GensanYouth

General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2013

2013-07-28T14:04:00.001-07:00

The search for this year's outstanding young individuals and youth group - General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award - is now formally open. If you have a nominee in mind, please drop by at the Youth Affairs and Development Office, 2/F, Environmental Youth Center, CENRO Compound, City Hall Complex, this city to get the nomination form. It's okay also to send a personal endorsement thru e-mail at elmerceq@yahoo.com. Please state in your e-mail the personal background of your nominee. Big thanks!

When Will We Ever Learn?

2013-05-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

I do not intend to negate the bright atmosphere in the hearts of those who were successfully elected and re-elected in my birth place of Clarin, in the province of Bohol, in the last election. I would even congratulate them for a job well done.

However, there are issues that are stalking that place for a long time now. With the issues, usually negative ones, that pose grim pictures of societal realities in our midst, we cannot just stand idly and wring our hands while our people are wallowing in the quagmire of uncertainties and inequities.

Each Clarinian deserves to have a government that truly listens to problems and answers the same in the appropriate way. With the fresh mandate that these officials have received, they are expected to provide the utmost support that their people need. These officials deserve critical collaboration if we want this local government to succeed. And, if these officials will project excesses and prejudices along the way, then three years time is not too far to make them answer in the next election to come.

An open letter to the people, and newly elected and re-elected officials of my dearly beloved birth place, Clarin:

I was not raised in your place. I was just one year old when my parents brought me and my seven siblings to Dadiangas (now more popularly called General Santos City) in 1969 because of the extreme poverty that we encountered while we were in Clarin. We sailed on boat and traveled by land to my hometown now with my parents having only enough money for us to reach the place and armed only with high hopes that somehow we may be able to shake off and exorcise the hardships that were haunting us for years.

With forbearance and fortitude, we were able to graduate from college save the only one who was the black sheep of the family. We were brought up by our parents in the civil way. We were taught to value our roots and foundation in life.

I do believe in the adage that once a Boholano will always be a Boholano. My parents, when they retired from work, really went back to Clarin and settled for good their heydays. They both passed away last year and were buried in the sweet place of their youth.

I can understand why my parents remained on the opposition in every election in Clarin even at the sunset of their lives . I spoke to my father on this conviction whenever I got the chance to visit him and my mother every year or two when they were still alive. My father’s observations are still true until now. And, I hope that, on a matter of conscience, you may be able to erase the doubts that I have inherited from the viewpoints of my deceased parents.

1. The people are too simple that they have to confine on eating “binalingan” and “ginamos” but have to sustain on mineral water because the water that flows on their faucets is not suitable for drinking. This is the only place where the people, in the absence of continuous flow of water most often and even during heavy rain downfall when the water looks like chocolate brown, have to wash their hands and dishes or, even at its worst, take a bath on mineral water. By the way, we always reside in Poblacion Sur whenever we will be on vacation in Clarin. (I hope this is not true in other barangays). Please, I beg of you, do something on this basic necessity.

2. While other places in Bohol have their very own unique tourist spots, man-made or otherwise, Clarin lags behind and only content on having tourists as passers-by. Do we have a master plan that includes tourism development on its blueprint?

3. Peace and order is vital in every locality. When there is rampant drug pushing and using, then our children’s lives are compromised. When people are induced heavily on gambling as a source of living and potluck, then we can say that there must be something wrong with the livelihood and economic viability of the place. All of these beget crimes and turpitude.

4. Election is so festive and dynamic. But, at the back of it, too expensive. People tend to look at every election as a propensity to earn money from nowhere. It has become a temporary source of living by many whose conscience is grappled up and buckled down. It may also be a reason for people with elective positions to recoup back their expenses from within the government spheres or someone else with high stake or business in the place. There must be an end to this mess. You, yourselves, are the only ones to blame if these elected politicians will go wrong and wild. And lo, we owe to this the slow pace and even downward development trend of the place!

I may have skipped some other issues here. I may be drastic also. But, these are just plain observations that need to be looked into. By virtue of my birth, I can very well say that I am a Clarinian by heart. And by virtue of this trait, I will and always will go back to Clarin and observe its progress and development, at least in the future.

Lastly, this is a point to ponder: “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children,” so goes the old maxim.

The Power Crisis: Systemic and Transnational in Nature

2013-03-29T03:56:00.002-07:00

To trace it all, this kind of situation dated back since Marcos-Cory-FVR-GMA time when IMF/WB and JBIC/ADB imposed structural adjustment programs (SAPs) in third world countries like the Philippines. SAPs were the conditions made by these financial institutions before a country can avail of structural adjustment loans. We all knew that the National Power Corporation (Napocor) also had burgeoning debts that time in the tune of billions of pesos. One of the contents in these SAPs was the restructuring of the power sector. This particular condition was made just to ease out the national government from its heavy obligation brought about by the widespread corruption in Napocor. This led to the passage of the EPIRA in June of 2001.

Under EPIRA, the government had gradually surrendered its responsibilities on the Nopocor, including power structure development, operation and, even worst, ownership, to the private sector. That's why the government did not bother to protect these plants, even as a matter of national policy, from incursion of the private sector.

This was also the time when Transco and later on the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) came into the picture and acquired the transmission component of the power industry. The NGCP, a consortium of State Grid Corporation of China and One Taipan Holdings of Henry Sy, Jr., can now even make or regulate the transmission of power to the distribution utilities, like the electric cooperatives (SOCOTECO is one). Other private stakeholders in the power sector went to venture on independent power production (IPP) and that's why Aboitiz, Lopez Group, Alcantara Group, San Miguel Power Corp., etc. established their own independent power generation companies.

The Napocor is now reduced to a mere bystander while its power plants are waiting to be disposed of as the EPIRA comes to its full and final implementation.

Now, most of us are wondering why Mindanao lags behind when it comes to power generation. Under the EPIRA, nobody, not even an LGU, has the power and responsibility to establish and operate power plants, except the private sector.

Mindanao is the last bastion of government-owned power plants (Agus and Pulangi power complexes) that are not yet

subjected to privatization, unlike in Luzon and Visayas, where NPC/PSALM and the government have surrendered the power plants to the private sector. Most of all, IPP schemes are also in full swing in Luzon and in the Visayas. General Santos City and Zamboanga City have in the past opposed the establishment of coal-fired plants (IPP proposals in these cities) and thereby, stalling the latter’s establishment for quite some time. These are the very reasons why Mindanao Island has continued to have power deficits up to these years.

What to do now? With the national government having no other recourse but to permit this situation, we cannot do anymore but surrender to the private sector (the very reason why SAPs were imposed in our country). The government has come to a laissez-faire mode because it has to do it

based on dictates from outside forces.

We are helpless because our government is forcing us to swallow hook line and sinker some sugar-coated solutions even to our detriment under the pretense of accepting higher power costs or no electricity at all!
No superman can restore the power in this crisis besetting the island of Mindanao, General Santos City included, except to subject ourselves to these new trends. SAPs prevail even up to the current PNoy leadership. We must establish and install these new power plants at all costs!

Don't be carried away by your emotion. Know the real score regarding this. Napakalalim ng problemang ito. Makialam ng di malinlang ng iilan lang dyan.

We put our blame not on our incumbent politicians or the electric cooperatives for they are powerless in this scuffle too. Dictates from the first world countries have always prevailed. No amount of Teddy Casino or Walden Bello, both loudmouths in Congress, can prevent the onslaught of neo-liberalization in our country. And, that is the sad truth!

Power crisis statement in Iligan City

Power crisis statement in Zamboanga City

Youth Focus: The General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award

2013-01-15T12:16:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought that despite the hectic and running programs of the Office of the City Mayor, there will still be the idea to uplift the courage and morale of young individuals through giving recognition and rewards to those who have brought prestige and honor to our city.

Well, due to the great desire of our City Government, a search for the City’s Youth Achiever and outstanding youth organization was again realized. We believed that through this, many young individuals will be motivated to excel in their own fields and, thereby, for others to emulate the success stories of the awardees. Mayor Darlene R. Antonino-Custodio even put premium on the Award when she assumed office in 2010.

The General Santos City Youth Achiever’s Award (GSCYAA) is an annual search in recognition of young individuals who have shown excellent works and made sterling distinctions in any field of endeavor and youth organization that made a difference in its locality, not just leaving all their efforts unnoticed. It is expected that through this award, there will be increased visibility of the youth in development works. It will also propel them to excel further since their efforts are recognized and rewarded.

The Search is open to young individuals, ages 15 to 30 years old, as prescribed by Republic Act No. 8044 otherwise known as “Youth in Nation Building Act” and organization whose membership and leadership is composed of youths who are 15 to 30 years old. The search has two (2) categories, namely: Individual Category and Group Category. The applicants of each category have to meet application guidelines and qualification requirements.

During the information dissemination about the program, many expressed their eagerness to join. As expected, everyone needs to undergo series of selection phases until they make it to the top.

The awardees in 2012 were the following:

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY

In-School Youth Category - High School:

1. Mariella Riejan K. Apil – Holy Trinity College High School

2. Ricardo T. Jalipa III – Shalom Crest Wizard Academy

3. John Elmer Loretizo – GSC SPED Integrated School

4. Christine Louise C. Pacis – GS Hope Christian School

Cultural Communities Youth Category:

1. Ibrahim K. Nilong - Hearts and Brains, Inc./Kapayaan Kapatid Council

2. Nor-en B. Lambac - CIPMYL/FEM Trading

GROUP CATEGORY

1. AFS Socsargen Alumni Circle

GSCYAA started in the year 2000. From then on, the search for the next youth awardees continues. As of this date, it has awarded more than fifty (50) outstanding youths and just two (2) youth organizations. Famous in its roster of awardees are the following:

MS. ESMAIDA H. ANDANG graduated cum laude with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Education from the Mindanao State University in 2003. A GSCYAA awardee in 2004, Ms. Andang was a fellow of Congressional Internship Program for Young Mindanao Leaders (CIPYML) at the House of Representatives in 2005. She was our country representative to the prestigious Ship for Southeast Asia Youth Program, a Japan-Philippine Government sponsored exchange program to Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Japan, in 2006. Furthermore, she finished her Master's Degree in Education major in Educational Leadership and Management from the University of Sydney in Australia in 2010. She is currently teaching at Mindanao State University - College of Education Training Department.

MR. ALLAN S. REMEDIOS was a student leader at Holy Trinity College. He was conferred the GSCYAA in 2000. He was one of the country's international delegates under the Philippine Youth Leadership Program sponsored by Northern Illinois University and the US State Department in the summer of 2011. He is currently the head of the Community Extension Service of Holy Trinity College.

MS. JOANA GRACE BANTING-LAPORE graduated magna cum laude with the degree of Bachelor of Arts major in English from the Notre Dame of Dadiangas College (now NDDU) in 1993. She finished her Master's Degree in Communications from the University of the Philippines in 2000. She was an awardee of the GSCYAA in 2001. She is a Certified EQUIP Trainer of the Dr. John Maxwell’s Million Leader’s Mandate, graduate of Philippine Haggai Institute, and recipient of Certificate in Biblical Studies from the International School of Ministries. Through a scholarship grant by the US Department of State Office of English Language Programs, she earned a Certificate in E-Teaching Business English from the University of South Carolina in 2008. A dynamic educator, motivational speaker, speech writer, director and host, General Joana, as she is fondly called, is often in the psyche of emerging young leaders in this city. She is currently the Director of the Liberal Arts Department of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges.

MR. JOVAR G. PANTAO was a GSCYAA awardee in 2005. He won the Education category of the Search for the Outstanding Youth Leaders of the Philippines, a prestigious search run by the United Nations Association of the Philippines, held at the University of Makati in 2009. He was a recipient of the Congressional Internship Program for Young Mindanao Leaders (CIPYML) in the House of Representatives for 4 months in later part of 2012. He currently teaches at Shalom Crest Wizard Academy.

MS. JOCELYN LAMBAC-KANDA was awarded with the GSCYAA in 2006. She was one of the country's representatives to the Ship for Southeast Asia Youth Program, a Japan-Philippine Government sponsored exchange program to Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam, in 2007. She was a delegate to the Institute on Inter-ethnic Dialogue and Conflict Resolution in Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, United States of America on April 5 to May 7, 2008. She was also conferred the leadership award under the Peace and Human Rights category of the Search for the Outstanding Youth Leaders of the Philippines, a prestigious search run by the United Nations Association of the Philippines, held at the University of Makati in 2009. She is presently the program manager of Kalinaw Sarangani Unit under the Office of the Governor of the Province of Sarangani.

DR. LEMUEL BENEDICT R. NON graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Biology at Mindanao State University - General Santos City Campus and was its first and only Summa Cum Laude. He was Philippine representative to the Eco-Innovate Forum in Sydney, Australia in 2003 hosted by Bayer. He was conferred the GSC Youth Achiever’s Award in same year. He went to take up medicine at the University of the Philippines – College of Medicine in Manila and graduated top 9 of their class in 2008. That same year, he placed top 8 of the Philippine Licensure Examination for Physicians. He is currently in Pennsylvania, USA pursuing his medical specialization.

Note: Co-written by Ms. Arlyn Jane C. Quiapo, Youth Organizer, YADO

On the Last Stretch

2012-12-18T20:18:00.001-08:00

I'm eccentric and freaky vain
Blood shot allergies heap my skin.

My heart sometimes aches much
Must be stress or annoying catch.

Liver, kidneys and colon seem ductile
Gall, prostate and joints nearly hostile.

Medicines flow in my veins
Trying to snap these ills and pains.

Just wanna clip down my fear
Sensing this end might be near.

I may be out forever
Not sure if this legacy shall linger.

Tell my wife and kid this love acclaim
Always will be even in God's realm.

175 OSY and Women Beneficiaries Graduated from Various Skills Training

2012-10-11T17:30:00.002-07:00

The Unlad Kakayahan ng Kabataan - Skills Training and Enhancement Program (UKK-STEP), a project of Hon. Darlene R. Antonino-Custodio that provides livelihood and skills enhancement opportunities for the out-of-school youths (OSYs) and other marginalized sectors of the city, has been instrumental in offering various technical-vocational courses in the barangays since 2001. The program was conceptualized in order to provide skills training to those who are financially constraints, especially those who cannot afford to acquire college education or even sustain transportation expenses in going to formal schools. The courses are either funded fully by the city local government or funded by the Sangguniang Kabataan in the barangays. The program is administered by the Youth Affairs and Development Office in coordination with the Technical Educational and Skills Development Authority - Sarangani-Gensan Province.

Due to its impact, the program was later on opened to those who want to retool themselves and those who want to acquire further technical skills, provided that majority of the participants would still come from the marginalized sector of the youth, the OSYs.

The good Mayor, Hon. Antonino-Custodio, has provided additional funding for the assessment fees of the different courses. With this, the graduates can now take the assessment for National Certification enabling the passers to obtain National Certificates II that they need to obtain equivalency for Civil Service Sub-Professional license, be hired in big companies or even go abroad for greener pastures.

Last October 2, 2012, a total of one hundred seventy five (175) OSY and women beneficiaries graduated from the community-based skills training that were conducted and/or facilitated by the Youth Affairs and Development Office in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay City Heights, Labangal and Tinagacan, and the Technical Education Skills and Development Office - Sarangani and Gensan Provincial Office. The mass graduation was held at the Robinson's Place, J. Catolico Avenue, this city.

Big thanks to Hon. Mac Alejandre M. Tablazon, SK Federation President and SK Chairperson of City Heights, for funding from his SK budget the conduct of Skills Training on Slippers Making and Computer Hardware Servicing for the women and OSYs of Barangay City Heights. The Barangay Council also assisted in gathering the participants of the training. There were eighty five (85) women graduates of the Slippers Making, while nineteen (19) were for the OSY graduates of Computer Hardware Servicing.

Worthy of commendation also was Hon. Jesse Chris P. Gepte, SK Chairperson of Barangay Labangal, who was able to conduct the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) to his young constituents in his barangay. With the help of the Barangay Council, the program generated a total of twenty seven (27) graduates for the course.

A total of twenty (20) graduated for the Plumbing Skills Training from Barangay Tinagacan. Hon. Marx Hazir T. Sarabosquez, the SK Chairperson, facilitated its funding from the SK budget. He was assisted by the Barangay Council, headed by Hon. Dagadas K. Panayaman, who was very proud being one of the graduates of the training.

The grandest participants of the graduation came from the Skills Training on Plumbing. A total of twenty three (23) out of the twenty four (24) graduates had successfully passed the assessment for National Certificate II that was taken a week before the graduation day. This training was fully funded by the city local government. Mayor Antonino-Custodio was very elated knowing that the trainees were able to hurdle the rigid assessment test.

The mass graduation was graced by Congressman Pedro B. Acharon, Jr. and Provincial Director Maisalam G. Macarimbang, Al Haj, who cherished and congratulated the graduates of the different courses.

Successful Examinees of GSC Junior Officials 2012

2012-10-10T01:21:00.001-07:00

A total of one hundred hundred five (105) examinees took the competitive examination for the General Santos City Junior Officials that was held at the City Agriculture's Training Center last October 4, 2012.

The schools represented were:

1. RMMC High School
2. NDDU - IBED Lagao Campus
3. NDDU - IBED Espina Campus
4. Mindanao State University - CETD
5. Shalom Crest Wizard Academy
6. Holy Trinity College of GSC High School
7. Notre Dame - Sienna College of GSC
8. Fatima National High School
9. Labangal National High School
10.Irineo Santiago National High School
11.General Santos Hope Christian School

The following successfully passed the rigid examination:

General Santos Hope Christian School

1. Jobercari S. Templado
2. Patricia Betinna T. Ocampo
3. Shaira Rae Y. Billena
4. Johanna Marie F. Uy
5. Aleeza Medeleine C. Dionisio
6. Joyce Valerie B. Co
7. Erika Tiffany L. Go

Mindanao State University - CETD

1. Joshua Marvin A. Noval
2. Maria Angelita E. Merced
3. Alvee Ann H. Didulo
4. Sidney Jian G. Villegas
5. Angelica Kate L. Macalipay

Shalom Crest Wizard Academy

1. Glacel Angelu P. Melanio
2. Sam Gregory P. Johnston
3. Deanna Louise R. Gutierrez

Notre Dame - Sienna College of GSC

1. Sean Marcus V. Heyres
2. Jan Patrick T. Mallillin
3. Lyka Keith E. Gascon

Holy Trinity College of GSC

1. Angellica Princess G. Narvaiza
2. Rj Korina Bless Ibañez

NDDU - IBED Espina Campus

1. Gabriella Lissandra M. Monterde
2. Kimberly B. Sarmiento

NDDU - IBED Lagao Campus

1. Gibee Paul Y. Avila
2. Janine R. Concepcion
3. Paola Adrianne F. Alegre
4. Abigail Hannah Faith P. Espiritu

Irineo Santiago National High School

1. Karen May Kezia P. Tosino

The panel interview will be held at the Vice-Mayor's Conference Room, Sangguniang Panlungsod, Roxas Avenue, City Hall Complex, this city on October 15, 2012 at 8:30 AM. Please come in your appropriate interview attire.

Congratulations and God bless!

ELMER D. CEQUIÑA
Youth Development Officer IV/
Program Holder, GSC Junior Officials

Talent of the Generals: Showcase of Youth Excellence in the Tuna Fest

2012-08-09T21:27:00.002-07:00

Tuna Festival is fast approaching!

The City of General Santos will be celebrating its 44th Charter Anniversary highlighted by the 14th Tuna Festival on September 5-9, 2012. The celebration is bannered with the theme: "Tunafest Tuna Fun sa Magandang Gensan!"

There will be highlight events to boost the entire celebration just to make it more joyful and festive.

These are two (2) of the highlight events under the aptly called TALENT OF THE GENERALS, which showcases dynamic areas - singing and dancing - which the youths of the city excel even to the international level.

The Gensan Pop Idol is on its 8th season now. The Tuna Fest Hip-Hop Dance Invasion is just on its maiden edition.

We can expect a blend of youth euphoria in the arts of music and dance. Watch out this Tuna Fest!

The Story Telling Project: Its Accomplishment (An Endowment of Mayor Darlene to the Children of Gensan)

2012-01-31T00:24:00.000-08:00

Every Friday during the City Hall sa Barangay, we can see throng of children gathered inside railed rectangular set-ups, in rooms, in makeshift venues, or under the shades of trees conspicuously being thought by ate and kuya story tellers who volunteered themselves to teach young children on good manners and values. These youth volunteers are members of a group called AIM High Kabataan (AHK), which is a federation of youth leaders in our city. The AHK make themselves available thru a partnership with the Youth Affairs and Development Office.

Kuya Henry, Ate Irene, Kuya TJ, Kuya Pompom and Ate Pia serving with smiles

Mayor Darlene approved of the partnership and even funded the capability building conducted last August of 2010 to a number of volunteers before the program was implemented.

The AHK volunteers, while on recess, during the Training on Story Telling conducted by mentors from Irineo Santiago National High School

The story telling aims at providing venue for other means of serving children, aside from the medical and dental check-up and consultation, in the City Hall sa Barangay. It also intends to ease the burden of parents in carrying and holding on their children while queuing for services that they wish to avail of in their respective barangays. The parents may leave their children as the Aim High Kabataan tell stories, share good values, and keep the children entertained.

Mothers while attending to their children in one of the rounds of the Story Telling in Barangay Lagao

The story telling has other components in order that the children will not be bored during the activity.

It contains also drawing and shading, parlor games, question and answer on learning garnered from the stories told, and feeding to nourish them.

The feeding component of the Story Telling consists of arrozcaldo which is laden with chicken strips and vegetables like malunggay, calabasa and carrots. There are also bread and biscuits distributed to participants.

Since September of 2010, the project has served a total of three thousand eight hundred twenty three (3,823) children in the city until the last City Hall sa Barangay conducted on January 20, 2012.

In a country where children are increasing in number steadily each year because of increased population growth rate, any initiative directed to putting premium on child care and service is taken as a good job especially for those in charge of holding the reins of governance. This endeavor is just one of them. Mayor Darlene has still more arsenal of services for children.

Hopefully, an enhanced form of the program in the next 18^th phase of the City Hall sa Barangay that will commence on March of this year will be a thing to reckon with. There is a move this time to include school-based volunteers to reinforce the program.

Ate Arlyn in her contact with the children of Barangay San Jose

Result of the GSCJO Election

2011-11-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

In the decade-old history of the program, this was the first time that the election was hotly contested. It was more intense than the elections we did from the previous batches. We even broke the tie twice for the two highest positions that were up for grab.

This was how the junior officials did their votes:

JUNIOR CITY MAYOR

Allen Renaldo O. Cruz (MSU-CETD) 6 votes 9 votes (tie-breaker)

Joselv E. Albano (Holy Trinity College HS) 4 votes

Maria Rina G. Lanoy (NDDU-IBED Lagao) 6 votes 6 votes (tie-breaker)

Abstain 1 vote

JUNIOR VICE-MAYOR

Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo (GS Hope Christian School) 6 votes 9 votes (tie-breaker)

Joselv E. Albano (Holy Trinity College HS) 6 votes 6 votes (tie-breaker)

Shania Tracey E. Canda (NDDU-IBED Lagao) 4 votes

SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE

Joselito M. Nerona (MSU-CETD) 7 votes

Shania Tracey E. Canda (NDDU-IBED Lagao) 4 votes

Joselv E. Albano (Holy Trinity College HS 5 votes

Congratulations to the winners!

The Distinguished Board of Adjudicators of General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2011

2011-11-12T04:39:00.000-08:00

As distinct as the GSCYAA award giving body is its distinguished line up of adjudicators this year. To keep the tradition of conferring the award to the most qualified nominees, this array of personalities would see to it that the sterling merit may not be given to any crap or wannabe. They are the following:

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY:

MS. ESMAIDA H. ANDANG graduated cum laude with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Education from the Mindanao State University in 2003. A GSCYAA awardee in 2004, Ms. Andang was a fellow of Congressional Internship Program for Young Muslim Leaders (CIPYML) at the House of Representatives in 2005. She was a country representative to the prestigious Ship for Southeast Asia Youth Program, a Japan-Philippine Government sponsored exchange program to Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Japan, in 2006. Furthermore, she finished her Master's Degree in Education major in Educational Leadership and Management from the University of Sydney in Australia in 2010. She is currently teaching at Mindanao State University - College of Education Training Department.

MS. JOANA GRACE BANTING-LAPORE graduated magna cum laude with the degree of Bachelor of Arts major in English from the Notre Dame of Dadiangas College (now NDDU) in 1993. She finished her Master's Degree in Communications from the University of the Philippines in 2000. She was an awardee of the GSCYAA in 2001. She is a Certified EQUIP Trainer of the Dr. John Maxwell’s Million Leader’s Mandate, graduate of Philippine Haggai Institute, and recipient of Certificate in Biblical Studies from the International School of Ministries. Through a scholarship grant by the US Department of State Office of English Language Programs, she earned a Certificate in E-Teaching Business English from the University Of South Carolina in 2008. A dynamic educator, motivational speaker, speech writer, director and host, General Joana, as she is fondly called, is often in the psyche of emerging young leaders in this city. She is currently the Director of the Liberal Arts Department of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges.

GROUP CATEGORY:

MR. JOVAR G. PANTAO was a GSCYAA awardee in 2005. He won the Education category of the prestigious Search for the Outstanding Youth Leaders of the Philippines, a prestigious search run by the United Nations Association of the Philippines, held at the University of Makati in 2009. He currently teaches at Shalom Crest Wizard Academy.

HON. LOU BERNADETH C. DULAY was the former chairperson of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Apopong. She was also one of the founding members of Aim High Kabataan, a federation of young leaders in General Santos City. She is a two-termer Barangay Kagawad and the youngest among the elected officials in the same barangay.

MS. JOCELYN LAMBAC-KANDA was awarded with the GSCYAA in 2006. She was one of the country's representatives to the Ship for Southeast Asia Youth Program, a Japan-Philippine Government sponsored exchange program to Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam, in 2007. She was a delegate to the Institute on Inter-ethnic Dialogue and Conflict Resolution in Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, United States of America on April 5 to May 7, 2008. She was also conferred the leadership award under the Peace and Human Rights category of the Search for the Outstanding Youth Leaders of the Philippines, a prestigious search run by the United Nations Association of the Philippines, held at the University of Makati in 2009. She is presently the program manager of Kalinaw Sarangani Unit under the Office of the Governor of the Province of Sarangani.

GSCYAA Finalists

2011-11-11T22:50:00.000-08:00

Know this year's finalists of the GSC Youth Achiever's Award:

Individual Category:

High School -

1. Melchen Mae N. Machan (SPED Integrated School)
2. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr. (SPED Integrated School)
3. Thea Danielle B. Cartojano (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.)
4. Pauline Aubrey S. Pacheco (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.)
5. Joselv E. Albano - Holy Trinity College High School Dept.)

College -

1. Lurvie James N. Fruto (RMMC)
2. Khristian Ian C. Castillon (RMMC)
3. John Rex B. Galdo (MSU)

Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Workers -

1. Aldrin A. Mato (RMMC)
2. Meikko Jay D. Forones (Mindanao Polytechnic College)
3. Haironesah M. Domado (Asia Foundation)

Group Category:

1. Junior Ecologist Movement (RMMC)
2. Tri-Youth Movement (DXCP/Kapayapaan Kapatid Council)
3. Social Science Society (RMMC)

Goal 101: Breaking the Barriers of Poverty and Deprivation among the Marginalized Ones

2011-10-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

Last October 19, 2011, we had our graduation rites for the Hairdressing and Beauty Care Skills Training in Barangay Bawing, this city. A total of 32 Samal and Badjao participants were able to graduate from the 15-days community-based skills training for the out-of-school youths.

Twenty seven of the graduates; the other five have already reported for their new assignment

The training was made possible thru the Barangay Development Fund of Hon. Elizabeth B. Bagonoc and Hon. Eduardo D. Leyson IV, and by the facilitation of the Barangay Council, headed by Brgy. Capt. Jerry M. Jugarap, and Ms. Evangel Beliran of CENRO. The Youth Affairs and Development Office handled the secretariat and administrative sides of the training. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) sanctioned the training and provided the Certificate of Competencies to the graduates.

The occasion was graced by no less than Mrs. Flora O. Fulguerinas, Supervising TESD Specialist of TESDA SarGen Office. Also present was Hon. Joseph Gusto, Chairperson of Committee on Education of Barangay Council of Bawing.

One of the graduates, Mr. Arjalal M. Silongan, Jr., who made his personal impression on the program, was really thankful to the organizers for providing them the necessary skills that would really be a big help for them and their respective families. He further stated that somehow his life now is brighter and has direction because of the training.

The following courses were imbedded in the training:

1. Foot spa

2. Pedicure and manicure

3. Facial make-up

4. Hair styling

5. Hair rebonding

6. Hair treatment and coloring

7. Hair cutting and curling

For the Samal and Badjao youths, their participation in the training mean more than anything - opportunity to help their families survive. Lifestyle to them is simple. They usually live on a day to day basis. Most of them had just gone to elementary school and a few were able to reach high school. None of them ever reach the portals of college institutions.

They were thankful that, even though how lowly they are, the government really was able to look after their plight.

Now, they are looking for a tangible venue in which they could hone up and enhance their newly acquired skill. One better aspiration according to them is to put in practice their skill in a beauty parlor situated in their village and that even a makeshift one will do.

The Unlad Kakayahan ng Kabataan - Skills Training and Enhancement Program (UKK-STEP) is at the centerpiece of Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio's socio-economic agenda - poverty alleviation - for the City of General Santos.

Top 16 of GSC Junior Officials: Truly the Cream of the Crops of Gensan's High School Students

2011-10-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

Out of 89 applicants from the various private and public high schools who took the competitive examination, only the top 27 were chosen to proceed to the next phase which was the interview. During the interview held at the Vice-Mayor’s Conference this morning, only 26 went through the rigorous process. One backed out for no apparent reason.

Before going to the over-all results garnered by the final top 16, allow us to provide the examination and interview rates of the top 27, as follows:

Examination rates and equivalent 60%:

1. Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo, GS Hope Christian School, 82 pts. or 49.2%
2. Erelyn Jane A. Que, GS Hope Christian School, 79 pts. or 47.4 0%
3. Mary Gayle O. Manuba, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 79 pts. or 47.4%
4. Shania Winona Tracey E. Canda, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 79 pts. or 47.4%
5. Maria Rina G. Lanoy, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 79 pts. or 47.4%
6. Jhia Ava Andrada, ND – Sienna College, 79 pts. or 47.4%
7. Jaydee G. Paid, Holy Trinity College HS, 78 pts. or 46.8%

8. Joselito M. Nerona, MSU-CETD, 77 pts. or 46.2%
9. Honey Charish U. Andamon, GSC SPED Integrated School, 77 pts. or 46.2%
10. Shawna Mei P. Velasco, GSC SPED Integrated School, 77 pts. or 46.2%
11. Aurora Ross R. Mondragon, ND – Sienna College, 77 pts. or 46.2%
12. Mark Arlo S. Segundo, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 76 pts. or 45.6%
13. Ronald Moises K. Salibio, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 75 pts. or 45.0%
14. Jean Dianne S. Gadingan, GS Hope Christian School, 75 pts. or 45.0%
15. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr. GSC SPED Integrated School, 75 pts. or 45.0%
16. Michael Roy. V. Malaluan, MSU-CETD, 73 pts. or 43.8%
17. Karen Faith L. Abrea, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 73 pts. or 43.8%
18. Timothy Jeremiah Yuro, RMMC High School, 73 pts. or 43.8%
19. Joselv E. Albano, Holy Trinity College HS, 72 pts. or 43.2%
20. Vinz Hianne G. Khua, Holy Trinity College HS, 72 pts. or 43.2%
21. Thea P. Porras, MSU-CETD, 72 pts. or 43.2%
22. Allen Renaldo O. Cruz, MSU-CETD, 72 pts. or 43.2%
23. Neil M. Salado, NDDU-IBED Espina, 72 pts. or 43.2%
24. Gabrielle Lissanda M. Monterde, NDDU-IBED Espina, 72 pts. or 43.2%
25. Sheldon Marc I. Yap, Lagao National High School, 71 pts. or 42.6%
26. Quennie Ann P. Paradero, GSC SPED Integrated School, 71 pts. or 42.6%
27. Sherry Mae C. Dumagat, GS Hope Christian School, 71 pts. or 42.6%

The competitive examination was made and administered by the staff of the Youth Affairs and Development Office.

Interview rates and equivalent 40%:

1. Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo, GS Hope Christian School, 87.75 pts. or 35.1%
2. Erelyn Jane A. Que, GS Hope Christian School, 76.75 pts. or 30.7%
3. Mary Gayle O. Manuba, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 71.75 pts. or 28.7%
4. Shania Winona Tracey E. Canda, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 86 pts. or 34.4%
5. Maria Rina G. Lanoy, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 85.5 pts. or 34.2%
6. Jhia Ava Andrada, ND – Sienna College, 90 pts. or 36%
7. Jaydee G. Paid, Holy Trinity College HS, 84.75 pts. or 33.9%
8. Joselito M. Nerona, MSU-CETD, 90.5 pts. or 36.2%
9. Honey Charish U. Andamon, GSC SPED Integrated School, 81.75 pts. or 32.7%
10. Shawna Mei P. Velasco, GSC SPED Integrated School, 81.25 pts. or 32.5%
11. Aurora Ross R. Mondragon, ND – Sienna College, 83.75 pts. or 33.5%
12. Mark Arlo S. Segundo, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 91.75 pts. or 36.7%
13. Karen Faith L. Abrea, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 86 pts. or 34.4%
14. Ronald Moises K. Salibio, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 88.25 pts. or 35.3%
15. Jean Dianne S. Gadingan, GS Hope Christian School, 87.25 pts. or 34.9%
16. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr. GSC SPED Integrated School, 76.5 pts. or 30.6%
17. Michael Roy. V. Malaluan, MSU-CETD, 84.5 pts. or 33.8%
18. Joselv E. Albano, Holy Trinity College HS, 96.75 pts. or 38.7%
19. Vinz Hianne G. Khua, Holy Trinity College HS, 85.5 pts. or 34.2%
20. Thea P. Porras, MSU-CETD, 90.75 pts. or 36.3%
21. Allen Renaldo O. Cruz, MSU-CETD, 90 pts. or 36%
22. Gabrielle Lissanda M. Monterde, NDDU-IBED Espina, 69.75 pts. or 27.9%
23. Timothy Jeremiah Yuro, RMMC High School, 87 pts. or 34.8%
24. Sheldon Marc I. Yap, Lagao National High School, 77 pts. or 30.8%
25. Quennie Ann P. Paradero, GSC SPED Integrated School, 80.75 pts. or 32.3%
26. Sherry Mae C. Dumagat, GS Hope Christian School, 82 pts. or 32.8%

The interview were administered by the following:

1. Mr. Avelmar O. Manansala, Administrator, www.gensantos.com
2. Ms. Donna Ann T. Balboa, Junior Vice-Mayor, GSCJO 2001
3. Mr. Meikko Jay D. Forones, Junior Vice-Mayor, GSCJO 2004

4. Hon. Lou Bernadette C. Dulay, Barangay Councilor, Barangay Apopong

Top 16 and corresponding rates (60% exam and 40% interview):

1. Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo, GS Hope Christian School, 84.3%
2. Jhia Ava Andrada, ND – Sienna College, 83.4%
3. Joselito M. Nerona, MSU-CETD, 82.4%
4. Mark Arlo S. Segundo, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 82.3%
5. Joselv E. Albano, Holy Trinity College HS, 81.9%
6. Shania Winona Tracey E. Canda, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 81.8%
7. Maria Rina G. Lanoy, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 81.6%
8. Jaydee G. Paid, Holy Trinity College HS, 80.7%
9. Ronald Moises K. Salibio, NDDU-IBED Lagao, 80.3%
10. Jean Dianne S. Gadingan, GS Hope Christian School, 79.9%
11. Aurora Ross R. Mondragon, ND – Sienna College, 79.7%
12. Thea P. Porras, MSU-CETD, 79.5%
13. Allen Renaldo O. Cruz, MSU-CETD, 79.2%
14. Honey Charish U. Andamon, GSC SPED Integrated School, 78.9%
15. Shawna Mei P. Velasco, GSC SPED Integrated School, 78.7%
16. Timothy Jeremiah Yuro, RMMC High School, 78.6%

Ms. Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo of General Santos Hope Christian School topped the competitive examination with a rating of 82 points. Mr. Joselv E. Albano of the Holy Trinity College High School Department bested the rest of the interviewees with a rating of 96.75 points.

Congratulations to the 16 best high school students of the city who made it to this year's prestigious General Santos City Junior Officials.

We are looking forward to seeing you this October 25 and November 8, 2011 for the actual observation of the sessions of the City Councilors and Vice-Mayor at the New Sangguniang Panlungsod, this city.

More activities will be posted later.

Examinees at CENRO Conference Room, City Hall Complex, GSC

Examinees at Oval Plaza Covered Court, City Hall Complex, GSC

Instruction was given to the interviewees to treat the panel interview to the fullest of their capacity

Light moment before the interviewees were sent off for the interview

Successful Examinees of the GSC Junior Officials 2011

2011-10-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

More than eighty (80) high school students coming from various private and public high schools in the city vied for this year's General Santos City Junior Officials. The following are the passers of the competitive examination held at the CENRO Conference Room on October 5, 2011 at 9:00am and at the Oval Plaza Covered Court at 3:00pm, in no particular order:

Holy Trinity College

1. Jaydee G. Paid

2. Joselv E. Albano

3. Vinz Hianne G. Khua

Mindanao State University – CETD

1. Joselito M. Nerona

2. Michael Roy V. Malaluan

3. Thea P. Porras

4. Allen Renaldo O. Cruz

GSC SPED Integrated School

1. Honey Charish U. Andamon

2. Shawna Mei P. Velasco

3. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr.

4. Quennie Ann P. Paradero

General Santos Hope Christian School

1. Jea Elaiza K. Amadeo

2. Erelyn Jane A. Que

3. Jean Dianne S. Gadingan

4. Sherry Mae C. Dumagat

Notre Dame of Dadiangas University – IBED Lagao

1. Mary Gayle O. Manuba

2. Shania Winina Tracey E. Canda

3. Maria Rina G. Lanoy

4. Mark Arlo H. Segundo

5. Karen Faith L. Abrea

6. Ronald Moises K. Salibio

Notre Dame of Dadiangas University – IBED Espina

1. Neil M. Salado

2. Gabrielle Lissandra M. Monterde

Notre Dame – Sienna College of GSC

1. Jhia Ava Andrada

2. Aurora Ross R. Mondragon

Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges High School

1. Timothy Jeremiah Yuro

Lagao National High School

1. Sheldon Marc I. Yap

There were five examinees who tied up at the last position.

The top twenty seven (27) successful examinees shall advance to the interview phase of the selection process. The interview will be held at the Vice-Mayor’s Conference Room, 2/f, Sangguniang Panlungsod Building, City Hall Complex, this city on October 14, 2011 at exactly 8:00am.

Please be on your appropriate attire for the interview.


GSCJO applicants from NDDU-IBED Lagao Campus who took the examination in advance at CENRO Conference Room last October 5, 2011 in the morning.

GSCJO applicants from various high schools who took the examination held at the Oval Plaza Covered Court last October 5, 2011 in the afternoon.

Gensan Pop Idol 2011: And the Winners Are...

2011-09-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

The Board of Judges - Mr. Ildefonso Libdan, Jr., Ms. Millicent Hope Kaindoy, Mr. Edgar Cadiente, Mr. Rodney Roi Valencia and Mr. Reyman Rusty Jaime - have already decided last September 4, 2011.

From among the eight finalists - Mr. Arnel Padios of Barangay Lagao, Ms. Richelyn Mayoral of General Santos National Secondary School of Arts and Trade, Mr. Jeffrey dela Peña, Ms. Claire Lyndel Silva and Gladdys Francisco of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges, Ms. Clarise Rabino of GSC SPED Integrated School, and Mr. Roxell Dubal of Brokenshire College of Socsargen, Inc. -

only three - Ms. Claire Lyndel Silva and Ms. Gladdys Francisco of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges, and Mr. Roxell Dubal of Brokenshire College of Socsargen, Inc. - stood ahead from the rest.

His rendition of Sammy Davis, Jr's song in the early 60's, What Kind of Fool Am I, brought down the Oval Plaza Covered Court and made Mr. Roxell Dubal famous. And, being the new Gensan Pop Idol this year!

Who will be the next Gensan Pop Idol?

2011-08-23T18:28:00.000-07:00

This year’s finalists of the Gensan Pop Idol who will belt their signature songs on the grand finals that will be held at the Oval Plaza Covered Court, General Santos City on September 4, 2011 at 6:00pm are the following:

1. Gladdys C. Francisco Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges

2. Richelyn O. Mayoral GSC National Secondary School of Arts and Trade

3. Claire Lyndel S. Silva Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges

4. Roxell S. Dubal Brokenshire College of Socsksargen, Inc.

5. Karel Mae Z. Vitorio Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges

6. Arnel B. Padios Barangay Lagao

7. Jeffrey C. dela Pena Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges

8. Clarise B. Rabino GSC SPED Integrated School

The grand finalists will be accompanied by Gensan’s finest show band, the Genrythmics Band, which belongs to the GSC Local Government Performing Arts – Band Division.

Who among them will be the next Gensan Pop Idol?

Will it be the diminutive but power-voiced Richelyn?

The balladeer Roxell?

Or, the bubbly Karen Mae?

It may be the jazzy Jeffrey.

The dynamic Gladdys?

The heartthrob Arnel?

May be the flamboyant Claire Lyndel?

Will this be the time of the gifted Clarise?

This will only happen if you support your pop idol!

GSCYAA 2011 Concept

2011-08-16T22:07:00.000-07:00

The Project

The General Santos City Youth Achiever’s Award (GSCYAA) is an annual search in recognition of young individuals who have made sterling distinction in any field of endeavor and youth organization that had made a difference in its respective institution and locality. It is expected that, through this award, there will be increased visibility of the youth in development works. It will also propel them to excel further since their efforts are recognized and rewarded.

Rationale

It is the desire of the City Government of General Santos to establish a mechanism in which an annual selection of the city’s youth achievers and outstanding youth organization will be realized. Through this, we can motivate our youth to excel on their own fields, and, thereby, for others to emulate the success stories of the awardees. Moreover, we will be able to recognize those who brought prestige and honor to our city, not just leaving all their efforts unnoticed.

Objectives

General:

The GSCYAA aims at motivating the youth to become active and responsible citizens.

Specific:

To give due recognition to the youth achievers and outstanding youth organization of General Santos City;
To encourage active youth involvement in various disciplines and youth spaces; and
To serve as basis for the youth to excel further in the chosen field of specialization.

Proponent

Office of the City Mayor, through the Youth Affairs and Development Office, and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation

Beneficiaries

Young individuals, from ages 15 to 30, as prescribed by Republic Act No. 8044 otherwise known as “Youth in Nation Building Act” and youth organization whose membership and leadership is composed of youths who are 15 to 30 years old

Categories

The Search has two categories, namely:

A. Individual category

B. Group category

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY

Qualification of Applicants

He or she must be a Filipino citizen.
He or she should be 15 to 30 years old.
He or she should be a bona fide resident of General Santos City.
Must have contributed sterling distinction that brought impact to the school, workplace, institution and community where the applicant belongs.

Application Guidelines and Requirements

First Phase:

1. Any of the following may nominate a young individual or several young individuals to any category herein, to wit:

š Academic institution, thru its dean, president, principal or administrator, may

nominate student(s), staff or faculty members/teachers.

š Corporate or business entity, thru the employer, CEO, president or manager,

may nominate employees of the entity.

š Civic organization, non-government organization, civil society group or

people’s organization, thru its Executive Director, president, manager or

administrator, may nominate a member of the institution or any competent

prospect outside of the institution.

š National or local government entity (LGU, SK, Barangay Council, City Council, line agencies GOCC or GFI), thru the head of office may nominate any of their respective employee (s) or any competent prospect outside of the office.

š Any competent person (priest, imam, pastor, sports coordinator, etc.) who wishes to nominate a young prospect to this award.

Second Phase

1. If accepted by the Screening Committee, the nominee shall accomplish and submit the following in three (3) presentable portfolios, with table of contents, earmarks or guideposts:

š Three (3) sets of application form, with latest 2 x 2 photo (with name tag) in

each copy.

š Three (3) pcs. Barangay Certification on the residency status of applicant

š Any supplementary documents that will support the applicant’s bid for the

award (certificate of attendance to training and seminars, certified copy of

report card, transcript of records or diploma, citations, exhibit of project,

certificate of award, medals, etc.) in triplicate

š Three (3) pcs. photocopy of birth certificate

Categories

The applicants may choose to apply in any of the following categories that best fit his or her qualifications:

In-School Youth Category (High School Category & College Category)
Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Workers Category
Cultural Communities Youth, OSYs and Youth with Special Needs Category
Youth Excellence in the Artistic Discipline (Painting, Dance, Poetry, Drama, Theatre, Music and other Art Disciplines)

The applicants should indicate in the application form the category that he or she is applying.

Selection Process

Application forms are available at the:

4 Youth Affairs and Development Office

2/F Coshera Building, CENRO Compound, City Hall, GSC

( (083)302-2678; Mobile Nos. 09297043774/09335047529

4 Office of SK Federation President

c/o Glen Gabayeron

City Councilor’s Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod, City Hall, GSC

( (083)302-3054 local 113; Mobile Nos. 09154192860/09205811154

The application forms and all requirements must be hand-carried to the offices cited above on or before October 14, 2011.
There shall be a separate screening of applicants in each of the categories.
There shall be a table survey of applicant’s qualifications as shown by the documents passed to the secretariat.
Semifinalists shall be drawn out after the table survey of qualifications by which they shall be subjected to another field survey to verify the authenticity of their screened documents.
Finalists shall be chosen to undergo the interview phase.
Results of the different phases shall be summed up in order to determine the awardees.
This category shall be administered by the Youth Affairs and Development Office.

Project Implementation Period

July 1, 2011 - Start of information dissemination

October 14, 2011 - Deadline of submission of application

October 15 – 31, 2011 - Table survey and screening of applicant’s qualification

November 4, 2011 - Release of information on selected finalists of the award

Nov. 7 to Nov.15, 2011         -        Schedule of field inspection of project(s), and

                                                       interview of peersof applicants and persons
                                                       who have knowledge of finalists

November 18, 2011              -     Interview of finalists
                                                      City Mayor’s Conference Room
                                                      City Hall Complex, GSC at 8:00am

December 9, 2011 - Awarding ceremony
Venue and Time: To be announced later

Criteria for Judging

LEADERSHIP 25 points

(Impact of leadership that benefit the applicant’s community,
workplace, school or the immediate institution)

YOUTH INVOLVEMENT AND SERVICE 25 points

(Individual contribution to the community or his/her
institution, and youth’s welfare, where his/her selfless
services, engagement and commitment are a repute)

EXCELLENCE IN A PARTICULAR FIELD 25 points

(Examples: Distinction in any of the following: academics,
arts and music, media practice, politics, profession,
heroism, entrepreneurship, field of specialization, and others)

VALUES 25 points

(Which can be gauged through interview of peers and persons
who have personal knowledge of applicant and personal
interview of the applicant)

Prizes

> Cash Prize of Php 10,000.00 and City Mayor’s Plaque for the awardees

> Certificate of Recognition for the non-awardees who belong to the finalists

GROUP CATEGORY

Qualification

Open to all groups, organizations, clubs and societies whose membership and leadershipis composed of at least 15 members who are 15 to 30 years old.

2. Organizations shall be judged on the basis of a recent program or project that made an

impact in the community and which best reflects the efforts of young people as partners

in nation-building.

3. A continuing project entry (or one that started in 2011) must either be completed, or a

major portion must have been undertaken by the deadline.

Criteria for Judging

The category follows these general criteria:

1. Impact of Project in the Community (effects or improvement in the lives of the youth in the socio-economic fields, behavioral changes, productive community service, literacy, sanitation, health, among others)

2. Social Mobilization (involvement of the community, especially the youth in planning, implementing and evaluating the program or project. It also includes resourcefulness in handling the project that is gauged through the quality of human services used, especially volunteerism, concerted efforts, team playing, networking , among others)

3. Innovativeness (creativity and uniqueness that made the project stand out from among the rest of the youth projects in the community. It also includes introduction and/or application of new technologies, strategies, tools or approaches, distinctive services or products, and promotion of indigeneous ways or materials, among others)

4. Sustainability and Probability of Duplication (the degree of maintaining the project or replicating the same; is the project economical to maintain or easily replicated?)

Impact of Project in the Community                  40 %

Social Mobilization                                            20 %

Innovativeness                                                      20%

Sustainability and Probability of Duplication     20%

Total 100%

====

General Search Rules and Guidelines

Organizations shall be judged on the basis of the submitted project entry. An organizationshall submit only one (1) entry.

2. The project entry must primarily be non-governmental. Allowable limit for government
funding is five percent (5%) of the total budget of the project.

Use only white, short (8.5 x 11 in.) bond paper for the attachment containing theorganization and program/projects profiles.

Documents must be submitted in presentable portfolio.
Do not attach other documents that are not required for submission. When necessary, theGSCYAA Secretariat will request for additional data.

6. Lack or non-compliance of search requirements will result in automatic disqualification.

7. The organizers reserve the right to modify, alter or amend the above-stated or waive

compliance therewith at their sole discretion if such steps are in accordance with the

purpose of the search and awards scheme.

8. All decisions of the GSCYAA Screening Committee and Panel of Judges are final. No

correspondence pertaining to these decisions shall be entertained.

All materials submitted to the GSCYAA Secretariat automatically become property of the organizers.
The winner shall automatically be the city’s entry to the Search for the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) of the Philippines for the succeeding year.
This category will be administered by the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of General Santos City.

Requirements

The organization shall submit three (3) sets of the following:

Accomplished Entry Form. Do not leave any items in the entry form blank. Make surethat each information asked for is answered.

One-page certification attesting to the existence and veracity of the informationsubmitted.

- for In-School Organizations, a certification from the Office of Student Affairs

- for Community-based, Out-of-School or Working Youth Organizations, a certification from the barangay

3. A one-page short profile of the organization featuring a brief description, its nature and

background, programs and track record.

4. A three-page profile of the Project Entry, featuring a brief but descriptive account or

narrative that will illustrate the program/project. The description of the project should

include the following: (1) its site, (2) timetable (start and ending dates), (3) process of

implementation, (4) level of community involvement, (5) profile and number of

beneficiaries and finances/resources used.

- the financial sketch should identify how much was spent for the program/project, and the source(s) of funds used.

5. A three-page project documentation (photos, testimonies of partners or beneficiaries,

certificates, etc.)

Project Implementation Period

July 1, 2011 - Start of information dissemination

October 14, 2011 - Deadline of submission of application

October 15 – 31, 2011 - Table survey and screening of group applicant’s qualification

November 4, 2011 - Release of information on selected finalists of the award

Nov. 7 to Nov. 15, 2011            -           Schedule of field inspection of
                                                              project, and interview of stakeholders,
                                                              beneficiaries and persons who have
                                                              knowledge of the project

November 18, 2011              -           Interview of finalists
                                                             City Mayor’s Conference Room
                                                             City Hall Complex, GSC at 1:00pm

December 9, 2011 - Awarding ceremony
Venue and Time: To be announced later

Prizes

> The winner shall receive a cash prize in the amount of Php 50,000.00 and a Mayor’s Plaque.

> Certificate of recognition for non-winning finalists

Results of the Gensan Pop Idol Audition

2011-08-10T05:24:00.000-07:00

A total of fifty seven (57) hopefuls vied for the audition of the Gensan Pop Idol that was held at the Gaisano Atrium today.

The competition was really stiff. Because of this, twenty two (22) of those who auditioned successfully earned the nod of the Board of Judges instead of only the top 15. They are the following, in no particular order:

1. Karel Mae Z. Victorio – Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
2.    Regine Malayon – Holy Trinity College of GSC
3. Crescent Jayne O. de Guzman – GSC National Secondary School of
     Arts and Technology
4. Claire Lyndel S. Silva – Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
5. Ruffa Mae S. Capangpangan - Holy Trinity College of GSC High
     School Department
6. Richard I. Otero, Jr. – Mindanao State University
7. Lalaine Joy S. Labang – Gensantos Foundation, Inc. College
8. Zandro B. Cinco, Jr. – Lagao National High School
9. Jeffrey C. dela Pena - Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
10. Richelyn O. Mayoral - GSC National Secondary School of Arts and Trade
11. Marjorie G. Magallanes - Holy Trinity College of GSC
12.     Ruzel S. Oberio – Buayan National High School
13. Rhoda Mae A. Ralia - Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges High School Department
14. Clarise B. Rabino – GSC SPED Integrated School
15. Alexsandra Emit - GSC National Secondary School of Arts and Trade
16. Faith Marie D. Rodriguez - Mindanao State University CETD
17. Roxell S. Dubal – Brokenshire College of Socsksargen, Inc.
18. Kenneth B. Nierra - Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
19. Therese Aubrey L. Merin - GSC SPED Integrated School
20. Roxanne S. Rebolledo – OSY Barangay Bula
21.     Gladdys C. Francisco - Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges
22. Arnel B. Padios – OSY Barangay Lagao

Prior to the semifinal round, there will be a meeting and drawing of performance numbers on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 2:00pm. It will be held at the ABC Building (beside the City tennis Court), City Hall Complex, General Santos City. Attendance is a must. Failure to attend the meeting means exclusion from the semifinal round. Bring also your CD minus one or karaoke so that we can burn ahead your contest pieces.

The semifinal round will be held at the Gaisano Atrium on August 21, 2011 at 3:00pm.

Big thanks to the people behind the success of this activity: Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio and the Festival Directors, Mr. Ronald Velasquez and Mr. Bebot Haw.

Gensan Pop Idol Year 7: Biggest and Grandest

2011-07-21T00:06:00.000-07:00

YEAR SEVEN

The Contest

The Gensan Pop Idol is patterned after some famous talent searches for singing idols. It showcases the singing talents of the youth. Not only that, it also projects the youth’s stance and ability to cast himself or herself on stage. The contest is open to residents of General Santos City, with ages ranging from 14 to 24 years.

Rationale

Reality shows are in among today’s youth. From the UK, to the United States, and to Asian countries, more youth indulged in or are fascinated with the kind of show format on the television. The media in our country has applied the same show format. More and more Filipino youth are hooked on this fad that it has been a cliché for the sector. It has now become a very powerful tool of entertainment.

Objectives

The Pop Idol Open Competition aims at providing a blend of youth euphoria in the field of music. In particular, it will:

Showcase the singing talents of the youth; and
Encourage active youth involvement in various disciplines and youth spaces, particularly in the field of music.

Qualification of Contestants

He or she must be adept in singing.
He or she must be 14 to 24 years old.
This is open to amateur and professional singers.

Requirements

The contestant must:

Fill up a registration form, with latest 2”x 2” photo on it.
Submit an authenticated copy of birth certificate.
Submit a certificate of residency from the barangay of origin.
For minors, submission of a written consent from any of the parents or guardian allowing him or her to join in the contest.
Bear all the expenses relative to the contest.

Mechanics of Contest

The Gensan Pop Idol will unfold with its schedule in this year’s Tuna Festival.

Screening/Audition will be held at Gaisano Mall on August 10, 2011. After the Screening/Audition, a total of fifteen (15) singing idols shall advance to the Semifinal round that will be held at Gaisano Mall on August 21, 2011. After the Semifinal round, only eight (8) successful contestants shall be chosen to advance to the Grand Finals. The Grand Finals will be held at TBA on September 4, 2011.

Elimination round format:

1. The contestant may choose acapella or CD karaoke or minus one as accompaniment in his or her audition
performance.

2. The judges may interrupt in between or cut the performances of contestants depending on the latter's
renditions.

Semifinal round format:

1. The contestants will be given performance numbers indicating the sequence of performances prior to the
contest.
2. Only CD karaoke or minus one will be accepted as accompaniment in the performances.

3. The contestants shall prepare only one song as contest piece in this round. The contestants may render any
song genre in their performances.

Grand finals format:

1. The finalists will render their performances accompanied by a live band or session musicians.

2. After round one, the three (3) grand finalists will be chosen by the judges to advance to the ultimate round.

3. The grand finalists shall render a common finale song, after which the grand winner will be chosen by the
judges.

Timeline and Venue

July 15 - Information dissemination

August 5 - Deadline of submission of entries

August 10 - Audition/Screening

                                           Venue: Gaisano Mall
   Time: 9:30am

August 21        -          Semifinal round
                                Venue: Gaisano Mall
                                 Time: 3:00pm

August 27- 31 -            Rehearsals of Finalists
                                Venue and Time: To be announced later

September 4    -           Grand Finals
   Venue: TBA
                                            Time: 3:00pm

Criteria for Judging

Semifinal round:

Voice Quality/

Interpretation and Timing - 70%

Visual Impact/Idol Look - 30%

Total 100%

Grand finals:

Voice Quality - 60%

Visual Impact/Idol Look - 40%

Total 100%

Prizes

Grand Winner           -               P 20,000.00

1^st Runner-Up                         -                   15,000.00

2^nd Runner-Up        -                    10,000.00

Five (5) Consolation Prizes - 2,000.00

Program Secretariat:

Youth Affairs and Development Office, 2f, Environmental Youth Center, CENRO Compound, General Santos City Tel. No. 302-2678; Mobile Nos. 09297043774 & 09335047529; Facebook: www.facebook/gensanpopidol; Website: www.gensanland.blogspot.com

I'm Going to Nourish Life

2011-06-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

I'm going to a tree-growing activity tomorrow. This is kind of refreshing because I will be adding life to our dear Mother Earth.

I will be planting mangrove trees in order for my sea-living friends to thrive. And, me and my people will also live.

Nourishing life and making it live is better than all efforts combined in this world.

And for Mother Nature's sake, I'm gonna walk a hundred miles or many more in her defense.

Earthkeepers, we need to wake up and move!

The General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2011

2011-06-12T22:53:00.000-07:00

The search is on for the prestigious award for General Santos City's accomplished young individuals and youth groups.

If you are a youth or youth group of outstanding qualifications and services in the community, you may be one of those we are looking for to carry the banner of our city. Be our city's bearer of excellence and goodwill!

If you wanna join the likes of Dr. Lemuel Benedict Non, Engr. Edward Lapong, Prof. Joana Grace Banting-Lapore, Prof. Esmaida Andang, Dr. Angeli Dugasan, Michael Andrew Carbon, and the Youth Community Service Club, winner of the group category for three consecutive years, and other prominent young individuals in our city, be counted!

To all applicants - young individuals, 15 to 30 years old, and youth groups whose membership are aged 15 to 30 years old- please be advised that the deadline for the application of this year's GSCYAA will be on October 14, 2011. For inquiry, please call our office at (083)302-2678 or text at 09297043774/09335047529.

"We do not settle for the least; we want to find out the best from among the rest."

The Hidden Truths: In Defense of the Unborn

2011-05-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

I am a staunch anti-RH Bill advocate. It is the dictate of my conscience. And, I will stand to it till the end.

You know why I am doing this? It is because right information makes us clear our mind from deceptions and lies.

Creeping lies using media blitz; inexhaustible funding source from depopulation agencies and agents (read pharmaceutical corporations and multinational distribution lines that engaged in the contraceptives trade, more so with the USAID, Gates, Packard, Ford, the Rockefellers); politicians and NGOs that are recipient of the money trail from these depopulation agencies and agents; and pawns who are being peddled to back up these monstrous strides in the guise of population and poverty issues are drum beating like no other here in our midst.

We can beat them! We know we can because we are fighting in the light of truth and justice. Enough with these deceptions!

The following are invaluable articles which I have long researched and contemplated in this fight for us to steadfastly hold on to this battle for human dignity and justice.

http://howtohelpsavetheenvironment.com/archives/hillary-clinton-population-control-will-now-become-the-centerpiece-of-u-s-foreign-policy

http://simbahayan.tripod.com/B5-popconphils.html

http://www.tucp.org.ph/news/index.php/2011/05/the-hidden-agenda/

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=687843&publicationSubCategoryId=64

http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20Government/AIDS%20and%20Population%20Elimination/depopulation_bomb.htm

http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20Government/AIDS%20and%20Population%20Elimination/dv.htm

http://www.connecticutskywatch.com/depopulationstation.htm

The RH Bill is so clever. In semantic, it evades citing abortion and other ways degrading to the unborn. Yet, glaringly most of these contraceptives are really abortifacient. Experiences abroad would tell us that similar trails pertaining to the ones dawning in our country happened to other countries and had become the offshoots of other "culture of death" measures that had engulfed gradually their societies since. The Philippines will not be spared from these maneuvers. Sooner or later, if we allow the passage of this Bill into law, other harsh laws against life and family relations - divorce, euthanasia, same-sex marriage, etc. - will follow suit. If these will happen, we shall witness the greatest ever crumbling down of morality and Philippine society in the near future. It happened to the USA and other nations. If we remain pathetic, then we are next in line!

N.B. “People sometimes wonder why the Church takes a conservative stand on issues. But, the wisdom of such an ordinary position to take consists in the very imminent possibility and danger of opening the floodgates for other unorthodox ideas to thrive. Take the case of the RH Bill. While it is still being debated with the distinct uncertainty of its approval in Congress, here comes the cleverly introduced "Divorce Bill." Under the emotionally laden "Padre Damaso" hate campaign, what will come next? Legalization of abortion, gay rights, same sex marriage, etc. which all come under the technical definition of "reproductive rights." Is the Magna Carta for Women Act not comprehensive enough to protect the woman and mother and child? Is the Constitution not explicit enough to protect the mother and the unborn from conception to normal birth? Are amendments of existing laws to make them more relevant not better instead of crafting new laws which are burdensome and unjust to taxpayers as they require new budget allocations? The bill overdoes this!” – bgcorg, Inquirer (comment on the article, 1966 Papal Commission Favored Lifting Contraception Ban, dated 06/01/2011)

My All Time Top Ten Bands: Musicians and Artists Who Shaped My Music World

2011-01-31T21:46:00.000-08:00

Music plays a very important part of my way of life. For me, it emboldens my physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual being. It is even therapeutic for it kills boredom and even quenches an aching heart. The influence of music in me sums up the fact that it plays a major role in my growth and social life.

I still remember having attended concerts at the now archaic Bernabe Coliseum, J. Catolico Avenue, General Santos City as young as five years old. My influences range from folk, jazz, country, pop, rhythm and blues, hard rock, and heavy metal.

I came up with this list just because I want to celebrate my love for music and the artists and musicians who brought up this inspiration in my life. Here are my all time greats.

1. U2

An Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1976. I grew up with the expressive vocal prowess of Paul Hewson (Bono) and the distinctive textural guitar playing of David Evans (The Edge), not to be left out also are the presence of Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen, Jr., which complete the highly decorated “Best Band in the World” in 1990s. Their lyrics mostly centered on spiritual imagery, personal themes and socio-political concerns. Throughout their career, as a band and as individuals, they have campaigned for human rights and philanthropic causes, including Amnesty International, the ONE/DATA campaigns, Product Red, and The Edge's Music Rising. My five personal song picks are Pride (In the Name of Love), Sunday Bloody Sunday, New Year’s Day, With or Without You, and Beautiful Day.

2. Led Zeppelin

This English rock band was formed in London during my birth year in 1968. The group consisted of guitarist Jimmy Page, singer Robert Plant, drummer John Bonham and bassist John Paul Jones. With their heavy, guitar-driven blues-rock sound, Led Zeppelin are regularly cited as one of the progenitors of heavy metal and hard rock, even though the band's individualistic style drew from many sources and transcends any one music genre. I was in my elementary years when I heard of the songs Stairway to Heaven, Black Dog, Immigrant Song, Rock and Roll, and Whole Lotta Love. Now that I am already 42, Led Zep songs still remain the same that I admire.

3. Scorpions

Christened in 1965 but formally rose to fame in 1974, Scorpions are a rock group that came from the ashes of Germany’s hard rock scene. These “Ambassadors of Rock” are known for their 1980s rock anthem Rock You Like a Hurricane, No One Like You, Bad Boys Running Wild, Still Loving You, and Big City Nights. On January 24, 2010, after 45 years of performing, the band announced that they will be retiring after touring in support of their new album Sting in the Tail. Spanning almost half a century of making music and touring the world is a no joke in the music world. I do play in my acoustic guitar some of their songs, like Always Somewhere, Holiday and In Trance.

4. Deep Purple

Considered to be among the pioneers of heavy metal and modern hard rock, Deep Purple was once listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as "the loudest pop group."The band was formed in England in 1968. Their biggest album Machine Head in 1972 went double platinum in the US. They were credited for the monster songs Highway Star, Smoke on the Water, Burn, Space Truckin’ and Black Night. Child in Time is a favorite song in my guitar repertoire.

5. Nirvana

Nirvana was an American rock band that was formed by singer/guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic in Aberdeen, Washington in 1987. Nirvana went through a succession of drummers, the longest-lasting being Dave Grohl, who joined the band in 1990. Being famous for their alternative rock subgenre called grunge, the group released Smells Like Teen Spirit from the album Nevermind in 1991. Nirvana's frontman, Kurt Cobain found himself referred to in the media as the "spokesman of a generation," with Nirvana being considered the "flagship band" of Generation X. The early demise of Cobain due to suicide in 1994 left the rock world in shock. Nirvana’s drummer Dave Grohl went on to form the famous alternative rock group the Foo Fighters. I like head banging on their songs Lithium, Come as You Are, and Rape Me.

6. The Carpenters

Who would not fall in love with the sweet voice of Karen and the superb music of Richard? The Carpenters were the #1 selling American music act of the 1970s. Hits like Top of the World, Only Yesterday, Close to You, For All We Know, Superstar, and We’ve Only Just Begun, which was written by Paul Williams and Richard Nichols, were classic and had imbedded in the consciousness of music enthusiasts who grew up with the duo’s songs. I remember my brothers used to playing their album in our stereo every morning when I was still 7 years old. Until now, my wife and I are still in love with their love songs. The Carpenters are indeed a classic.

7. The Beatles

I like most of the songs of John Lennon+, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison+. A recipient of the British music invasion of America, the Fab Four transformed the music scene into the “Beatlemania” fad in the 1970s. Rooted in 1950s rock and roll, the group later worked in many genres ranging from folk rock to psychedelic rock, often incorporating classical and other elements in innovative ways. Famous bands later had confessed making the Beatles as their main music influence. Choice hits are Hey Jude, Let it Be, Oh! Darling, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Michelle, and Yesterday. What I didn’t like with this band was the arrogance of some of its members, most specifically John Lennon, who was so blatant in downgrading Jesus Christ as inferior in prominence compared to the utter distinction of their heydays.

8. Queen

Gaining prominent success with the release of the albums, Sheer Heart Attack (1974) and A Night at the Opera (1975), England’s rock quartet consisting of Freddie Mercury (lead vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar, vocals), John Deacon (bass guitar), and Roger Taylor (drums, vocals) had released a total of 18 number one albums, 18 number one singles and 10 number one DVDs, and have sold over 300 million albums worldwide, making them one of the world's best-selling music artists. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001. My favorite hits include Bohemian Rhapsody, We are the Champions, I Want to Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust, and Love of My life.

9. Cold Play

Fronted by Chris Martin, this English alternative rock band was formed in 1996. They achieved worldwide fame with the release of the single Yellow in 2000, followed by their debut album released in the same year, Parachutes. Coldplay have been an active supporter of various social and political causes, such as Oxfam's Make Trade Fair campaign and Amnesty International. The group have also performed at various charity projects such as Band Aid 20, Live 8, Sound Relief, Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief, and the Teenage Cancer Trust. My favorite songs from this band are In My Place, The Scientist, Viva La Vida, Speed of Sound, and Yellow.

10. Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas are an American hip hop group that was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1995. The group is composed of rapper and multi-instrumentalist William Adams (will.i.am), and singer-rappers Allan Pineda (apl.de.ap), Jaime Gomez (Taboo), and Stacy Ferguson (Fergie). The group scored their first worldwide hit with "Where Is the Love?" in 2003, which topped over ten charts worldwide. I like this group because one of their rapper-singers is a Filipino-American, apl.de.ap, who grew up here in the Philippines. I like the songs Shut Up, Don’t Phunk with my Heart, My Humps, I Gotta Feelin’, and Let’s Get Started, which would not leave dance fanatics unmoved on the dance floor.

Blogging on Near Crash

2011-01-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

I nearly lost my appetite in blogging.

Same was true with writing.

My last blog was in October.

That was three months ago and I thought that it could go further.

I can't imagine myself surviving that long without rejuvenating my blog.

My mind those days was like an empty bag.

I just wanna be back to my old.

When words were as easy as prose and ode.

I wanna journey again in sonnet and in verse.

Please help me in the process of regaining my thirst.

I am now back.

Easy and on the right track.

GensanYouth

General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2013

When Will We Ever Learn?

The Power Crisis: Systemic and Transnational in Nature

Mindanao is the last bastion of government-owned power plants (Agus and Pulangi power complexes) that are not yet

We are helpless because our government is forcing us to swallow hook line and sinker some sugar-coated solutions even to our detriment under the pretense of accepting higher power costs or no electricity at all!

Youth Focus: The General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award

On the Last Stretch

175 OSY and Women Beneficiaries Graduated from Various Skills Training

Successful Examinees of GSC Junior Officials 2012

Talent of the Generals: Showcase of Youth Excellence in the Tuna Fest

The Story Telling Project: Its Accomplishment (An Endowment of Mayor Darlene to the Children of Gensan)

Result of the GSCJO Election

The Distinguished Board of Adjudicators of General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2011

GSCYAA Finalists

Know this year's finalists of the GSC Youth Achiever's Award:

Individual Category:

High School -

1. Melchen Mae N. Machan (SPED Integrated School) 2. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr. (SPED Integrated School) 3. Thea Danielle B. Cartojano (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.) 4. Pauline Aubrey S. Pacheco (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.) 5. Joselv E. Albano - Holy Trinity College High School Dept.) College -

1. Lurvie James N. Fruto (RMMC) 2. Khristian Ian C. Castillon (RMMC) 3. John Rex B. Galdo (MSU) Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Workers -

1. Aldrin A. Mato (RMMC) 2. Meikko Jay D. Forones (Mindanao Polytechnic College) 3. Haironesah M. Domado (Asia Foundation)

Group Category:

1. Junior Ecologist Movement (RMMC) 2. Tri-Youth Movement (DXCP/Kapayapaan Kapatid Council) 3. Social Science Society (RMMC)

Goal 101: Breaking the Barriers of Poverty and Deprivation among the Marginalized Ones

Top 16 of GSC Junior Officials: Truly the Cream of the Crops of Gensan's High School Students

Successful Examinees of the GSC Junior Officials 2011

Gensan Pop Idol 2011: And the Winners Are...

Who will be the next Gensan Pop Idol?

GSCYAA 2011 Concept

Results of the Gensan Pop Idol Audition

Gensan Pop Idol Year 7: Biggest and Grandest

I'm Going to Nourish Life

The General Santos City Youth Achiever's Award 2011

The Hidden Truths: In Defense of the Unborn

My All Time Top Ten Bands: Musicians and Artists Who Shaped My Music World

Blogging on Near Crash

1. Melchen Mae N. Machan (SPED Integrated School)
2. Romeo A. Dequito, Jr. (SPED Integrated School)
3. Thea Danielle B. Cartojano (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.)
4. Pauline Aubrey S. Pacheco (Shalom Crest Wizard Acad.)
5. Joselv E. Albano - Holy Trinity College High School Dept.)

College -

1. Lurvie James N. Fruto (RMMC)
2. Khristian Ian C. Castillon (RMMC)
3. John Rex B. Galdo (MSU)

Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Workers -

1. Aldrin A. Mato (RMMC)
2. Meikko Jay D. Forones (Mindanao Polytechnic College)
3. Haironesah M. Domado (Asia Foundation)

1. Junior Ecologist Movement (RMMC)
2. Tri-Youth Movement (DXCP/Kapayapaan Kapatid Council)
3. Social Science Society (RMMC)