Thursday, August 27, 2009

OLONGAPO FIGHTS AGAINST VAGRANCY


The city government executes its authority to protect Olongapo’s public areas from vagrants, curfew violators and other offenders that carry out illicit activities at the city’s parks, streets, and plazas. This is in line with Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. aspiration to rehabilitate these public vicinities into Olongapo’s prime tourist and recreational areas.

Spearheaded by the Parks and Plazas Management Office (PPMO) in coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Olongapo City Police Office (OCPO), Office of Traffic Management and Public Safety (OTMPS), Public Affairs Office (PAO) and with Brgy. West Bajac-Bajac, the composite team conducted a saturation drive in the vicinity of Rizal Avenue and at the Rizal Triangle Park and Multi-Purpose Covered Court late night of August 22, 2009.

The said pursuit apprehended thirty-six (36) wrongdoers, twenty-three (23) of which are vagrants, six (6) parking attendants, five (5) curfew violators and two (2) mentally-challenged individuals who were brought to the Olongapo City Center for Youth wherein CSWDO counselors provided appropriate counseling sessions for the group while the minors were held in custody then brought to their homes the following morning.

Accordingly, Mayor Gordon Jr. tasked the City Livelihood Cooperative and Development Office (LCDO) to involve the apprehended adults on the said office’s numerous livelihood training seminars as provision for decent and beneficial source of living.

The said saturation drive is based on the mandates of R.A 9208 otherwise known as, “An Act to Institute Policies to Eliminate Trafficking in Persons Especially Women and Children, Establishing the Necessary Institutional Mechanism for the Protection and Support of Trafficked Persons, Providing Penalties for its Violations, and for others”.

On the other hand, curfew violators are apprehended in connection with City Ordinance No. 22 Series of 1995 amended in 2002 that states that, “No minors below eighteen (18) years of age shall be allowed in streets and public places such as bars, restaurants, parks and playgrounds, amusement centers, beach resorts and similar establishments in the city of Olongapo during certain hours of the day as follows: a) Sundays to Thursdays – From 9:30 pm to 5:00 am of the following day; b) Fridays and Saturdays – From 11:00 pm to 5:00 am of the following day.”

MAYOR GORDON PRESENTS BB. OLONGAPO CANDIDATES


Mayor James “Bong” Gordon officially introduced the sixteen (16) Bb. Olongapo candidates to the public at the flag raising ceremonies held at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Covered Court last August 24, 2009.

The 16 Bb. Olongapo candidates are the chosen few from the group of applicants who registered and have undergone two successive screenings held last August 12 and 14 at the Olongapo City Convention Center.

Among the flock of beauties who will compete for the coveted title are Uniffer Oda, Alyza Karen Querubin, Cristaline Ruyo, Maria Kristel Empeño, Marvelyn Molina, Monica Marvie Romero, Maria Theresa Tagorio, Beverly Horario, Leana Patricia Dominico, Caselyn Barrion, Jhayne Anne Mundo, Joshua Grace Klietz, Hazel Tacazon, Rosemary Joan Turner, Cherryl Algabre and Madel Ferrer.

“The search for Bb. Olongapo will not only look for the finest maiden but will also consider the charm, wit, talent and intelligence of the contenders,” said Lei Montoya of the City Tourism Office.

The public is invited to watch out for the Bb. Olongapo candidates at the following scheduled activities:

August 28 Charity day and Adventure Trip
at Welfare Ville, Sta. Rita and
at Tree Top Adventure, SBFZ

September 5 Swimsuit Competition and
Presentation Night at
Ocean View Resort

September 12 Visit to a Company Sponsor
(Flawless)

September 19 Visit to a Company Sponsor
(Zoobic Safari)

October 3 Talent Presentation at
PAGCOR
Oriental Paradise Casino, SBFZ

October 10 City Clean-Up and Personality
Development Training on
Oral Communication at the
Olongapo City Convention Center

October 17 Pre-Judging, TBA

October 23 Bb. Olongapo Motorcade within the city

October 24 Grand Pageant Night at the
Olongapo City Convention Center

November 3 Public presentation of pageant winners
at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose
Covered Court

The candidate who will be crowned as Bb. Olongapo will officially represent the city at the Bb. Pilipinas pageant.

Day care prepares for Regional Children’s Congress

Children, parents and day care workers were all amazed by the “Mystical Magical Show” held last August 21, 2009 at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC) thru the efforts of the city’s Association of Day Care Workers (ADCW) in cooperation with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).

“This project not only aims to establish solidarity between among our day care workers and parents but also to bring together our students’ family members,” said Gene Eclarino, head of CSWDO.

As of today, a total of 55 Day Care Centers and child minding center teach and care for 2,400 children around the 17 barangays of Olongapo City.

“Olongapo is a child-friendly city not only because of the city government’s endeavor to protect the welfare of our little ones but also due to the efforts of our day care workers and parents to protect and support the rights and needs of our children,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr.

Meanwhile, proceeds of the said show will be used to prepare for the upcoming Regional Children’s Congress on October 30, 2009 at the Olongapo City Convention Center wherein an estimated 1,000 children and 3,000 day care workers are expected to participate.

Monday, August 24, 2009

OLONGAPO’S COMPREHENSIVE BARANGAY PROFILE WINNERS


After seven (7) months of rigid scrutiny of the seventeen (17) hard copies of comprehensive barangay profile submitted by Olongapo’s seventeen (17) barangays, City Budget Officer Marey Beth Marzan announced the winners of the ‘’Search for the Best and Most Comprehensive Barangay Profile (CBP) in Olongapo’’.

Barangay Old Cabalan emerged as the over-all winner of the competition followed by Barangay West Bajac-Bajac (1st runner-up), Barangay Barretto (2nd runner-up), Barangay New Cabalan (3rd runner-up) and Barangay Mabayuan (4th runner-up).

‘’Olongapo City is pioneering in the Comprehensive Barangay Profile implementation in the country,’’ stressed City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. during the awarding at the flag raising ceremonies of the city government officials and employees on August 17, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.

City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) City Director Eliseo de Guzman handed to Brgy. Old Cabalan Chair Basilio D. Palo and his



officials the fifteen thousand pesos (P15,000) cash award, trophy and certificate.

Barangays West Bajac-Bajac, Barretto, New Cabalan and Mabayuan received twelve thousand pesos (P12,000), ten thousand pesos (P10,000), eight thousand pesos (P8,000) and five thousand pesos (P5,000), respectively, with their trophies and certificates.

Meanwhile, the twelve (12) other barangays that didn’t make it to the top five (5) received two thousand pesos (P2,000) each, trophy and a certificate.

Representatives from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and City Health Office (CHO) composed the board-of-judges of the competition.

Comprehensive Barangay Profile comprises the factual basis for planning and decision making in the delivery of public service of the barangay. It provides the general characteristics, demography, social, cultural and economic dimensions, its potentials as well as its weaknesses.

Mayor Gordon signs MOU for Guam Build-Up project


To protect the welfare and advantage of Olongapeño jobseekers for the Guam Build-Up project, Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. entered into several Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Philippine Association of Service Exporters, Inc. (PASEI) and credible manpower agencies last August 15, 2009 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC).

Representing the city government, Mayor Gordon signed MOUs with TCM International Manpower Services represented by Cristina Roque, LRC Manpower Corporation represented by Ma. Lourdes Capua, Bellestar Promotion Inc. represented by Bella Dimayuga, Goldmarc International Career Corp. represented by Manuel Arce and with Victor Fernandez for the PASEI.

“The MOU aims to promote public information for jobseekers, database development of applicant registration and eventually hiring of applicants. Thru this MOU, Olongapeño workers will not only find legitimate job opportunities but can also rely on these agencies to process and facilitate their application documents in connection with the Guam Build-Up project,” said Mayor Gordon.

Meanwhile, Mayor Gordon welcomed and accompanied Guam officials who visited the city last August 14-17, 2009. Among the officials who toured the city were Yona Mayor Jose “Pedo” Terlaje & wife Florence, Santa Rita Mayor Dale Alverez & wife Helen, Mayor Roke Blas & wife Maria of Sinajana and Vice Mayor Louise Rivera with 4 female guests of Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon, Executive Director Angel Sablan, Frank Leon Guerrero, Deputy Marshal and Joey Terlaje, Deputy Marshal, Sgt. of Guam Legislature.

“This visit will not only strengthen the ties between Guam and Olongapo City but will also push the interests of Olongapeño jobseekers in the Guam Build-Up project,” said Mayor Gordon.

SBMA, Olongapo to host 2009 SK National Congress

The 2009 Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) National Congress will be held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on October 27-30, 2009.

Dubbed as “SK: Ako ang Pagbabago,” this year’s congress will tackle current youth issues and concerns of SK Federation and youth leaders. The SK National Congress is held yearly in compliance with the Katipunan ng Kabataan and Sangguniang Kabataan Constitution to promote the interests and welfare of the Filipino youth.

“The SK National Federation is expecting more than 5,000 participants from different parts of the country. Business establishments in the city should prepare for this event especially, the hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops,” said Mayor Gordon.

Aside from assigning concerned city department heads in connection with the said event, Mayor Gordon also clarified the issue of curfew hours being implemented in the city.

“We will not suspend the implementation of curfew hours for minors in the city during the congress, instead, special exemption from the curfew will be given to the participants,” Mayor Gordon explained.

Olongapo City implements curfew hours for minors by virtue of Ordinance No. 07 Series of 1980 amended in 1995 and 2002, stating that no minors below eighteen (18) years of age shall be allowed out in streets and public places including bars, restaurants, parks and playgrounds, amusement centers, beach resorts and similar establishments in the city during certain hours of the day as follows: a) Sundays to Thursdays – From 9:30 pm to 5:00 am of the following day; b) Fridays and Saturdays – From 11:00 pm to 5:00 am of the following day.

Thursday, August 20, 2009


BUSINESS CONFERENCE OPENS A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
City Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. joined some sixty (60) Russian businessmen in a dialogue with government officials and local traders during the Philippine-Russian Business Conference held at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) on August 7, 2009.
“A Russian developer plans to invest $80 million or about P3.76-billion, for a hotel-resort project in a thirty-six (36) hectare property in Mactan Island, where previously the Coral Reef Resort is located,’’ Mayor Gordon said during the flag raising ceremonies of city government officials and employees on August 17, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.
‘’In addition to the hotel-resort project in Cebu, the company is also eyeing huge projects in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) for its tropical forest paradise and another project in Camarines Sur considering its tourism potentials in the country,’’ Gordon added.

Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice Gov. Anne Marie Gordon, City Councilors Gina G. Perez and Edwin Piano with Business Permit and Licensing Office head Neal Perez, Tourism Office OIC head Lei Montoya, Olongapo City Convention Center administrator Marlon Bravo and Metro Olongapo Chamber of Commerce (OBC), Inc. (MCCI) chairman Samuel del Rosario and MCCI president Aurelio V. Pineda, Jr. and other business group officials attended the conference.

Also present during the assembly were President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Russian Federation Chargé d’affaires Sergei Shepilov at Alexander Zusik, ang presidente ng Philippine-Russia International Development Enterprise (PRIDE), who revealed the large-scale Russian funded development projects in the country.

Meanwhile, the business conference also intends to increase the country’s trade relations with Russia, while the Russian government is seeking to invest in business-process outsourcing (BPO) and in mining.

It can be recalled that in June this year, the President and Mayor Gordon, with other top officials, made a three-day official visit to Russia coinciding with the 13th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

The following month, Alexander Zusik, president of the Philippine-Russia International Development Enterprise (PRIDE), Andrey Zverev, general director ng PRIDE’s Moscow Office at Elizabeth Joudro arrived in Olongapo to scout for probable business ventures and tourist destinations in the city.

GMA AWARDS OLONGAPO CITY BARANGAYS & OCDCC


Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo handed plaques of recognitions to city and barangay officials of Olongapo at the awarding ceremonies held at Malacañang Palace on August 12, 2009.

President Arroyo awarded the following recognitions to Olongapo:

1. Gawad Kalasag for Olongapo City Disaster
Coordinating Council,
2. Gawad Kalasag for Barangay Sta. Rita, and
3. 1st Runner-Up, Highly Urbanized Cities (HUC) category, Barangay
East Tapinac’s Lupong Tagapamayapa (LT).

Among the officials who represented the city at the said event were councilors Rodel Cerezo and Gina Perez, DILG City Director Eliseo de Guzman, Angelito Layug of DMO, Brgy. Captain Ben Franco of East Tapinac and Brgy. Captain Jerome Bacay of Sta. Rita.

East Tapinac bagged the said award due to its exemplary accomplishments in the procedural mechanism of the LT of Katarungang Pambarangay (KP). Earlier, East Tapinac was adjudged having the best LT in Central Luzon. Aside from using computerized data base for its KP, East Tapinac was the only lupon in HUC category that issues Barangay Protection Order (BPO) in compliance with RA 9262, in cases involving violence against women and children

On the other hand, the Olongapo City Disaster Coordinating Council (OCDCC) and Barangay Sta. Rita received the Gawad Kalasag recognitions for their commendable disaster risk management and preparedness programs. The OCDCC was also cited as Hall of Fame Awardee at the Regional Gawad Kalasag given at Camp Olivas last July 28, 2009.

“The awards and recognitions that Olongapo City received are all anchored to the excellent delivery of services provided by the men and women working in the local government. Let us continue to Fight for Excellence!” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr.

GEROCHE REPORTS OC’S SYSTEM OF WASTE DISPOSAL


Advocating her Zero Basura Campaign, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo led the meeting on Climate Change held at the George Dewey Medical and Wellness Center at Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) last August 14, 2009.

Representing Undersecretary Carlos Garcia VI for Secretary Heherson Alvarez of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Global Warming and Climate Change (OPACC), DENR Undersecretary Al Geroche presented a study conducted by OPACC in connection with the waste management programs of local government units (LGU) in Zambales, Pampanga, Bataan.

According to the said study presented to PGMA, guests and LGU officials, unlike other towns that use open dumpsites, Olongapo operates a controlled dumpsite for it’s garbage disposal with recyclables segregated and sold to 17 junkshops in the city as also indicated by the study.

The OPACC pushes for the closure of open dumpsites because of the methane gas that these open dumpsites release to the atmosphere. Methane is a greenhouse gas that is a major contributor to climate change.

“Our CR3 or compost, reduce, re-use and recycle program aims for Zero Basura in the city. Our system is efficient and our ESMO people are diligent. If we religiously follow the CR3 steps in waste disposal, we can help lessen the effects of climate change and we can also enjoy a cleaner and pollution-free city today and in the future,” said Mayor James “Bong Gordon, Jr.

OLONGAPEÑO, TESDA IDOL FINALIST

Who could imagine that a once simple inexperienced lad from Olongapo will be chosen as one of the 12 finalists in the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Idol Search 2009?

Nelson P. Guzman, a former Shielded Metal Arc Welding trainee of Olongapo City’s Skills Training Center recently visited the city to personally thank Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. for the opportunity that was given to him, placing him to where he is now. Guzman, a former fruit and ice drop vendor grew up in a shabby environment said, “Poverty is not a hindrance to success”.

He worked hard and became a TESDA certified Shielded Metal Arc welder, and now an accomplished trainer at New Era University, Pampanga.

“I congratulate Mr. Guzman for a job well done, we should always strive to reach our goals and let’s continue fighting for excellence,” Mayor Gordon said.

Coming from the different regions across the nation, the 12 finalists are competing for the National level TESDA Idol Search slated on August 25, 2009 on TESDA’s 15th anniversary.

“TESDA recognizes the talent of Filipino skilled workers as it promotes the successful skills training-to-job employment-journey of 12 candidates who took TESDA courses,” TESDA director general Syjuco said.

Winners will receive cash prizes, trophies and TESDA Pangulong Gloria Scholarships from TESDA Director General Augusto Boboy Syjuco.

“SHARE-A-SPARE” FOR FLOOD VICTIMS IN BOTOLAN

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. tasked City Administrator Ferdie Magrata to lead the city’s “Share-A-Spare Program” for flood victims in Botolan.

“Department heads will designate program coordinators for their respective offices who will solicit voluntary donations from city employees and then turn-over the collected contributions to the City Social Welfare Development Office (CSWDO). The CSWDO will then facilitate the delivery of donations to beneficiaries,” Magrata explained.

“Your spare clothing, blankets, slippers, towel or canned goods will help alleviate the predicament of our unfortunate kababayans in Botolan,” said Mayor Gordon.

Share-A-Spare Program hopes to raise a lot of spares from more than a thousand of government workers that the city employs.

It can be recalled that thirteen (13) barangays of Botolan were devastated by Typhoon Kiko with thousands evacuated from their homes due to flash floods.

Monday, August 17, 2009

OLONGAPENO IS RP’S MOST OUTSTANDING TEACHER


Eva Imingan, Eva Imingan, Master Teacher II at Nellie E. Brown Elementary School has brought pride to Olongapo City by winning as the ‘’2009 Most Outstanding Teacher of the Philippines’’.

Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. handed over a certificate of commendation and a medal of excellence from the city government to Imingan during the flag raising ceremony recently at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.

Imingan has been practicing her teaching career for fifteen (15) years and had received various awards such as: Division Outstanding Master Teacher SY 2007-2008; Division Outstanding Reading Teacher SY 2007-2008; Division Outstanding Teacher SY 2005-2006; Community Service Award-West Bajac-Bajac Barangay Council, October 2007.

Out of the 173 nominations all over the Philippines only 10 teachers emerged as the ‘’Most Outstanding Teachers in the Philippines’’, and Imingan is one of them. In an interview over Subic Broadcasting Corporation dwGO Am radio, Imingan thanked Mayor Gordon, her family, the school principal and others, including her students.
“There is no better job for me than teaching, it is what I do best, it is the best job in this world because you are able to touch lives, your influence is boundless and you are always respected by everybody across all generations,” Imingan said.

The formal awarding will be on September 4, 2009. Each winner will get P300,000 cash, part of which will go to faculty development of his/her school, plus a medal and a trophy.

The search gives special recognition to teachers who manifest profound commitment to the development of the youth through exemplary competence, remarkable dedication to their work, and an effective educational leadership.

The annual Search for the Most Outstanding Teachers of the Philippines is sponsored by Metrobank Foundation Inc. headed by Aniceto Sobrepeña, president.

OLONGAPO DMO ASSISTS FLOOD VICTIMS IN BOTOLAN


The Olongapo City Disaster Management Office (DMO) was among the first rescue groups in Zambales that helped flood victims in Botolan.

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. tasked Angelito Layug, head of DMO to send off a rescue group when the 45-meter earth dike in Botolan was breached by the heavy floods brought about by Typhoon Kiko last August 6, 2009.

“The city and its neighboring towns and provinces can always count on our help in times of emergencies,” Layug said referring to the times that DMO also assisted other areas in the country, even as far as Benguet.

According to Zambales officials, damages to infrastructure brought by Typhoon Kiko has reached P100 million and, at least P1.2 million lost in crops and livestock.

FOUR YEARS OF GAWANG ‘GAPO


In an aggressive move to help push Olongapo’s own products in the market, the City Local Government headed by Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. launched Gawang ‘Gapo (Made in Olongapo City four (4) years ago.
Recently, Mayor Bong Gordon, Vice Mayor Cynthia Cajudo and Livelihood Cooperative and Development Office (LCDO) head Aileen C. Sanchez led the observance of the ‘‘Gawang ‘Gapo 4th Year Anniversary’’.
In connection with the observance, a 21-day product exhibit 0f over twenty (20) exhibitors on August 10 to 31, 2009 at the Olongapo City Mall lobby featuring a wide array of products made exclusively by Olongapeños in food, novelty items, accessories and other products has been launched.
Gawang ‘Gapo is a flagship program of Mayor Gordon and Olongapo First Lady and Zambales Vice Gov. Anne Marie Gordon that aims to promote small entrepreneurship and create livelihood opportunities for the local community.

Likewise, the livelihood project aims to make local and foreign tourists, alike, patronize products that are proudly made in Olongapo by Olongapeños.
Since 2005 over one hundred (100) exhibitors had availed of the chance given by the city government to display and sell their products for a week at the Olongapo City Hall lobby.

For more information regarding the Gawang ‘Gapo products and exhibits, call 224-8390 local 4123 or visit the Livelihood Cooperative and Development Office (LCDO) at 2nd Floor Annex Building, Olongapo City Hall.

THE DO’S AND DON’TS IN CASE OF TYPHOONS

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. again advised Olongapeños to be prepared for disaster and emergencies.

“Hindi lamang Pilipinas ang nasalanta ng mga bagyo kundi pati na rin ang ibang bansa katulad ng China kung saan umabot sa isang milyon ang residenteng nasalanta at lumikas dahil sa bagyong Morakot at nagdulot ng isa sa pinakamalaking baha sa Taiwan ngayon,” paliwanag ni Mayor Gordon,” Mayor Gordon explained.

The Olongapo City Disaster Management Office (DMO) reminds the following guidelines when typhoons occur:

Be calm and stay at home;
Monitor weather news and updates;
Clear the streets from unnecessary road blocks in case of emergencies;
Avoid flood and landslide prone areas;
Reserve extra food, medicines, clothes, drinking water and first aid kits;
In case of floods, turn off the electric main switch in your homes;
Make sure that important things like appliances and personal documents are safe from flood water and rains;
Avoid low level areas, rivers, seaside, and mountainous areas. Typhoons may cause landslides, mudslides or rockslides that may be dangerous to lives and properties;
Do not cross on flooded areas or rivers;
Do not use wet or washed out electric appliances or gasoline-operated equipment;
Keep the phone lines open to facilitate rescue and communication in times of emergencies.

For crisis situation, residents may call the Mayor’s Office at 222-2565 or the Disaster Management Office at 224-7846.

MAYOR GORDON APPRECIATES NGO PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY SERVICE

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. recognized the efforts and resolve of the members of Masonic District Region III-C, a fraternal non-government organization, to assist the community.

This is in connection with the timely assistance rendered by the said organization to the flood victims of Botolon, Zambales, where some barangays were submerged in water after a portion of the earth-dike gave way due to the heavy rains brought by Typhoon Kiko last week.

“I am very glad that a group like the Masons assists the community in times of emergencies,” said Mayor Gordon.

Led by Tomasito Angeles, District Deputy Grandmaster and Dennis delos Santos, Committee Chairman on Community Service, the organization raised funds and distributed hundreds of repacked relief goods to the 10 barangays in Botolan affected by floods.

20 OLONGAPEÑOS FINISH 1st BATCH OF GERMAN LANGUAGE TRAINING

After one and a half (1 ½) months of German Language training, twenty (20) Olongapeños has finally completed the course.

The German Language training, a brainchild of Mayor Gordon earned good feedback and comments from the graduates. “I am proud of myself now that I have more than two spoken languages, aside from Tagalog and English,” said Jocelyn Cruz, one of the graduates.

“I thank Mayor Gordon and Ms. Sanchez for this opportunity and I’d like to encourage my fellow Olongapeños to try the various trainings being offered in the Skills Training Center,” said Zha-zha Cristine Bernabe, another graduate.

This is just one of the various skills training that the city government has put up to increase the chances of Olongapenos to land decent and acceptable jobs. “Our skills trainings have made some of our fellow Olongapeño excel in their chosen field,” Mayor James Gordon, Jr. said.

In an interview over dwGO am radio with Reggie Sanchez, German language instructress, she said that she was overwhelmed with the warm response of the students. She added that enthusiasm and motivation to learn manifested in them. Sanchez who lived in Germany for 24 years added that she got more surprised after knowing that the second batch of trainees, which began classes on August 12, has jumped to sixty (60).

The graduates of the German language training now have better chances to be hired as call center agents as soon as the Europhil Company opens at Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ).

Thursday, August 6, 2009

OLONGAPO CITY, HALL OF FAME AWARDEE OF REGIONAL GAWAD KALASAG


Two more awards add up to the city’s collection of honors.

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. extended his commendations to the members of the Olongapo City Disaster Coordinating Council at the flag raising ceremonies held last August 3, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Covered Court.

“I am very proud to announce that Olongapo City is now a Hall of Fame Awardee of the Regional Gawad Kalasag,” Mayor Gordon expressed, in relation to the Plaque of Recognition received by the city at Camp Olivas on July 28, 2009.

The Regional Gawad Kalasag is given yearly to local government units for exemplary disaster risk preparedness and management. Olongapo City garnered the award for three consecutive years. The win earned for Olongapo City the right to represent Region 3 in the national level of the Gawad Kalasag Awards.

Aside from the recognition, the Olongapo City Fire Rescue Team (OCFRT) also received a Certificate of Appreciation for the group’s assistance in the Search and Rescue/Recovery Operations of trapped miners in Itogon, Benguet.

RED CROSS CELERATES BLOOD DONORS’ MONTH


In observance of the nationwide annual ‘’Blood Donors’ Month’’, the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) conducted a program and blood-letting on July 31, 2009 at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC).

Highlight of the celebration was the recognition ceremony and mass blood donation of more than three hundred (300) donors from different barangays, companies and institutions in Olongapo and the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ).
The celebration is to acknowledge volunteers who continuously respond to the increasing demand for blood donations in the country which has been observed to have increased in the past three (3) years.
‘’May the spirit of voluntarism continue in each and everyone of you. Ang bawat dugo na inyong ibibigay ay maaaring maging daan upang magdugtong ng buhay,’’ said Mayor James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr. during the program.
PNRC-Olongapo Chapter official includes:

Board of Governor Armand Arreza
Chairman Amelia J. Gordon
Vice-Chairman James ‘’Bong’’ Gordon, Jr.
Committee on Blood Services Dr. Brian Lloyd Tubban
Secretary Erlinda Crispin
Treasurer Linda Lim
Auditor Johnny Chua

For more information and inquiries, blood donors may go to the PNRC-Olongapo City Chapter, Old Hospital Road, East Tapinac, Olongapo City or call telephone number 222-2181 or visit the PNRC website www.redcross.org.ph

GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES: PRIME MOVERS OF THE CITY

“The City of Olongapo has been acknowledged as one of the finest and competitive cities in the Philippines. It has attained numerous accomplishments and recognitions. This endeavor is anchored on improving the delivery of basic services provided by men and women employed in the city government of Olongapo,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. in connection with the Employees Primer distributed by the Personnel Department to the city’s workforce. “It is they who are the prime movers in implementing the plans and programs to keep the city in its rank among the local government units in the country,” he added.

The said primer will serve as the government employees’ guide to public service. It explains the benefits, incentives and awards that an employee may avail based on performance and productivity ratings and on the length of service that an employee has rendered to the government.

Accountability of government employees is also discussed on the said primer based on Republic Act No. 6713 otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

“Public officials and employees shall at all times be accountable to the people and shall discharge their duties with outmost responsibility, integrity, competence, and loyalty, act with patriotism and justice, lead modest lives, and uphold public interest over personal interest,” Mayor Gordon said, echoing the law.

Also articulated on the employees booklet is the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 (RA 9485) that aims to promote simplified frontline service procedures to avoid bureaucratic red tape and fixers

Monday, August 3, 2009

Over 300 Olongapeños received free medicines and consultations at the Mobile Medical and Dental Clinic project of Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. held

MAYOR GORDON COMMENDS MSO-CARE FOUNDATION


Members of the MSO-CARE FOUNDATION have affirmed their commitment of providing the highest quality of medical care to patients on their Annual Induction of Officers and Fellowship held last July 23, 2009 at James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital (JLGMH).

“I commend your dedication to your profession and I admire your concern to the welfare of your patients,” said Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. as guest speaker and inducting officer to the said occasion.

Composed of physicians practicing at JLGMH, MSO-CARE (Medical Staff of Olongapo-Consultants’ Assistance & Rehabilitation Endeavor), the foundation is a non-stock and non-profit organization that also established and supports a Charity Fund for indigent patients admitted at JLGMH.

The Board of trustees of MSO-CARE Foundation is composed of fifteen (15) members, nine (9) of whom were chosen by the general assembly while the remaining five (5) members came from the Departments of Medicine, Surgery, Anesthesia, Obstetrics & Genecology, Pediatrics and Radiology and from among the board, officers were elected.

For 2009, inducted MSO-CARE officers are:

President: Gumersindo M. Garcia, III, MD.
Vice-President: Ma. Leah Pulmano-Lim, MD.
Secretary: Elaine B. Corpus, MD.
Treasurer: Dennis Delgado, MD.
Asst. Secretary: Soccoro Pineda-Acosta, MD.
Auditor: Ma. Agnes P. Soriano
P.R.O: Randolf Carmelo Trinidad, MD.

Doctors Teresita Ortin-Oliver, Rudy B. Alconga, Jr., Jaime Jesus Rojo, Cyrus Peralta, Edgardo Bongco, Daisy Grace Rivera, Jeanette Molina, and Herbert Echaluse compose the Board of Trustees.

“These doctors not only save lives but also inspires the people of Olongapo to help for the common good,” Mayor Gordon explained.

OLONGAPO CITY COUNCIL APPROVES UNFPA VEHICLE DONATION

The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Olongapo recently passed Resolution No. 94 (series of 2009) entitled, ‘’A Resolution Authorizing City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. to Accept and Receive the Vehicle Donated by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to the City of Olongapo for Use in the Implementation of the 6th Country Program on Population Strategy’’.

On motion of City Councilor Elena C. Dabu, co-sponsored by City Councilors Gina G. Perez, Rodel S. Cerezo, Edwin J. Piano, Angelito W. Baloy, Aquilino Y. Cortez, Jr., Anselmo A. Aquino, Jonathan G. Manalo and Cheenee F. Hoya, the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved the said resolution unanimously.

The UNFPA 4x4 White Toyota Hi-Lux, 2006 Model is initiated to be instrumental in ensuring the quick implementation of the city's initiatives relating to data-collection for the formulation of meaningful policies, and execution of programs on population strategy and reproductive health.

It can be recalled that the UNFPA has been the city's partner in implementing the 6th Country Program on Population Strategy and Reproductive Health which revolves on programs that promote the rights of every woman, man and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity, reduce poverty and ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, every young person is free of HIV/AIDS, and every girl and woman is treated with dignity and respect.