Paving the road to success: Ligao to introduce new facilities and infrastructures

As facilities and infrastructures continuously emerge, opportunities for development continue to grow in Ligao. These enhancements make up a facet of development, and the most transparent form of it. While “to see is to believe” is a popular standard of development, the realization of plans is an important goal. The City Government of Ligao is realizing plans beyond what the eyes can see, building channels that make up a good foundation for the development of the society and welfare of the people.

This year, as Ligao celebrated its 13th cityhood anniversary, marked the opening and inauguration of several facilities. The community-based Teen Health Center at City Health Office, school-based Teen Chat Center at LNHS, City Tourism Office at Tuburan, Class “AA” Slaughterhouse at Tinago, Mini-Hydroelectric Power Plant at Herrera, Materials Recovery Facility at Bonga, and the Community Police Assistance Center at Nasisi were among the recently opened facilities.

OPENING GATES. Earlier this year, the City Government inaugurated several facilities including the Class AA Slaughterhouse, Teen Health Center, City Tourism Office, and the Community Police Assistance Center. 

As of October 2014, more than 10 major facilities were completed in Ligao while another set of major facilities is in line for completion. Several projects were also implemented for the maintenance, repair, enhancement, and improvement of existing facilities and infrastructures.

The City Government also implements emergency projects to address the urgent need for repair and enhancement of infrastructures such as dikes, siphons, and irrigation canals to protect communities from devastation. 

Projects Completed

A new LGU ALS Building was recently put up at Ligao West Central Elementary School (Binatagan) while another school building was constructed at Macalidong. Three Science Laboratories were also established in Barayong, Ranao-Ranao, and Cabarian. Meanwhile, the new PNP Barracks at Nasisi will soon be functional.  

On the other hand, 44 units of apartment-type niche were added to improve the Ligao City Cemetery at Tomolin.

Ligao continuously improves its pathways for convenient travelling and transporting of products from upland, coastal, and distant areas. 

In addition, a pavement was installed in Tambo and five solar dryers were installed in Malama, Tupaz, Busay, Amtic, Palapas. Emergency repairs of protective dikes were also implemented in Guilid, Pandan, Tagpo, Bonga, Binanowan, and Tomolin. Drainage facilities and irrigation and water systems were also installed in several areas.

On-Going Projects

Several facilities are also nearing its completion. The Ligao Community College campus in Guilid, the two school buildings with 10 classrooms in Nasisi and Baligang, and another with eight classrooms in Batang are among the new school facilities that will soon rise in Ligao. The school building at Tuburan is also on its second phase of construction. The first 12 classrooms were already turned over to Ligao East Central School on 6 June 2014.

In the 2014 Infrastructure Program of Albay 3rd District Engineering Office - Department of Public Works and Highways, three school buildings will be constructed in Amtic Elementary School, Bonga Elementary School, and Paulba National High School this year.

The City Government is also implementing pathway and road improvements in Culliat, Tupaz, Catburawan to Bogtong, Bacong, Cabarian, Mahaba to Busay, and Busac to Oma-Oma. The bridge in Mahaba and multi-purpose pavement in Tagpo is also nearing completion.

FOUNDATIONS OF TOMORROW. The on-going construction of school building with 10 classrooms in Nasisi (left) and Ligao Community College Campus at Guilid (right). Photo courtesy of Jan Oscar De Luna Aquino.

Ligao also looks forward to the opening of the City Health Office Extension in Nasisi along with the new district office of Land Transportation Office and new Lying-in in Sta. Cruz. In addition, the forthcoming construction of the new City Hall building and Albay Police Provincial Command at Brgy. Binatagan. is already in line. 

The City Government, headed by Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua, implements projects in compliance and support to the policies and programs of the national government in providing safe environment, enhanced facilities and infrastructures, and convenient channels for delivering services to the people.

With the strong support of Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez, Ligao is able to acquire more resources for the implementation of development projects. Known for its active performance towards development, Ligao has received several recognition for its outstanding feat in project development and implementation.

Story and Graphics by Lala Peñafiel

References:
Progress Report (City Projects) As Of October 2014. Office of the City Engineer. City Government of Ligao. 

Ligao demonstrates operation of new rice combine harvester

The City Government of Ligao conducted a demo operation of the newly procured Kubota combine harvester today, 24 October 2014, at Bonga, Ligao City.

Kubota rice combine harvester is a powerful farm technology that can help farmers reduce labor cost and increase the efficiency of postproduction activities (i.e. harvesting and packaging). It has a harvesting capacity of 3-5 ha/day, a gathering length of 2,000 mm and weighs 2,450 kg.

A new technology has landed. Ligao conducts a demo operation of the new combine harvester. 

Photo courtesy of Jurlan Buello.

Aside from the combine harvester, the City Agriculture Office also maintains 4WD tractors that farmers use for land preparation during crop production. The City Government, headed by Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua, is acquiring new farming technologies to help develop and modernize farming operations in Ligao. 

References:

Kubota DC-60. Retrieved at http://www.kubota.com.ph/our-product/dc-60-2/

Albay 3rd District enhances evacuation centers with water system and fresh meat supplies

FISHES OUT OF THE SEA. Despite being away from their homes, evacuees still enjoy cooking fresh meat aside from canned relief goods. 

It has been more than four weeks since the evacuees had to temporarily leave their homes due to the prevailing threat of Mayon eruption. Local Government Units are pulling resources to provide the basic needs of the evacuees while they stay at the evacuation centers. 

Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez, in partnership with local government officials of the 3rd District municipalities, and organizations, visits evacuation centers to make sure that evacuees are getting enough supply of food, potable water, and other needs.

Evacuees of Guinobatan, Albay joined together in cleaning up the fresh Tilapias they received. 

Congressman Gonzalez, with local government officials, periodically distributes fresh fish and conducts feeding programs in the evacuation centers to make varieties in the supply of food.

Aside from distributing relief goods, the local government conducts feeding programs in evacuation centers in the 3rd District. 

Evacuation centers were also enhanced with water system to provide evacuees a convenient supply of water. 

Congressman Gonzalez led the installation of water system at Barangay Bubulusan to provide convenient water supply to the evacuees. Photo courtesy of Fj Oxales.

Ligao receives Corn Quality Achievers Award during Bicol Farm Family Day and Awarding

During the Bicol Farm Family Day and Awarding of Regional Gawad Saka, Quality Corn and Organic Agriculture Achievers on 20 October 2014, Ligao City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua received the Corn Quality Achievers Award for the City Government's outstanding contribution to the corn industry. Ligao was awarded as Outstanding City while City Agriculturist Cesar Sodsod was awarded as Outstanding City Agriculturist.

City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua received the Quality Corn Achievers Award given to the City Government of Ligao. Photo courtesy of Jurlan Buello 

Ligao will also receive the national award on 20 November 2014 during the 10th National Corn Congress in Cagayan de Oro. Four Agricultural Technologist from Ligao will also receive the Outstanding Agricultural Extension Worker. 

Seeds of Development: Ligao renders commendable agricultural services

Last year, Ligao City was awarded as one of the top performing Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Philippines for its exceptional contribution to the corn industry. This year, the City will be receiving yet another award for continuously rendering quality agricultural services and programs and enhanced farming facilities.

Through the City Agriculture Office (CAO), Ligao yields a variety of agricultural services and programs for farmers, communities, and people’s organizations. To complement these, the local government also acquires and improvises farming machineries and equipment for efficient farming operations.

CAO provides assistance to farmers from planting to marketing stage. They also conduct monthly meetings with farmers to discuss farming technologies. CAO has various agricultural services and programs that fall under Crop Production Assistance Program, Soil Resource Management Services, Techno-Demo Establishment Services / HVCDP Programs, Agricultural Production Loan Services, and Agricultural Support to Nutrition Program Services.

1. Crop Production Assistance Program

Rice and corn are the major crops produced by farmers in Ligao. To achieve high production of these crops, CAO provides technical assistance to farmers and conducts farming lessons and trainings to further enhance their knowledge on crop production. CAO deploys 18 agricultural technologists in 55 barangays to monitor the planting and harvesting activities in the areas.

Rice Production Assistance – Rice is a staple food in Ligao which makes high production of crops an important activity in the locality. In 2011, rice produced during wet season amounted to P 130,473,008 and in 2013, the amount increased to P199,845,660. Similarly, rice produced during dry season increased from P194,765,740 in 2011 to P 213,028,620 in 2013.

Agricultural technologists deployed in different barangays assist farmers land preparation and planting of crops.
Photo courtesy of CAO

CAO distributes fertilizers to farmers, conducts light trapping to monitor Blackbugs, and distributes Zinc Phosphide to control rat infestation.

Corn Production Assistance –Similar to rice production, CAO also monitors planting and harvesting of corn with agricultural technologists deployed in the areas. Aside from, corn farming lessons and workshops, CAO also conducts training on Corn-based Food Processing.

CAO provides technical assistance on corn production and conducts training on processing Corn-based food products.
Photo courtesy of CAO.

Corn production over the last three years has significantly increased. Corn produced in 2011 amounted to P 792,932 and P 971,265 in 2013.

Operation and Maintenance of Abaca Nurseries –Ligao has two abaca nurseries located in Tula-Tula and Amtic. Nurseries are maintained through regular weeding, re-planting, spraying, watering, and fertilization.

CAO maintains abaca nurseries in Tula-Tula and Amtic. Photo courtesy of CAO

Capability Building –CAO conducts trainings and seminars for RIC’s, 4-H Clubs, farmers and fisherfolks. Farmers also take up farming lessons through the Farmers Field School (FFS) conducted yearly. In 2013, CAO conducted three FFS: 1) Palay Check FFS at Barayong, Herrera, and Mahaba wherein farmers took lessons on rice production; 2) Corn Production FFS at Layon and Busac; and 3) FFS on Vegetable production at Tuburan and Paulog.

Farmers take up farming lessons and workshops through the Farmers Field School conducted in different barangays. Photo courtesy of CAO.

This year, CAO has reported a positive performance on the activities carried out under the Crop Production Program. Shown below is a citation from CAO’s latest Quarterly Physical Report of Operations (June 2014).

Activity	Performance1
Rice Production Assistance Program
Rice Hybridization:	113 farmers benefited
Inbred Rice Production Assistance:	705 farmers benefited
Blackbug monitoring:	35 barangays monitored
Distribution of Zinc Phosphide:	548 farmers benefited
Operation and Maintenance of Abaca Nurseries
Abacas planting	6,500 (Amtic Nursery); 3,750 (Tula-Tula Nursery)
Abaca suckers re-planting	650 (Amtic Nursery); 400 (Tula-Tula Nursery)
Abaca suckers distribution	4,200 (Amtic Nursery); 2,600 (Tula-Tula Nursery)
Coconut OPV
Distribution of seednuts/seedlings	4,870 seedlings; 65 farmers benefited
Capability Building
Farmers Field School:	6 conducted; 281 farmers attended
Trainings:	5 conducted; 169 farmers attended
Exposure/Cross visits:	5 cross visits; 206 farmers attended

 2. Soil Resource Management Program

CAO provides services and technologies to manage sloping agricultural lands and soil resources in the upland area. Sloping Land Management (SLM) model farms are being developed and maintained to help farmers turn idle lands into manageable land resource. Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT) model farms are also established in line with the Soil Conservation Technology.

Farmers also undergo training and workshop on SLM Technology. They also visit SLM model farms within the barangay or in the nearby barangays. As of June 2014, 58 farmers attended two trainings on Sustainable Upland Development.

3. Techno-Demo Establishment Services/ HVCDP

Demo farms showcase the application of technology and best practices on managing crop production. CAO collaborates with the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit, farmers, local organizations, and other agricultural agencies in establishing and maintaining demo farms. CAO also implements High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) to enhance the production of crops with high market value. Some of these crops are Pili, Karagumoy Palm, Sweet Potato, and different varieties of Corn. Special projects are also implemented for the rehabilitation of Coconut areas.

CAO establishes and maintains demo farms of vegetables and crops with high market value. Photo courtesy of CAO

Site Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) sites were also established in Tuburan, Pinamaniquian, Tula-Tula, Pandan, and Busac. SSNM is a plant-based approach in which the supply of nutrients (e.g. Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosphorus) is controlled based on the amount needed by crops and abundance of nutrients in soil2.

4. Agricultural Production Loan Services

Aside from technical assistance, Ligao provides agricultural production loan assistance to farmers through the Ligao Participatory Governance for Social Economic Enterprise Development (LPG-SEED) Planting Assistance. As of June 2014, LPG-SEED has lent P 1,158,000 to 260 farmers. CAO also implements Seed Exchange Program in which farmers borrow seeds, instead of money, to help them produce crops. In return, farmers pay the loaned seeds using the seeds they were able to produce.

CAO provides loan assistance to farmers through the Ligao Participatory Governance for Social Economic Enterprise Development. Photo courtesy of CAO.

5. Agricultural Support to Nutrition Program Services

CAO purchases and distributes vegetable seeds and provides technical assistance in establishing and maintaining backyard gardens. 

Activity	Performance1
FAITH Gardening
Backyard gardening for farmers	694 farmers benefited
Communal Gardening
Distribution of vegetable seeds to BNS	65 barangays benefited
Technical assistance for establishment and maintenance	50 barangays benefited
Distribution of vegetable seeds to 4Ps beneficiaries	26 barangays benefited
School Garden
Distribution of vegetable seeds to school heads	16 schools benefited

Farming machinery and equipment

Some farming equipment and machinery are based in and maintained by the communities. The Tramline in Amtic functions like a cable car. Farmers use this equipment to transport heavy loads of vegetables conveniently.

The Tramline in Amtic helps farmers conveniently transport vegetables instead of walking long distances while carrying heavy loads. Photo courtesy of CAO.

The Village Type Corn Cob Dryer in Bonga can dry more than 5,000 bags of corn in a year. This machinery helps prevent postharvest losses which create higher market sales. Barangay organizations also maintain corn shellers and rice threshers used as postharvest machinery.

The 4WD tractor (left) is utilized in preparing land for planting crops. The village-type corn cob dryer is a postharvest machinery located at Bonga, Ligao City. Photo courtesy of CAO

CAO also maintains 4WD tractors used for land preparation. This year another 4WD tractor was purchased along with rice combine harvester for the development of upland areas and modernization of farming operations. The LGU shares with the DA in allocating funds for the purchase of the machineries.

Aside from farming machinery and equipment, Ligao has also established irrigation canals to divert water resources such as rain water into agricultural lands which are prone to drought.

Growing efforts

Ligao’s commendable agricultural services and programs to farmers and local residents is a product of collaborative efforts of dedicated people. The CAO team, headed by City Agriculturist Cesar Sodsod, is continuously building capacities to further enhance the delivery of services and programs.

CAO partners with community-based organizations like the Barangay Agriculture and Fishery Council (BAFC), Rural Improvement Club (RIC), 4H Clubs which consist of young farmers and out-of-school youths, and other local organizations.

CAO partners with community-based organizations in implementing agricultural programs and services. 

Photo courtesy of CAO

The LGU, headed by Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua, in partnership with Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez, gives strong support in developing agricultural programs and upgrading facilities and infrastructures to improve and modernize farming operations in Ligao.

The DA-RFU5, Provincial Agricultural Services Office, Philippine Rice Research Institute-Bicol and other agencies are also taking part in developing agricultural programs in Ligao.

Written by Lala Peñafiel
__________

¹ Data are based on the Quarterly Physical Report of Operations (June 2014) of CAO. Values under Performance are based on the consolidated values from the first, second, and third quarter data of 2014.

References:

2013 Year-End Assessment. City Agriculture Office. Ligao City, Albay

Quarterly Physical Report of Operations For the Quarter Ending June 2014. City Agriculture Office. Ligao City, Albay

² Site Specific Nutrient Management. Retrieved at http://knowledgebank.irri.org/ericeproduction/IV.4_SSNM.htm

Resource persons:

P. Sodsod, City Agriculturist, City Agriculture Office

Michelle Odoño, Agricultural Technologist, City Agriculture Office

Ligao LGU, Agriculture experts to receive National Quality Corn Achievers Awards

In recognition of its exceptional contribution to the corn industry, the Local Government Unit of Ligao, with its City Agriculturist and Agricultural Technologists, will be receiving the 2014 National Quality Corn Achievers Awards on the upcoming 10th Philippine National Corn Congress this 20 November 2014 at Cagayan de Oro.

Ligao City, along with other four city/municipalities in Bicol, will be receiving the Outstanding City award. City Agriculturist, Cesar D. Sodsod will be receiving the Outstanding City Agriculturist award while Agricultural Technologists Amelita O. Palacio, Dely B. Nocos, Elsa N. Bonagua, and Magdalena P. Pobocan will be receiving the Outstanding Agricultural Extension Worker award.

YET ANOTHER AWARD: Ligao City Agriculturist Cesar P. Sodsod will be receiving yet another award as an Outstanding Agriculturist on the upcoming 2014 National Quality Corn Achievers Awards ceremony.

Ligao’s very own Aflatoxin-free corn is one of the breakthroughs that brought Ligao and Agricultural experts into the limelight. Aflatoxin-free corn, according Mr. Sodsod, is a unique product of Ligao that cannot be found in other areas in Bicol. Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus. Aflatoxin-contaminated corns can affect production and sales, and can poison warm-blooded animals like cattle and swine (Sumner, 2012).

TOXIN-FREE: Ligao City Agricultural Services team was able to develop an Aflatoxin-free corn, recognized as one of the great contributions to the corn industry. Photo courtesy of City Agricultural Services Office

In addition, Ligao, through its City Agricultural Services Office, has extensive and robust agricultural and livelihood programs for farmers, communities, and groups. The City Government, headed by Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua in partnership with Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez, is also being recognized for its efforts in developing agricultural machineries, equipment, and infrastructures for the use of farmers and communities.

During the 2013 National Corn Congress at Tagaytay City, the same awards were given to Mr. Sodsod, Agricultural Technologists Bonagua and Pobocan, and the City Government. The Department of Agriculture also conducts the Regional Awarding of Agricultural Achievers in recognition of their performances. This year, the regional awarding will be held at Naga City on 20 October 2014.

OUTSTANDING LGU: The Local Government Unit of Ligao was recognized as one of the Outstanding Cities during the 2013 National Quality Corn Awards Ceremony. Photo courtesy of City Agricultural Services Office

The National Corn Congress is an annual event that recognizes LGUs and agricultural experts of their outstanding performances and contribution to the corn industry. The event is organized by the Philippine Maize Federation, Inc. in partnership with the Department of Agriculture.

Written by Lala Peñafiel

References:

Sumner, P. (2012). Reducing Aflatoxin in Corn During Harvesting and Storage. Retrieved at http://extension.uga.edu/publications/files/pdf/B%201231_3.PDF on 13 October 2014.

Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 5. Special Order No. 90 Series of 2014. September 22, 2014.

Resource persons:

Cesar P. Sodsod, City Agriculturist, City Agricultural Services Office, Ligao City

Michelle O. Odoño, Agricultural Technologist, City Agricultural Services Office, Ligao City

Ligao’s 2014 Elderly Filipino Week highlights healthy lifestyle of senior citizens

Guest speaker Blesila Belmas, RND shares tips on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

More than 700 senior citizens gathered at Ligao City Gymnasium to celebrate the Senior Citizen Day on 8 October as part of the annual Elderly Filipino Week sponsored by the City Government of Ligao. With a theme “Nakakatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan Kanilang Karapatan” [loose translation: Senior Citizens: Society’s Treasures and Partners of Development; Protect thy Rights], the Elderly Week highlights the preservation of good health and nutrition of senior citizens.

Registered Nutritionist Dietitian Blesila Bermas and guest speaker for the event, shared several tips on how senior citizens can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Included in her presentation are the following:

• Observe a proper Diet. Elders should maintain a balanced diet following the “Go, Glow, and Grow” nutrition curriculum
• Choose white meat over red meat. Elders should prefer fish, chicken instead of pork and beef.
• Drink non-fat milk- Non-fat milk (e.g. Anlene) is best for senior citizen to keep their bones strong.
• Exercise. Aside from healthy foods, Belmas advises senior citizens to exercise regularly.
• Maintain medication. Most elders take in maintenance medication for certain illnesses that comes with age such as Hypertension. Belmas suggests that they should take these medicines religiously as prescribed by the doctor.
• Do what the doctor says. Elders should have regular checkups with their doctors to monitor their health.
• "Find humor in little things; choose to be happy". It pays to have a positive disposition. Despite everyday challenges and health problems, elders should take some time off and have a laugh from time to time. 
• Join a group or create a circle of friends. A group of friends helps elders fill in their need for belongingness and maintain a good social life. 
• Find your purpose. Finding a niche gives elders a sense of direction and purpose in their senior years.

Belmas also discussed several issues that people come across as they reach the age of 60 and above, or belong to the category of Senior Citizens. Awareness to these issues can help them understand themselves as they go through the aging process.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING OLD? Belmas discussed issues that elders go through in their senior years.

Dr. Julian Salazar Jr., Ligao City’s medical consultant for senior citizens, said that elders are more prone to malnutrition than children. Hence, they need special attention to achieve adequate health care.

The Elderly Filipino Week is an annual celebration prepared by the City Government for the senior citizens of Ligao. The program is the City’s way of recognizing the senior citizens as an important sector of the society, said Ligao City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua. Dr. Salazar also believes that Ligao is the only city in Albay with a robust program for senior citizens.

Through the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, senior citizens can purchase medicines with 20% discount, 5% discount for commodities, and 5% discount for water and electricity bills. The City Government also provides free medical checkups for senior citizens and P2,000 as burial assistance, said Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua.

As a tradition, the City Government awards senior citizens who reach the age of 100. This year, Lola Nacional Divinaflor, aged 103, was awarded as the Oldest Senior Citizen of Ligao. Additionally, Dr. Salazar led the distribution of canes to the senior citizens.

Left photo: 103-year old Nacional Divinaflor was awarded as the Oldest Senior Citizen in Ligao. Top right photo: Dr. Julian Salazar Jr. (middle) led the distribution of canes to senior citizens. Bottom right photo: Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez (extreme left) gave cash gifts to senior citizens.

To add more fun to the event, Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez sponsored an impromptu dance competition. Senior citizens showcased their dancing skills as they groove in to the Pantomina and Cha-Cha music. Winners received a cash prize of P1,000 (1st Place), P500 (2nd Place), and P300 (Consolation prize).

Senior Citizens also received cash gift worth P200 from Congressman Gonzalez, while the City Welfare and Development Office distributed grocery packages.

Written by Lala Peñafiel

Beyond borders: Ligao City delivers free health services to the people

The City Health Office, headed by Dr. Wynns Samar (left), provides health services and periodically conducts medical  and dental missions to ensure the health and nutrition of local residents.

The City Government of Ligao, through its City Health Office (CHO), delivers free health services for newborns, pregnant women, young adults, senior citizens, and the general public. Generously, the City extends these services to the residents of nearby barangays from neighboring municipalities through its community health facilities.

Extensive health services for pregnant women and children

• Prenatal and Antenatal Health services. Pregnant women receive health services before and after giving birth. They undergo medical checkups three times during their pregnancy. They also receive a six-month supply of Ferrous Sulfate with Follic Acid before giving birth. Another two-month supply of Ferrous Sulfate is given to maintain a good supply of red blood cells in their body after giving birth. 

• Birthing facilities. Ligao has four lying-ins. Two are located in the upland area (Bacong and Paulba), one in the coastal area (Maonon), and one in the Mayon Unit (Basag).  These birthing facilities, along with the 13 Barangay Health Stations, serve as catchment areas of patients from surrounding barangays. The lying-in at Maonon, for instance, not only offers health services within the coastal areas of Ligao but also to barangays Bogtong (Oas) and Basicao (Pioduran). Similarly, Paulba Lying-in, which is strategically located three meters away from Ligao City Hall Annex, caters to ten barangays in the upland area. Neihboring barangays of Oas, Albay also benefit from the services due to the accessibility of the facility. 

• Health care for infants. Childbirth services in the lying-ins are also offered for free. Upon birth, infants undergo Newborn Screening, a test done to diagnose possible disorder that can affect the child’s health and survival. In addition, the CHO routinely administers immunization of infants and visits remote areas to conduct mass immunization.

The BEMONC facility at Basag services barangays in the Mayon Unit.
Photo: Ligao City Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lgu.ligaocity

Consultations for pregnant women and children are scheduled every Wednesday. CHO maintains separate scheduled medical checkups to avoid patients with communicable illnesses get in contact with pregnant women and children.

The Paulba Lying-in, formerly called Ligao Municipal Health Infirmary, has serviced upland barangays since 1994. The facility is a catchment area of patients from upland barangays of Ligao including the nearby barangays of neighboring municipalities.  Photo: Ligao City Planning and Development Office

Nutrition programs and health facilities for youth and senior citizens

• Nutrition programs. CHO conducts deworming among children and implements feeding programs in schools. Likewise, the CHO provides free vitamins and medicines for malnourished children. They also coordinate with the medical personnel of the Department of Education to assess the health situation of students. 

• Health facilities for youth. This year, Ligao City simultaneously opened its first community Teen Health Center at the second floor of CHO and school-based Teen Chat Center at Ligao National High School. The establishment of the facilities aims to address the issue on teenage pregnancy, and other problems encountered by teenagers.

The Therapeutic Rehabilitation and Nutrition Center at Tuburan, beside the BRSHS, houses the Senior Citizen's Center and the Physical Therapy Center. 

• The Therapeutic Rehabilitation and Nutrition Center at Barangay Tuburan, beside the Bicol Regional High School houses the Senior Citizen Center dedicated solely for the medical needs of senior citizens. Services include the following:

• Medical checkups scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
• Consultations, laboratory tests, and medicines all available for free. 
• Yearly activities prepared by the City for senior citizens. One of which is the Elderly Week wherein the City awards senior citizens who reach the age of 100.

• The Physical Therapy Center is also located at Tuburan. A licensed Physical Therapist services patients in need of rehabilitation therapy, e.g. those who are recovering from vehicular accidents.

General health services and programs

CHO offers dental services and conducts

dental missions yearly.

The CHO has five doctors consisting of two General Practitioners, an Obstetrician, Internal Medicine specialist, and a resident doctor for senior citizens. CHO provides a variety of health services to the general public.

• Consultations and laboratory testing. Patients can avail medical checkups for free. Laboratory testing such as CBC, Urinalysis, Fecalysis, and Sputum exam are also available at CHO.

• Dental services. A dentist is permanently assigned at the office while another one makes rounds at schools and day care centers. Every month, a dentist also visits the Mayon Unit barangays to offer free dental services to the local residents. 

• Medical assistance. The City has allotted a budget for patients admitted at the Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital (BRTTH) and provides medical assistance such as payment of hospital bills and medicines for patients treated in other hospitals. Ligao City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua said that the City provides financial assistance for the purchase of medicines.

• Sanitation Program. CHO also conducts sanitary inspection of water facilities and food establishments. The City Government subsidizes the operation of Ligao Water District to provide safe potable and affordable water supply.

Patients under emergency are referred and transferred directly to hospitals by ambulance.

Towards better services

Aside from the newly opened Teen Health Center, CHO has also started the Dance Fitness Program this year to address the issue on obesity. Zumba dance lessons are done every Thursdays and Fridays and are open to the public. 

In 2015, the CHO will begin its Mobile Dental Clinic, a new service to improve the accessibility of dental services to the local residents. Two new health facilities which are nearly completed are also expected to operate next year- the new lying-in near the City Hall and the satellite office of CHO at Nasisi that will offer the same kind of health services as that of the main CHO.

In addition, the City purchased two additional ambulances this year for use in medical emergency transport needs.

The nearly completed satellite office of CHO at Nasisi is expected to operate very soon to offer similar health services to the Mayon Unit barangays. Photo courtesy of Jurlan Buello

The City Government of Ligao headed by Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua along with the medical team lead by Dr. Samar and other offices of the local government are working closely together to further improve the health services being offered to the people.

While CHO continues in improving the health services, Ligao also strive to further upgrade facilities to continuously improve the services. The Office of the Mayor is directing all the offices of the City Government to continuously and progressively deliver all the basic services for the benefit and well-being of its inhabitants. 

Written by Lala Peñafiel

Ligao City turns evacuation centers into homes

From shelter to food supplies to entertainment, Ligao City is creating homes away from homes in the evacuation centers. With Ligao’s Operation “Mayon Eruption” 2014, families are given special attention to make their stay at the evacuation centers as comfortable as possible. Ligao City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua said that they are pulling resources to accommodate the evacuees and provide them with all the basic needs and some source of entertainment.

As of 29 September, 834 families from barangays Baligang, Amtic, and Tambo were evacuated to the AECID Building and Binatagan Elementary School, NHA/Ligao City Government Socialized Housing and J.M. Robredo Productivity Center, and Nabonton Elementary School and Barangay Hall.

The show must go on

Despite being away from their homes, evacuees from Baligang celebrated their Barangay Fiesta at Binatagan on 24 September. The City prepared a set of activities for the day to keep the evacuees entertained and distracted, according to Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua.

THE SHOW MUST GO ON. Evacuees enjoy several activities during the celebration of their barangay fiesta.
Photo courtesy of Keith Ruivivar/City Mayor's Office

Evacuees participated in “The Singing Evacuees” where they enjoyed the videoke singing. Parlor games, free ice cream, and mascots of Dora the Explorer and Mickey Mouse brought joys to the families. A fiesta mass and baptism of 50 children were held in the morning and followed by a night of dancing, all sponsored by Congressman Fernando V. Gonzalez.

"The Singing Evacuees" was one of the activities that the City Government prepared for the evacuees.
Photo courtesy of Keith Ruivivar/Ligao City Mayor's Office

The City Civil Registrar’s Office also conducted a Mobile Registration at the evacuation center in Binatagan bringing the services closer to the evacuees.

The City Government of Ligao, through the City Civil Registrar's Office conducted a Mobile Registration at the evacuation center in Binatagan. Photo courtesy of Jurlan Buello

Home away from home

The eruption of Mayon volcano remains unpredictable. It is uncertain as to how long the evacuees would be staying in the evacuation centers. Nevertheless, the City is taking efforts to help the evacuees perform their daily routines as if they are at home. “As much as possible, we try to provide all the needs nung mga [of our] evacuees. We make them as comfortable as we can,” said Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua.

DORA VISITS. Mascot Dora the Explorer visits and brings joy to the families. Photo courtesy of Keith Ruivivar/City Mayor's Office

On 21 September, mascots came to entertain the evacuees and a film showing was held in the evening for an extended recreation.

Children enjoyed the film showing of "The Frozen" during their first week at the evacuation center.
Photo courtesy of Keith Ruivivar/City Mayor's Office

Entertainment shows are being held every weekend. The City provided improvised large screens where films are being projected for better viewing experience of the large audience. These entertainment shows along with other amusement were part of the Psycho-social activities prepared by the City to help the evacuees overcome stress and anxiety.

                              

Pulling all resources

Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua said that they are pulling all the resources to continuously provide the needs of the evacuees. With the help of the Provincial Governor, Sangguniang Panlungsod and City officials and participation of Congressman Gonzalez and private individuals, Ligao is able to acquire more resources.

The City designates a health team, ambulance, and PNP personnel to the evacuation centers available every day for 24 hours. Potable water facilities, toilets, and shower rooms were also provided in the areas. The Bureau of Fire and Protection sends fire trucks twice every day to fill up water drums in the evacuation centers for domestic use (i.e. washing dishes and clothes).

Ligao City Mayor Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua with local government personnel distribute fresh fish and dressed chicken to the evacuees. Photos courtesy of Jurlan Buello

The City is also coming up with a strategy that would make the distribution of relief goods more efficient and convenient. Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua said that they are distributing a variety of relief goods including tinapa with eggs, meatloaf with monggo, corned beef, Vienna sausage, and macaroni soup among others. The evacuees are provided occasionally with fresh fish and chicken.

Tents provided by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) were used as temporary classrooms of students from Amtic National High School. Partition walls were also installed in evacuation centers to make cubicles for families. The City is maximizing the use of available spaces to provide shelters for evacuees instead of occupying schools to avoid suspension of classes.

Despite having simultaneous projects and issues going around the city, Mayor Patty Gonzalez-Alsua, in cooperation with local officials and authorities, responds to each concern the fastest and most effective way possible.

Written by Lala Peñafiel