fee of P50.00 each for the art kit and other materials. Approximately 60 participants registered as it was positively responded by the parents. The workshop was made possible due to the moral and financial support they had given.

The purpose of the said activity was to inculcate in the minds of the children not to depend on new technology today, specifically computers, in making project and other occasional activities. The best way is to make it “your own way”. Being unique and resourceful is still the key for getting higher appreciation.

Also, the children may be able to develop much more their talents for creating and designing if they could be taught using native products. The children surely enjoyed the activity. It showed them how to mingle and socialize towards others. It created also a short time bonding with both children and parents. The activity is a good motivation as the learnings they’ve got will definitely serve them as they grow older and become aware of the realities of life.

For more photos, click here . . .

A video coverage of GIGAQUIT RIVER for “Waters of Caraga” TV Feature

Video source: Ka Jose Minglana Part of the footages in the above video came from what they did in the story below.

Living Asia Channel as the official media partner, held the: video coverage dubbed as; “WATERS OF CARAGA” last May 12, 2009 featuring the Gigaquit River and Mangrove areas at Sitio Baoy, Brgy. San Isidro Gigaquit, SDN. It was supported by the Department of Tourism Caraga Region XIII and other group of agencies in terms of production cost and transportation expenses.

The activity sought to instill among the minds of the constituents of the town the values in preserving natural attractions potential for ecotourism activities. It also promotes the living condition of people living in the Barangays of LASICAM (Lahi, Sico-sico and Camam-onan) and giving opportunity for promotion of the “Cuyapnit Cave” as one tourist attraction of Gigaquit.

The team featured also the means of transportation related to the accessibility of the place. The particular dam site called “Baoy Dam” also functions in protecting the marines’ sanctuary by serving as the port area.

Although the tour was hampered by rain, still the urge was there for fulfilling ones mission. It ended at twilight past 4PM. Perhaps it was a great experience, the production team suggested organizing some sports that will enhance the attractiveness of the place which could be famous through tourism activities suited for the kind of attraction it has. Generally, the visiting team positively responded and appreciated the town’s good cause.

The photos of the photo shooters . . .

In front of the Municipal Hall . . .

Doot is not spared . . .

At Baoy Dam / River . . .


The boat to Cuyapnit Cave . . .


At the vicinity of Cuyapnit . . .


Resting ang posing inside the Municipal Tourism Office

Relief Operation on Flooding Disaster January 2009

The Municipal Government has conducted several relief operations during the December 2008/January 2009 Flooding calamity that hit Caraga Region including our town Gigaquit. The following are links to some photos:

Click the photos >>  Relief Operations

Additional Flooding Disaster Photos:
(click the title)

Kinabutan & Puyo-puyo

Anibongan Beach

Baoy area

1st Adlaw nan Alambique

Feb. 6, 2009
Alambique Barangay Hall

The 1st Adlaw nan Alambique (Alambique Day) celebration was amazing and great for the entertainments by dance and singing contests which were the highlights of the event. The first part of the program was the parade participated by the barangay council, teachers, students with the band of GNSHians and Augustinians drum and lyre corps. Of course the event would not be possible without the idealistic and energetic Bgy. Captain Hon. Eddie Neuda, for the support and preparation made together with his colleagues in the council. By the presence of Dr. Elvira Egay, as guest speaker, who delivered an inspirational speech to the barangay folks, it was a very enjoyable and holistic event indeed.

It was job well done. Congratulations!

Click here to see more photos . . .