Livelihood Skills Training Program: Welding Workshop Orientation at SIR Phase 2

Last Monday, May 26, Hon. Coun. Mabel Sunga Acosta visited the SIR phase 2 covered court at Barangay 76-A, Bucana for the orientation of the welding workshop under the Livelihood Skills Training Program.

The Office of Coun. Acosta would like to extend its gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Jose and Rose Guevarra of Endonela Institute of Technology Foundation, Inc. for their contribution. A big thank you to the trainer, Ms. Lucidita P. Presbitero as well, and, of course, to the participants.

For more information about Endonela Institute of Technology Foundation, Inc. visit their Facebook page.

Hon. Coun. Mabel Sunga Acosta with the trainer Lucidita P. Presbitero.

Coun. Acosta giving a message to the participants.

January to February 2010 Schedule for the Mabel At Your Service Livelihood Training Program

January 14, 2010 (08:00 A.M.-12:00NN)
Tocino & Chorizo making with The University of Mindanao 4th Yr. Nursing Students
at Km. 6, Matina Pangi, Davao City.
January 15, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Pantinople Village, Maa, Davao City

February 20, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Talomo, Cemento, Davao City.

February 22, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Times Beach, Matina Aplaya, Davao City.
February 26, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City.

February 27, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Bliss, Bago Aplaya, Davao City.
February 28, 2010 (1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M.) Binangkal & Fishball making at Purok Malambuon, Bucana, Davao City.

Regular Training sessions are scheduled every Tuesday & Thursday from 1:00P.M.-4:00P.M. at the M.A.Y.S. Livelihood Training Center. Bookings for training sessions in your Neighborhood, Barangay, School or Office and other inquiries, please contact:

The Office of Mabel Sunga Acosta, Rm-19, 2nd Flr., Sangguniang Panlungsod Bldg., San Pedro st., Davao City.
Tel.# (082) 222-08-55 Loc. 218, 418 (fax), mobile#0916-937-8496, 0916-894-6274 and look for
Mr. Ariel Capidos, Ms. Donna Metran-Escosora and Ms. Eden Colina.

30 AMPC members, the newest M.A.Y.S. free Livelihood Training & Seminar Graduates

Some 30 members of the Agdao Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc. has completed all the courses offered by the Mabel At Your Service Livelihood Training last Thursday, November 26, 2009 at the M.A.Y.S. Livelihood Training Center.

The graduates, composed of AMPC members who availed the M.A.Y.S. free training seminars were all satisfied with their newly acquired skills on: Cooking, Handicrafts, Baking, Food processing, Accessories and Jewelry making, Bread and Pastries making, Home Decorations & Souvenir items, Candle making, Soap making, Flower Arrangement & Gift Wrapping, etc.

The commencement excercises was lead by Team Mabel with Donna, Kuya Ariel, Ate Eden and special guests.
After the awarding of certificates, the attendees were treated to a sampling of the graduate's favorite recipes and the salu-salo that afternoon was indeed a feast! Congratulations to the new Graduates!

For Bookings and inquiries, interested individuals or parties please contact:The Office of Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta, Rm. 19, Sangguniang Panlungsod Bldg., San Pedro St., Davao City. Tel. Nos. (082)222-0855 loc 218/418, (fax) Mobile# 09169738496 / 09168946274 look for Ariel Capidos or Donna Metran-Escosora

Alternative Medicine

With the soaring prices of medicine, people have turned to alternative medicine not only as an option to save money, but also the trendy and natural approach in therapy.

“Dok Alternatibo” Edgar Delibo, members of Philippine Society of Traditional & Alternative Medicine and members of the Davao Inventors Association were the guests of Mabel At Your Service.

Dr. Delibo said that with herbal medicine, we do not only treat illnesses, we can also prevent it simply with the plants commonly found in our backyards and immediate surroundings. He stressed that with the use of herbs, it does costs only a fraction in comparison to synthetic medicine. He cited a few common plants such as sweet potatoes, siling labuyo, guava leaves can be an effective cure of illnesses such as hypertension, ulcers, psoriasis among others.

Mr. Virgilio Sangutan of the PSTAMI and DIA said that the use of herbal medicines is being widely practiced and promoted even by rich and developed countries not only in Asia but in other parts of the world. Although the Philippines not far behind in harnessing its use, we do have the capacity in natural resources to be able to meet the needs of the people.

Mr. Manolo Tamparong also from PSTAMI and DIA added that the promotion of Alternative Medicine is not only a better choice but also a natural approach in treating a wide number of illnesses, not only that it is fast gaining popularity, the herbal option is increasingly being approved.

Ms. Romelyn Latonio of INTREX Philippines said that their herbal products symposium has increased not only in the local scene but also promoted and patronized abroad.

Mr. Edgar Banzon of HIDAK Exclusives added that Alternative Medicine before is looked upon as “old”, but with the current developments and effectiveness, the use of herbal medicine is getting better for the good of the common man.

Knowing Diabetes

In celebration of World Diabetes Day last November 14, 2009, Endocrinologist Dr. Jeff Francis Ho, was the invited guest at Mabel At Your Service.

Dr. Ho said that the risk of diabetes is high without proper health consciousness and lifestyle. The risk factors include: unhealthy eating habits, obesity, lack of exercise, high blood pressure and cholesterol, increased age, family history of diabetes and gestational diabetes.

There are two types of diabetes, diabetes 1 which is also known as juvenile diabetes is due to non-production of insulin of the pancreas. Diabetes 2 usually occurs gradually. Most people with this type of diabetes are usually overweight or elderly.Family history of diabetes and a sedentary lifestyles are also factors which heightens the risk of this disease.

However, Dr. Ho stressed that the risk of diabetes can be avoided or controlled through proper diet, exercise and medical check-up.

He added that in observance of the World Diabetes Day, he and a number of colleagues will be conducting a free diabetes screening at the People's Park on November 14, 2009.

NOVEMBER 2009 SCHEDULE FOR MABEL SUNGA ACOSTA LIVELIHOOD SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM

November 03&05 Chicken Ham making

November 10&12 Embutido making

November 17&19 Fruitcake making

November 24&26 Chocolate cake making

Sessions are scheduled every Tuesday& Thursday from 1:00P.M.-4:00P.M.

For bookings and inquiries, please contact:

The Office of Mabel Sunga Acosta, Rm-19, 2nd Flr., Sangguniang Panlungsod Bldg., San Pedro st., Davao City.
Tel.# (082) 222-08-55 Loc. 218, 418 (fax), mobile#0916-937-8496, 0916-894-6274 and look for Mr. Ariel Capidos or Ms. Donna Metran-Escosora.

DAVAO CITY ON DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

From extreme right: UAP Mt. Apo Chapter President, Arch. Celine Ting, Arch. Pol Sandoval, Arch. Nestor Ting, Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, Dr. Jun Magno and Ms. Mick mick Villegas.


From Left: Ms. Donna Metran-Escosora, Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, Ms. Betty Cabazares, Ms. Stella Alvarado, Ms. Mick-Mick Villegas, Dr. Jun Magno.

With the recent disasters affecting the northern part of the country, concerned offices converged at “Mabel At Your Service” to inform the public regarding disaster prevention and discussed Davao City’s preparedness.

Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, Disaster Coordinator from the City Health Office said, that though the PAGASA views Davao City to be “typhoon-free”, we do have floods affecting our city due to congested drainage systems, and prone to be affected are people residing in low lying areas or near riverbanks. He also warned the public of the dangers brought about by water-borne diseases which can be acquired through contact with floodwater, like leptospirosis, diarrhea and skin infections.

Team Leader Dr. Jun Magno of the Davao Volunteer Fire Brigade informed that for this year, fire related cases have escalated in comparison to previous years.
He expressed concern on fire-prone areas especially in squatter neighborhoods where fires are most likely to occur. He stressed that faulty electrical wiring, overloading of outlets and low-quality electrical devices, especially ones which has no D.T.I. approved seal, are contributing factors which can make a home become fire prone. Dr. Magno also shared tips on proper procedures if a fire occurs.

Ms. Mick-mick Villegas, Development Management Officer I of Davao City Disaster Coordinating Council said that though barangays are encouraged to give importance on disaster preparation through trainings conducted by their office, there are still other barangays which are either lacking in preparedness trainings or has few available life-saving equipment prepared in case of emergency situations.

Ms. Betty Cabazares of the KINAIYAHAN Foundation expressed sentiments over haphazard trash disposal and deforestation of our highlands to give way to subdivisions, farms, etc., which contributes to soil erosion and flooding in lowland areas.
She added that ecological awareness campaign to prevent possible disasters is continuously being promoted by their office as well as a study on drought resistant trees to counter soil erosion and promote watershed protection.

United Architects of the Philippines Mt.Apo Chapter officers were also present with President Arch. Celine Ting. Arch. Pol Sandoval updated that the city is keeping abreast with modern structural safety designs, provided insights on energy efficient designs and shared tips on practicing energy saving in our homes. Past-President, Arch. Nestor Ting added with the positive effects of proper garbage segregation, recycling and the benefits of composting.

The guests stressed that although natural calamities are part of the cycle of life which needs mitigation, it is better to practice disaster prevention and preparation.

Mabel at your Service to feature 72nd Araw ng Dabaw Celebration

This coming Sunday, March 1, 2009, Mabel at Your Service will be featuring this year's 72nd Araw ng Davao Celebration preparation. Organizing Committee Chairpersons dedicated to making this Festival exciting and informative were invited to promote this year's celebration.

For this year, lots of activities are expected of the city. Some of which are trade fairs,cultural presentations, "Parada" (socio-civic parade), concerts, arts and culture presentations, various sports competitions and of course the the Search for this year's Mutya ng Dabaw who will represent Davao City in special events within and outside the city.

DILG-XI Project CURE

On February 15, 2009, Mabel at Your Service featured the Department of Interior & Local Government XI Project CURE (Comprehensive & Unified Response to Eliminate Red Tape in LGUs). According to Atty. Erwin M. Enad, the DILG Chief Legal Officer, Project CURE was created to foster citizens’ knowledge, capacities and alliances, to altogether curb Red Tape in LGU’s.

The battle against red tape calls not only for more effective efforts of the government but also for renewal of political will. DILG urges all executive, administrative and legislative domains of the LGUs to participate in General Advocacy Orientation Programs, Capability Building and Citizen’s Feedback (Enforcement) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of LGUs in the delivery of public good and services to the public through anti-red tape practices, therefore preventing graft and corruption in their respective jurisdiction.

This project is in partnership with the Local Government Academy of the Philippines, Civil Service Commission, Office of the Ombudsman, Local Research Institute, Development Academy of the Philippines and the Presidential Anti Graft Commission. For more information regarding this program, LGUs may contact their DILG Regional Offices or log on to www.lga.dilg.gov.ph or email through etd@lga.gov.ph;execdir@lga.gov.ph.

Mabel at Your Service Features Autism

On February 8, 2009, Mabel at Your Service featured the various concerns on Autism. Invited guests were Pediatric Neurologist /Child Development Specialist Dr. Ma. Ferriza Isaguirre of the Brokenshire Hospital Ministries Incorporated and Ms. Ms. Jane Gonzales of the Rainbow Intervention Center for Autism Foundation Inc. (RICAFI), the first autism school in Davao City.

The speakers manifested that the debate on vaccines and autism was not yet over. In Davao City, the cost for the rehabilitation for autistic person ranges from Php2,000 to 3,000 each. In our country, statistics shows that there are more or less 250,000 Filipinos are autistic. Dr. Isaguirre said that we need further studies on all types of genes and the environment in order to address the problem since there are a lot of types of autism and its primary cause is not yet certain.

Ms. Jane Gonzales, a mother of a autistic child, explained how a proper education can help autistic children. She also shared her experiences and why early detection of autism is very important. "An autistic child should undergo specialized intervention programs at the earliest possible time",Gonzales stressed.

Some of the early manifestations of autism are as follows: no pointing by 1 yearno babbling by 1 yearno single word by 16 monthsno 2-word phrases by 24 monthsany loss of language skills at any timelittle or no eye contactno response when called by name and indifference to others.

Dr. Isaguirre advised further, “For the families touched by autism, while our lives can be challenging, don’t view the situation as negative. I believe there is a reason for us to be in this situation and we are only given what we can handle. We are all in this together and only together can we overcome the hold that autism has on our loved ones."

Turn-over of ceiling fan to Andres Bonifacio Elementary School

Ms. Asuncion Infiesto (3rd from the left), Principal of Andres Bonifacio Elementary School, Talomo District, Davao City together with her co-teachers, received one unit ceiling fan on January 23, 2008 from the Office of Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta, represented by Mr. Ariel Capidos.  

MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE

Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta and Staff
joined the Bishop-Ulama Conference (BUC)
in celebration of
MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE 2008
November 27 to December 3, 2008

"Integrity of Mind and Heart
A way to Reconciliation and Peace!"

Ang Batang Makulay

Children @rTwork

(from left) Fr. Alejo, Councilor Mabel Acosta's Chief of Staff Yvette Sunga, Artist Rey Mujadhid "Kublai" Millan, BB163 Program Manager Ellah Abad-Tan and Executive Asst. Aj Montecalvo

Davao Artist Rey Mujadhid "Kublai" Millan and ABS-CBN BANTAY BATA 163 Foundation alongside Ateneo de Davao University Research and Publication Office and the Grade School Unit have formally launched the Coloring Book Series, dubbed as "Ang Batang Makulay" last November 27, 2008 at F213 Finster Bldg. AdDU, Roxas Ave. Davao City.

As we go along the rapid evolution of technology in our modern times, the presenters sensed the need of our society on the approaches to be taken when raising well a child. All of us have the great responsibility of protecting and defending the rights of the children. Since the foundation of their childhood period depends on the type of environment where they developed their skills, then good values must be instilled on their hearts and mind. Thus, the presenters looked for other means to foster the values of children – and found it through ART. =)

Team Mabel proudly supports the Pinoy na Pinoy Coloring Books of Davao-Mindanao Artist... Handog para sa mga anak ni Juan!

VOLUME 1
"Mabuting Pag-uugali"

VOLUME 2
"Mga Karapatan at Tungkulin"

VOLUME 3
"Mga Katutubong Laro"

BANTAY BATA 163 DAVAO TAKBO PARA SA BATA

More than 800 running enthusiasts participated Bantay Bata's "Takbo Para Sa Bata" Fun Run last October 26, 2008, Sunday, in support of Bantay Bata, as well as other NGO's advocating children's rights call to stop corporal punishment against children. The participants include, among others, employees from the local government (including the staff of Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta who participated in full force), members of the Philippine National Police, members of non-governmental organizations, members of the academe, as well as other people coming from all walks of life.

The categories were, 2K for children 12 years and below, 5K for children and adults, and there is also the wheelchair category for those who are differently abled individuals. Aside from the fun run which is the main event, other activities like magic shows and raffle events were also staged by the organizers from Bantay Bata.

Bantay Bata hopes to continue this annual fun run event, which is now on its sixth year, to advocate for the protection of children's rights, among others.

Bantay Bata 163 is a non-stock/non-profit non-government organization (NGO) whose primary aim is to provide care and welfare to children who were victims of abuses in any form.

Mabel at your Service visits Davao Mental Hospital

Still celebrating its 6^th Anniversary, MABEL AT YOUR SERVICE had a visit with the resident-patients of Davao Mental Hospital last April 12, 2008 for its Feeding Activity. Said activity was organized in coordination with the Davao Agila Riders as well as Onnie 911 of ABS-CBN.

Four hundred ten (410) patients were fed with arrozcaldo and orange juice. Medicines, special anti-scabies lotions, linoleum floor mat, medicinal soaps, sardines by Mr. Amado So, old tarpaulins by the PLDT, and laundry powder soap detergent, a product of MAYS Skills Training Center, were also given.

To Dr. Agnes Padilla, Head Doctor of the Davao Medical Hospital, Dr. John Marius Oco and the staff of DMH, the Davao Agila Riders and ABS-CBN’s Onnie 911, MAYS says thank you. The success of this MAYS Feeding Activity is indeed due to your genuine care and support for these patients.

MAYS BLOODLETTING

In the celebration of its 6^th Anniversary, MABEL AT YOUR SERVICE conducted once again, on April 9, 2008 from 10:00am to 3:00pm, a Bloodletting, Blood Typing and Blood Pressure Checking Activity in cooperation with the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC). Other sponsors were the UPSILON Sigma Phi Fraternity of the Philippines, Pista Lokal, Mikar Aqua Marketing and Councilor Ibuyan and staff. The NCCC Mall also hosted the event.

Of the 76 volunteer-donors, 38 bags of blood were taken and approved by the PNRC for their supply. Said amount is already quite an accomplishment for the organizers as well as the sponsors considering the safety health restrictions imposed by the PNRC, to which only a certain percentage of donors would really qualify.

So aside from the above-mentioned sponsors, MABEL AT YOUR SERVICE also wishes to thank and congratulate the volunteer nurses from San Pedro College for the success of said event. Most importantly, MAYS would like to commend the volunteer-donors themselves, the Bureau of Fire and Protection, Philippine National Police (SCMG), Bgy. 15-B headed by Bgy. Captain Jun Labro, Hugpong Cluster Heads and Functionaries, the store owners and the walk-ins, for their selfless effort to help their fellow citizens who might need blood donations.

Happy 6th Birthday, Mabel at Your Service!

Throughout the month of April, the Office of Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta will be celebrating the 6th-year anniversary of MABEL AT YOUR SERVICE.

This public affairs and service radio program aired every Sunday through DXAB 12.96 kHz will have its anniversary opening salvo on the first week of April 2008. The program will be launching its online internet link (http://www.mabelatyourservice.blogspot.com) to give listeners an idea of what the program offers and the various activities initiated by the program in service to the constituents of Davao City.

The program will also be having a series of free medical consultations and medicine distribution activities. Also, there will be a launching of the MABEL AT YOUR SERVICE Training Manual, which will feature training procedures, product development methods, varied selection of handcraft projects, recipes, hints for home decorating, cost friendly organizational concepts, and gift-giving ideas. Tita Nene will also include in the Manual crafts, trainings and activities usually requested by the barangays that are uncomplicated, useful, aesthetically pleasing, and interesting.

Other scheduled activities are Deworming Program, Operation Tuli, Blood Letting, Feeding Program and Orphanage visits.

TAMBOBONG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL VISITATION

After visiting Kidali Primary School in Sitio Kidali, Brgy. Tambobong, Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta, the rest of team Mabel and DepEd personnel proceeded to the more populated Tambobong Elementary School located in the center of the said barangay, to hand over as well some educational materials, medicines and sport equipments for the school.

Established in the 1950’s, the school has a population of around 800 students from Grade 1 to Grade 6, and is composed of 20 teachers, 17 of whom are national paid, while 3 are Local School Board (LSB) paid. It is headed by its School-In-Charge Mrs. Alma Tac-on, who has been engaged in the teaching profession for more than 20 years.

Upon arriving at the said school, Councilor Acosta and her team, were greeted by Mrs. Alma Tac-on, SIC, and Mr. Rodelio Felipe, Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) President. The said school officials further extended their hospitality by preparing a delicious lunch for the Councilor and her companions. After having lunch, Councilor Acosta and the school teachers gladly posed for some photo ops.

CEILING FANS FOR DAYCARE CENTERS

Councilor Mabel Sunga Acosta distributed forty five (45) units of ceiling fans last January 15, 2008 at the SP Conference Room to various 1^st District Barangay Daycare Centers.

This project is part of the Early Childhood Development Program of the City under the 2007 Annual Development Fund. The program aims to provide a healthy and comfortable environment for preschoolers in city-run daycare centers.

The said activity was attended by several barangay captains, barangay kagawads and daycare workers.

MANGROVE PLANTING...

The Mabel At Your Service Team participated in the Mangrove Planting in the coastal areas of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya last October 18. The activity, which is one of the many held in celebration of the 44^th Fish Conservation Week (October 15-20, 2007), was spearheaded by the City Agriculturist Office in coordination with the City Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council (CFARMC).