MERIDA, LEYTE – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) completes the Preventive Maintenance project along Palompon – Isabel – Merida – Ormoc (PIMO) Road.
DCIM100MEDIADJI_0067.JPG
This endeavor, which involved an asphalt overlay with thermoplastic road markings covering a distance of 1.073 lane kilometers and a width of 14.2 meters, was carried out in Brgy. Libas, Merida, Leyte and amounted to Php 51,482,750.00 funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2023.
Before the asphalting, motorists like Mr. Roldan Gonzalo had experienced several challenges while traversing the road section as the absence of smooth road surface often resulted in a bumpy ride and during inclement weather, water would accumulate in pools on the road.
With its completion, the road condition has improved remarkably. “Nindot na siya agi-an kay ang sakyanan smooth na kaayo ug dagan (Passing the road is now pleasant because the vehicle runs very smoothly),” stated Mr. Gonzalo. He also noted that the thermoplastic markings have been very helpful since they offer clear navigational guidance especially during nighttime travels.
As motorists continue to traverse PIMO Road, they can now look forward to a significantly enhanced driving experience with a seamless and well-marked road that minimizes the risk of accidents and ensures a safer commute. (PR)
ORMOC CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) is currently undertaking the construction of Manlilinao-San Sebastian Road, this city, and Matag-ob, Leyte.
With a contract cost of P96.35 million funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2023, the project encompasses a length of 3.2 lane kilometers and a total width of 6.10 meters.
The scope of works, which is currently at a 53.59% completion rate, includes earthworks such as excavation and embankment, construction of portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP), and installation of reinforcing steel and structural concrete.
Upon completion, the Manlilinao-San Sebastian Road will not only improve the connectivity between Ormoc City and the town of Matag-ob but it will also greatly contribute to their socio-economic growth.
The enhanced road will stimulate trade and commerce, opening up new opportunities for business and boosting the overall prosperity of the area, the DPWH said.
While this project is progressing, the DEO is also actively engaged in similar road construction projects in other areas within its jurisdiction such as the construction of concrete road in Portobello-Puting Bato Road leading to Mt. Magsanga, Merida as well as the construction of Liberty-Burauen Brgy. Road, Ormoc City to name a few. (ROBERT DEJON)
World peace attainment has been an aspiration shared by humanity for generations. As we progress into the 21st century, the urgency for fostering an atmosphere of global harmony becomes increasingly crucial. From socio-economic progress and environmental preservation to political stability and cultural exchange, the importance of world peace spans various domains.
World peace plays a pivotal role in promoting socio-economic development across nations. In an interconnected world, peace fosters stability and encourages cooperation, allowing countries to engage in fruitful economic relations. The absence of armed conflicts and political uncertainties nurtures an atmosphere conducive to trade, investment, and technological exchange, which ultimately drives economic growth and poverty alleviation. Moreover, peace enables the equitable distribution of resources and facilitates the establishment of sustainable development practices, essential for tackling shared global challenges such as poverty, hunger, and inequality.
Environmental conservation and sustainability also hinge on the achievement of world peace. Environmental degradation, climate change, and natural resource depletion pose significant threats to the planet and its inhabitants. Collaborative efforts for conservation, renewable energy, and climate resilience can only be effectively pursued in an environment of peace and international cooperation. By transcending geopolitical boundaries, nations can work together towards the preservation of our planet, ensuring its wellbeing for future generations.
Political stability is another vital aspect that underscores the importance of world peace. Internal conflicts and regional tensions can disrupt governance systems, hinder development, and impede progress towards societal well-being. Conversely, when nations experience peace and stability, governments can focus on addressing social issues, enhancing citizens’ welfare, and promoting democratic values. Peace allows for the creation of effective institutions, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights, enabling individuals to thrive and actively contribute to the betterment of their communities.
World peace, then, is indispensable for fostering progress in various arenas of human existence. Its significance extends far beyond military conflicts and the absence of violence. From promoting socio-economic development and environmental sustainability to ensuring stable governance and cultural exchanges, world peace is essential for shaping a prosperous future on a global scale. It is incumbent upon the international community, policymakers, and individuals to recognize the imperative of peace and work collectively to cultivate compassion, understanding, and dialogue as fundamental pillars of a harmonious world.
Our country, once again, is just fresh from another typhoon. The aftermath of which, or of any disaster, is a critical and challenging period that often poses a wide range of woes for affected communities. Understanding these common woes is crucial for policymakers, aid agencies, and communities to develop effective strategies and responses to alleviate their impact and facilitate long-term recovery.
One of the most evident consequences of disasters is the destruction of infrastructure, including buildings, roads, bridges, and utilities. The damage to critical infrastructure poses significant challenges to recovery efforts, hindering access to basic services and disrupting transportation networks. Rebuilding infrastructure becomes crucial to restoring normalcy and enabling effective emergency response and recovery operations.
Disasters often result in the disruption of livelihoods, causing immense economic hardships for affected individuals and communities. Business closures, job losses, destroyed agricultural lands, and interrupted supply chains contribute to financial instability. Re-establishing employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and promoting sustainable economic recovery are essential for rebuilding the affected areas.
In disaster aftermaths, public health risks escalate due to damaged healthcare facilities, contaminated water sources, inadequate sanitation systems, and the prevalence of diseases. Outbreaks of waterborne, respiratory, and vector-borne diseases pose immediate threats to survivors. Ensuring timely access to medical care, clean water, sanitation facilities, and implementing disease prevention measures are paramount to safeguarding public health in the aftermath of disasters.
Resource scarcity commonly emerges as a pressing issue after disasters. Limited access to food, water, shelter, and other essential supplies exacerbates the suffering of affected populations. Shortages are often accompanied by price inflation and competition, leading to increased vulnerability. Coordinated efforts to distribute resources equitably and efficiently are crucial to meet the immediate needs of communities.
Disasters have profound psychological effects, leaving survivors susceptible to various mental health challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The loss of loved ones, destruction of homes, and prolonged distress can trigger significant psychological trauma. The provision of psychosocial support services, including counseling and mentorship, is vital for addressing the emotional well-being and resilience of disaster survivors.
The economic repercussions of disasters are far-reaching and long-lasting. Apart from immediate losses, long-term economic impacts may include reduced local productivity, decreased foreign investments, increased public debt burdens, and disrupted markets. Developing effective mechanisms to mitigate these impacts, such as implementing fiscal policies and offering financial assistance to rebuild and stimulate economic growth, becomes critical for recovery.
The efficient distribution of aid resources in disaster-stricken areas presents a significant challenge due to logistical constraints, inadequate coordination, and limited capacity of local authorities. Delays or misallocation of resources can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and inequalities. Enhancing coordination between aid agencies, community leaders, and local authorities, while prioritizing transparency and accountability, is crucial to ensuring effective and equitable aid distribution.
Disaster aftermaths bring forth a myriad of common woes, ranging from infrastructure damage to psychosocial trauma, which, if not addressed effectively, can hinder long-term recovery. Identifying and comprehending these challenges enables policymakers, aid agencies, and communities to develop targeted approaches that prioritize immediate relief, sustainable recovery, and resilience-building. By doing so, we can begin to alleviate the suffering and foster lasting positive change in the aftermath of disasters.
RATHER, everything should support, enhance, reinforce our relation with God. This is what we are reminded of in that gospel which talks about the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price. (cfr. Mt 13,44-46)
These parables find an echo in some words of St. Paul who said: “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as refuse, in order that I may gain Christ…” (Phil 3,8)
How important therefore that we realize that our first priority should be God and our relationship with him which should be sustained with the constant effort to know, love and serve him! We should be ready to throw away everything else that can stand in the way.
We have to make some adjustments in the way we order our objective needs. We have to distinguish them from our subjective likes and desires that can only be the product of some personal or social preferences. In this we have to employ the appropriate means, the relevant programs and operations. We should be demanding on ourselves insofar as this matter is concerned.
We need God first of all, and, in fact, all the time. He is our most important objective need, much more and infinitely more than we need air, food, rest, pleasures, etc. For without God, we are nothing. But with him, we can have everything. That is why, St. Teresa Avila boldly said: “He who has God lacks nothing. God alone is sufficient.”
We need to learn how to find God in everything we do or we see, handle or get involved in. In this, we have to be pro-active. We should not wait for some inspiration to come or some so-called favorable or conducive circumstances to take place. We have to actively look for him or create the occasion. We can always do this, because God himself empowers us to do so.
But in finding God in everything, there is a skill that we have to learn to master. And that is we should learn how to leave everything behind so as to be with God. We have to understand very well this particular aspect or requirement of an authentic Christian life.
That’s because, most likely, our first impression of it can be misleading. To be sure, to be ready to leave everything behind does not mean that we should have no concern at all about the things of this world. We do have such concern and interest. In fact, we should.
But yes, to leave everything behind has been more than amply taught and commanded by Christ himself. For example, to the rich young man who wanted to be perfect, Christ told him in no unclear terms, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (Mt 19,21) These words obviously would give us the impression that we should possess nothing.
In another instance, Christ specifies what is required to be worthy of him. “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” (Mt 10,37)
This does not mean that we should have no concern or interest in the things of this world. We just have to understand that the things of this world are precisely the means, the occasion, the instruments we have to use to show our faith, hope and love for God and for others!
The state-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), the country’s eight largest bank in terms of assets, signed a second partnership agreement with the Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippine Corp. (CPFPC), a subsidiary of Bangkok-based Charoen Pokphand Group for credit assistance on aquaculture projects. (Their first partnership was on poultry-related projects signed in July 2022.)
Their second agreement “is in support of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) commitment to intensify the fishery sector by increasing the local shrimp production to 276,320 tons from 2023 to 2027”, as announced by DBP. The DBP would provide financing for working capital requirements, fixed assets acquisition, installation of other support facilities, pond development of post-harvest facilities.
CPFPC, known to operate vertically integrated agro-industrial and food businesses in 17 countries, also engages in the production, processing, and marketing of poultry products in partnership with integrated partners. (Its Thai parent firm is one of the largest producers of poultry and pork internationally.
The partnership covers a range of aquaculture-related activities supporting small and micro enterprises and cooperatives with a minimum funding of P15 million or up to 90 % of the total project cost, the partners reported. The agreement also covers medium-to-large enterprises with minimum funding of P15 million, or up to 70 percent of the total project cost.
MY COMMENT:
The second partnership between Thailand and the Philippines on aquaculture is welcomed and timely, especially for the Philippines which is facing food security problem. While fish production has been well augmented by the aquaculture sector, still one finds prices of quality fish species are still unaffordable by the ‘common tao’! Also, the agreement between DBP and the CPFPC is in line with President BBM’s goal “to improve agricultural production and ramp up modernization efforts of the sector.”
ooo000ooo NEXT TOPIC : “LGUs receive P113 Billion Recovery Loan from Landbank” SHARE S & T THOUGHTS through E-mail: drpacjr@yahoo.com.
