LAGAWE, Ifugao, Philippines — Owners of restaurants, eateries, canteens, hotels and hospitals in this capital town have been instructed to serve National Food Authority’s iron-fortified rice (I-rice) to help the agency in promoting the use of I-rice among local residents and tourists.

The Sangguniang Bayan passed a resolution to promote the consumption of I-rice in the municipality after the latter has been certified as a good health food. Vice Mayor Martin Habawel Jr. said the resolution was in pursuant of Republic Act 8976 mandating the fortification of staple foods based on the standards set by the Department of Health through the Bureau of Drugs. (Dexter A. See)

Cavite prepares for Freedom Day

KAWIT, Cavite — Preparations are now ongoing for the 113th “Araw ng Kalayaan” (Independence Day) celebration at Aguinaldo Shrine here on June 12, officials said Wednesday.

The historic Aguinaldo Mansion will become the center stage on Sunday as President Aquino is set to lead the ceremonial hoisting of the Philippine flag at the historical Veranda.

It was here where Gen. Emilio F. Aguinaldo, the Philippines’ first president, proclaimed the country’s independence from Spanish colonial rule and officially hoisted the first Philippine flag on June 12 1898. (Anthony Giron)

Balanga now 100% smoke-free

BALANGA CITY, Bataan — After a massive campaign launched by the administration of Mayor Joet S. Garcia on the bad effects of smoking, this city is now 100 percent smoke-free.

Owing to this campaign, Balanga has bagged the “2011 Orchid Award,” a yearly prestigious award granted by the Department of Health (DoH), for having a protected environment and smoke-free community.

The prestigious Orchid award was personally received by Garcia from top DoH officials in Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila last May 31. (Mar T. Supnad)

Tanay boosts risk reduction assets

TANAY, Rizal — The tragic experience that this town learned from Typhoon Ondoy’s wrath in 2009 has prompted the municipal and police officials here to reinforce the town’s disaster management capability measures with necessary rescue equipment.

Mayor Rafael “Lito” Tanjuatco provided rubber boats, radio communication, patrol bikes, and other rescue tools for use by members of the disaster risk reduction management team composed of civilian and police personnel.

Chief Inspector Rizaldy Aquino, chief of police in this countryside town of the province, said police and municipal rescuers have been trained to respond to the worst-case scenario similar to what happened during the disaster brought by Typhoon Ondoy in this town. (Nel B. Andrade)

Environment month starts in Bulacan

MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan — Gov. Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado commended Wednesday Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office chief Atty. Rustico De Belen (BENRO) for continuously coming up with programs and activities to sustain the province’s natural resources while boosting the revenue collections of the provincial government at the same time.

Marking the start of the Environment Month, the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office launched a series of activities to raise the awareness and participation of Bulakenyos in environment protection and conservation. (Freddie C. Velez)