PIA - Caraga Regional Office

NNC-DOH to convene Caraga Nutrition advocates for PPAN 2017-2022

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, April 25 (PIA) – The National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga under the Department of Health (DOH) will be convening nutrition advocates from the region in Iloilo City on May 1-3, 2017 to introduce the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2017-2022.

DOH-Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna Jr. bared that the invited participants are members of the regional nutrition media group organized by NNC.

“Participants are active members of the regional nutrition media group, a multi-sectoral organization envisioning an empowered and resourceful society through nutrition otherwise known as Caraga Movers,” underscored Llacuna.

Llacuna also recalled that the mobilization of nutrition stakeholders and media partners as nutrition advocates in the region shall strengthen the promotion of good nutrition to increase public awareness and facilitate change of behavior of the population group towards good nutrition and healthy lifestyle in order to prevent the onset and worsening of malnutrition problem both under and over nutrition and lifestyle diet related diseases. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Bayugan Chamber inducts new officers, members

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, April 25 – Some 36 business operators this city has just formalized its membership to the City of Bayugan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Incorporated (CBCCI).

Installed CBCCI President Atty. Rafael V. Ybañes led the oath-taking during the induction ceremony held recently with the theme: “Principle-Centered Paradigm a Must in Business.”

Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Eastern Mindanao Regional Governor Sisinio Narisma was the inducting officer.

The activity was also graced by Bayugan City Mayor Kim Lope Asis, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assistant regional director Lolita Dorado, Butuan City Chamber Past President Jocelyn Yee, Agusan del Sur Chamber President Freddie Mero, Fil-Chinese Chamber of Commerce President Armand Orilla and Chamber of Real Estate Builders Association Board of Director Crevi Honculada.

Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist Jose Baron and Negosyo Center (NC) Project Staff Charlotte Pingol represented DTI-Agusan Del Sur OIC-Provincial Director Brenda Corvera.

CBCCI is one the stakeholders and partners of NC–Bayugan City. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga Palm Oil industry stakeholders meet to localize national roadmap, prepare AgSur regional plan

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Apr. 25 - Stakeholders of the Palm Oil industry cluster from all over Caraga region have recently gathered together in San Francisco town this province to craft their development direction.

Guided by the Philippine Palm Oil Roadmap ‎2013-2023, the Department of Trade and industry (DTI) Caraga Region with DTI-Agusan del Sur provincial office, organized a localization and planning workshop to determine issues and strategies embodied in the roadmap to meet the needs of the oil palm growers and other players in the regional setting.

While presenting the national roadmap, DTI-Caraga Regional Director Brielgo Pagaran acknowledged that there are certain sectors that still have some questions about the industry. He said there is a need to address these concerns for the cluster to be able to unleash the full potential of the palm oil industry.

Also, in his message, C.K. Chang of Agusan Plantations Inc. (API) group of companies and current Caraga Palm Oil Development Council chair shared his journey in the Philippines as an oil palm grower. He is one of the pioneer growers of oil palm in the region particularly in Agusan del Sur, which hosts the biggest oil palm plantations in Caraga.

“I am satisfied with the outcome,” expressed Ricky Nemiño, president of the Oil Palm Growers Association of Surigao Sur (OPGASS). He, together with the association’s other officers and members composed the second biggest delegation, next to Agusan del Sur who joined the workshop. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Feature: From nowhere to victory

Success doesn’t happen on a screen or in a cubicle. You need to get out into the real world. - Steve Tobak

In the fourteen years of existence in the war-torn and poverty stricken province of Zamboanga del Sur, at last! He finally left. Blubbering as he stared the maybe last glance towards that shanty that borne him some hatred, struggle and of love. He had to. Breathing heavily as he walked away with his backpack-a “walk of destiny” as he named it- the lone light from the little household he’d called home slowly vanishes from his eyes.

“Where to nard?” asked one of his neighbors.

“I don’t know. Maybe, nowhere,” he sighed.

Youngest among the seven siblings, Jonard Ecot, only son of his mother’s second partner, who abandoned them before he was born, had to do something infrequent. “Nard” as they call him, thought of what they call “chasing Manila Dream.” Carrying this dream, he officially became a vagabond at 13. His mother, a single parent, was barely earning for their everyday meals. Feeling the struggle of his old pale lady, he decided to leave- without everyone’s knowledge. Saving his twenty-peso a week as an all-around helper in a family in his hometown, Nard walked away with P700 towards wherever his money could take him.

From Ramon Magsaysay to Pagadian City, then to Cagayan de Oro City. Every city he’s into, the teenager would work as an all-around helper-dishwasher, labor, waiter and even as a baby-sitter- just to earn to provide his needs. He would work at least two months in a city, and would decide to hop in again to another city to look for, well, as a cliché as it would seem, greener pasture. He’d traveled to Digos City until Nard reached Surigao City, which, perhaps the city that made a turning point of his life. Unlike in the other cities, the teen worked as a helper in two carenderias inside the city public terminal. Working hard labor, day in day out, Nard stayed inside the owner’s jitney. He would fix and keep his things every early in the morning before the driver would arrive. Cost-cutting, his first eatery employer laid him off. Needing to survive, Nard took the shot of another carenderia employment, this time with scarcely having sleep and rest. Motivated to earn for a living, he still worked for it for survival. Yet, his efforts were not paid off. After almost two months of hard works, his employer didn’t seem to mind his labors and paid no compensation.

Depressed. Tired. Oppressed. Nard got fed up.

In 2011, that was early dawn. Nard once more walked away. Yet again, without everyone’s knowledge. This time, bringing away with him the P1,800.00 proceeds from the cash box of the carenderia, which for him served as a settling of scores, and would compensate his two month labors.

Carrying his backpack, he boarded the earliest bus for Butuan City, unmindful of his destination.

“Where to Nard?” asked the bus crew.

He again sighed the words, “I don’t know. Nowhere.” He was 15 then.

After finding out what happened, the carenderia owner reported the incident to the local police.

Eventually, Jonard’s bus was flagged down by RTR cops, and was arrested. Learning about his age and that he has no one and nowhere to go, the local police took custody of Jonard. He turned into an errand boy (striker) of the local police station and would cook for the cops, help clean the station, do carpentry and all. Every morning, he could see students passing by the police station and came to think of going to school. Sooner, Nard went to high school with the support of the local police officers. For years of living in the police station, Jonard was exposed to the works of policemen, thus, a change of mind and heart for him.

He then gave up chasing his Manila Dream. He now dreams of graduation day and promised to go back to his previous place a Policeman.

Nard’s police guardians were eventually transferred to Police Provincial Public Safety Company based in Camagong, Nasipit, and so as he. He continued his studies and took up BS Criminology with all aids from his new family- brothers, sisters and uncles in his new home, hence, declaring himself a vagabond no more.

Until came this day, escorted by his proud PPSC family in camouflage, Jonard donned with toga, is now clutching in his arms his prized diploma.

But Nard isn’t finished yet, he will be a Policeman like his keepers.

Quite a journey for a wanderer. Too much Good days and as well as Bad days along the way, nevertheless, both are essential to life. Good days will give us happiness, bad days provide experiences.

Asked now where to go?

Jonard with jest, “until Victory!”(PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DENR launches biochar project, promotes green economy

By Johny Natad

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Apr. 25 (PIA) - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officially launches Biochar Community Enterprise Project as one of the Green Economy Model (GEM) of the agency held at Ecopark, Barangay Hayanggabon, Claver, Surigao del Norte on April 18, 2017.

DENR Secretary Regina Paz L. Lopez, who led the project launching ceremony with the cutting of ribbon, encouraged the participating household members (PHM), local government units, and other community partners to be involved in green economy through biochar project.

The Biochar Enterprise Project is one of the DENR interventions aimed to remediate environmental problems and promote community enterprise. DENR Administrative Order No. 2017-05 signed on February 23, 2017 provides the guidelines in the implementation of the biochar program in conjunction with the implementation of the Sustainable Integrated Area Development (SIAD) approach of the agency program on reforestation, mine rehabilitation, green energy, pollution mitigation, ecotourism, agro-forestry, rehabilitation of coastal environment, among others.

The Biochar is charred biomass from agricultural wastes like rice hull, rice straw, bagasse, corn stovers produced by high heating of these materials with very limited oxygen similar to charcoal but where biochar is meant for soil amendments and charcoal is for cooking.

Biochar is very useful to unsanitary landfills, unsanitary livestock raising, unsanitary sewage disposal, greenhouse gas emission from agriculture and landfills, and heavily degraded land from mining. It also address the acidification of forest lands, supports better survivial of seedlings and tress in the reforestation program, removal of heavy metal from soils, removal of oil spills from mangroves and coastal water and areas, improving indoor environment from molds and air borne toxin, reduce illegal tree cutting for charcoal making, preserving fruits and vegetables without the use of electricity, reducing flies and cockroaches in homes and buildings, composting kitchen and household biomass waste for landfill reduction. (PIO-PENRO Surigao del Sur/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

MGB conducts groundwater rResource, vulnerability assessment to Caraga LGUs

By Ralph Angelo B. Plaza

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 25 (PIA) - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga conducted a Groundwater Resource and Vulnerability Assessment from January to April 2017 in four municipalities of Agusan del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands.

A team of geologists, geologic aide, and laboratory technician from the MGB Caraga Geosciences Division conducted the said assessment in the following municipalities covering 47 barangays: municipality of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte with 20 barangays; Magallanes, Agusan del Norte with eight barangays; Loreto, Dinagat Islands with 10, and Tubajon, Dinagat Islands with nine barangays.

One of the functions of the MGB is the conduct of specialized researches and assessment of the country’s groundwater resources.

The Groundwater Resource and Vulnerability Assessment Program is a major activity that the MGB has initiated to conduct as its contribution to the implementation of one of the provisions of the Clean Water Act (2004) which is to prepare and publish a national groundwater vulnerability map incorporating the prevailing standards and methodologies.

The objectives of the Groundwater Resource and Vulnerability Assessment Program are as follows: Assess the availability of groundwater on the various geologic formations in the entire country; Establish the quality/chemistry of groundwater in groundwater basins; Establish the potentials and limitations of available groundwater in the various groundwater basins; and Assess groundwater vulnerability of aquifers in the country.

The team is tasked to make an inventory of all the water sources of every barangay during fieldwork. Similarly, to document the water sources.

Primary field data such as geology, geomorphology and the type of water source were gathered. The source of water could either be well type (shallow or deep), spring type, sinkhole, or river.

Water samples were also collected per water source for the analysis of physical and chemical properties. The said properties were analyzed within 24 hours after the samples were collected.

In addition, interviews were also conducted by the team in every barangay to gather secondary field data such as date of well construction, puroks supplied, location of the water source and other details in order for the team to note the past and present situation of the water sources. (MGB-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PHL aims for 20,000MW RE capacities

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 25 (PIA) – To sustain economic gains and continuously elevate the quality of life in the country, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said that the Philippines endeavors to add at least 20,000 megawatts of renewable energy (RE) capacities by 2040.

Cusi issued the statement during the recent launch by the DOE and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) of the Renewables Readiness Assessment (RRA) for the country at the Energy Center at Bonifacio Global City.

“RRA is a collaboration among the DOE, IRENA and other renewable energy stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. It is vital in our vision towards attaining 20,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacities by 2040,” said Cusi.

The DOE chief said that with the Philippine governments’ aggressive stance towards building RE capacities, there is a “need to identify and analyze key challenges to further guide our stakeholders in our policies, regulatory and institutional framework.”

He said that formulating RRA involved research, interviews, focus group discussions and several multi-stakeholder consultations.

The goal, he added, is to provide a comprehensive and detailed analyses of the country’s RE profile in order to recommend measures to deal with the pertinent issues in the industry.

Cusi said that the Philippine RRA will also contribute to a database of the status of renewables readiness across member countries of IRENA.

The DOE-Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB) also prepared the launching ceremony of the RRA to serve as a forum with industry stakeholders to inform them on its results, solicit their views in carrying out the recommendations and discuss opportunities and challenges of the RE sector.

The launching was graced by DOE Assistant Secretary Roberto Uy, DOE-REMB Director Mario Marasigan, DOE-REMB Assistant Director Marissa Cerezo, National Renewable Energy Board (NREB) Chairperson Atty. Jose Layug Jr., IRENA Senior Programme Officer Gurbuz Gunol and IRENA Regional Programme Officer for Asia-Pacific Yong Chen.

IRENA is an intergovernmental organization that supports countries in transitioning into a sustainable energy future. It serves as the principal platform for international cooperation and an avenue to explore other values of renewable energy as it promotes widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms in the pursuit of sustainable development.

“The DOE is committed to provide a level of playing field among RE developers to assure the country of its indigenous and sustainable energy for the consuming public,” said Cusi. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

U.S. Army Pacific presents ‘purple heart’ replica to family of WWII PH scout

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 25 (PIA) - Filipino private first class Adriano Alagon’s posthumously awarded ‘Purple Heart’ medal was lost in the aftermath of World War II, but on April 19, 2017, Gen. Robert B. Brown, commanding general of the United States (U.S.) Army Pacific, presented recently a replica of the medal to Alagon’s only surviving daughter, Elisea Alagon Jamoralin. The formal ceremony took place at the historic Fort Shafter headquarters in Honolulu, HI, a building used during World War II to plan for the liberation of the Philippines in 1944.

“Through the horrors and terror of this period, we can take what endures over the years: the freedom and sacrifices made for our two nations by soldiers like Pfc. Alagon,” said General Brown, before presenting the medal.

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, Alagon was a member of the 14th Engineer Battalion, Philippine Scouts, who gallantly served shoulder-to-shoulder with American forces. Enduring some of the fiercest battles of the defensive campaign, Alagon was captured on his birthday, made to endure the horrific march across Bataan, and subsequently killed by his captors after spending nearly two years in brutal conditions as a prisoner of war.

Jamoralin was only eight years old when she lost her father. Her daughter, Philippine Consul General in Honolulu Gina Jamoralin, researched her grandfather’s saga and contacted the U.S. Army about a replacement award. “Today’s event is the culmination of my search for answers in what might have been forgotten by succeeding generations. While we miss our grandfather, we are consoled by the fact he died for his country and we are deeply proud of him,” said Consul General Jamoralin on behalf of the family.

The family also brought a framed copy of an original letter signed by then President Harry Truman, saying: “He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die so that freedom might live, and increase its blessings. Freedom lives- and through it- he lives.”

“I’ve never heard it captured so well,” said Gen. Brown. “Freedom does live. Thanks to men and women like private Alagon. His sacrifice really humbles us here today.”

In May, soldiers of U.S. Army Pacific will participate in Exercise Balikatan, the annual Philippine-U.S. military bilateral training exercise that is a signature element of the Philippine-U.S. alliance focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance/disaster relief and counterterrorism. (U.S. Embassy/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte ties up with LANHS for OJT program

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 25 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte recently inked an agreement with the Los Angeles National High School (LANHS) relative to the On-the-Job Training Program of its senior high school students.

The province through the Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO) agreed to accept the senior high school students of LANHS as trainees and to avail of the use of its various facilities in the Provincial Diversified Demo Farm in Los Angeles in support to the school’s program and complement the existing curricula on senior high school.

The said training is a program requirement of the courses in Technology and Vocational Livelihood (TVL) Crop Production offered by the school wherein the qualified students will undergo work immersion and training exposures prior to graduation in order to be adequately familiar with the actual work to enhance their formal education training.

Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba was authorized by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No. 087-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, to sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the LANHS considering that the MOA is essential to determine the scope, responsibility and accountability of the two parties. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Agusan Norte implements SALINTUBIG in Buenavista town

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 25 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to implement the SALINTUBIG Program, otherwise known as Sagana sa Ligtas na Tubig in the municipality of Buenavista after the approval by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during its regular session on April 10, 2017.

In Sanggunian Resolution No. 112-2107, authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan gave authority to Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, to sign in behalf of the province the mmorandum of Agreement by and among the province, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the local government of Buenavista for the implementation of the said program.

The SALINTUBIG Program is a national government’s response to the lack of access to sufficient and safe water supply in the countryside.

Based on the Annual Poverty Indicators Survey (APIS) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), it revealed that while the population with access to safe drinking water and sanitary toilet facilities increased, a large portion of the population obtained their water from sources that are considered unsafe such as unprotected well, undeveloped spring, river, stream, pond, lake, dam, rainwater, among others.

The municipality of Buenavista was identified as one of the beneficiaries based on the criteria set by the DILG, Department of Health (DOH) and National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC). (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Mayapay tribe welcomes Masigasig troopers

By Cpt Edwin Leo Francisco

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 25 (PIA) – The Mayapay Tribal Council (MATRICO) on Friday has welcomed the presence of the 23rd Infantry (MASIGASIG) Battalion, 4th Infantry (DIAMOND) Division, Philippine Army, based in Purok-6, Brgy Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte thru an "inpandawatan" ritual or “acceptance of the tribe” rites.

The ritual seeks to strengthen the army's relationship with the IP stakeholders towards achieving peace and development in the area.

The ritual is usually conducted amongst different tribes in the area to settle misunderstandings and/or acceptance of certain customs and traditions of a particular tribe, it was learned. Living or settling of a community within the tribal domain of a particular tribe needs the acceptance and blessing of that particular tribe.

The ritual, which started at 9:00 a.m., was facilitated by the Masigasig troopers and participated by the different tribal leaders from Mayapay Tribal Council. It was officiated by Richard “Datu Malakas” L. Gubaton, the baylan (shaman) of the tribe. The ritual continued with the calling for the “supernaturals” in the area for the soldier’s safe and peaceful stay in their highland ancestral domain areas.

"The importance of inpandawatan ritual is to determine and resolve any misunderstandings between the tribe and the 23rd IB,” Datu Malakas stated.

A certificate of Free Prior Informal Consent (FPIC) was then handed to LTC Emil Cruz, the commanding officer of the unit, at the end of the program to certify that the Mayapay tribe was allowing the presence of the 23rd IB in its tribal domain. (CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Army to hold ‘Operation Tuli’ in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 (PIA) – The 4th Civil-Military Operations Battalion of Philippine Army is set to conduct a one-day ‘Operation Tuli’ on April 30, 2017 at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gymnasium, this city.

According to 4CMO commanding officer LTC Manuel Valdez IV, said activity is in partnership with GMA Kapuso Foundation and FSUU Alumni Association.

“We are inviting the general public to support our free medical mission and Operation Tuli is one of our services. Help us disseminate the information to the different communities here so kids can also join,” bared Valdez.

It was also learned that on May 10, 2017, Operation Tuli activity will also be held at the Barangay Hall of Bancasi, Butuan City, in coordination with punong barangay Filex Ceniza Jr. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor to provide medical assistance to provincial workers

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to provide medical and dental assistance up to P10,000 to its qualified officials and employees per approval of Provincial Ordinance No. 444-2017.

Under the said ordinance, authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, provincial workers can avail of the following: Financial Assistance for Medical and Dental Examinations – all kinds of medical and dental examinations including executive medical examination being done whether by a private or public medical practitioner in a public or private hospital or clinic. This shall include all laboratory examinations as well as the provision of auxiliary aids such as dentures; Financial Medical Assistance in Cases of Hospital Confinement – financial assistance to a government worker who is admitted or confined to a hospital anywhere in the country for treatment of an injury or sickness/illness for certain inclusive days; Financial assistance for ophthalmology concerns.

However, the province will not extend financial assistance to government workers who met an accident after office hours and do not have travel orders from the Provincial Governor or Vice Governor as the case may be.

The provincial government will not also afford any financial medical assistance to any of the following conditions: self-inflicting injuries; the official or employee is under the influence of liquor, prohibited drugs or substances during which the injury may occur; injury as a result of willful participation of any crime/activity punishable under existing laws.

The province will set aside P2,500,000 for the implementation of the said ordinance. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DSWD-Caraga ensures readiness of PWDs in times of disaster

By Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 - In response to the directive of Secretary Judy Taguiwalo to conduct Family and Community Disaster Preparedness, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga initiated the conduct of the three-day training on Disaster Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and selected LGU PWD focal persons on April 4-6, 2017 at VCDU Prince Hotel, this city.

The said training focused on the modules on Policy Framework, Overview of Hazards and Understanding Disaster Management, Family Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Preparedness Framework, Participatory Disaster Risk Assessment, and Philippine Issuances Relating to PWD.

These modules are the results of the collaboration effort of DSWD through the former Bureau of Emergency Assistance that are designed for Community Volunteers of Emergency Response and Disaster Management.

Wilma Geralla, Senior Citizen/PWD focal person, said, that the PWDs were identified as the most vulnerable sectors in the society especially during disaster. This is mainly the reason why the Department conducted the training for them to prepare themselves and equip with appropriate knowledge in case of any calamity occur in the region.

“With this training, the PWD leaders and the LGU focal persons are equipped with effective tools to enhance their teaching in high-risk places as well as strengthening their fellow PWDs and families on coping mechanism in the advent of calamities,” added Geralla.

Based on the updated Listahanan Database as of February 29, 2016, there are 21,296 poor PWDs in the entire region. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

People’s organizations for youth, PWD, senior citizens participate in consultation dialogue

By Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Protective Services Unit (PSU) recently conducted the Simultaneous People’s Organizations Meeting for 1st Semester calendar year 2017 held at Goat2Geder Hotel, this city.

Members and officers who attended the meeting are the Federation of Pagasa Youth Association (PYA), Regional Federation of Senior Citizens Association (REFESCA), and Caraga Federation of Persons with Disabilities Inc. (CARFEDPWD).

Said consultation dialogue was aimed to strengthen and capacitate the People’s Organizations with updated information and awareness on matters that are related to the promotion of their rights, social protection and inclusion of the social development program.

Wilma Geralla, SC/PWDs focal person, hopes that the consultation dialogue will encourage the sectoral organization to participate and involve in the decision making process as well as to conduct productive activities in order to sustain the organization.

During the breakout session, each group delivered their 2016 accomplishment as well as discussed issues and concern in the implementation of their respective programs and services.

Also, part of the activity is the oath-taking of the members of CARFEDPWD together with their newly-elected President, Pablo Manding.

The DSWD has already institutionalized the conduct of the said activity every semester. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur producers welcome newest member

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Apr. 26– The Integrated Producers Association of Prosperidad Agusan del Sur Incorporated (IPAPADSI) - a provincial government and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–assisted producers group has welcomed one of its newest members - the Cleo’s Food Products, with the latter’s inauguration of its official outlet here.

It was only just over a year when this venture started making and selling pork chicharon, camote and banana chips, piñato, ampao, calamay, atchara, and greaseless peanuts.

Cleo and husband Edgar Tabuan Potencioso, Jr., owners of Cleo’s Food have also started consolidating other locally produced goods such as turmeric, corn coffee and other products within the region like dried fish (danggit) and fermented fish entrails (dayok) from Surigao del Sur, vinegar, sweetened salabat, barquiron and barquillos from Butuan City to maximize their store offerings.

The store located at Purok-8, Libres Street in Taglatawan, Bayugan City is set to increase further the variety of its goods for sale by taking in other goods from other producers in the region.

It also plans to produce processed meat like longganisa, chorizo and chicken nuggets. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Feature: Life lessons mold Caraga DOST scholars to graduate with honors

By Gabrielle Espinosa

Honor, humility and confidence — these are the three words that mark the seven magna cum laude and 10 cum laude scholars of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) as they proudly marched on stage to receive their diplomas, awards, and medals in separate commencement exercises at the Philippine Normal University (PNU) Mindanao, Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT), and Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) in the Caraga region.

More than just financial assistance

The scholars from PNU Mindanao shared their experiences on how the DOST scholarship helped them achieve amidst their individual stories of struggle and survival as they juggled academic life, family, and even jobs.

Marinelle Ramos, magna cum laude, revealed unassumingly that the DOST scholarship gave her a sense of fulfillment and purpose. “Being a DOST scholar is a great privilege since it did not only help us financially but also personally,” said Marinelle. The president of the DOST Scholars Society, Marinelle acknowledged that her position “taught me to govern the group, coordinated with high ranking officials, and boosted my self-confidence.”

Aside from the confidence boost, Marinelle admits that the financial assistance of the DOST Scholarship also helped her to become thrifty and develop a sense of humility.

“That time (when I was a scholar), my family could not afford to pay the tuition of my sister who was studying in medical school. Having that amount of money (from the DOST scholarship) helped my family to get through. I was not forced by my parents but it (the scholarship) taught me to prioritize my needs and use my money responsibly instead of spending it on leisure activities,” she shared.

This was also true for Kimberly Besas and Fevwileane Padalapat, both graduated cum laude, who served as bread winners of their family all throughout their college life.

“I am so thankful that I became a scholar. The DOST scholarship not only changed me but it also moved my parents to change their habits on arguing over money when they saw me taking over the family’s finances. They saw me writing a long list of expenses and felt how I managed our situation. They witnessed how I was able to balance my academic and financial responsibilities. Over time, I became the family’s inspiration,” Fevwileane explained.

“My mom and dad are separated. My mom migrated to Manila and my dad has another family to feed,” disclosed Kimberly. “Being the eldest, I have been through many jobs just to provide the basic needs of my six younger siblings. The DOST scholarship eased the burden, it was not just for me but for my whole family,” Kimberly added.

DOST scholarship empowers

The scholars also shared stories of personal transformation, of how being a scholar changed their mindset in life. For example, Arnold Abadiano, magna cum laude, developed his interest in research through the DOST scholarship.

“There is a pressure in me because my boss was also a DOST scholar in both her undergraduate and graduate programs. Thus, I have only Sundays to relax,” he revealed.

“I’m glad that as a DOST scholar, I was able to help and serve not just the university but also (in promoting research) by being a contributor in developing research in our institution. An educator’s role does not end in passing knowledge to students. He/she has to expand the knowledge through research to improve curricular programs in universities on the countryside,” Abadiano explains.

Similarly, like how Arnold developed his passion for research, Chris John Cagas, another DOST scholar, also developed passion in his course after passing the DOST scholarship.

“It is unusual how an easy-go-lucky person like me, who is not an academic striver, received one of the most prestigious scholarships nationwide. At first, it felt like I didn’t belong in this circle of excellent students. But after I became scholar, I become conscious of my demeanor. Every time I hang out with my friends, I remind myself that I am not just an ordinary scholar but a DOST scholar, and it’s something worth holding up,” he said.

“Through the scholarship, I am reminded of how education can transform someone like me. I don’t just want to teach my students the information, I want to cultivate their passion in education like how I have developed mine,” Cagas explained.

This was also the case of Marion Jane Montilla, a scholar who is a teenage mother. She dropped out of school after discovering her pregnancy. However, she was able to gather up the courage to reenroll and apply for the scholarship.

“My life as a student is full of regrets. I went through so many courses in different universities and finally settled at PNU. But I became pregnant right after getting admitted. Depression hit me for a year but I didn’t give up, I still sought the positive side of my situation and enrolled again after giving birth. I did not even expect to become a DOST scholar. The idea of being the scholar pushed me to do more in my life, to not settle for less. Now, I can see myself as an inspiration to other students to work hard and not settle with mediocrity,” said Montilla.

Molding science and technology leaders

Since its implementation in 1994, the Department of Science and Technology scholarship program has benefited talented and deserving students whose families cannot afford college education. The program has produced thousands of undergraduates who excelled in the fields of science and technology in the country.

In Caraga, a total of 42 undergraduate DOST scholars from PNU Mindanano, ASSCAT, SSCT, Caraga State University, Father Saturnino Urios University, and Surigao del Sur State University will graduate as class 2017. The graduates received their scholarships under the Republic Act (R.A.) 10612 and R.A. 7687, or otherwise known as the Junior Level Science Scholarship Program and the Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994.

According to Meriam Bouquia, scholarship coordinator in Caraga, the admission exam for the undergraduate scholarships for 2018 will be on the 4th quarter of the year. (DOST-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Feature Story: Cops’ striker earns degree in criminology

In the graduation rites of St. Michael College of Caraga (SMCC) in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on April 4, 2017, one of the graduates was proudly escorted by the members of the Agusan del Norte Public Safety Company. It is not common scenario during a graduation ceremony but to the Caraga Police, it is a shining moment, witnessing an all-around helper in the police camp, also known as striker, earned a diploma in Bachelor of Science in Criminology. The 22-year old striker, Jonard Ecot, successfully graduated through the support and assistance of Nasipit Police Officers serving as good samaritans.

Ecot who hails from Zamboanga del Sur, left his hometown at age of 14, to explore possibilities that will improve his status in life. He worked hard and travelled to some cities in Mindanao until he reached Surigao City, where he did some chores at a carenderia.

In 2011, cops assigned at RTR town in Agusan del Norte conducted checkpoints following reported incidents of theft perpetrated by a minor and was allegedly heading to Butuan City from Surigao City on board a bus. Police arrested the suspect, Jonard Ecot, who was just 15 years old. The police took custody of him and found out that the P2,000 he stole was actually his earnings because the owner did not pay him for the services he rendered.

He started to work for the policemen. He cooked, cleaned the camp, and did carpentry works. In return, the police officers sent and helped him finish high school by shouldering all the expenses including tuition fees, projects and allowances.

After high school, he was brought to Agusan del Norte Provincial Police Safety Company in Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte where the cops also supported his education to college. Most importantly, he was also accorded the same brotherly treatment while studying at SMCC.

Upon graduation, Jonard’s happiness and words of gratitude are incomparable. This was evidently noticed during the interview and he is excited to take the licensure examination in December 2017. He is looking forward to become a member of the Philippine National Police, the organization that inspired and transformed him to become a better, productive, and law-abiding individual.

Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Caraga Police Director, wishes Jonard Ecot the best of luck “This heartwarming story demonstrates that our policemen in Caraga are not only successful in carrying out their law enforcement mandate, but as well as in facilitating the aspirations of deserving persons,” said Felix. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Women with disability dance with the rhythm of change

By Eunice Montaos Plaza

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 - Empowered women with disabilities (WWD) in Caraga expressed through dancing their stand on how women like their sector make change in the society conveying the message that they have become not just mere objects of charity and other services rather subjects with rights, who are capable of claiming those rights and making decision for their lives as being active members of the society.

This was during their celebration of the 13th WWD Day spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on April 19, 2017 held at the Prince Hotel Convention here of which they shared their challenging experiences and their will and acts to make change in their lives and eventually become better versions of themselves.

The attending WWDs also encouraged other women with the same situation to excel and be able to work harmoniously with other sectors despite their disability.

These strong women lived with the theme of the celebration which says, “Babaeng May Kapansanan, Manguna at Manindigan Tungo sa Pagbabago.” (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor to receive forage chopper from DA

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 26 - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte, through the Provincial Veterinary Office, will be receiving one unit forage chopper from the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Region in support to the livestock industry in the province.

This is finalized after the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is signed. As such, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba through Sanggunian Resolution No. 115-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Virgilio R. Escasinas, Jr., to sign in behalf of the province the said MOA with the DA in support to the development of agriculture in the province.

The provincial government supports the undertaking of the DA to ensure continuity of developing the livestock industry in the province that will attain a high productivity and resistance to diseases in support to the DA program.

The province continue to provide assistance to livestock stakeholders in pursuit for agricultural development and worthy endeavors to promote the interest of the farmers. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

AgSur town mayor inducts new local biz club officers

SIBAGAT, Agusan del Sur, Apr. 26 - “I encourage you to strengthen your motivation and help improve the economy of the state.”

This was the statement of Sibagat Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista as she addressed the officers and members of the Sibagat Business Club during its induction held recently.

“Sibagat is blessed with rich agricultural land, I encouraged you to maximize it and make our agricultural areas developed and become more productive,” added Mayor Evangelista.

The inauguration with the theme, “Negosyo padayon, komunidad palambuon” also started with a motorcade joined by Sibagat National High School of Home Industries Band and was attended by the Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Sur Provincial Office (DTI-AdS), Agusan del Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc., and officials from the national, provincial and municipal offices.

Also, Jose T. Baron, DTI-Agusan del Sur Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist urged the members to increase its club members and strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities. He also invited the members and officers to visit Negosyo Center in Sibagat for their business assistance requirements.

DTI-AdS is also looking forward for the Sibagat Business Club to be an active and significant partner of NC-Sibagat initiatives to help the municipality’s micro, small and medium enterprises. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Youths gather for climate change, disaster preparedness forum in Surigao Norte

By Graciela Mante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 27 – As a post-disaster response initiative to the destructive magnitude 6.7 earthquake which hit the province last February 10, 2017, a Youth Forum on Climate Change and Disaster Preparedness was conducted on April 22, 2017 at the Function Hall of the Surigao del Norte Negosyo Center and on April 24, 2017 at the Kapitolyo ng Siargao in Dapa, Siargao Island.

This event aimed to encourage the youth to take the lead in keeping their families, communities and schools updated and prepared in any disaster threats by making them understand more the concepts of climate change and disaster preparedness.

The forum was a partnership between the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte headed by Gov. Sol Matugas, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga Regional Office and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Program of the US Embassy.

It was participated by more than 50 youth leaders from mainland Surigao and more than 80 youth leaders from Siargao. (PEEDMO-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOLE all set for Labor Day celebration in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Apr. 28 (PIA)– All lined-up activities for the Labor Day celebration in the province are set, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Friday.

This year's Philippine Labor Day Celebration is anchored on the theme: “Matatag na Kabuhayan at Trabaho Tungo sa Progresibing Pagbabago.”

DOLE provincial chief May Velonta said the pre-labor day activities of the province will be conducted on Saturday morning in Bislig City and on afternoon in Hinatuan town with DOLE Undersecretary Bernard Olalia as the guest of honor.

He will lead the distribution of the livelihood assistance to the idetified recipients - Airport Rural Builders Association in Bislig City and Hinatuan OFWs and Dependents Association in Hinatuan.

Meanwhile, during the Labor Day on Monday, May 1, the celebration will start with a mass at 6:00 a.m. followed by a motorcade and program proper at the Tandag City Park participated by employees from the public and private sectors, other partners stakeholders, tripartite councils, PESO Managers, Associations/Organizations and Labor and management partners in partnership with the city government of Tandag.

On May 2, DOLE will lead the jobs fair and business fair activities in Carrascal town in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

AgNor SP adopts grant of gratuity pay to JOs, CSWs

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 28 - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently adopted the grant of gratuity pay to job order (JO) and contract of service workers (CSWs) in the provincial government, subject to availability of funds of the province.

In its Provincial Resolution No. 083-2017, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan adopted the Administrative Order No. 02 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte, authorizing the grant of gratuity pay to JOs and CSWs in national government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, state universities and colleges and government financial institutions, chargeable to their respective Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE).

Under Section 6 of said AO 02, local government units are likewise encouraged to adopt in their respective offices the said grant utilizing appropriate funds and available funding sources.

In a proposed resolution studied by the Committee on Finance and Appropriation, chaired by Vice Governor Bungabong, the province will authorize the grant of gratuity pay to all JOs and CSWs in the provincial government of Agusan del Norte who have rendered a total of an aggregate of at least four months of satisfactory service as of December 15, 2016 and whose contract are still effective as of said date in the amount of P2,000 each, chargeable to appropriate funds.

Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba expressed support of the said move and is willing to extend the gratuity pay, but said that it should be incorporated first in the province’s supplemental AIP for funding under the province’s supplemental budget. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PSA prepares for building structures geo-tagging activity

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 28 - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the central statistical authority of the Philippine government on primary data collection, will conduct the tablet-aided geo-tagging of building structures.

This activity aims to come-up with accurate and reliable digitized maps, use primarily for the various censuses and surveys conducted by the office.

The main purpose of conducting the geo-tagging activity is to identify and mark building structures as points in the digitized maps and attributing these buildings with the pertinent geographical information in the barangays.

The PSA Field Staff and selected trained Map Data Collectors and Map Data Screeners in Caraga will geotag all kinds of building structures and take pictures of the building facade using tablets in May to August, 2017. The information collected shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation or regulation as provided under Article 55 of Republic Act 10625. (PSA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DOE pitches energy opportunities to ASEAN investors

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 28 (PIA) - Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi said on Thursday that there is a big business opportunity in the Philippines' energy sector that investors from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) can take advantage of.

"We're inviting energy investors from ASEAN. The ASEAN summit is an opportunity for us to drum up to our neighbors that there is this development happening in the Philippines and they can participate," Cusi said after attending the closed door quarterly roundtable of the Wallace Business Forum at Shangri-la Hotel, Makati City.

Cusi said the potential business opportunity in energy is the result of the government's ambitious infrastructure program dubbed "Build Build Build."

"We're going to build the energy supply for the infrastructure," said Cusi.

"From 2016 to 2030, 17,300 megawatts (MW) is needed to support the Ambisyon 2040 development plan of the government for the Philippines. An additional power of 26,000 MW from 2030 to 2040 or a total of 43,000 MW from 2016 to 2040 is needed to support the infrastructure projects," Cusi said at the second round of Dutertenomics Forum on Wednesday, April 26, 2017.

Cusi is optimistic that investors will come in. "The investment opportunity is open for all and the DOE will not put a cap and quota on the energy source of choice," said Cusi.

"I'm sure there will be entrants, particularly those who can offer the best for the Philippines and those who can provide the supply in the cheapest and most efficient way," he concluded. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte agrarian org tops regional maturity assessment

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 28 - Alipao Multi-purpose Cooperative (ALMUCO) of Brgy. Alipao, Alegria, Surigao del Norte topped the Caraga-wide Information Technology-enabled Maturity Assessment (ITEMA) for the assisted agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

This was revealed during the ITEMA feedbacking session held last April 18, 2017 in Butuan City facilitated by the staff from Policy Planning Services of DAR Central Office and ITEMA consultant.

ALMUCO obtained a rating of 78.25 equivalent to Maturity Level of 5. A total of 378 ARBOs all over the region were subjected to ITEMA.

The said ARBOs were assessed on their 2015 organizational operations on the following key results areas, to wit; organizational management, business enterprises and social services, resource and financial management, alliance building, and social and environment responsibility.

“This is a great and very welcoming news for us,” said Venancia S. Signar, chairperson of ALMUCO.

“This is because of the untiring and collaborative effort of all the officers and members of ALMUCO. Truly, there is strength in unity,” she added.

The ITeMA for ARBOs seeks to come up with comprehensive and realistic results of assessing the levels of maturity of the DAR-assisted ARBOs, to bring to fore the development gaps or the interventions yet to be provided, and to create a database of DAR-assisted ARBOs from which updated and comprehensive ARBO profiles can be readily generated. (DAR-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Medialdea’s decision to halt additional mine fund a procedural matter – Barbers

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 28 - Surigao del Norte 2nd district Representative Robert Ace Barbers expressed his support for Executive Secretary (ES) Salvador Medialdea’s decision to suspend the imposition of a P2-million trust fund for every hectare of land disturbed by mining operations, an order that was issued by the office of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Gina Lopez.

Barbers said the suspension is not an opposition to Secretary Gina’s proposed additional mine fund.

"The DENR Secretary has to understand that this is all part of due process. Mining companies appealed to the Office of the President, therefore, it is only imperative that they be given immediate relief, until the President decides on the petitions,” said Barbers.

Barbers said the executive secretary has jurisdiction over appeals filed with the Office of the President.

"I firmly believe that ES Medialdea deferred the mine fund not because he counters President Duterte’s policy against destructive mining operations, but because the petitions center on this controversial trust fund,” Barbers added. (Surigao del Norte 2nd District Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

3 Caraga towns to pioneer 'assistance to municipalities' program

By Marilou Autor-Salado

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 28 - Three municipalities in Caraga region are set to pioneer the implementation of projects under the Assistance to Municipalities (AM) program as Notices to Debit Account Issued (NADAI) are already out for the release of the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) amounting to P35,177,000.00 as of April 18, 2017.

Each municipality is granted the amount equivalent to their approved projects.

The municipality of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte will implement two projects; for the Construction of one unit Evacuation center cum Training Center in Purok 1, Barangay Bangonay amounting P3 million and an amount of P6,913,000 for the upgrading of access road to Great Lake Resort in Purok 1, Poblacion.

The municipality of Loreto, Agusan del Sur will concentrate all of its allocation amounting to P11,038,000 for the Mayabog Spring development (Level III) for the benefit of barangays Poblacion, San Vicente, Sta. Teresa, Sto. Tomas, Waloe, San Isidro, San Mariano and Sto. Niño.

The municipality of Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte will also work on two approved projects - provision of Potable Water Supply in Poblacion and Rizal amounting to P4,226,000 and the Core Local Access Road in Poblacion amounting to P10 million.

Prompt compliance to the requirements of Public Financial Management (PFM) under the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH), a component of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) are two requisites for the early release of their funds.

Other municipalities are encouraged to coordinate with the DBM and the DILG Municipal Officers to ensure compliance of requirements to facilitate LGSF release. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PSA-Caraga slates to release 2016 GRDP data

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 2 (PIA) – In an effort to cascade accurate and relevant statistical data, comparing the year to year growth of Caraga region’s economy, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Regional Statistical Services Office (RSSO) Caraga is set to release the 2016 Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) data on May 4, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. to be held at Almont Inland Resort, this city.

“The GRDP can be used generally in the formulation of annual development plans, in monitoring performance of the regional economy and its sectors and subsectors, identification of industries/sectors in terms of investment promotion and support service, and in analyzing trends and forecasting for planning purposes,” said PSA-Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura.

GRDP, which measures the amount of final goods and services produced by a region, is a primary indicator of a region's economic health. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte SP establishes exit strategy program for provincial workers

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, May 2 - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently adopted and approved Provincial Ordinance No. 441-2017, Establishing an Exit Strategy Program for Retiring Provincial Government Workers during its 34th Regular Session.

Under the said ordinance, authored by Provincial Board Member Salutario B. Cuasito, it is mandated that the Provincial Human Resource Management Office (PHRMO) shall conduct series of exit strategy program aimed at preparing the provincial government workers who are due to retire from government service.

The PHRMO is mandated further to prepare programs, such but not limited to, personality development, entrepreneurial skills training, fund management, stress handling, prospecting business and investment and programs that would make the retireables useful in their respective communities.

It is the thrust of the provincial government to ensure the welfare of its employees by providing adequate trainings that would help them improve their lives for service to others and that its employees are equipped and endowed with feasible and viable options of investment areas where their money are best utilized upon retirement. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Army medics, partners team up for operation tuli in Surigao

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 2 - Soldiers of the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), Philippine Army who are conducting Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) in the city together with stakeholders spearheaded an “operation tuli" (circumcision) on Monday here.

The activity is in line with the annual operation tuli of the Surigao Health Specialists Incorporated and the army troopers.

A total of 155 young boys benefited the free circumcision, and free haircut was also rendered by the soldiers to civilians that catered 50 beneficiaries on the same activity.

The said activity is a convergent efforts of the 30IB with the Surigao Health Specialists Inc, City Government of Surigao, Surigao Doctors College, Riverside Parts Master Inc, Natures Spring and Surigao del Norte Medical Society.

It can be recalled that soldiers were deployed in different barangays to gather issues and concerns of the people in order to address it to concerned agencies.

One of the issues brought up by PDOP is the lack of financial capability of the parents in sending their sons to private doctors for circumcision.

Civil Military Operations Officer 2Lt. Jonel Castillo said the PDOP is a tool of the Army in helping the agencies address different concerns of the people in a community which is seldom reached by basic services.

“Thus, it also strengthens our linkages and partnership with other stakeholders in order to attain a long and lasting peace in our communities,” Castillo said.

Meanwhile, 30IB Commanding Officer Col. Rico Amaro said they will continue performing such kind of civic action activities with the stakeholders.

“It shows the sincerity of our soldiers in serving our fellow Surigaonons to ensure the delivery of basic services to the communities,” said Amaro. (30IB-Phil. Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Energy department chief pushes integrated energy-water-food programs

BUTUAN CITY, May 2 - Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi on Tuesday said integrated energy-water-food projects like hydroelectric dams is among the key strategy of the Duterte Administration in achieving its sustainable development goals.

"The Department of Energy is encouraging the integration of programs to develop renewable energy, water and food production," Cusi said in a speech at the 10th anniversary celebration of the privatization of the 360 megawatt (MW) Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant (Magat HEPP) in Ramon, Isabela.

“I want this hydropower plant to serve as an example of this energy, water and food undertaking. This plant serves as a peaking power plant that is capable of providing ancillary services for the stability of the Luzon grid, and also irrigates 80,000 hectares of land to feed millions of Filipinos,” Cusi said.

The energy chief conducted an aerial and technical inspection of the Magat HEPP and the ongoing construction of the National Irrigation Administration’s 6 MW Magat River Integrated Irrigation System (MARIIS), which is targeted to be complete by December this year.

"I am certain that it will benefit not only the 10 municipalities across three provinces: Isabela, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya, but the entire country," Cusi said of the two power plants.

He also said a strong partnership with the private sector is needed to produce 17,300 MW of additional power to support the country's development by 2030 under Dutertenomics or President Duterte's 10-point economic agenda.

During the event, the Cusi invited Norway, through its ambassador, Erik Forner, to invest more in the Philippines.

"More investments are needed. DOE will provide that environment conducive to business by ensuring reliable and sufficient power and more importantly, we need to protect the interest of the public. That is the cornerstone of the Presidency of Mayor Duterte," Cusi concluded. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

US turns over EOD to PNP

BUTUAN CITY, May 2 - United States (US) Embassy regional security officer Lon Clyde Fairchild, Jr. and Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security Antiterrorism Assistance (DS/ATA) resident program manager Ronald Dizon formally turned over the post blast investigation and explosive incident countermeasure kits to Philippine National Police - Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Canine (EOD/K9) Group during the first Anniversary of the EOD/K9 Group held at the PNP Multi-purpose Hall, Camp Crame, Quezon City on April 24, 2017.

The DS/ATA’s EOD/K9 recognizes that a well-trained EOD/K9 with an experienced handler is an excellent tool in locating explosive devices. To develop this capability in the Philippines, DS/ATA began assisting the PNP in early 2007 with the establishment of an EOD/K-9 facility for the PNP National Capital Region Police Office.

The facilities include kennels, a veterinary clinic and billeting for EOD/K9 handlers. Six bomb detector dogs were granted by DS/ATA in 2008 to the PNP EOD/K9 Group and in 2015, twenty-two additional bomb detector dogs were granted. DS/ATA trained 22 handlers who are now assigned to Mindanao and the National Capital Region.

To develop the PNP’s bomb disposal and investigation capabilities, DS/ATA provided a post blast investigation and explosive incident countermeasure training and equipment to critical areas in Mindanao; in particular to Zamboanga, Davao, General Santos, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

DS/ATA-trained bomb technicians and investigators are now able to respond quickly to bombing incidents and improvised explosive device (IED) threats, preventing the loss of lives. DS/ATA-trained and equipped EOD/K9 units also provided IED Awareness Training to PNP units, local schools, and civic groups in at-risk areas of Mindanao.

The US government has donated P19 million worth of explosive ordnance devices (EOD) and was received by PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa. (U.S. Embassy/PIA-Caraga)

Cops ready for International Women’s Surfing Cup in Siargao

BUTUAN CITY, May 2 (PIA) - Security measures are ready to ensure a peaceful and secured women’s surfing competition that will be held in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte on May 2-6, 2017, Caraga Police director Chief Supt Rolando Felix said.

A total of 108 additional cops will be deployed to the country’s surfing capital aside from the troops from the Philippine Army and force multipliers to tighten security operations.

The PNP, AFP, Local Government Units, other government agencies, and private sectors will collaborate to make this event successful.

“Making this international surfing cup peaceful and orderly is our contribution to boost the tourism in Siargao Island and attract more tourists from different parts of the world,” Felix affirmed.

He also appealed to the citizens to immediately report to the police suspicious activities in the area and to approach the nearest police assistance desks for any concern of peace and order.

The upcoming surfing event is the first ever World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) women’s event in the Philippines where best female surfers around the world will come and vie for the $10,000-prize purse and other consolation prizes. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Mahigit 300 bata nakinabang sa libreng tuli sa lungsod ng Butuan

Ni Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Mayo 2 (PIA) - Bilang katuparan sa misyon na magbigay tulong sa mamamayan sa pamamagitan ng community outreach program, dinagsa ng mahigit 300 kabataan na may siyam na taong edad ang pinangunahang ‘Operation Tuli’ ng Father Saturnino Urios University o FSUU High School Alumni Association, sa pakikipagtulungan ng Civil-Military Operations o CMO, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army dito sa lungsod ng Butuan.

Ang nasabing libreng tuli ay inisyatibo ng FSUU High School Alumni Association na siyang ginaganap kada taon bilang bahagi na rin ng kanilang homecoming lined-up activities.

Ayon kay association president Minnie May Dumanhug, mismong mga medical doctors na alumni ng nasabing unibersidad ang nagbigay ng kani-kanilang serbisyo, kasama na rin ang volunteers ng Operating Room Nurses Association at mga medical practitioners ng Butuan City Medical Center.

Samantala, kaakibat naman ang Philippine Army sa pagbibigay ng serbisyong medikal ng kanilang skilled personnel.

Ayon kay 4th CMO battalion commander Lt. Col. Manuel Valdez IV, ang kanilang partisipasyon ay pang-apat na sa magkakasunod na isinagawang Oplan Tuli at medical mission simula first quarter nitong taon.

Sa magkaibang venues ay nakapagtuli naman sila ng may 200 na kabataan sa barangay Tag-abaka; 150 sa barangay Ong Yiu; 75 sa barangay Maon; at 100 din ang nakinabang sa dental services.

Dagdag pa ni Lt. Col. Valdez ay nakaschedule na rin sa May 10 ang gagawing Operation Tuli sa barangay Bancasi, lungsod ng Butuan.

Namahagi rin sila ng libreng medisina sa mga tinutuli. Napapanahon naman ang kanilang isinagawang proyekto dahil nagkataong summer vacation kung saan walang pasok ang mga kabataan. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI Surigao Norte warns public on unregistered food products, food supplements

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 3 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office has warned the public on the purchase and consumption of unregistered food products and food supplement.

DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan said the directive is in connection with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Advisory No. 2017-110 issued on March 29, 2017 that warned the public on the purchase and consumption of the following products and food supplement: Unregistered Healthy Brain Pills; Unregistered Novo Puree Pure Bottled Water; and Unregistered Holista Calcium Citrate.

According to Negapatan, the FDA post marketing surveillance activities have verified that the abovementioned food supplement have not gone through the registration process of the agency and have not been issued the proper authorization in the form of Certificate of Product Registration pursuant to Republic Act No. 9711 otherwise known as the “Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009.”

Negapatan said that under the said act, manufacture, importation, exportation, sale and, offering for sale, distribution, transfer, non-consumer use, promotion, advertising or sponsorship of health products without the proper authorization from FDA is prohibited.

He said, since unregistered food products and food supplement have not gone through evaluation and testing process of the FDA, the agency cannot guarantee their quality and safety. The consumption of such unregistered products may pose potential health hazards to the consuming public.

Food products including food supplements should not bear any misleading, deceptive, and false claims in their labels and or any promotional materials that will provide erroneous impression on products’ character or identity.

Negapatan said the FDA and DTI warned all concerned establishments against distribution of the above identified unregistered food products and food supplements until they have already been covered by the appropriate authorization or product registration.

He then advised the public to report continuous sale or distribution of the said food products and food supplement to FDA reporting facility: online at www.fda.gov.ph/ereport, email via report@dfa.gov.ph or call the Center for Food Regulation and Research hotline number (02) 857-1991 to 93 or just visit the DTI Provincial Office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street, Surigao City or call at telephone numbers (086) 826-6129/826-2373. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga economy growing, says PSA chief

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 4 (PIA) - The economy of Caraga grew by 2.5 percent in 2016 in gross regional domestic product (GRDP), the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed.

PSA Caraga regional director Dr. Rosalinda Apura said the increase is not that high as compared to 4.5 percent posted in 2015.

Apura also said that services sector contributed the largest share in the region’s total economic output with 48.4 percent, and still the main driver for the region’s growth.

The industry sector on the other hand followed the services sector that also contributed 35.1 percent in the region’s growth followed with 16.5 percent from the agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing (AHFF), Apura added.

Based on PSA Caraga’s data, Services expanded from 5.5 percent in 2015 to 8.7 percent in 2016. Financial Intermediation grew by 14.5 percent; Other Services by 10.5 percent; Trade and Repair by 8.7 percent; Transportation, Storage and Communication by 7.8 percent; Public Administration and Defense by 6.4 percent; and Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities by 6.2 percent.

Also, PSA Caraga bared that the industry sector suffered a reversal from 10.5 percent in 2015 to 3.3 percent in 2016 due to a contraction in Mining and Quarrying (MAQ). Manufacturing, Electricity, Gas and Water Supply and Construction posted expansions of 5.9 percent, 5.0 percent, and 4.1 percent, respectively. MAQ declined by 8.5 percent, it was learned.

The AHFF declined by 2.3 percent in 2016 as fishing further slowed down to negative 3.3 percent. Agriculture and Forestry posted an improvement though still negative growth of 0.8 percent, as recorded by PSA Caraga.

Apura further said that the services sector contributed 4.0 percentage points to the region’s total growth in 2016. On the other hand, industry and AHFF pulled down the growth by 1.2 percentage points and 0.2 percentage point, respectively. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Free tuli benefits 107 boys in SurSur town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 4 (PIA)– One hundred seven (107) school-aged boys benefited a free circumcision dubbed "summer operation tuli" held on Tuesday at the Cagwait Elementary School in Cagwait town of this province.

According to 36th Infantry Battalion spokesperson Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, aside from circumcision, other services such as shoe repair and haircut were also offered to the local residents.

Pueblas said the activity was aimed to cater to the physical needs and holistic development of school-aged boys.

Pueblas added that it was realized thru the sponsorship of the Cagwait Teachers and Employees Cooperative (CAGTEC) in collaboration with the 402nd Brigade and the 36th Infantry Battalion, Phil. Army. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

NRCP research uncovers marine sediment-derived microbes for killing “superbugs”

By Mary Charlotte O. Fresco

BUTUAN CITY, May 4 - A research funded by the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) has recently discovered special types of microorganism from sediments collected from the ocean floor which have demonstrated an ability to kill aggressive disease-causing pathogens or “superbugs” which have become resistant to modern antibiotics.

“Superbugs” is a new medical terminology that refers to bacteria which have developed genes that are resistant to different antibiotics; the infections caused by these bacteria are harder to treat.

Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay, together with her research team, has put up a “microbial library” for cultivation of these marine sediment-derived microorganisms and a “extract library” of these isolates for antimicrobial testings. Extracts from the library showed strong inhibitory activities against a panel of test pathogenic drug-resistant bacteria and fungi.

“The findings are quite promising and if more microorganisms like these will be discovered and tested, this [endeavor] will place the Philippines in the global frontiers of medical and therapeutic research,” said Dr. Dalisay, a researcher of NRCP who is leading the study, during the launching of the research program entitled “Marine Sediment-Derived Actinobacteria: New Vista for Natural Products Discovery in the Philippines” last March 29, 2017 in Iloilo City. The launch was attended by University of San Agustin President Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, Vice President for Academic Affairs Fr. Manuel M. Vergara, Associate Vice President for Research Dr. Jonel P. Saludes, NRCP Executive Director Marieta Bañez Sumagaysay, and staff from the NRCP-Research Development and Management Division.

Dr. Dalisay is a research scientist at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo.

“The highly biodiverse marine microorganisms thriving in the sediments surrounding the Philippine archipelago has not been investigated well with regard to their potential for developing products that are of interest in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences”, Dr. Dalisay added.

Thus, the first and second phase of this research program are focused on isolating marine sediment-derived microorganisms, determine their antimicrobial activities and biogeographical distribution in the Philippine archipelago. The third phase will focus on evaluating their anticancer activities, studying their biodiversity, and performing genomic analysis to establish relationships between metabolite biosynthesis potential, taxonomy, and the habitats and locations from which the isolates originate. These research efforts will prioritize isolates for future investigations and provide a road map for guiding future natural products discovery efforts.

NRCP, being the country’s premier agency for supporting and nurturing basic research, has undergone strategic innovations, one of which is aligning its research priorities to the most pressing needs of the country and to give Filipinos better health and life through medical research. (DOST-STII/PIA-Caraga)

RJJWC members gather, fortify advocacy vs lowering age of criminal liability

By Eunice Montaos Plaza

BUTUAN CITY, May 4 – Chaired by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), members of the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Committee (RJJWC) have recently gathered at Prince Hotel, this city for their quarterly meeting to discuss updates as to the latest going of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (JJWA) now that it is being deliberated at the Congress.

Part of their discussion was the committee’s position on the pending bill on lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) from 15 to nine years old.

The members of the RJJWC expressed their stand that no child should be put in jail rather they should undergo the diversion program or be placed in a rehabilitation center for youth for recovery and possible re-integration to their families and communities.

Reynaldo Balmori, Chief Personnel Records Management Officer of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-Caraga, who attended the meeting as representative of BJMP stated his opinion on the issue saying that even the physical design of the jail would suggest that it is no place for a child to be placed.

“Putting a child in jail together with adult offenders is never a good idea as a child is known to be vulnerable and can easily be influenced,” Balmori said.

“When they will be mixed with adult offenders, it is like we put them to the academy of criminal minds,” he added.

The RJJWC first quarter meeting agreed on conducting follow-up of resolutions for the local government units (LGUs) opposing the MACR in support to the committee’s advocacy.

DSWD Caraga OIC Regional Director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim stated that the said resolutions from the local government units (LGUs) is important to show and support the cause of DSWD and also to promote the welfare of children.

“We really need to strengthen our laws to protect our children,” Lim said.

Social Welfare Officer Dante Rosales and Marietta Jandayan, RJJWC Caraga secretariat, also provided updates on the submission of the LGUs as to the Comprehensive Local Juvenile Intervention Program (CLJIP) of the LGUs which were trained last year.

The RJJWC is an inter-agency structure mandated to oversee and ensure implementation of the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act. The committee is expected to provide support in all areas of monitoring, policy and program development, advocacy and social mobilization. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur flood victims receive cash shelter assistance

By Abegail R. Alvarez

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 4 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga through the Disaster Response Management Unit has recently distributed the Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) cash grant to 55 families in the municipality of Loreto, this province.

The said families were affected by flash flood after series of heavy rains and Low Pressure Areas (LPAs) that hit the region for the past few months.

Under ESA, families whose houses are partially damaged received P10,000 while families whose houses are totally damaged received P30,000. The total amount disbursed during the distribution sum up to P1,250,000.

Also, for totally damaged houses, 10 days cash for work assistance at P210 per day will be given to the families, while five days assistance will be granted to partially damaged houses with the same amount. However, proper documentation such as photos and receipts will be submitted to prove the construction/rehabilitation of their houses.

ESA is a cash grant provided to families whose houses are either totally or partially damaged. It may be released in cash or in the form of construction materials, dependent on the situation favourable to the beneficiaries and the timelines set for the project implementation. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Mindanao casket-maker installs DOST-FPRDI lumber dryer

By Rizalina K. Araral

BUTUAN CITY, May 4 - One of biggest casket-makers in Mindanao is almost done putting up its furnace-type lumber dryer (FTLD), after DOST-FPRDI researcher Caesar A. Cuaresma supervised the facility’s installation last March.

“The 3,000-board-feet capacity lumber dryer of King Jude Metal Caskets and Accessories is about 70 percent completed, after the major parts were put in place last month. The owners requested for the immediate construction of the dryer so that they would be better able to meet the quality and volume requirements of St. Peter Funeral Parlors, their sole client,” said Pedrito A. Lontok of DOST-FPRDI.

Funds for the dryer were loaned from the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

DOST-FPRDI’s FTLD enables small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to make high quality finished products from properly kiln-dried wood. Made of locally sourced materials, it is easy to install and operate, uses woodwastes as fuel, and dries lumber to a moisture content acceptable to both local and foreign markets.

In the SOCCKSARGEN region where King Jude Metal Casket and Accessorites is based, two other companies have also availed themselves of SETUP loans for their own FTLDs: the Ramon Tan Sawmill in Tacurong City and the Tecuala Mini Sawmill and Woodworks in Kidapawan City. (DOST-STII/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga on track in meeting the 2022 Cacao challenge

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 4 - The National Cacao Roadmap ‎2016-2022 calls for Caraga Region to commit 3,000 metric tons of dried beans production by 2022.

At the target yield of two kilos per tree and 500 trees per hectare, this would require some 3,000 hectares of productive cacao trees.

Cacao industry cluster stakeholders who attended the regional localization of the national roadmap early this month reported the baseline in terms of hectares planted to cacao at 3,975.

Agusan del Sur accounted for 65 percent of this number at 2,584 hectares.

Although productivity is still low in some of the cacao farms, Philippine National Cacao Industry Council (PNCIC)-Caraga Chapter chairman Christopher Lindo and the rest of the stakeholders coming from the region’s five provinces are confident that even before 2022, the region can already meet or even exceed the roadmap target commitment.

The roadmap localization was attended by over 100 stakeholders which include the cacao input providers, farmers, traders, processors and enablers held recently at the Mabe’s Savory Place in San Francisco town, this province. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Butuan City determined to increase high-value crops production

BUTUAN CITY, May 6 (PIA) – With an aim to raise the production of high-valued crops such as cacao, banana and palay, the Butuan City Agriculturist Office is set to hold a profiling activity and Rice Crop Management Training among the 86 barangays of this city.

According to Engr. Alberto Buca, head of the City Agriculturist Office, it is one of the priorities of the local government wherein greater opportunities were seen due to the potential for high value-chain of these products.

Said unit will also conduct a visitation to various farmlands within the city to determine the degree of production and vastness of the planted areas.

Also, programs for rice crop management is also given focus with an objective to identify and recommend appropriate grains and materials to achieve an optimum rice production. This was done on April 27 until the last day of May, this year, targeting around 350 farmers from 26 different barangays. (RCO/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur LGU Negosyo Centers orient registered BMBEs on their privileges

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, May 6 - Some 75 registered barangay micro business enterprises (BMBEs) from Esperanza, Sibagat and Bayugan City were gathered and oriented on how to avail of the privileges/exemptions that they are entitled to during a BMBE Orientation held recently at Meteor Garden, this city.

The participants were briefed on Republic Act (RA) 9178 otherwise known as “BMBE act of 2002” as amended by RA 10644 or the “Go Negosyo Act” which encourages the formation and growth of barangay micro business enterprises by granting them incentives and other benefits.

These privileges are as follows: 1) income tax exemption from income arising from the operations of the enterprise; 2) exemption from the coverage of the minimum wage law; 3) priority to a special credit window set up specifically for the financing requirements of BMBEs; and 4) technology transfer, production and management training, and marketing assistance programs for BMBE beneficiaries.

Max Molato of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue District Office (RDO) XII highlighted that the income tax exemptions that the BMBEs are entitled can only be availed if they will apply for the same with the BIR and submit the requirements needed.

“Once granted a tax exemption, you are still required to submit reports of you annual income tax,” Molato added.

Participants are enlightened with the discussion and eager to avail of the privileges given to them. They said that they are going to tell their friends who also have businesses to register as BMBEs.

It was also learned that another BMBE orientation will be conducted on July 2017. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

AgSur guv endorses USAD model for engaging cacao farmers

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 6 - Agusan del Sur Provincial Governor Adolph Edward Plaza has asked cacao industry cluster stakeholders to take a closer look at the province’s model for promoting cacao planting as a tool for poverty alleviation.

Gov. Plaza is referring to the Upland Sustainable Agri-forestry Development (USAD) program and its mandatory social preparation to ensure that the undertaking will be for the long haul and will result to the enrollees’ sustained economic well-being.

The good governor attended the regional cacao roadmap localization held recently in San Francisco town, this province.

He opted to hear all the provincial cacao situationer reports first before taking the floor so he can give a message that is grounded on the industry realities and what he believes are workable options that the stakeholders can pursue.

He also challenged the Cacao regional and provincial development councils and the rest of the stakeholders to not only identify the problems but also work on their solutions. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Siargao town receives P14.23 M projects from DILG

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 6 - The local government unit of Sta. Monica, this province received P14.23 million worth of projects from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) under the Assistance to Disadvantaged Municipalities (ADM) Program of Duterte Administration.

The said amount will be used to fund the water project in Barangay Poblacion (T. Arlan) and Barangay Rizal and core local construction in Barangay Poblacion (T. Arlan).

The municipality is the first local government unit in the province included in the first batch of fund releases.

DILG Surigao del Norte provincial director John Reyl Mosquito said the project is part of Duterte’s administration commitment to reduce poverty in the countryside.

“This is just the beginning of the series of fund releases because all municipalities in province will be given assistance ranging from P9 million to P23 million,” said Mosquito.

On his part, Sta. Monica mayor Fernando Dolar lauds the project because it greatly augments the meager funds of the municipality to finance and implement development projects.

“Core local roads and provision of potable water are two of my priority thrusts,” Dolar added.

Assistance to Disadvantaged Municipalities (ADM) is an offshoot of Bottom-up Budgeting Program under the previous administration.

Since 2014, DILG has released about P270 million to LGUs that funded at least 278 projects in Surigao del Norte. (DILG-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DTI brings ‘Mentor ME’ program to Agusan del Sur

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 6 - A program that aims to help micro and small entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses was recently launched in the province held at Mabe’s Savory Place, this municipality.

The ‘Mentor Me’ Program is one of the components of the Kapatid Program which is an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE).

The program aims to develop micro and small--scale enterprises through coaching and mentorship. The program also brings together experts and industry leaders who will provide a series of free mentoring sessions on incorporating innovation in products, business models, operations management, accounting, taxation and other aspects of the business operations.

During the launching, a free Negosyo Seminar with two experienced and successful businessmen and effective mentors were conducted with an estimated 200 participating Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The mentors were Henry Tenedero and Willy Arcilla. Tenedero, a Go Negosyo Angelpreneur, former president of the Philippine Marketing Association and president of the Education for All Development Center discussed the topic “Entrepreneurial Mindset and Values Formation” while Arcilla, another Go Negosyo Angelpreneur and a recipient of the Agora Award for Marketing Excellence in Asia-Pacific tackled the “Marketing and Marketing Trends”.

Negosyo Center-Agusan del Sur hosted the two phases of the program composed of the first two modules to be done during the launch and the subsequent 11 modules for pre-screened mentees. The latter have met the requirement of business registration and for having been in operation for at least one year.

This batch of mentees all belong to the food sector.

The launch also included the sharing of success stories from Frederico Blanco of F & H Aqua Spring Purified Drinking Water/Info Care Advertising, Rosalina O. Go of Rose Excellence Corporation, and Irenea R. Hitgano of Hillsview Food Products. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cusi to Transco: Use gov't assets to lower power, internet rates

BUTUAN CITY, May 6 - Not at the expense of the truth and to the detriment of the public interest.

This was the unstated message of Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi when he ordered today the National Transmission Corporation (TransCo) to maximize the utilization of the fiber optic assets of the power transmission facilities to lower electricity and Internet rates.

“At the onset of this administration, we repeatedly requested the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), through TransCo, to provide the details on how we can take full advantage of their fiber optic assets embedded in the grid,” said Cusi.

“I have personally asked the officials of NGCP to provide such status report, because we want to make the internet services in the country faster and more reliable with the help of our transmission facilities,” he said.

Cusi pointed out that the availability and readiness of the fiber optic assets on the transmission system could improve the electricity services of the NGCP and reduce the cost of electricity and the national broadband project.

However, the DOE as well as TransCo have yet to receive an update from the NGCP amid the sudden proliferation of full page paid print advertisements and repeated pronouncements over the media to support the government’s broadband and grid interconnection projects.

“While we are waiting for NGCP’s data and proposals on the project, there's a need to clarify the impressions that are being projected by NGCP that it is voluntarily, willing and able to provide these services for the benefit of the public," Cusi said.

Amid the apparent disregard of NGCP of the request, Cusi directed TransCo to audit the NGCP’s work program and below are the initial yet detailed findings of the company:

a) In 2012, NGCP rejected the request of the national government for the use of spare fiber for the Integrated Government Philippines (IGovPhils) Project;

b) Concealment of a contract involving the use of the national government’s transmission assets (substations, high voltage towers/poles, and high-voltage transmission lines) as a telecommunications backbone; and

c) Decommissioning and dismantling of a separately installed Fiber Optic Network used by major telecommunications companies.

Moreover, as the owner of the transmission facilities, TransCo has been instructed by Cusi to spearhead the move for the utilization of the fiber optic assets for cheaper and faster IT services as well as to lower the price of electricity.

The DOE oversees TransCo, which is mandated to protect the national government’s interests by ensuring NGCP’s compliance with the terms and conditions of the Concession Agreement and the policies of the State. Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), the NGCP was awarded the sole Concession Agreement for the country’s transmission system in 2009.

“At the end of the day, what we would like to achieve is that the consuming public would benefit from all the government deals and activities, thus we are exploring and exhausting all the potentials of the transmission system as a government-owned asset,” Cusi said.

"At the same time, the department will not hesitate to file cases against abuses or any violation of the contract which maybe discovered and proven after further investigation of the NGCP's operations and its activities," he concluded. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RAFC chair assumes DA farmer-director

BUTUAN CITY, May 6 - Recognizing the significant role of the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC), the Department of Agriculture (DA) has empowered them by designating the RAFC Chair as Farmer-Director for the month of May in time of the Farmers and Fisherfolks Month celebration.

During the flag ceremony on May 2, 2017, Caraga RAFC Chair Pedro T. Lim was formally introduced by DA-Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo as Farmer-Director for the whole month of May.

The designation of Lim is in pursuant to the Memorandum Order duly signed by Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol in recognition of RAFC’s contribution in agricultural development and to further strengthen the partnership between DA and the private sector.

As Farmer-Director, Lim will assume the roles and tasks of a DA-RFO Director in the implementation and dissemination of key programs of the agency.

However, their authority shall be limited to non-policy determining activities which should not in any way affect the government accounting rules and procedures as well as the civil service rules and regulations.

The Agricultural and Fishery Council (AFC) is the mechanism for private and public sector partnership in the development processes of the agriculture and fisheries sectors at the regional, provincial and municipal levels.

AFC which is now in its 30 years of existence, conducts monitoring and recommends agricultural projects, as well provide policy recommendations for the government decision makers.

The celebration of May as Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s month is in pursuant to the Department of Agriculture (DA) Special Order No. 88 series of 2005 giving due recognition to the contribution of farmers and fisherfolk in national development. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Pangandoy sa mag-uuma nga proyekto, gitunol na

Ni Jane B. Huqueriza

LAS NIEVES, Agusan del Norte, Mayo 6 - Pormal na nga giturn-over ang proyekto nga San Roque Small Irrigation Project sa San Roque, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte niadtong Abril 28, 2017 sa buntag.

Gisundan ang maong programa sa usa ka cutting of ribbon ug pag abri sa duha ka intake gate (left and right) sa mga opisyales sa National Irrigation Administarion-Caraga gipanguluhan ni Engr. Salome N. Layasan, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands IMO Manager ug Engr. Susan D. Lariba, Operations and Maintenace Head ug ang Irrigators Association kauban sa ilang presidente na si Franklin P. Una ug sa mga representate sa LGU nga gipanguluhan ni SB Member Jovenito N. Maliguez, Chairman-Committee of Agriculture ug Punong Barangay Marites C. Duhong sa San Roque.

Ang proyekto nga nagkantidad ug P42M gikan sa pondo sa CY 2012-2014 adunay total service area nga 200 hektarya nga maka benepisyo ug 85 ka mag-uuma nga gidumala sa mga opisyales sa San Roque-Sta. Ana Irrigators Association sa susamang lugar. Sa gi-ingon ni Oliver A. Maliguez, Senior Water Resource Facilities Technician sa NIA nga ang proyekto dugay na nga nasugdan panahon pa sa ARISP pero wala dayon kini nahuman kay wala napod kani nahatagan ug lain nga pondo para sa uban nga mga pasilidad.

“Kaniadto nga panglantaw nahimo na gayud na realidad,” sumala ni Maliguez sa iyang mensahe iyang ge saysay na ang proyekto sa San Roque Small Irrigation Project nahimo siyang parti na makab-ot nila ang ilang mga pangandoy kundiin iya pang mahinumdom nga ilang ge drawing ang lugar aron makit an gayud kung asa ang nagkinahanglan sa patubig.

Mapasalamaton si Engr. Layasan sa mga opisyales sa NIA ug LGU labina sa miyembro sa asosasyon sa tabang sa pagtukod sa proyekto. Dungag sa iyang mensahe na dili lang ang mga pasilidad ang ampingan kundi pati ang tinubgan sa tubig.

Gipasalig usab ni Engr. Lariba nga bisan libre na ang patubig padayon gihapon ang pagserbisyo sa NIA pinaagi sa paghatag ug pag conduct ug trainings sa mga benepisyaryo aron hapsay ang ilang pagpadagan sa operasyon sa ilang asosasyon.

Sa mensahe ni Una iyang gipasabot nga ang pagdawat ani nga proyekto dili sayon ang pagdumala na hisusama sa itlog nga dali lang kini mabuak kung dili ayuhon ug pagdala. (NIA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Butuanons celebrate 30th Balangay Festival

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 8 (PIA)– Butuanons are all set for this year’s 30th Balangay Festival celebration with various lined-up activities this month of May.

According to city mayor Engr. Ronnie Vicente Lagnada, this year’s celebration will kick-off on May 10 with the conduct of a motorcade at 3:00 p.m. and a grand opening ceremony at 7:00 p.m at the Libertad Sports Complex.

“This is one of the most important events as this will showcase performances by top-caliber artists who will perform the journey of Butuan from an ancient and glorious kingdom to where it will be in the future,” highlighted Lagnada.

The good mayor also bared that several party-concerts will follow daily after the grand kick-off to entertain Butuanons and visitors alike.

It was learned that Butuanons will enjoy trade fair and exhibit, various local sports events of regional, national and international prestige, and several other activities that will add glitter to the whole celebration.

Butuanons are also excited for the Mutya Hong Butuan happening on May 18 with Jason Dy as invited celebrity who will also serenade the candidates. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

20 SurSur MSMEs enroll in DTI’s ‘Mentor Me’ program

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 8 (PIA) – A total of 20 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have enrolled the Kapatid “Mentor Me” (KMME) program of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Surigao del Sur and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship, Incorporation-Go Negosyo as pilot beneficiaries.

DTI-Surigao del Sur Provincial Office chief Romel Oribe confirmed that 10 MSMEs were from the 1st District while the other 10 are from the 2nd district of the province.

“We were guided by the guidelines as to the qualifications of the mentees (MSMEs)… These 20 mentees are the regular clients of the DTI, which we feel could benefit the program,” Oribe said.

The training consists of 11 modules to be conducted in three months and will be undertaken in partnership with institutions specializing in functional areas of entrepreneurship.

DTI ARD Caraga Lolita Dorado explained that the KMME program could help resetting the MSMEs entrepreneurial mindset, where the mentors share their personal experiences in a person-to-person or heart-to-heart talk.

The KMME is aimed to assist MSMEs scale up and sustain their enterprises by equipping them with the needed skill sets by way of theoretical/conceptual discussions (lectures) and mentoring/coaching session. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DTI, DPWH converge for infra development program

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 8 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) rolled out a new convergence program that would develop infrastructure leading to manufacturing and economic zones in the bid to attract more business to these areas.

According to DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan the program, dubbed as, “Roads Leveraging Linkages for Industry and Trade” (ROLL IT) will align DPWH projects with that of DTI projects in support to local industries.

He said an instructional and orientation briefing was conducted on April 25, 2017 at Hotel Tavern to help the participants familiarize with the guidelines and techniques of the program.

The said orientation was participated by representatives from different local government units of Surigao del Norte, key industry players and other concerned agencies and stakeholders.

Negapatan said that aside from the orientation, the two agencies plan to conduct a writeshop for the said program to engage the LGUs in drafting their own proposals in preparation for 2019 ROLL IT implementation.

The ROLL IT program envisioned to further fuel the recent high growth of domestic investments as well as the surge in foreign direct investments of the country through more road projects. Through better road infrastructure connecting the industries, industrial and regional development strategies can be realized and these will further facilitate balanced development, dispersal of industries away from urban areas towards the rural areas, creating more jobs and income opportunities to more Filipinos. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

2 new lawyer-cops receive commendation medal

BUTUAN CITY, May 8 - Two police officers in Caraga, who were among the recent 3,747 bar passers received the Medalya ng Papuri (PNP Commendation Medal) during the flag-raising here on Monday.

Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Caraga police director, spearheaded the giving of awards to SPO1 Leomille Elicano and PO3 Junyvil Tumbaga after passing the 2016 Bar examination.

Elicano is assigned to the Discipline, Law, and Order Section of the Regional Personnel Human Resource Development Division while Tumbaga is an investigator of Agusan del Norte Provincial Investigation and Detective Section.

They finished the Bachelor of Laws at Father Saturnino Urios University.

“Their expertise in law can eventually help the Police Regional Office 13 in our crime solving efforts since they can provide better legal opinions or advice to our police units. May this feat serve as inspiration to other police personnel to take a step higher for their personal and professional advancement,” Felix said.

Felix added that the lawyer-cops may become commissioned officers with the rank of Police Senior Inspector if they would apply and pass the requirements of the PNP's Legal Service lateral entry program.

They will take their oath as lawyers on May 22, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PH biodiversity paves way for revitalized drug development in the country

By Geraldine Bulaon-Ducusin

BUTUAN CITY, May 8 - Philippine biodiversity offers potential leads for the development of pharmaceutical medicines, according to an outstanding researcher recently awarded by the Department of Science and Technology - National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP).

“There are endemic plants, insects, marine organisms, minerals (in the country) that could be a source of pharmacologic interventions in diseases,” says Dr. Joven Apostol, a 2017 Outstanding Filipino Researcher. Apostol, a pharmacy professor at the University of Sto. Tomas, admitted that while the presence of foreign pharmaceutical manufacturers has dipped over the years as most have shifted operations to the other countries, such drawback was in a way a blessing.

“It has awakened the Filipino spirit to become more entrepreneurial and there has been a growth spike in drug research and development in academic and research institutes and local manufacturers focusing on endemic biomaterials,” he said. “This is also partly due to the encouragement and support of the science and technology agencies of the government and other funding agencies.”

Apostol likewise pointed out that basic research is crucial in drug development. “A pharmaceutical product is only good as it is safe and effective,” he says.“A drug molecule will not advance to formulation and manufacturing without the preliminary data on its safety, effect, mechanism of action, toxicity and others – basic information on drug source, synthesis, kinetics and interactions which can only be provided by basic research.”

Research in basic pharmacology includes screening of these biomaterials for their effects on the physical and chemical processes of the living organism and on the nature and courses on diseases. Various methods of testing are employed, such as in vitro, in vivo and in silico. The results of these basic researches serve as the basis to support further studies leading to formulation and clinical use of the drug product.

Gains in the growth of the pharmaceutical sector can be sustained by continuous support to both basic and applied research. This way we can reduce our reliance to foreign manufactured drugs.

Dr. Apostol is optimistic that given the right support, structure, formation of scientists, industry, and government, it is possible that in five to ten years, the country is halfway in terms of drug discovery. In such time, the drug being developed should be in the clinical trial phase and the company doing the development should have spent half a billion dollars, he said.

DOST-NRCP is the country’s lead agency in basic research, and is mandated to promote and support basic and problem-oriented researches, particularly those which are multidisciplinary, in the sciences as well as in the humanities. NRCP supports researches that identify and provide solutions to national issues and problems, and generate new knowledge in preparation for the future.

This June 2017, NRCP will host the 17th Science Council of Asia Conference to be participated in by renowned researchers and scientists from 31 academic institutions and organizations of the 18 member countries across Asia. For details visit http://www.nrcp.dost.gov.ph/previous-issues/173-ph-to-host-the-17th-sca-conference. (S&T Media Service, DOST-STII/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte guv OKs P10M for Santiago public market

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, May 8 - Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba approved the funding for this year of P10,000,000 for the construction of a Premium Public Market in the municipality of Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

It was learned that due to lack of funds, the local government of Santiago requested governor Matba for funding of ten million pesos for the construction of the said project through Sangguniang Bayan Resolution Nos. 12 and 14 series 2017.

Considering that it is one of the province’s infrastructure development thrusts, governor Matba provided and allocated the funding and to be transferred to the municipality of Santiago through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

For immediate implementation of the said project, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan authorized governor Matba to sign the said MOA with the local government of Santigao through Sanggunian Resolution No. 124-2017, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Gawad Kalasag validation team conducts regional field validation in Dinagat Islands

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, May 8 - The Annual Gawad KALASAG Search for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance 2017 once again conducted the Regional Field Validation on April 25, 2017 held at the Provincial Guest Center, Brgy. Cuarinta, this town.

The validation aims to check how resilient the province of Dinagat Islands in terms of disaster risk reduction and to check the best practices in terms of plans and policy implementation.

The process composes of two phases wherein the first is to check the documents as mode of verification to their consistency to plans implementation and the second is to validate the disaster risk reduction’s related infrastructure at the ground level such as the operation center and the evacuation center and others.

The regional validators is spearheaded by its chairperson Jeffrey A. Ramo from Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga with their counterparts from National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga, Graziella C. Harting; Lorene S. Catedral from Office of Civil Defense Caraga; and Lorijane D. Sacote of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga.

Members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) are in full attendance to participate the said regional validation. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Army, GMA Kapuso Foundation deliver free medical services in AgSur town

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, May 8 - The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, Phil. Army in partnership with the GMA Kapuso Foundation and Municipal Health Office of Veruela, this province has brought services to the children thru “Operation Tuli” held recently at Veruela Gymnasium.

The group continues with the delivery of free services after the successful distribution of school supplies in the municipalities of Agusan del Sur.

The whole-day activity benefited 371 children coming from different barangays of Veruela. Said program was actively participated by doctors and nurses of Veruela MHO and reinforced by the Medical Aidmen of 401st Infantry Brigade and personnel of Philippine National Police. While waiting for circumcision, some children availed free haircut offered by 26IB skilled personnel at the venue.

Also, Veruela Mayor Myrna Mondejar expressed her gratitude to the major stakeholders especially to GMA Kapuso Foundation, Department of Education (DepEd) Veruela and 26IB for choosing the municipality to be the recipient of said program that benefited her constituents especially the children and young adult who cannot afford to go to hospital for circumcision expenses.

Meanwhile, Lt Colonel Pagayon said that the program is timely and appropriate with the summer season and non-school days. “It was a chance to avail free services beneficial to the young males of the municipality as this had been part of the physical/mechanical hygiene practice. This is one concrete basis that the 26IB of the 401st Brigade thru the leadership of Colonel Cristobal Zaragoza, together with partner stakeholders are working in unity to provide the needs of the people by bringing to them the government’s programs and services,” he added. (26IB Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Loreto SLP beneficiaries learn entrepreneurship, convenience store management

LORETO, Agusan del Sur, May 8 – “We’ve learned a lot from this training especially in managing our business.”

This was the statement of Tessie Nierves, president of Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Association in La Caridad, this town as she summed up the feelings of the group members.

The Skills Training on Store Management and Warehousing was sponsored by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under the SLP in partnership with Negosyo Center – Agusan del Sur (NC-AdS) held recently at Brgy. Sto. Tomas, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.

Some 50 members of the association attended said event. The association will be putting-up a store for general motor parts and mechanical services as identified by the beneficiaries under the (DSWD)-SLP Fund.

The group was introduced to the basics of entrepreneurship and marketing. The session also included inputs to capacitate them to grow their business via proper budgeting of their expenses and appreciating the value of savings through B.E.S.T. Game approach.

The NC-AdS has also scheduled a follow-up training for the group on Financial Wellness on the third week of May 2017. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

College students to participate in ASEAN campus forum in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 (PIA) – College students from various schools and universities here are set to participate in the ASEAN campus forum on May 11, 2017 at the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) CBE-Function Hall, this city.

As the lead agency, PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga said that the topics that will be discussed in the said forum include Philippine chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 2017, overview of ASEAN, positive impact of the ASEAN and how this opens opportunities for all Filipinos.

“Additional talking points are Pre-employment, Employment, Wage from the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board; HIV/AIDS and Teenage Pregnancy from the Department of Health; and Regional Development Plan from the National Economic and Development Authority,” bared Caga.

Caga added that PIA Director General Harold Clavite and Deputy Director General Gregorio Angelo Villar will personally grace the event, together with other distinguished guest speakers.

“It is hoped that as we work together using the awareness on how Filipinos can participate in and benefit from the programs, policies and services of the government and the ASEAN, we can best define our roles in pursuing the goals for sustainable development,” Caga expressed.

The 2017 ASEAN is anchored on the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” (JPG/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Mutant Adlai as alternative staple food crop for Filipinos

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 - Agriculture research specialists from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) continue to improve its mutant varieties of Adlai or Job’s Tears, an alternative source of food to its better-known cousin crops such as rice and corn.

Adlai is twice as rich in protein as rice, and is known among indigenous communities throughout Asia as a source of flour, coffee, tea, wine, beer and vinegar, among other products. It has anti-tumor and other medicinal properties which can help mitigate the symptoms of allergies, and diabetes. Moreover, Adlai is also known for its resilience against extreme conditions brought about by climate change.

PNRI researchers are currently breeding mutant crops of the Ginampay variety of Adlai. The putative mutants are already in the fifth generation. After irradiating the seeds with doses of 100 to 200 gray (Gy), they are planted and grown for further observation. The Adlai crops are to be developed up to the eight generations to complete the mutation breeding process. The experimental crops matured up to 28 days earlier than the unirradiated variety, while also being 17-24 percent shorter.

Using gamma radiation, PNRI has been working since 2013 to improve the agronomic traits of Adlai by making mutant varieties that yield more grain and mature earlier, while also having shorter heights to make the crops more resistant to lodging during typhoons.

Aside from developing mutant varieties, PNRI also conducted studies to improve the fertilizer, soil nutrient and water management practices for Adlai. The field experiments were done in partnership with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) under an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) project on “Enhancing Productivity of Locally-Underused Crops Through Dissemination of Mutated Germplasm and Evaluation on Soil, Nutrient and Water Management Practices.”

These improvements will also complement the Food Staples Sufficiency Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA), which encourages the diversification of staple food crops beyond rice by increasing production, ensuring market availability and lowering its prices. (DOST-STII/PIA-Caraga)

Army condemns NPA violation of CARHRIHL in Surigao Norte

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 9 - The Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army joins the local government officials, the clergy, the civil society organizations and the peace advocates in strongly condemning the violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) for the continuous use of land mines by the New People’s Army (NPA).

In a report, the army troopers while responding to extortion complaints from civilians encountered more or less seven communist terrorists which resulted to the recovery of an improvised land mine planted near Sitio Kauyangan, Brgy Camam-onan, Gigaquit, this province.

The said encounter happened Monday morning, May 8, 2017 which lasted for ten minutes that also led to recovery of other war materials and foodstuffs.

"These communists have been there for a week conducting extortion to poor masses despite of the conditions of President Duterte to Stop NPA extortions before the resumption of Peace Talks. We also received reports that this group is conducting recruitment to minors on the said barangay," said 30IB Civil Military Operations Officer 2Lt Jonel Castillo.

It can be recalled that President Duterte set conditions which include the cessation of extortion activities conducted by the NPA rebels before the resumption of Peace Talks last March of this year.

"It is clear that these communists do not want peace for the communities. They continue conducting extortion to poor people, harassing communities and recruiting minors to join their group," said 30IB Commanding Officer Col. Rico Amaro.

"It is also a violation of the NPAs on the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHIHL) regarding the use of land mines," Amaro added. (30IB, Philippine Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PSA to host 10th national confab for solemnizing officers

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) under the leadership of the National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Dr. Lisa Grace S. Bersales, organized a nationwide convention for the Solemnizing Officers to be held on May 23-25, 2017 at the Atrium Hotel, Limketkai Mall, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Priests, pastors, imams and other solemnizing officers from various religious sects and denominations, city/municipal mayors, members of the judiciary, law students, local civil registrars from all over the country are invited and will converge during the 10th National Convention of Solemnizing Officers.

The three-day event will include paper presentations on updates on marriage laws and registration procedures and sharing of experiences and best practices in the solemnization of marriages. Dr. Bersales will cap the convention with the PSA’s future directions.

The theme of this year’s national convention is “Pilipinong Rehistrado, Matatag na Kinabukasan ay Sigurado.” Said theme is in line with the global celebration of the decade of Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), 2015 to 2024. (PSA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Wenifredo Maldo: Courage and determination turns dream a reality

By Gil E. Miranda

“His leadership allows the farmers in Baleguian, turning dreams of tomorrow into realities today!”

Wenifredo S. Maldo, 53 years old, is known to be a man who always stood up for what he believes is right. His friends commonly know him as “Bimbot,” whose passion in farming was a wonderful and rewarding experience for him and his family.

Though they were lived with extreme economic challenges, his family used to live in an old house made of wood, but in the years passed they thrived well in a furnished single-level large concrete structure, covered with galvanized sheet-iron roof.

Bimbot’s simple dream now becomes a reality because two of his five sons are now registered seamen and employed in an international vessel. His other two sons also graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Agriculture and BS Elementary Education. The youngest is still in Grade VII.

He is an agrarian-beneficiary of 2.5 hectares farmland in Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte that is devoted to planting rice. One-half hectare of his farmland then was inherited from his parents, and the two hectares was registered under his name, both were acquired under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

According to Bimbot, before his family acquired the land, they had encountered harassment when the landowner ordered them to move out, but because they stood up for their rights and fought to stay until the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) awarded the land to them. His parents then cultivated the one-half hectare and registered two-hectare under his name.

Everyday, Bimbot took off to his farm, bring a bolo to remove weeds on the ground. Out of his cultivated 2.5 hectares, he managed an additional eight hectares under an agreed leased rental agreement from his neighbor’s farm land.

His rice-farming venture was so profitable that he was able to buy his own Van, Isuzo Elf Truck, and a motorcycle. He purchased farm implements that include five unit turtle power tiller with five units machines and three units threshers.

He eventually increased his yield up to 50 percent or an average of 80 cavans per hectare and sold at P17.50 per kilo, with a net income of P855 thousand at two-cropping per year.

Other income came from farm implements he purchased which gave him an additional earning of P79,200 from the five units turtle and P58,318 from the three units thresher per year.

Bimbot was active in cooperative work and held the Chairmanship of Baleguian Organic Farmers Irrigators Association (BOFIA) for eight long years.

During his term, he made BOFIA holding an asset of P40 million consisting of farm implements from Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS), which provides an income of more than P200,000 annually.

Also, he was the recipient of recognition from a national leadership of Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP), a credit program of DAR, Land Bank of the Philippines and the Department of Agriculture for production capital to farmers.

Sometime in 1994, Bimbot was elected Barangay Council up to the year 2000. He became a three-term Sangguniang Bayan member from 2004 to 2013.

According to Bimbot, farmers in Baleguian dreamt of additional irrigation facility for the expansion of 180 hectares rice lands now came to reality when DAR constructed the P33.1 million irrigation project in Baleguian, Jabonga.

“Irrigation facility was a great help, it will bring major impact on the lives of the farmers in Jabonga,” Bimbot said.

The farmers are thankful for sharing his expertise, and his vision to transform BOFIA to become rice dealer someday.

Today, he is now a living testimony of what CARP did to his life and family, which is now a promise of a bright future.

“Everything happens because of my determination and hard work,” said Bimbot. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Army provides support during school supplies distribution in AgSur

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, May 9 - The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion of Philippine Army has provided support during the distribution of school supplies to the different schools in the municipalities of Lapaz, Veruela, San Luis and Talacogon, all of Agusan del Sur.

Said activity was held recently in collaborattion with the GMA Kapuso Foundation.

This project of GMA Kapuso Foundation dubbed as “Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan” distributed 3,000 bags with writing materials intended to the less privileged elementary school pupils in the calamity prone areas in Agusan del Sur.

The distribution of school supplies in the area of 26th Infantry Battalion under 401st Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division started on April 26, 2017 and April 28, 2017.

The said activity benefitted 3,000 incoming kindergarten and grade one pupils of Veruela, Lapaz, San Luis and Talacogon towns.

“The 26IB is always ready to help the communities. One way of doing this is to actively support respectable organizations like GMA Kapuso Foundation in its efforts to alleviate the sufferings of our needy people and promote education among the children,” said 26IB commanding officer LTC Rommel Pagayon. (26IB, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

News Feature: Iron fortified rice, a key to healthy lifestyle

There are many issues confronting health development especially in areas where improper diet and food shortage occurs. One of these issues is the rise of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) and malnutrition cases among children in the region. IDA is the shortage of red blood cells (hemoglobin) in the body to meet the normal amount which is 120 mg per liter. This occurs when the collected iron in the liver is already consumed due to non-intake of iron-rich food in a period of time.

Rice remained as the staple food of Filipinos. A study research conducted by Southeast Asian Regional Center (SEARCA) commissioned by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PRRI) said that Filipinos eat an average of 119 kg of rice annually in 2009 to 2010. This indicates that rice plays a vital role to address health issues in the country thus, this was prioritized in Research and Development Institutions (RDIs).

In line with this, RDIs have come up with several studies to improve the production and health benefit of rice. For instance, rice is being genetically modified in some research institutions in order to produce new varieties, enhance its function, and production that can cater to the demands of the population.

The emergence of Iron Rice Premix (IRP) and Iron Fortified Rice (IFR) paved the way to address health and nutrition issues plaguing the region. These are research- based products from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) that aimed to slash the rise of anemia and malnutrition cases in the community. IFR is a blend of well-milled rice and mineral iron in rice kernel form.

Importance of IFR in the body

IFR is the only type of rice blended with iron. Iron is one of the most important minerals in the body. As cited from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the significant function of iron is to carry oxygen in the hemoglobin or red blood cells throughout the body so cells can produce energy. Thus, it enhances body strength, activates brain performance, and boosts body resistance against sickness. Iron also helps eliminate carbon dioxide from the body.

Further, the recommended level of iron in the body is classified by gender and age. Males aging from 14 to 18 are recommended with 11 mg, and aged 19 and above must have 8 mg daily intake. The daily intakes for females aged 14 to 18, 19 to 50, and 51 and above must have 15 mg, 18 mg, and 8 mg, respectively. This indicates that females need more iron than males.

The daily intake of IFR contributes in many ways especially to pregnant and breastfeeding women. Thus, the DOST 1 is continuously promoting this technology to its target firms for production and diffusion to the grassroots.

The DOST’s Iron Rice Premix (IRP) and Iron Fortified Rice (IFR) is in line with the Philippine Food Fortification Act of 2000 (R.A. 8976), an act that protects and promotes the right of health for the people and instills health awareness among them.

IFR is being adopted by several firms in the region through the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) under the leadership of Director Armando Q. Ganal. One of its successful adoptor is the Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corporation in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan owned by Racky D. Doctor.

The company continues to expand its production on IFR through a partnership with other government agencies. Aside from IFR, it has also adopted other FNRI- DOST developed food technologies namely, Rice- Monggo (RIMO) curls, and Rice-Monggo Instant Baby Food blend. These developed food technologies are available in schools, relief areas and the public. (DOST/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan cops ready for Balangay Festival 2017

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 - Security measures are in place to ensure peaceful and secured Balangay Festival 2017 that will be held in the city on May 10-19, 2017, Caraga Police director Chief Supt Rolando Felix said.

A total of 200 cops will be deployed to the Balangay Festival aside from the troops from the Philippine Army and force multipliers to support the security operations.

The Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Local Government Units, other government agencies, and private sectors will collaborate to make this event successful.

“Making this Balangay celebration peaceful and orderly is our contribution to boost the tourism in Butuan City and attract more investors from different parts of the world,” Felix affirmed.

He also appealed to the citizens to immediately report to the police suspicious activities in the area and to approach the nearest police assistance desks for any concern of peace and order.

The upcoming Balangay Festival 2017 will showcase the “Butuan Brand” introducing the city of Butuan as the Philippine’s prime tourist and investment destination with colorful Balangay float parade. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan dad highlights Balangay Festival celebration, city’s transformation

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA)– “Butuan City is now embarking on a transformation journey. From an old river kingdom, Butuan will ascend towards becoming a great hub city of opportunities for all. We are switching BUTUAN ON.”

This was the statement of Butuan City Mayor Engr. Ronnie Vicente Lagnada during a press conference on 2017 Balangay Festival here.

“We own this transformation journey together. We have a vision, and that vision inspires us to look beyond our horizons. Our Balangay will again travel oceans and high seas. We will be a kingdom unearthed; a city ascending,” added Lagnada.

The good mayor also announced that 'BUTUAN ON' is a movement towards a vision. "Lagsik na Dakbayan (Alive City) is that vision; our end state. BUTUAN ON is the rebirth, rediscovery, and rebuilding of our city towards that vision. My fellow Butuanons, we have big dreams for Butuan. We want it to be a competitive, livable, sustainable, and smart eco city," he added.

Lagnada reiterated that year’s celebration will kick-off Wednesday, May 10 with the conduct of a motorcade at 3:00 p.m. and a grand opening ceremony at 7:00 p.m at the Libertad Sports Complex. “This is one of the most important events as this will showcase performances by top-caliber artists who will perform the journey of Butuan from an ancient and glorious kingdom to where it will be in the future,” he highlighted.

Also, city councilor Cherry Busa, Sanggunaing Panlungsod (SP) committee chair on Tourism bared that the city government ensures active cooperation and participation of all the barangays in the city for this year's monthlong celebration of the Balangay Festival. She also emphasized that Butuan has a brand of being one of the historic lands in the country.

Meanwhile, the 26 candidates of the 2017 Mutya Hong Butuan were introduced to the media and invited the public to witness the event. The said pageant is happening on May 18, 2017 at the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gymnasium, this city.

Lagnada further revealed that the 2017 Mutya Hong Butuan aims to gain participation from the 86 barangays, thus, giving them the power to choose andendorse the chosen candidate per barangay and provide the candidates' needs all throughout the pageant.

“As Butuan City aims to soar high, the best lady who wins the pageant will become the brand ambassadress to help in the tourism and investment promotion,” underscored Lagnada. (JPG/Butuan City PIO/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd SurSur launches Oplan Balik Eskwela 2017

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 10 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Schools Division on Tuesday has launched the Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) in the city through the conduct of the convergence meeting together with the education stakeholders aimed to safeguard the smooth opening of classes on June.

DepEd Schools Division Superintendent Marilou Dedumo revealed that a total of 380 elementary public schools under the supervision of Surigao del Sur Schools Division are now operating this year because of the opening of the Indigenous People's schools, a slight increase as compared to 360 schools last year.

“No child shall be left behind, we would like to provide basic education regardless of the culture, regardless of the race of the group, everybody has the right to education,” Dedumo stressed.

Meanwhile, the 2017 Brigada Eskwela kick-off program, also known as the National Schools Maintenance Week is set on May 12 at 8:00 a.m. at Tagbina National High School (TNHS), Tagbina, Surigao del Sur. TNHS was the 2016 Brigada Eskwela National Best Implementer-Large School Secondary Category. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

100 benefit from 'operation tuli' in Butuan City

By Christine Mah

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA) - A total of 100 boys benefited from the operation tuli (circumcision) conducted recently by the barangay council of Bancasi here in partnership with the 4th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, Philippine Army at the barangay hall of the said barangay.

Brgy. Captain Fidel G. Cineza, Jr. said the activity is held every year in preparation for their upcoming fiesta.

"The activity is intended only for the residents of Brgy. Bancasi and on first come first served basis," he said.

He also said that free medicines were provided to the beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, CMO commanding offcier Lt. Col. Manuel Valdez IV they have extended manpower assistance to the barangay. "We are glad to be of service to the community," Valdez said.

Families and parents of the children expressed their gratitude to the organizers because of the savings in medical expenses. (PIA-Caraga)

Army nabs NPA leader in Agusan del Sur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 10 – A high ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province was arrested by soldiers on Tuesday, May 9, 2017.

According to the report from 401st Brigade, the top NPA leader was identified as Rany Gargar Undayon alias ‘Ian/Abloy’ of Guerilla Front (GF) 19. He was arrested in Purok-1, Barangay Libertad, this town.

‘Ka Ian’ was the commanding officer of Platoon 7 of the NPAs operating in Prosperidad and San Francisco both of Agusan del Sur; Lianga and Barobo of Surigao del Sur. He has four Warrants of Arrest for Murder and Frustrated Murders for crimes committed in the communities.

Major General Benjamin Madrigal of the 4th Infantry Division congratulated the operatives as he exhorted 401st Brigade under Col. Cristobal Zaragoza to continue pursuing relentlessly the NPA bandits.

The arrest of the NPA leader came on the eve of the turn–over of command of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion from LTC Patrick De Villa to LTC Rudy Parallag. (401st Brigade, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Feature: Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos: a prescription to good nutrition

By Celina Ann Z. Javier

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 - The Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF) is a set of dietary guidelines based on the eating pattern, lifestyle, and health status of Filipinos.

The NGF contains all the nutrition messages to healthy living for all age groups from infants to adults, pregnant and lactating women, and the elderly.

The first NGF released in 1990 was composed of five messages called “Dietary Guidelines for Filipinos.”

In 2000, a revised nutritional guidelines composed of ten messages was released and it was called the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos.

In 2012, the Technical Working Group (TWG) for the revision of the NGF, led by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) developed a new set of the NGF, based on the 2000 edition.

The 2012 NGF now includes the basis and justification for each of the ten nutritional and health message.

Below are the new messages of the 2012 NGF:

- Eat a variety of foods everyday to get the nutrients needed by the body.

- Breastfeed infants exclusively from birth up to six months and then give appropriate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding for two years and beyond for optimum growth and development.

- Eat more vegetables and fruits to get the essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for regulation of body processes.

- Consume fish, lean meat, poultry, egg, dried beans or nuts daily for growth and repair of body tissues.

- Consume milk, milk products, and other calcium-rich food such as small fish and shellfish, everyday for healthy bones and teeth.

- Consume safe foods and water to prevent diarrhea and other food-and water-borne diseases.

- Use iodized salt to prevent Iodine Deficiency Disorders.

- Limit intake of salty, fried, fatty, and sugar-rich foods to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

- Attain normal body weight through proper diet and moderate physical activity to maintain good health and help prevent obesity.

- Be physically active, make healthy food choices, manage stress, avoid alcoholic beverage, and do not smoke to help prevent lifestyle-related non-communicable disease.

The revisions were made based on the results of the 2008 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by FNRI-DOST.

Based on the said survey, the Filipino household diet fell below the recommended levels except for niacin, which is above the recommended.

Furthermore, all nutrients and energy were below the 100 percent adequacy levels. This was the basis of NGF messages no. 1, 3, and 4.

There is no single food that contains all the nutrients that our body needs so eating a variety of food ensures that daily nutritional needs are met.

There was also a decrease in consumption of fruits from 77 grams in 205 to 54 grams in 2008 and also a decrease in milk consumption from 44 grams to 42 grams. These results were the basis of message no. 3 and 5, respectively.

Vegetables and fruits are the main sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while milk is a good source of calcium.

Low urinary iodine excretion is still a prevalent problem among pregnant and lactating mothers, indicating to low iodine intake. Iodine is important during pregnancy because it is needed for the brain development of the infant while lactating mothers must have adequate supply of iodine in their breastmilk. This is the message of NGF no. 7.

The total cholesterol level among Filipino adults increased from 8.5 (mg/dL) in 2003 to 10.2 (mg/dL) in 2008.

High cholesterol level may be attributed to the high consumption of sodium rich foods by Filipinos.

Salt and soy sauce were among the top 10 widely used miscellaneous food items used by Filipinos.

In addition, heart diseases ranked first among the causes of death based on the 2005 Department of Health survey. This is the reason behind no. 8 of NGF.

Excessive intake of salt and soy sauce can result to high blood pressure especially to salt-sensitive individuals. Persistent high blood pressure can result to cardiovascular diseases.

There is also a decreasing trend of physical inactivity among Filipinos and also a large percentage of Filipino smokers at 31.0% and drinkers at 26.9%. These situations were the basis of messages no. 9 and 10 of the NGF.

People are always encouraged to exercise at least thirty minutes a day, three to five times a week.

Limit alcohol drinking to one drink per day for women and two drinks for men is also advised.

One alcoholic drink is equivalent to one and half ounce distilled beverage such as gin or 12 ounces or a bottle of beer or four ounces wine or half glass wine or an ounce of 100 proof whiskey.

Let’s practice the ten nutritional guidelines to achieve good health and optimal nutritional status.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.; FNRI Facebook page: facebook.com/FNRI-DOST; FNRI Twitter account: twitter.com/FNRI-DOST. (DOST-FNRI S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Go for fruits this summer – they’re cheaper

By Regina M. Pagaspas

Everyone looks forward to the season we all love – summer! It is a season for rest and recreation. It is the best time to have fun in the sun, enjoy recreation and sports activities or simply indulge in favorite foods.

Foods that we truly enjoy during summer are the tropical fruits, such as ripe or green mangoes, papaya, chico, pineapple, melon and watermelon, among others. Fruits should be a regular part of our diet. Fruits provide vitamins and minerals needed in the improvement of the body’s immune system. Just like vegetables, fruits also provide dietary fiber that helps regulate bowel movement, thus preventing constipation which is a common problem to some people, particularly among elderly and pregnant women. They also play a role in the prevention and control of certain diseases like cancer and coronary heart disease.

Fruits have natural unique tastes and sweetness that most people like. There are many ways by which they can be prepared and truly enjoyed. Some can be eaten as whole, sliced and used as topping for cakes and pastries, or salads. Some can be chopped or blended to make refreshing drinks, such as fruit shakes and juices, which can be sources of additional fluids that our body needs during summer.

In these times of economic difficulties, many people have learned to forego things that are not their priorities. Fruits on the table to some people are luxury. Despite the delightful taste and the benefits they provide, some people do not avail of fruits because of budget limitations. Expenses should be prioritized according to needs, and fruits are additional expense, so to speak.

However, there are actually more fruits to enjoy during summer! Aside from being abundant at this time of year, their prices are relatively cheaper than in any other months. If we only take advantage of buying and eating fruits during summer, we can also enjoy the health and nutritional benefits of fruits to the maximum! More importantly, we follow message #3 of the 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos which recommends eating of more vegetables and fruits everyday to get the essential vitamins, mineral and fiber for regulation of body processes. So, why not take a double dose of fruit treats this summer?

Here is a delightful and satisfying concoction that will surely be a refreshing treat for everyone!

Fruit Compote

Ingredients:

2 pcs banana, medium-sized, lacatan, sliced

2 pcs mangoes, medium-sized kalabaw, ripe, scooped into balls

2 cups melon, scooped into balls

2 cups papaya, ripe scooped into balls

1 cup pineapple, tidbits, slightly boiled in syrup

2 cups watermelon, scooped into balls

2 tablespoon calamansi juice

syrup to cover fruits

ice cubes

Procedure:

Prepare thick syrup by boiling 1cup sugar and 1 cup water. Cool, set aside. Mix fruits gently. Add syrup and ice cubes to chill. Serve cold.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

DSWD-Caraga launches Larawan 3.0, compendium of Pantawid Pamilya partner-beneficiaries’ success stories

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga officially launched on Wednesday the Larawan 3.0, the official compendium of success stories of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in the region.

This year’s version highlights the story of the Manobo Tribe in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, being one of the largest Indigenous Peoples (IP) groups in Caraga. The aforementioned tribe is a partner-beneficiary of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous People in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (MCCT-IP in GIDAs).

“For years now, we have been maximizing our convergence strategy to ensure that the level of well-being of all our Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program partner-beneficiaries especially the IP are improved from survival to subsistence and from subsistence to self-sufficiency,” said DSWD Caraga OIC Regional Director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim.

“This compendium aims to share a portion of the success that our partner-beneficiaries have earned through the intervention of the program,” added Lim.

In the late part of the Monday convocation for the month of May, the compendium was launched by OIC RD Lim, Assistant Regional Director for Administration Nerisa T. Murih and General Administration and Support Services Division Chief Ramel F. Jamen.

After the launching, copies of compendium will be distributed to the Municipal/City Local Government Unitss, Provincial Local Government Units, partner-agencies and DSWD Field Offices nationwide. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Army supports mobile munisipyo 'serbisyo on the go' program in Agusan Sur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 10 - The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, Phil. Army continued its active contribution in the community development program thru the conduct of the Mobile Munisipyo “Serbisyo On the Go” Program of the local government unit of Talacogon held in Barangay Batucan, Talacogon, this province.

Said program is an incessant delivery of different basic services targeting the indigent populace in all Barangays in the municipality of Talacogon under the supervision of mayor Jesryl Masendo.

While the local government unit and its agency delivering their services, the 26IB skilled personnel offered free services such as free haircut, reflexology/hilot, provided security and manpower assistance.

Some 700 local populace beneficiaries of said barangay were provided the different services offered by different agencies such as: inquiries and application for Business Licensing; Civil registry; Social Services for senior Citizen and person with disability; Insurance Application for Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative (ASELCO); Fire safety tips and registration for business establishments by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP); Appraise and Access real properties from the Accessor’s Office; Civil Registrations and Updates; Agricultural and Veterinary advices.

The municipal nutrition office also offered free Nutritional Feeding while the municipal health office provided free services by conducting “Libreng Tuli” (Circumcision), Medicine distribution, medical check-up and consultation, Schistosomiasis treatment and diagnosis.

Also, the Red Cross team of Caraga joined the activity through facilitating bloodletting activities, blood typing, Hemoglobin determination and blood pressure test.

Meanwhile, 26IB commanding officer Lt Colonel Rommel Pagayon assured the LGU of Talacogon and its people of its advocacy in supporting the LGU community development program in the area of responsibility by providing personnel in the delivery of different basic services.

He also added that this advocacy is also one of 401st Infantry Brigade’s efforts under Colonel Cristobal Zaragoza. Aside from providing security to the people but to offer free services along the whole area of responsibility of said Army brigade. (26IB, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

SurSur town holds 'hasud serbisyo VJP 2017'

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 11 (PIA) – The local government unit of Carrascal headed by Mayor Vicente “VJ” H. Pimentel III recently launched the “Hasud Serbisyo VJP (Valued and Just information and services closer to the People of Carrascal)" program at Adlay Gymnasium, Brgy. Adlay in Carrascal town.

The launching program was highlighted with the accomplishments of the current administration and several projects implemented by the past administration under the leadership of his father now provincial governor of this province, Gov. Vicente Pimentel, Jr.

Other programs and projects that are up for implementation were also revealed.

Mayor Pimentel said the "Hasud Serbisyo VJP" program will be conducted twice of every year to the 14 barangays of the said municipality.

Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Alfred Arreza acknowledged the contribution of the mining companies in the realization of the program.

It can be recalled that the 1st Information and Service Caravan was conducted last year to 14 barangays benifiting around 7,000 individuals.

This year’s "Hasud Serbisyo VJP" offered free services such as free haircut, eye check-up, supplemental feeding, medical and dental mission, laboratory examinations (urinalysis, blood typing, blood sugar), rabies vaccination, distribution of vegetable seeds, operation tuli, and among others. (with a report from LGU Carrascal/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Feature: Get the best from fresh fruits

By Ma. Susana O. Encarnacion

The scorching heat signals the coming of the summer season. There are a lot of wonderful things we can indulge ourselves into to lessen the heat. We can take a plunge in the pool or just relax at home sipping an icy cold glass of our favorite fruit shake or cold water.

But if there’s one good thing about summer, it is the abundance of fresh fruits to really enjoy. But do you know how to choose the best one among our favorite fruits? Here are some tips when choosing our favorite fruits:

For apples: Look for firm and well-colored fruit. Avoid bruised fruit or one that yields to slight pressure on the skin. Apples may be refrigerated to prolong freshness. Apples are said to soften ten times faster at room temperature.

For bananas: Look for bananas which are firm, bright and free of bruises or other injuries. Avoid those which are bruised and with discolored skin. They are best stored at room temperature.

For grapes: It is best to look for well-colored and plump grapes firmly attached to the stem. Avoid soft, moldy or wrinkled grapes and those with bleached areas around the stem ends. Don’t let grapes get wet. Wash them just before eating.

For guavas: It is best to look for soft green fruit with a fragrant aroma. Avoid hard fruit. Guavas are best ripened at room temperature. Ripe guavas will keep only for a day or two but the pulp can be frozen.

For oranges: Look for firm, heavy fruits with fresh, bright looking skin that is smooth. Lightweight oranges are likely to lack flesh and juice. Very rough skin texture means thick skin and less flesh. Oranges keep fresh for only one week or two if refrigerated. They yield the most juice if kept at room temperature.

For papaya: Look for those with firm and unblemished fruit whose green color is turning yellow. Avoid those which are solid green or mushy or with bruises. Papayas are best ripened in paper bag at room temperature until softened and golden yellow.

Fruits are best enjoyed when they are eaten at their freshest. The above tips can be used as our guide in choosing the best for our favorite fruits. Some fruits like mango, papaya, guavas and citrus are rich sources of vitamin C, which help prevent scurvy.

Likewise, they are very important in increasing resistance to infection and facilitating the absorption of non-heme iron. Yellow fruits, on the other hand, are beta-carotene rich and common fruits like bananas, melon and pineapple contribute additional vitamins and minerals which are good for the body.

Fruits like vegetables provide dietary fiber that aids in regular bowel movement. Eating fruits alone however, will not provide all the nutrients our bodies need. The human body needs more than 40 different nutrients for good health.

As suggested in the 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos developed by the Technical Working Group headed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-DOST), no single food can provide all the nutrients in the amounts needed. Remember, that the cliché: “eating a balanced diet for good health and nutrition," still stands.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Army launches 'adopt-an-IP community program'

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, May 11 - The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion in partnership with GMA Kapuso Foundation, local government unit of San Luis, Agusan del Sur has recently launched the first ever Adopt-An-IP Community Program in Brgy. Mahagsay, San Luis.

This is in connection with the 26IB’s “Ever Onward Caravan: Sari-saring Serbisyo Sa Agusan” - a delivery of different services by skilled personnel of 26IB with the support from GMA Kapuso Foundation, local government units and municipal health office of San Luis.

This endeavor benefited more or less 1,000 indigenous peoples belonging to the Banwaon tribe of Brgy. Mahagsay.

In respect of their tradition, the activity highlighted with a ritual offered to their Magbabaya/God (offering pig and chicken) followed by a "pulong-pulong." The Banwaon tribe enjoyed the following services such as giving of school supplies by GMA Kapuso Foundation, medicines and vitamins and foodstuff supported by the local government unit of San Luis, Agusan del Sur.

To make the activity more meaningful, the 26th Infantry Battalion led by Lt Colonel Rommel Pagayon also offered the following services: Giving of food supplies, fun games to children with corresponding cash prizes, free haircut and giving of token to the Datus (elders). In accepting of their belief, “Padampulot” (eating and drink with datus/elders) was held prior end of the activity.

Datu Napungahan, Supreme Datu of the tribe, expressed his utmost gratitude in behalf of his tribe to GMA Kapuso Foundation, 26IB personnel, San Luis PNP, LGU San Luis and Municipal Health Office for bringing different services to his people. "Joy and enthusiasm had seen before the eyes of all the beneficiaries of the program. Despite the unfavorable location of their community, the benefactors initiated to pursue the program," he added.

Likewise, local authorities of Brgy. Mahagsay gladly welcomed the benefactors thru providing manpower support, utilized their Alimaongs (tribal defender) as force protector and Brgy. Health Worker to facilitate the vitamins distribution.

Col. Cristobal Zaragoza, 401st Brigade Commander, also said that the leadership of 401st Infantry Brigade is on the continuous process of knocking and linkaging with the different stakeholders in order to bring different free services especially to the indigents particular to the indigenous people of Agusan province. (26IB, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga RIACAT-VAWC focal persons to join anti-TIP confab in Cebu

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 12 (PIA) – The focal persons for Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Trafficking – Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) Caraga coming from the different government agencies are set to participate in the National Conference on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (TIP) on July 6-7, 2017 in Montebello Villa Hotel Resort, Banilad, Cebu City.

Said activity is spearheaded by the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation – Integrated Development Center, Incorporated (JPIC-IDC, Inc.), in partnership with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Karl Kubel Stiftung of Germany (KKS).

According to regional director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga and lead agency of RIACAT-VAWC, the national conference is aimed to win renewed commitment for intensified efforts to combat human trafficking, promote public consciousness and other preventive measures, and ensures protection of victims and reinforced prosecution.

“Trafficking in person is one of the worst forms of violation of human rights that impaired the sense of worth and dignity of the victims. Almost all places are affected by human trafficking, whether as a place of origin, transit or destination for victims. Realizing the continued impact of this problem calls on every advocate and duty-bearers to recognize our shared responsibility,” relayed Lim.

It was also learned that apart from attending the national conference on Anti-TIP, the member agencies thru its focal persons will also convene on June 1-2, 2017 for its second quarterly meeting to be held in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI-SDS briefs media partners on KMME Program

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 12 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Education (DTI)-Surigao del Sur provincial office has briefed the local media partners on the benefits of the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) program held recently at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel, this city.

DTI assistant regional director Lolita I. Dorado said the KMME program is an initiative of the DTI and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship-Go Negosyo (PCE) to help micro and small enterprises improve their business operations through weekly coaching and mentoring by selected local industry practitioners (mentors). She emphasized that on initial implementation, 20 entrepreneurs or mentees were selected from among the regular clients of DTI-SDS to undergo an 11-week business course.

PCE Senior Project Officer Jahaziel Ann La Guardia clarified that the course will help the mentees scale-up their operation from micro small and from survival to sustainable enterprises. She also added that PCE designed the guidelines for selecting the mentees.

Meanwhile, DTI-SDS chief Romel Oribe explained that the mentees are expected to finish or complete the course and present their Business Improvement Plan to the mentors at the end of the program. The implementation of their plan shall be monitored regularly.

Oribe then urged the media people to help promote DTI's programs and services to the grassroots. He also asked the media to help DTI inform MSMEs that the Negosyo Centers are ready to assist them. (DTI/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DILG 13: All systems go for SGLG 2017 assessment

By Don Manuelo O. Patrimonio

BUTUAN CITY, May 12 - The search for good performing Local Government Units to be accorded the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) for 2017 has once again been initiated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government – Region XIII (DILG 13) as technical personnel in the regional office, provincial offices, down to the field officers start crunching data and accomplishing forms to assess and determine eligibility of the 67 municipal, six cities and five provincial governments across Caraga Region to the SGLG and the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) that goes along with it.

The SGLG is among the DILG’s flagship programs as it symbolizes integrity and good performance of local governments through continuing governance reform and sustained local development. It is a progressive assessment system adopted by the Department to give distinction to remarkable local government performance across several areas.

For 2017, the DILG raises its overall assessment criteria from “3+1” into “4+1”. In other words, LGUs now have to pass four core assessment areas plus at least one of the three essential assessment areas in order to qualify for the SGLG. In the 2016 assessment, LGUs only had to pass three core areas plus at least one assessment area.

From being one of the essential areas in 2016, Peace and Order has now been added to the core areas together with Financial Administration, Disaster Preparedness, and Social Protection. And this year, a new essential area—Tourism, Culture and the Arts—is likewise introduced to measure LGU efforts along these concerns. It joins the other essential assessment areas of Environmental Management and Business Friendliness and Competitiveness.

As such, all 81 provinces, 145 cities and 1,489 municipalities nationwide shall be subjected to the SGLG. In Caraga Region, all five provinces, six cities and 67 municipalities shall be covered.

Foremost in the phases of the SGLG implementation is the Regional Assessment wherein data gathering, validation and certification and on-line data entry and calibration are done.

To jumpstart the SGLG 2017 assessment, the DILG 13 conducted an orientation on the operational guidelines for the implementation of the SGLG 2017 last April 28, 2017 in Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City, among DILG regional and field personnel, along with representatives from the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

And in order to ensure that the data collected by the Provincial/City/Municipal Local Government Operations Officers for the SGLG are reliable, Regional Assessment Teams (RAT) comprising DILG personnel, CSO partners and selected National Government Agencies (NGAs), shall take the lead in the validation and certification of LGU evidence through appropriate methods such as documentary review, interview and onsite inspection.

The CSOs involved in the regional assessments were: Educational Discipline in Culture and Area-Based Development Services, Inc. (EDCADS); Propegemus Foundation Inc.; Surigao del Norte People Initiative Development (SNPIDA); Wilson Agra Multi-Purpose Cooperative (WAMPCO); Surigao del Sur Organization for Human Development (SSOFHDEV); Surigao del Norte NGO Coalition for Development (SUNGCOD); Sibog Katawhan Alang sa Paglambo, Inc. (SIKAP); Social Action Center of the Diocese of Butuan; Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Foundation; Ruben Edera Ecleo Sr. Foundation, Inc. (REESFI); Agusanong Kahugpungan sa Kababayen-an sa Agusan del Norte (AGUKAKABA); Wilson Agra Multi-Purpose Cooperative (WAMPCO); and Balay Mindanao Foundation, Inc. (BMFI).

Whereas the other NGAs invited to take part were: The Philippine National Police (PRO 13); National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA 13); the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD 13); Environmental Management Bureau (EMB 13); Office of Civil Defense (OCD 13); Department of Tourism (DOT 13); and Department of Health (DOH 13).

At this point, the cross-posted Regional Assessment Teams (RAT) at the provincial level are doing their rounds of validation in municipalities and component cities. And in May 22-June 1, the RAT of the Regional Office will conduct the validation visit among the provinces and Butuan City.

This is the fourth run of the SGLG since it was introduced from its predecessor—the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH)—which has been integrated in the SGLG as part of the Financial Management core assessment area.

"We have since produced in Caraga 5 LGU passers in 2014, 28 in 2015; and 13 in 2016. Passers last year were conferred their SGLG 2016 markers last October 27, 2016 at Hotel Sofitel in Manila," said DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion.

Famacion is hoping that more local government units can surmount the challenge and emerge victorious and be recognized as exemplars of good local governance not just in the region but in the entire country.

"And this is why we have SGLG in the first place—to encourage our LGUs to level up their performance," said Famacion.

"Because ultimately it is not just about the prestige of the recognition, but the benefits that redound to all our citizens as LGUs improve services and scale-up performance and truly become ‘gobyernong may malasakit tungo sa pagbabago at patuloy na pag-unlad,'” Famacion added. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: Can an apple a day keep a doctor away?

By Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa

Is there truth in the saying that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away?" What makes an apple good for our health?

Apple, malus sylvetris in scientific name, provides a lot of health and nutritional benefits to our body. A medium-sized apple weighing 138 grams contains about 81 calories, zero fat and cholesterol, 10 percent carbohydrate and more than 80 percent of water.

According to a research from Cornell University, a combination of the plant chemicals- flavonoids and polyphenols, collectively known as phytochemicals, provide the fruit’s antioxidant and anticancer benefits. In addition, the skin of an apple contains a small amount of beta-carotene and 4 milligrams of quercetin, an antioxidant compound preventing oxygen molecules from damaging an individual’s cells that can lead to cancer and other diseases.

The apple’s skin has insoluble fiber, which is a great help for constipation. It also helps prevent diverticulosis, a condition where small pouches form on the colon and become inflamed or infected. It also has a soluble fiber, which is the pectin that can help lower cholesterol as well as the risk of heart diseases. This soluble fiber can also slow the digestion and the rise of blood sugar, making it good for diabetes patients.

About 4 percent of an apple is made up of vitamins and minerals. The flesh provides some iron and potassium. Like other fruits, apple contains vitamin C (8 milligrams/medium size).

Though apples give a lot of benefits, can these be the reasons to say bye-bye to a doctor and hello to apple? Definitely, no!

According to the 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos developed by the Technical Working Group headed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), one should eat more vegetables and fruits. Consume two to three servings of vegetables each day, of which a serving is equivalent to ½ cup or 40 grams for non-leafy and 1 cup or 25 grams for leafy. Take two servings of fruit daily, of which serving ranges from 45 to 300 grams depending on the size and variety of fruit. The consumption of these foods everyday is encouraged to get the essential vitamins, minerals and fiber for regulation of body processes.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

ASEAN Campus Forum inspires young Caraganons to partner for change, sustainable development

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 (PIA) – Campus leaders and students from different colleges and universities in this city are more motivated in promoting awareness about the benefits of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in every Filipino’s life and its impacts in the attainment for sustainable economic development as they actively joined the ‘ASEAN Campus Forum’ spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga on Thursday at the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU), CBE Function Hall, here.

College of Teacher Education Dean Arlyn Floreta, representing FSUU president Rev. Fr. John Christian Young, expressed her warmest welcome to the youthful crowd. “The students were very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to be informed well anything about ASEAN as the government calls for collaboration and synergy in pursuit of progress,” she said.

In attendance as the honorary guest is PIA deputy director-general Gregorio Angelo Villar. Participated by some 300 student-participants, it was the second forum conducted in Caraga region following the ASEAN Multi-Sectoral Forum held just the last month.

Villar clarified that ASEAN is about opportunities for all, and not a mere promise of the government to provide everyone a better life. It is about opening better opportunities for all Filipinos that would make them excel in their field of interest, with the help of other Asian nations.

“We encouraged them to learn more about ASEAN more than the basic things that they learn from school. What is important is for us to understand how we can participate and get the advantage of the substantial list of opportunities associated with ASEAN economic community integration,” said Villar.

There’s the opportunity for livelihood as the students became professionals. “Their professional license will be acknowledged in other ASEAN-member states. Also, aside from widening of our market through different trade agreements, it would turn ASEAN into a more competitive region within the world economy,” Villar added.

Part also of the event was the lecture on the Primary Health Care Program, significant data on the region's teenage pregnancy, and HIV/AIDS. Department of Health (DOH) – Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna, Jr. encouraged the participating students to cascade to their peers and family members all the relevant information and learnings that they gained from the forum. He also stressed that with the right information and awareness, students and young adults can help reduce the incidents of teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS.

Meanwhile, Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board (RTWPB) board secretary Earl Dela Victoria cited in his discussion on 'Productivity 101 & Wages' that students must instill in their heart and mind the essence of sincere determination to pursue the goals in life after getting a degree in college.

He encouraged them to be more prepared to face the challenge of global competitiveness. “You have to possess the ability to compete with anyone, anytime, anywhere. There is hope for sustainable development if you are determined to seek for improvement. Be confident in making your tomorrow better than today,” underscored Dela Victoria.

Meanwhile, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) -Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño enunciated during his talk about the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) that health and productivity have a bearing in the economy, such that health is important in pursuit of development. She cited that even if the people are healthy and not productive, still development is hard to achieve.

Comprehending well the topics being discussed during the forum, Joel Batiancila, Jr., supreme student government (SSG) president of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT) remarked that what he has learned from the forum will essentially aid him and his fellow students on how they can be productive members of the ASEAN community.

“So my message to the youth, let’s be only aware, let’s all understand and participate. Let’s make use of the information available to us and at the same time be responsible in sharing the information that is available to you right now,” urged Villar. (VLG/JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RDP geared towards attainment of ASEAN development goals

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CTY, May 15 (PIA) - As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries envisioned to achieve greater economic cooperation in the areas of financial policies, trade, and human capital, the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) is likewise focused on the long-term development plan that is anchored on a long-term vision and grounding in the hallmark of President Rodrigo Duterte administration’s three main pillars – Malasakit, Pagbabago at Patuloy na Pag-unlad.

As enunciated by National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) -Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño in her talk about the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) during the ASEAN Campus Forum held in this city on Thursday, the region aims for peace and prosperity and thus health and productivity have a bearing in the economy, such that health is important in pursuit of development. She cited that even if the people are healthy and not productive, still development is hard to achieve.

In her discussion, Cariño shared that the RDP, as the blueprint of the region’s target, is comprised of the many strategies in attaining the inclusive and accelerating economic growth.

“The challenge is the need to diversify the economy to sustain its growth. There are 105,000 indigenous people population in Caraga region and that they are given priority in the RDP,” said Cariño.

Meanwhile, as the guest of honor during the forum, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) deputy director-general Gregorio Angelo Villar underscored that ASEAN is all about opportunities and that communities have to take advantage of the many prospects for progress.

“For instance, economic integration provides opportunities to boost economic stability in the region,” said Villar.

In view of the ASEAN theme, 'Partnering for Change, Engaging the World', Villar made emphasis on the role of government leaders and of every Filipino in advocating for positive change through collaboration with the neighboring countries. "It is not about finishing the race but a matter of how many communities raced together to achieve the goal," he underlined.

According to Villar, the agency is not only campaigning for awareness about the ASEAN but also to bring closer to the youth sector the services, programs and policies of the government.

Interfacing with the student-participants, Villar also encouraged them to be more cooperative and active in advancing development because as millenials they can engage themselves in spreading the concept and benefits of ASEAN utilizing the social media platform.

“This is not just a project of the PIA but a project of the entire government wherein it aims to impart information regarding the ASEAN, the RDP, and all other vital pieces of information. And we are pitching support from our partner stakeholders and all sectors in the community to be our partner for change and progress,” said Villar. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

PIA, partners orient student leaders on ASEAN

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 (PIA) – Right after the recently concluded multi-sectoral forum on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) here, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga went to conducting campus forum for the same purpose – to intensify awareness of the students on the importance of ASEAN in the country and how Filipino people can benefit from it.

In partnership with the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU), the CBE Function Hall was jampacked with some 300 student-leaders from the different colleges and universities in the city.

In behalf of FSUU president Rev. Fr. John Christian Young, dean of the Teacher Education Program Arlyn Floreta expressed her warmest welcome to the participants. She said that the school is fortunate that students were given the chance to be informed anything about ASEAN.

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) deputy director general Gregorio Angelo Villar underscored that ASEAN is all about opportunities and that communities have to take advantage of the many prospects for progress.

In view of the ASEAN theme, 'Partnering for Change, Engaging the World', DDG Villar made emphasis the role of our leaders and of every Filipino in advocating for positive change through collaboration with the neighboring countries.

Villar also stressed that the agency is not only campaigning for awareness about the ASEAN but also to bring closer to the youth sector the services, programs and policies of the government.

“ASEAN is about opportunities for all, and not a mere promise of the government to provide everyone a better life. It is about opening better opportunities for all Filipinos that would make them excel in their field of interest, with the help of other Asian nations,” underlined Villar.

Interfacing with the student-participants Villar further encouraged them to be more cooperative and active in advancing development because as millennials they can engage themselves in spreading the concept and benefits of ASEAN utilizing the social media platform.

Also, Department of Health (DOH) Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr., tackled the Primary Health Care Porgram, significant data on the region's Teenage Pregnancy, and HIV/AIDS.

Llacuna encouraged the participating students to cascade to their peers and family members all the relevant information/learnings that they gained from the forum. He also stressed that with the right information and awareness, students and young adults can help reduce the incidents of teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS.

Tegional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) board secretary VI Earl Dela Victoria cited in his lecture on 'Productivity 101 and Wages', that students must instill in their heart and mind the essence of sincere determination to pursue the goals in life after getting a degree in college. He encouraged them to be more prepared to face the challenge of global competitiveness.

Meanwhile, as enunciated by regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) during her talk about the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP), she emphasized that health and productivity have a bearing in the economy, such that health is important in pursuit of development. She cited that even if the people are healthy and not productive, still development is hard to achieve.

Cariño also shared the major strategies of the different sectors in achieving the RDP.

Cariño further reiterated that the challenge of the Caraganons is the need to diversify the economy to sustain its growth. She added that there are 105,000 indigenous people population in Caraga region and they are given priority in the RDP. (JPG/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOH Caraga to participate in AIDS candlelight memorial

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) is commemorating this year’s Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (PIACM) celebration thru the conduct of the ‘Walk for a Cause’ on May 25, 2017 from the capitol grounds to Guingona Park, this city.

According to DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr., the said celebration will be the centerpiece of the commemoration and will be participated by the different focal agencies and partners in Caraga region.

“The AIDS Candlelight Memorial is a global event that is not only a commemoration for those who died from the disease but as a platform for HIV and IADS Awareness as well,” underlined Llacuna.

Participants are encouraged to wear black t-shirt and bring advocacy messages. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI holds regional trade fair, exhibit in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 (PIA)– In time with this year’s Balangay Festival here, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga is set to hold the opening of the ‘Buy Caraga By Caraga: Balangay Festival Edition’ regional trade fair and exhibit on May 17, 2017 at the Robinsons Place’ Atrium, this city.

DTI Caraga regional director Brielgo Pagaran said that ‘Buy Caraga By Caraga’ is DTI-initiated regional trade fair on the region’s processed foods, organic, and healthy food products, bakery and confectionery goods, beverages, and wearable and home-style products.

“Since its inception in 2012, Buy Caraga By Caraga has provided a business-to-business platform for the local Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to discover new markets, launch new products, and transact with the intra-regional buyers,” bared Pagaran.

The said activity also aims for the Caraga locals to be aware, appreciate and take pride in patronizing the very own produce of the enterprising manufacturers in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Middle Agusan River Sub-basin Summit cum Strategic Planning set in AgSur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 (PIA) – Stakeholders from various sectors will be attending the Middle Agusan River Sub-basin Summit cum Strategic Planning on May 23-25, 2017 at the Emilitas Restaurant and Dormitel in Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur.

Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos, Butuan City Bishop recalled that the Agusan River Basin (ARB) is one of the eight major river basins in Mindanao. It is the third largest river basin in the country covering a total area of 11,936 square kilometer. It encompasses portions of Claveria and Bukidnon in Region 10; Compostella Valley and Davao Oriental in Region XI; and Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur in Caraga region.

Bishop Pueblos added that the basin is sub-divided into three sections: The Upper ARB Sub-basin, the Middle ARB Sub-basin and the Lower ARB Sub-basin. The province of Agusan del Sur belongs to the Middle ARB of which area has 64.78 percent of ARB’s total area.

“Since there is still a need to increase the awareness and participation of ARB stakeholders across regions, the sub-basin summits must be conducted. Hence, the upper Agusan River Sub-Basin Summit was held last October 11-12, 2016 at Comval Hotel, Nabunturan, Compostella Valley. Gov. Tyron Jayvee Uy was elected as chairperson of the Upper Agusan River Sub-Basin Council with Atty. Felix Alicer of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources region 11 as co-chairperson. And this year, we are eyeing to create the Middle and Lower Sub-basin Council,” expressed Bishop Pueblos.

It was also learned that during the summit, the participating stakeholders shall elect set of officials and regular member for the Middle Agusan River Sub-basin Council. Only those elected official shall proceed to the Strategic Planning in the following days as per schedule. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan dad unveils 'Butuan On' brand

By Maria Lourdes Pizarro-Apego

BUTUAN CITY, May 15 - Towards attaining the vision Lagsik na Dakbayan, the city is switching Butuan on.

This is how local officials introduced this unique brand of Butuan dubbed as Butuan on.

During the Balangay Festival 2017 Press Conference, Mayor Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada stressed Butuan is currently embarking on a transformation journey "from an old kingdom, we will ascend to becoming a hub city of opportunities for all, so we are now switching Butuan on."

"Butuan on is our rebirth, rediscovery and rebuilding of our city towards that vision."...thus "ikaw ug ako, kitang tanan mao ang Butuan on," Mayor Lagnada adds.

Meantime, Sangguniang Panglunsod Committee on Tourism Chair Cherry May Busa explains the 'Butuan on' brand with a drawing at the side which she says represents the famous Balangay boat in a modern way.

Said drawing depicting the Balangay boat, she says, also contains the violet color which represents Butuan's royal ascendancy.

Further, said logo also contains a shout out tagline, "A City Ascending" which answers the question where to Butuan, what is our vision?

Butuan's vision, says Busa, is to make Butuan a center, a hub of opportunities,sustainable and livable to all. a center, show window and gateway to Caraga region. (Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte town is target LGU in 2017 citizen satisfaction index system

By Bryan F. Edulzura

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 15 - The municipality of Claver in Surigao Del Norte is this year’s target local government unit (LGU) on Citizen Satisfaction Index System (CSIS).

Claver was selected as target LGU because it is one of the largest economies and emerging center of commerce and trade in the province.

CSIS program is a tool for drawing applicable information to measure citizen satisfaction in various local government services such as health care delivery and business permit application.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) commissioned Saint Paul University – Surigao as DILG’s partner Local Resource Institute to conduct the survey and serve as an intermediary body between the local government unit and the citizens.

“We, at DILG, envisions to transform Local Government Units to become self-reliant, development-centered, safe, peaceful, socially-protective, business-friendly, environmentally-protective and transparent, accountable and participative,” said DILG provincial director John Reyl Mosquito.

“CSIS advances this cause by engaging the citizens as partners in development and good local governance,” Mosquito added.

The result of the CSIS survey will be utilized to develop concrete and effective method in improving local government services. (DILG-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DTI Asec Lantayona graces 'Mentor Me' program launch in Agusan Sur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 15 – “The MSMEs of this province are very much fortunate to have this program, as it will help scale up the business of the mentees thru a series of trainings and mentoring sessions.”

This was the statement of Assistant Secretary (Asec) Blesila Lantayona of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Operations Group in her speech during the launching of the Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) program in the province.

Asec. Lantayona is the department’s champion and national coordinator of the KMME. She has done the rounds attending most of the roll-out and launch of the program all over the country. Her schedule allowed her to be in only two provincial roll-outs out of five in the Caraga Region: Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte.

The mentees, she referred to in her speech are the first 20 to 25 micro and small enterprises (MSEs) selected to go through an 11 –week module of topics covering all aspects of their business operations.

She noted the overwhelming support to the program as evidenced by the overflowing crowd (the actual MSE-participants were over 100 more than was targeted at 372), the presence of Provincial Governor Adolph Edward Plaza, Sangguniang Panglungsod Committee Chair on Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives Hazel del Rosario, members of the local chambers and members of the Provincial Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council.

In the sidelines, she also told DTI-Agusan del Sur OIC-Provincial Director Brenda Corvera, that she appreciated the fact that the MSEs were taking down notes.

KMME aims to produce confident entrepreneurs with the right mindset and business-know how to scale up and sustain their respective businesses.

The launch included the first two modules of the mentoring package: (1) Entrepreneurial Mind setting and Values Formation, and (2) Marketing. The rest of the modules, which will be provided to mentees weekly at the Negosyo Center-Agusan del Sur are - (3) Business Model Canvas, (4) Product Development, (5) Operations Management, (6) Supply and Value Chain, (7) Human Resource and Organization Management, (8) Entrepreneurial Accounting and Financial Management, (9) Taxation, (10) Business Law and (11) Business Improvement Plan. The mentees are scheduled to graduate on July 2017.

The KMME Roll-out was held at Mabe’s Savory Place, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur last May 3, 2017 with the participation of MSEs coming from the different municipalities in the province and also from the neighboring province Surigao del Sur. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusand el Sur)

Feature: Potassium in bananas helps regulate blood pressure

By Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso

Bananas are one of the most popular fruits among people of all origins because these can be available fresh year-round and cheaper compared with other tropical fruits.

To the consumer, the banana seems a simple name for the yellow and elongated fruit that is served as a dessert. The word “banana” is a general term embracing a number of species or hybrids of the genus Musa of the family of Musaceae, closely related to plantains.

Bananas are classified either as dessert bananas or as green cooking bananas. The ripe banana is popularly served as a dessert. It is a delicious addition to fruit salads or simply eaten out of hand. Overripe bananas make excellent breads, cookies, muffins and cakes. They make attractive garnish in ice cream. Unripe or green bananas are used in cooking. Unripe bananas can be fried, boiled, baked or made into chips.

Bananas are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Potassium is a mineral that is important for controlling the body's fluid balance. It is also needed for muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses, and the proper functioning of the body's heart and kidneys. Potassium helps regulate water balance and blood pressure in cells, together with other minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium.

Besides being a good source of vitamins and minerals, banana is also a natural remedy for a number of illnesses and conditions. Ripe banana relieves diarrhea, whereas the unripe banana relieves constipation. Banana is highly recommended for patients suffering from high blood pressure because of its potassium content. The fresh leaves of banana are also used as bed spreads for bed ridden patients to avoid bedsores.

One piece of banana each day restores the balance of potassium. So make it a habit to include banana in your daily meals.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

‘Mentor Me’ program excites small businesses in Agusan Sur

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 15 – The interest of micro and small businesses or enterprises (MSEs) in this province on the ‘Kapatid Mentor Me’ (KMME) program proved to be very high as actual participants during its recent launch with participants that reached to almost 400.

The actual figure of 310 attendees from a target of only 200 count only the MSMEs. The event also had attendees from local and provincial government, provincial, national offices, members of the Provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council and the academe.

The activity was not a mere launch as it also featured two modules of the KMME - Entrepreneurial Mind Setting and Values Formation, and Marketing. The two were given by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Go-Negosyo Angelpreneurs Henry Tenedero and Willy Arcilla, respectively.

They were joined by Agusan del Sur’s version of successful entrepreneurs who were gracious to accept the invitation to share their stories during the Inspirational Forum. They were Frederico Blanco of F&H Aqua spring Purified drinking water, Rosalina Go of Rose Excellence Corporation, owner of the ubiquitous Rose Bakeshops and Irenea Hitgano of Hillsview Food Products- producer of the fast selling Mangosteen tea.

The participants were seen still glued to their seats till the end of the program as they soaked in the info-sharing of experts.

The Mentor Me Program is one of the components of the KAPATID Program which is an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the PCE.

The program aims to further develop micro and small--scale enterprises through coaching and mentorship. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DAR Agusan Norte holds leadership, values seminar for ARBs

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, May 16 – Twenty three (23) Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) underwent a Cooperative Leadership and Values Re-orientation Seminar conducted on April 25-26, May 2-3, 5-6 and 9-10, 2017 at Agrarian Information and Marketing Center here.

At least 150 participants that included coop leaders and officers, all of them Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the province of Agusan del Norte belonging to 23 cooperatives, associations, and women’s groups, completed the trainings.

The seminar equipped the participants with leadership skills anchored on universal values and principles of cooperativism .

According to Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Coop Strengthening Coordinator Juanita B. Balibay, the seminar aimed to strengthen the participants and their organizations with the basic principles on cooperativism and to provide a means to build integrity with the mission and values of the cooperative.

Balibay said that the agency is intensifying its effort to help the coop leaders and officers to become an effective leader in their organization.

"The DAR in Agusan del Norte, under the leadership of PARPO II Andre B. Atega, and in partnership with the Propegemous, Inc., are working closely to empower the farmers and their organizations,” Balibay added.

"Kami mapasalamaton kay nadugangan ang among kahibalo sa pagpalambo sa kooperatiba (we are thankful that we learned something to improve our cooperative," said Manager Sergio Rensulat of Pinana-an, Ambacon and Mat-i ARB Cooperatives (PAM-ARBC). (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Kalahi-CIDSS workers gearing up for busy 2017 implementation

By Joana Rica P. Millama & Marko Davey D. Reyes

BUTUAN CITY, May 16 – Field and Regional engineers and Technical Service Providers (TSP) of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) implemented under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) attended the five-day training on the Conduct of the Technical Session Workshop on Preparation of Plan Designs and Pogram of Works (POW) for LGU-led Kalahi-CIDSS Implementation (TIER 2) being held at Hotel Luciana from May 8-12, 2017.

This said activity was attended by Deputy Area Coordinators (DAC) and Region/Sub-Regional Program Management Office engineers.

The training workshop covers technical sessions, brainstorming and proposal making enhancement to improve and update their skills and knowledge in infrastructure Plan Designs and POW preparation and ensure that community sub-project proposals are done on time - without any glitches.

Engr. Jovenal Bernat, Regional Community Infrastructure Specialist (RCIS), who is heading the conduct of the activity, clearly elaborated the purpose of the session by elaborating what he believes is the importance of the implementation. He explained that since the TIER 2 implementation is crucial (with budget utilization covering January – December 2017 only), he reminds the workers to stick with the timeline, and at the same time remember the impact of the engineers in the success of the program.

Elsa Montemor, Regional Community Development Specialist (RCDS) of the program reinforced what Engr. Bernat explained reminding the workers that even though infrastructure projects are what the DACs and TSPs are focusing on, they should always remember that community development through community organizing is the essence of the program. “This (TIER 2) has been a good practice and it is indeed true that engineers are also called Community-Driven Development enforcers by heart. So let us continue enforcing, pushing and advocating in [the] real essence of community development,” she said.

The discussion was also focused on the important role of the technical staff (DAC/TSP) in community development and encouraged the enforcers to “start the development within themselves” for they are the “vehicle for Community-Driven Development to succeed in the implementation.”

Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the programs of DSWD that uses the Community Driven Development (CDD) approach to empower local communities to undertake their own development projects by actively and directly partaking in local governance in identifying their community needs as well as taking part of implementing projects that will address these needs. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PSA Surigao Norte conducts tablet-aided geotagging building structures

By Guillermo M. Lipio, Jr.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 16 - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) here conducts a Tablet-Aided Geotagging of Building Structures from May 15, 2017 to September 30, 2017 across the province of Surigao del Norte.

The activity aims to come up with accurate and reliable digitized maps for use in the post-census evaluation, validation of sampling frame for household-based and industry- based surveys, and as basis for delineation of growth areas in preparation for the 2020 Census of Population and Housing.

Map Data Collectors or MDCs wearing official Geotagging IDs of the PSA will visit barangays of Surigao del Norte to identify and collect data on building structures.

In this activity, there will be a two-minute interview with the household to ask basic information, as well as picture taking of the building.

The public is assured that all information collected in this activity shall be kept confidential as provided under the Republic Act No. 10625.

The PSA calls for public to support the geotagging activity by accommodating its MDCs who will visit the barangays as they collect information on buildings.

For more information on geotagging, contact the PSA-Surigao del Norte at 231-7415 or 826-5036. (PSA-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Feature: Bahay Kubo sings a variety of veggies for the picking

By Charina A. Javier

Who could not recognize the song Bahay Kubo? A classic Filipino nursery song with lyrics of which mention many different local vegetables (...Ang halaman doon ay sari-sari...). Filipinos use, mix and cook vegetables in different methods and call them in different terms. Want to start singing the song?

Filipinos like vegetables cooked most often through sauteing (gisa), boiling, or cook with coconut milk (ginataan). Across the country, there are similarities among the dishes served at home and in canteens or restaurants.

For example, dinengdeng, and law-uy, are two dishes of Ilocano and Visayan origin, respectively. These vegetable dishes, however, both include several leafy and fruit vegetables as ingredients, cooked by boiling and without the use of cooking oil. For dinengdeng, leafy vegetables (e.g. saluyot, ampalaya leaves, squash flower, stringbeans tops, malunggay, etc.) are mixed together. Grilled fish is commonly added and fish paste (bagoong) is used to taste the dish. As for law-uy, leafy and fruit vegetables (okra, eggplant, alugbati, kangkong, etc.) are mixed, and fish is also often added using salt to taste.

Ginisa is a much used method of cooking by Tagalogs in preparing vegetables. Fruit vegetables such as upo, sitaw, kalabasa, puso ng saging, sayote and carrots, among others are often sautéed. Vegetables are cooked in a small portion of oil with garlic and a small amount of meat, shrimp or small fish then seasoned with salt or fish sauce to taste.

Vegetables cooked with coconut milk are more commonly prepared by Bicolanos and Visayans. Famous examples of vegetables cooked in coconut milk are gabi for laing, and nangka. Ginataang nangka is sometimes called salad na nangka by Visayans.

Another common method of cooking vegetables is by adding scrambled egg (torta) such tortang talong and ampalaya fruit.

In general, Filipinos are not meeting the required intake of vegetables in their diet. Based on the latest National Nutrition Survey in 2013 of the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), vegetable intake made up only 13.3 percent of the total food intake compared to 12.8 percent in 2008.

Vegetables are needed for proper regulation of body processes. They are rich sources of several vitamins and minerals. Green leafy vegetables like kangkong, camote tops, malunggay, gabi, ampalaya and others are rich sources of beta-carotene, iron, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, calcium and other minerals. Yellow vegetables such as squash, carrots and tomatoes are also rich in beta-carotene. Vegetables are rich in dietary fiber, which prevent constipation by providing roughage for easier bowel movement. They are also rich sources of anti-oxidants to prevent certain diseases like cancer.

Three servings of vegetables, about one-half cup cooked per serving, are suggested for daily consumption. Two messages of the 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos recommend eating a variety of food and to eat more of vegetables and fruits everyday. These messages can be realized if the vegetables in the song Bahay Kubo are eaten regularly. This is especially true for children, whom we teach the song. At least it would make them appreciate and become more familiar with the vegetables in the song. Now, try singing Bahay Kubo and think which vegetable you will eat in your next meal.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Media asks to support AgSur’s ‘Kapatid Mentor Me’ program

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 16 - “We need the support of the media for Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) program so this will be known to the different communities and help them benefit from said program.”

This was the opening statement of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Regional Operations Group Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona during the press conference held recently right after the launching of the KMME program.

Asec. Lantayona thanked the media for their interest and insightful questions allowing her to further explain the program.

The panel of interviewees also include DTI-Caraga assistant regional director Lolita Dorado; DTI–Agusan del Sur OIC provincial director Brenda Corvera; Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship - Go Negosyo resource speaker Henry Tenedero and Sangguniang Panlalawigan member-committee chair on Trade, Tourism and Cooperatives Hazel del Rosario.

Asec. Lantayona stressed that the KMME program aims to scale up micro and small enterprises (MSEs) and be globally competitive. In response to a question why of all those who attended the mentoring program only 20 to 25 will be joining the next modules – she said the KMME is a different modality.

The good assistant secretary added that it is not only training but close and focused mentoring, so a big number of participants will not give the results intended.

Tenedero for his part emphasized that the KMME program is not a “one night stand” platform but it is a sustainable mechanism.

SP Del Rosario took the opportunity to update the members of the press on the several programs of the provincial government in support of the MSEs. She also urged the media to continue the partnership by informing the Agusanons of the programs and services of the provincial government.

ARD Dorado cited several service activities, which the DTI has helped in answer to a query whether DTI’s assistance is just limited to processing and manufacturing.

KBP Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur Chapter Chair Maximo Tutor inquired on the interventions done to ensure ease of doing business especially in terms of payment while securing business permits and in complying with tax requirements.

OIC Corvera answered that DTI is assisting entrepreneurs by providing regular seminars on taxation in Negosyo Centers where BIR is invited as resource speaker. Entrepreneurs were also trained to do simple record keeping so they can have a basis for a counterclaim to the local government unit’s presumptive computation of business taxes. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Tagalog News: Konsumo ng prutas, gulay at lamang-ugat bumaba

Ni Divorah V. Aguila

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, May 16 - Maraming Pilipino ang hindi kumakain ng tamang dami ng gulay, prutas, at lamang-ugat.

Ayon sa isinagawang survey noong 2013 ng Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), napag-alaman na karamihan sa mga Filipino ay hindi kumakain ng prutas at gulay. Nakita rin sa naturang survey na bagama’t tumaas ng bahagya ang konsumo ng gulay, ang konsumo ng prutas ay patuloy na bumaba simula pa noong 1970s.

Kaya naman ipinapayo at itinataguyod ng mga dalubhasa sa nutrisyon at kalusugan ang pagkain ng maraming gulay, prutas, at lamang-ugat upang mapunuan ang mga kakulangan sa micronutrients. Ang lamang-ugat ay dapat ding kainin dahil nakadaragdag ang mga ito ng enerhiya o lakas sa ating katawan at fiber para sa regular na pagdumi.

Ano ba ang kahalagahan ng regular na pagkain ng gulay? Ang mga green leafy at yellow vegetables o berde, madahon at dilaw at madahong gulay ay mayaman sa beta-carotene na nagiging bitamina A sa katawan. Ang sariwa at katamtamang luto ng mga berdeng madahong gulay ay pinanggagalingan ng vitamin C, iron, calcium, dietary fiber, folic acid, vitamin E, at ilang phytochemicals na napatunayang tumutulong laban sa kanser at ibang sakit.

‘Yun namang ‘‘di madahong gulay” tulad ng okra, sayote, upo, at ampalaya ay nakadaragdag ng dietary fiber, iron at B-complex vitamins.

Ang pagkain ng gulay ay nakatutulong sa pag-iwas sa vitamin A deficiency disorders o VADD, na isa sa mga laganap na uri ng malnutrisyon sa Pilipinas. Dahil sa VADD, bumababa ang resistensya laban sa impeksyon na nagbubunga ng madalas at malalang pagkakasakit. Bumabagal din ang paglaki ng mga bata.

Ang unang palatandaan ng VADD ay ang nightblindness o kahirapang makakita sa gabi. At kung matindi ang kakulangan sa bitamina A, maaaring magkaroon ng lesion o sugat sa mata na tawag ay xerophthalmia na posibleng tumuloy sa pagkabulag. Pero huwag kayong mag-alala, ang mga ito ay maaaring maiwasan.

Katulad ng gulay, mahalaga ang prutas sa ating diet dahil mayaman ang mga ito sa vitamin C, lalo na ang bayabas, mangga at papaya. Nakatutulong ang vitamin C upang maiwasan ang scurvy o pagdurugo o pamamaga ng mga gilagid at upang tumibay ang ating resistensiya laban sa impeksyon.

Nagtataglay naman ng beta-carotene ang madilaw na prutas. Mayaman sa bitamina at mineral ang saging, melon, at pinya. Meron ding dietary fiber ang mga prutas upang makatulong sa regular na pagdumi.

Kadalasan, ang lamang-ugat ay hindi kasama sa diet ng mga Pilipino, maliban sa mga lugar na ito talaga ang karaniwang kinakain o ang staple food. Ang pagkain ng lamang-ugat gaya ng patatas, gabi, at kamote ay nakapag-dudulot ng enerhiya sa katawan. Nagdudulot din ito ng dietary fiber at vitamins. Ang dilaw na kamote ay nakapagbibigay ng beta-carotene habang ang patatas naman ay mapagkukunan ng vitamin C. Dapat na kumain ng lamang-ugat kahit mga tatlong beses sa isang linggo.

Kaya isama natin sa ating listahan ng bibilhin ang mga ito. Tandaan, ang pagkain ng iba’t-ibang uri ng pagkain araw-araw, kabilang ang prutas, gulay at lamang-ugat ang pinakamahalagang gabay para sa ating kalusugan.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain at nutrisyon, lumiham o tumawag kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837 2934 or 837 2071 loc. 2287, email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, o mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. I-like ang aming Facebook page sa facebook.com/FNRI.DOST o sundan kami sa aming Twitter account sa twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Services/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Regular na pagkain ng gulay, may dagdag na benepisyong taglay

Ni Divorah V. Aguila

BUTUAN CITY, May 16 - Ano ba ang gulay? Ang gulay ay tanim o bahagi ng tanim tulad ng ugat, tangkay, talbos, dahon, bunga, o bulaklak na kalimitang inihahain bilang ulam o ensalada. Mayroong dalawang grupo ng gulay: ang madahong berde at dilaw na gulay, at ang iba pang gulay. Malalaman sa kulay at bahagi ng tanim na kinakain ang kahalagahang pangnutrisyon ng gulay.

Ang mga madahong berde at dilaw na gulay ay sagana sa beta-carotene na nagiging bitamina A sa katawan. Tumutulong ito sa ating mga mata na maka-adjust sa gabi o sa dilim. Ito rin ay kailangan sa paglaki ng mga bata. Tumutulong din ang bitamina A para mapanatiling malakas ang ating resistensya laban sa sakit at impeksyon. Mainam din ito sa pagiging malusog at makinis ng ating kutis at buhok. Ang beta-carotene na taglay ng mga gulay ay napatunayang may kaugnayan sa pagbaba ng panganib o risk sa ilang uri ng kanser. Mas higit na maraming taglay na beta-carotene kung matingkad ang pagka-berde o dilaw ng gulay.

Ang madahong berde at dilaw na gulay ay mayaman din sa iron o yero at kalsiyum. Ang iron ay kailangan para sa malusog at mapulang dugo na tumutulong sa kasiglahan ng katawan. Ilan sa mga madahong berde at dilaw na gulay ay ang dahon ng malunggay, dahon ng ampalaya, karot, talbos ng kamote, saluyot, dahon, at bunga ng kalabasa, sili, alugbati, at talbos ng sayote.

Ang pangalawang grupo ng gulay ay ‘yung iba pang gulay na tumutulong naman sa mahusay na panunaw. Nagtataglay din ito ng mga bitamina at mineral bagama’t hindi kasing sagana sa sustansiyang taglay ng berde at madahong gulay. Ilan sa mga gulay na ito ay ang ampalaya, puso ng saging, bataw, kadyos, bunga ng malunggay, okra, paayap, sigadilyas, at sitaw.

Ang mga gulay ay nagtataglay din ng fiber (o hibla) na siyang tumutulong linisin ang ating bituka, para sa regular na pagdumi. Tumutulong din ang fiber sa pagpapababa ng kolesterol. Mas nakabubusog din ang mga pagkaing mayaman sa fiber, kaya nga kahit marami ang kainin nating prutas at gulay, hindi ito mabilis makadagdag sa ating timbang.

Ang karot, katuray, dahon ng gabi, dahon ng malunggay, dahon ng siling labuyo, at dahon ng upo ay mayaman sa beta-carotene. Kung bitamina C naman ang pag-uusapan, mataas dito ang katuray, dahon ng kamoteng kahoy, talbos ng sayote, dahon ng kulitis, at mustasa. Mayaman naman sa kalsiyum ang dahon ng kulitis, buto ng utaw (o soybean), dahon ng katuray, saluyot, at mustasa. Ang mga gulay tulad ng dahon ng kulitis, dahon ng talinum, katuray, buto ng utaw, at abitsuwelas ay ilan lamang sa mga gulay na mataas ang taglay na iron o yero.

Bukod sa mga sustansiyang taglay ng gulay, marami pang benepisyong pangkalusugan ang dinudulot ng mga ito. Halimbawa ay ang gamit nito bilang halamang gamot o herbal medicine.

Katulad ng ampalaya, kalimitang ginagamit ang mga dahon nito para sa ubo ng mga bata. Kalimitan din itong ginagamit na panggamot o panglanggas sa mga sakit sa balat. At di lang ‘yon, ginagamit din ang ampalaya bilang pampurga.

Isa pang gulay na may gamit bilang halamang gamot ay ang karot. Ito ay nagtataglay ng carotenoids na sinasabing nakakababa ng posibilidad sa pagkakaroon ng kanser at sakit sa puso at mga ugat. Ang beta-carotene na taglay nito ay nakabubuti para sa ating paningin at iwinawasto nito ang pamamaga ng mucous membrane sa loob ng ating ilong.

Ang isa pang gulay na madalas kasama sa ating hapag kainan ay ang kamatis. Ang kamatis ay nagtataglay ng phytochemicals tulad ng lycopene na ayon sa mga pag-aaral ay tumutulong sa pag-iwas sa kanser.

Ang isa pang gulay na halos kasama sa pang-araw-araw na pagkain ng bawa’t Pilipino ay ang sili. Ang sili ay nagtataglay ng bitamina A, C at E, folic acid at potassium. Ang sili ay maaaring makatulong sa pagpapababa ng blood pressure at sa pag-iwas din sa ilang uri ng kanser.

Ang ilan pa sa ating mga gulay na may benebisyong pangkalusugan ay ang kalabasa, gabi, labanos, at malunggay. Ang mga gulay na ito ay sinasabing laxative o ‘yung tumutulong upang maging maayos ang pagdumi.

Ngayon at alam na natin ang iba’t-ibang benepisyong taglay ng gulay, halina’t magplano ng samu’t-saring lutuing gulay para mapakinabangan natin ang mga benepisyong nabanggit.

Cebuano News: 2 ka proyekto sa NIA giturn-over na

Ni Jane B. Huqueriza

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, May 16 - Gi-inagurahan bag-uhay pa lamang ang duha ka proyekto sa National Irrigation Administration (NIA) nga mao ang Jubgan Communal Irrigation System (CIS) nga nagkantidad ug kapin P7 milyon ug ang Rehabilitasyon sa Sanghan Communal Irrigation system (CIS) nga adunay pondo nga P15 milyon.

Ang duha ka proyekto gi-implementar sa Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands Irrigation Management Office (ASDI-IMO) sa pagdumala ni Engr. Salome N. Layasan, IMO Manager uban ni Engr. Alexander B. Calo, Satellite Office Head ubos sa rehiyonal na opisina sa NIA nga gidumala ni Engr. Constancio G. Bana-ay, Acting Regional Manager kauban ang partner sa proyekyo nga mao ang mga Irrigators Associations (IAs) ug Local Government Units (LGUs)

Ang Jubgan CIS nga inagurahan ug giturn-over niadtong Mayo 9, 2017 sa Jubgan, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte sa MADANLOG Farmers Irrigators Association, Inc. nga adunay 45 nga mag-uumang benepisyaryo nga gipanguluhan ni Julito G. Pulos. Ang proyekto adunay 10 ektarya na service area (SA) pero sumala ni Engr. Bana-ay, Jr., nga ang pasilidad nga giturn-over, pwede pa kining maka-hatag ug tubig irigasyon nga sobra sa SA tungod sa kakusog sa tubig, kinahanglan lang nga e develop ang mga area nga mahimong basakan aron kini makahatag ug dako nga tabang labi na sa pag-uswag sa panginabuhian sa mga mag-uuma.

Ang Sanghan CIS mao ang proyekto kung diin dili lamang pasilidad sa patubig ang napondohan kundi nahilakip dinhi ang IA Hall, adunay kapin P15 milyon ang kinatibuk-an nga gasto nga maghatag ug serbisyo sa 103 ka mag-uuma nga nahisakop sa 200 SA. Ang proyekto giturn-over kini niadtong Mayo 10, 2017 sa Sanghan, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte sa KAMALAKA Irrigators Association nga gipanguluhan ni Ruenston Delalamon. Sumala sa mensahe ni Engr. Layasan nga ang proyekto kinahanglan gyud ampingan labi na panahon sa operasyon aron kini magamit pa sa sunod nga mga henerasyon ug dili lamang ang mga pasilidad kundi pati na ang tinubgan sa tubig.

Pareho nga nagmalipayon ang mga mag-uuma nga na turn-over na ang proyekto labi na kay wala na silay pagabayaran sa NIA nga amortization tungod sa memorandum nga gipagawas na libre na ang patubig. Pero gipasabot ni Engr. Susan D. Lariba, O&M Chief nga pwede gihapon mangolekta ang IA ug maintenace fee para pondo sa ilang asosasyon pero kinahanglan nga ipa-agi ug asembliya. (NIA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte readies for golden anniversary, Independence Day celebrations

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 17 (PIA) – Different activities are lined up for the 5oth Anniversary Celebration of the province of Agusan del Norte on June 12 to 17, this year.

Preparatory meetings and coordination were conducted by the concerned agencies and personnel of the province to ensure the successful conduct of the celebration.

On June 12, the province will have a joint celebration of the 119th Independence Day, the opening ceremonies of the 50th Foundation Anniversary and the Sadow Festival at the provincial capitol covered court.

During the opening of the celebration, an ecumenical thanksgiving service will be held at the provincial capitol to be followed by Independence Day celebration ceremonies; presentation of the Bae candidates; and presentation of different tribal dances of the Manobo, Higaonon, and Mamanwa tribes.

Also, the Taboan sa Kapitolyo will start and a 'sugba-sugba' or Bangus (milk fish) grilling will be joine by different local and naional government offices' personnel.

Part of the activities during the week-long anniversary celebration is the conduct of the Arbor Day cum Community Immersion on June 13 (2nd day) to four proposed areas, namely: Por Cristo at Buenavista; Coro, Jabonga; Santiago; and Mahaba in Cabadbaran City.

Different competitions will also be held during the celebration, like Talentadong Empleyado, Choral, drum and lyre, fireworks display and battle of the bands, TechVoc Skills competition, table skirting, flowerhorn, choral, quiz bowl competitions, and a doggie diva fashion show at the provincial capitol park.

Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba will also deliver her administration’s 2016 accomplishments to the people of the province or State of the Province Address on June 16 in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

On June 17 will be the People’s Day celebration where various government services will be given to more or less 4,000 constituents will held in Cabadbaran City. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is expected to join the Agusanons on the said date. The awarding of Agro-Industrial Fair winners, Outstanding Agusanons, and the Bae coronation night will also be held. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DOE rolls out hybrid, energy efficient cars

BUTUAN CITY, May 17 (PIA) - The days of fuel-guzzling government agency vehicles are numbered.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is introducing the replacement of service vehicles of the national government offices with hybrid cars as part of its campaign to promote energy efficiency and clean air across the country.

At 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 19, 2017 at the DOE Sunken Garden, the DOE will donate 24 Japan-made Toyota Prius (2017 model) to the Office of the President, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade and Industries (DTI), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Eight hybrid cars will also be given to government offices in Region-VIII including the DENR, DTI, DOST, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Transportation-Land Transportation Office (DOTr-LTO), and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) in support to the economic and social recovery of communities devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda.

“This Japan government-aided grant will jumpstart our drive towards our call to action to our fellow public servants to increase their use or patronize energy efficient technologies, including their official vehicles. We have to be the role models in this cause, so our people can look up to us and follow our lead,” said DOE Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

Officials of the DOE's Energy Utilization Management Bureau and Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Kazuhide Ishikawa, will turn over the hybrid Toyota vehicles to the said beneficiaries.

Japan's Non-Project Grant Aid (NPGA) funded the acquisition of the Toyota Prius, which emits lower carbon emission. The hybrid car has an optimized fuel engine and electric motor to attain highest energy efficiency. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

OWWA launches CARE program, releases financial assistance to quake victims in Surigao Norte

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 17 (PIA) – Pursuant to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Board Resolution No. 006, series of 2017, OWWA–Caraga launched the agency’s Cash Relief (CARE) Program on Sunday afternoon at the Provincial Convention Center, this city.

The Cash Relief (CARE) Program is a one-time financial assistance intended to aid OWWA member families after being affected by the 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the province on February 10, this year.

The launching was graced by vice governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr., Public Employment Service Office (PESO) provincial manager Emilio C. Pantejo, Surigao City PESO Officer-in-Charge Gloria O. Gimena.

In his message, vice governor Egay extended his gratitude to the agency for continuously showing the Surigaonon Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) how OWWA cares through its programs and services especially after the destructive earthquake.

During the program, OWWA-Caraga regional director Samuel S. Madrid assured all those new applicants and those with lacking documents that the agency will still continue releasing the assistance in the coming days.

“This is only the launching of the CARE Program. We will find ways to reach out to those who haven’t claimed yet. To ease you from hassle, OWWA will be visiting the municipalities to distribute the assistance,” Madrid said.

Around P500,000 was released to about 300 OFW families from Surigao City and a few barangays from the municipality of Sison during the kick-off of the CARE Program.

OWWA personnel processed all of the client’s applications that lasted past 9:00 in the evening.

New applications and queries regarding the program were also accepted and entertained in the Public Assistance Desk designated to ensure that all clients are attended to throughout the day.

Active OWWA members received P3,000.00 per family while the family of a non-active OWWA members received P1,500.00.

The agency is still accepting new applications. OFWs and their beneficiaries may file at their local PESO Offices or they may also call the regional office for more information about the program through telephone numbers 815-1894/342-6179 and hotline numbers 09173150590/09399259895. (OWWA Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur officials join Surigao's founding anniversary celebration

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 18 (PIA) – The province of Surigao del Sur recently joined the celebration of the 116th Founding Anniversary of the mother province, Surigao del Norte.

Surigao del Sur Governor Vicente T. Pimentel Jr. led the Surigao del Sur delegation together with the department heads and other local officials who participated during the fellowship dinner hosted by the province of Surigao del Norte headed by Governor Sol Matugas upon their arrival.

On Monday, the delegates joined the flag raising ceremony with the officials of the three provinces, the Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Province of Dinagat Islands as part of the culmination celebration activities.

Surigao del Sur was part of its mother province - Surigao del Norte before it was separated on September 18, 1960, through a Republic Act 2786 dated June 19, 1960.

Meanwhile, Vicente Luna Pimentel Sr., the father of Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr., has been described as the patriarch and pillar of Surigao del Sur politics, being the first governor of the once undivided Surigao province. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

'Enhanced Justice on Wheels' goes to Surigao Sur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 18 (PIA) – The courts will be brought closer to the people of Surigao del Sur after Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez launched today, May 18 the Enhanced Justice on Wheels (EJOW) in the province.

The launching ceremony was held at the Tandag City Park here.

Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez, who arrived on Wednesday afternoon, was the guest of honor during the event.

In a radio interview, Daryl Oso, Clerk of Court RTC Branch 40 said that the EJOW has lined up several activities, which included court hearings and Mobile Court Annexed Mediation.

The Justice on Wheels Bus has already arrived in the city on May 13, earlier before the launching activity, Oso added.

Based on the itinerary released by the organizers, the Mobile Court-Annexed Mediation (MCAM) was already conducted in Cantilan town on Monday, May 15, Hinatuan town on May 16, and Bislig City on May 17. The MCAM arrived today in Tandag City, in time with the launching activity.

Other activities conducted include Court Hearings on wheels, which was conducted right after the launching program; court-annexed mediation; free legal aid; information and dissemination campaign for barangay officials held at the Villa Maria Luisa Hotel; and medical and dental mission set last week of May 2017.

The EJOW is the centerpiece of the Supreme Court aimed for the speed up solution of most pending cases in all trial courts in the country. It addresses the issues and concerns of inmates who are poor but deserve to have their cases be acted upon as quickly as possible. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

NPA rebel surrenders in Agusan Norte

By 2Lt Ashley Mae A. del Rosario

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, May 18 - A young member of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Agusan del Norte voluntarily surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) under the supervision of Col. Cristobal N. Zaragoza of 401st Infantry Brigade.

According to 29IB commanding officer Lt. Colonel Glenn Jy U. Aynera, the rebel identified as Rudy Sagaysay Alimbuyong also known as Ka Bunso surrendered on Tuesday, May 16, 2017.

Ka Bunso was an active member of the Sandatahang Platoon Pangpropaganda (SPP) 16A, Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 16, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee before deciding to quit the armed struggle due to the “hardships and disenchantment” in the fake revolutionary promises.

He also turned over an M14 rifle with several rounds of ammunition.

Aynera revealed that Ka Bunso was with the NPA for 13 months operating in the area of Santiago, Jabonga and Kitcharao all of Agusan del Norte and was involved in the recent encounters in Brgy Hinimbangan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

"Ka Bunso decided to surrender upon seeing the change of lives of former rebels who already surrendered to 29th Infantry Battalion and believes that he has also a chance to live a peaceful and normal life," Aynera said.

"His being with the NPAs, left him no time with his family and has not availed of the monthly support the NPA has promised him. He also believed that most of his comrades are already thinking of laying down their arms at any opportune time as they saw in the Duterte’s administration a real change for peace and development," he added.

MGen Benjamin R. Madrigal, Jr. of the 4th Infantry Division congratulated the Brigade and the Battalion for their continued support to the peace building efforts and further instructed to coordinate with the DILG for the enrollment of the surrenderee to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). (Civil Military Operations Officer, 29IB, 4ID, PA/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Feature: Local fruits, veggies transformed into nutritious powder mixes for kids

By Salvador R. Serrano

“A food-based micronutrient supplementation of complementary food blends increases availability and intake of nutrients commonly insufficient in the daily diet of young kids, thereby helping improve their nutritional status.”

An estimated one-third of children five years old and below in developing countries like the Philippines are stunted.

Stunting is when a child is short in height compared to other children of the same age.

Indicative of past malnutrition, stunting is the result of long-term undernutrition, like years of inadequate intake of nutrients that stagnates growth and development.

Also, a large proportion of children are deficient in one or more micronutrients, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF, 2015).

Based on the results of the 2013 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) of the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the (DOST-FNRI), undernutrition persists among Filipino children.

From 2008 to 2013, there was an increase in the number of underweight children, the FNRI NNS revealed.

The 2013 NNS also revealed that anemia prevalence was at 55.7 percent (%) and was highest among infants 6 to 11 months old.

Appropriate complementary feeding starting six months of age and continuous breastfeeding up to two years is critical for children’s optimal growth and development.

Related to this, the DOST-FNR developed complementary food blends to address protein-energy malnutrition.

Complementary food is any nutrient-dense food given to babies starting six months of age until two to three years old, while breastfeeding is continuous.

At six months, breastmilk alone is not enough to meet the increasing nutritional needs for proper growth and development of the baby.

Complementary food blends can be enhanced with the multi-nutrient growth mix (MGM) containing vitamins and minerals.

Three MGM variants were developed using locally-grown fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals.

These fruits and vegetables were individually processed and blended in different proportions until three MGM variants were acceptable.

Acceptable formulations were selected based on sensory evaluation, raw material cost, and estimated nutritional content.

The formulations were then standardized and stored at room temperature to determine shelf-life.

A series of sensory evaluation were conducted during trials, optimization, standardization runs, and storage study of the products.

Chemical, physico-chemical, and microbiological analyses were also done during the storage study.

The three MGM variants developed are Carrot-Anchovies, Yellow Sweet Potato-Spinach and Squash-Banana blends.

The percent recommended energy and nutrient intakes (RENI) contribution for one to three year-old children are 6 percent energy, 15 percent protein, 37 percent vitamin A, 25 percent calcium, 3 percent iron, 8 percent zinc, and 75 percent iodine for Carrot-Anchovies blend.

Yellow Sweet Potato-Spinach blend contains 6 percent energy, 3 percent protein, 23 percent vitamin A, 8 percent calcium, 12 percent iron, 9 percent zinc, and 49 percent iodine.

Squash-Banana blend provides 5 percent energy, 6 percent protein, 10 percent vitamin A, 34 percent calcium, 7 percent iron, 12 percent zinc, and 79 percent iodine.

Sensory panelists rated the blends “like slightly” to “like moderately”.

Packed in laminated foil, the MGM was stable after one year of storage under room temperature.

A pack of 15 grams costs P24.45 for Carrot-Anchovies, P9.16 for Yellow Sweet Potato-Spinach and P10.72 for Squash-Banana.

Differences in costs are attributed to the cost of raw materials used in the formation of each variant.

Locally grown fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins and minerals but are not available daily in most Filipino meals due to seasonality and short shelf-life.

Development of the multi-nutrient growth mixes using fruits and vegetables in ready-to-use sachets can help address availability and perishability.

The MGM blends can always be available to mothers and caregivers in convenient form.

Vitamins and minerals from local plants naturally fortify the ordinary “lugaw” or rice porridge usually given to young children to complement the protein and energy-dense blends also developed by the FNRI.

The MGM is a mixture of affordable, locally available and culturally acceptable food based add-on to complementary food.

Underweight children six months to two years old, mothers and caregivers of underweight children, barangay health and nutrition workers, as well as small and medium scale enterprises can benefit from these technologies.

The MGM technology is ready for adoption by interested entrepreneurs, local government units (LGUs) and non-government organizations (NGOs).

This strategy will also provide farmers with livelihood by planting local crops used in producing MGM.

A food-based strategy is a sustainable approach because it allows the mother, caregivers and household to take responsible control of the quality of food by growing their own nutrient-rich foods.

For more information on the Micronutrient Growth Mixes, food technologies and other food and nutrition concerns, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, DOST Compound, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel./Fax Numbers: 8372934 and 8373164; email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph; Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: Egg is Perfect for Breakfast

By Czarina Teresita S. Martinez

Eggs are widely enjoyed as breakfast entrée. Some would like their egg poached to perfection. Others would prefer plain scrambled egg or with vegetable, meat, seafood or a combination of a whole lot more. Still others would like a simple hard cooked egg where the eggshell is intact and without crack, the yolk and the white are solid and firm.

Others would like a soft cooked egg almost coagulated yet it has the ability to “quiver” a bit. While the optimistic who faithfully wakes up in the morning to see the bright side of life would positively desire the sunny side up.

But can we eat egg every day? Egg is high in cholesterol and it has been blamed as the culprit that causes the accumulation of plaques in the arteries resulting to constricting blood flow, reducing the elasticity of the arteries, and consequently elevating the blood pressure.

On the other hand, egg contains essential minerals and vitamins except vitamin C needed by the body. It is a good source of quality protein, meaning egg contains the right quality of essential amino acid to build tissues. Chicken egg is readily available in the market and the cost is cheap.

Weighing the good side and the bad side of egg consumption, doctors and dietitians agreed to recommend eating 2-3 pieces of eggs per week.

In the study, “The Effects of Egg Consumption on Lipid Profile Among Selected 30–60 Year-Old Filipino Adults” headed by Dr. Celeste C. Tanchoco, Scientist III, of the DOST-FNRI, she suggested that, “eating one egg a day is unlikely to have substantial increase in blood lipid.” Dr. Tanchoco advocates a stronger message regarding other aspects of lifestyle such as weight maintenance, regular exercise and support the necessity of dietary guidelines and lifestyle approach to disease risk reduction as lifelong endeavor.

If we can eat egg everyday, how can we make its preparation exciting? How do we cook eggs right? Here are some practical steps to cook eggs to perfection.

An excellent poached egg guarantees that it is made from fresh eggs. Start off by using only fresh eggs. Poached egg is cooked in water at a simmering temperature, about 85-98OC, the temperature below boiling point, when bubbles form slowly and collapse below the surface. The eggshell is carefully broken with caution, keeping the yolk whole. Slowly glide the egg into the simmering water. Allow the egg white to set at a desired degree. When done, remove eggs using a slotted ladle. Drain and serve at once.

Hard cooked eggs and soft cooked eggs may be cooked in the same saucepan. Remove eggs from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. It is important to have the eggs at room temperature because the sudden extreme change in temperature will cause the eggshells to break. It is also important to have all the eggs in saucepan immersed in water. Cook the eggs at simmering temperature. Soft cooked egg is done after simmering for 5 minutes while hard cooked egg needs 15 minutes. To achieve the desired results, cooked eggs must be dip in cold water to prevent over cooking. A fast egg spin distinguishes the hard cooked egg from the soft cooked one.

Sunny side-up and over easy are fried eggs. Eggs are broken out of the shell then pan fried in cooking oil. Cook the egg until the white is set and the yolk thickens but not hard. The yolk may be baste with hot oil to have an over easy fried egg.

The scrambled egg is prepared by whipping the whole egg. Milk is oftentimes added to achieve a softer product. A good scrambled egg is evenly coagulated but not tough nor burned. Scrambled eggs easily turn into omelets by adding sliced tomatoes, onions, mushroom, cheese, bacon, red or green pepper, meat, sea foods and endless combination. This fun-filled omelet is what my grandmother fondly calls “torta”.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Bitamina A: pampalinaw ng mata, panlaban sa impeksiyon pa!

Ni Charina A. Javier

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Mayo 18 - Sa lahat ng gamit ng bitamina A sa katawan, pinakasikat na yata ang pampalinaw ng mata. Ngunit alam nyo ba na kailangan din ang bitaminang ito para labanan ang iba't ibang impeksiyon at para sa maayos na paglaki ng mga bata?

Ang bitamina A ay kailangan upang mapanatili ang normal na dami ng cells at matiyak na sapat ang mucous na nagpapanatiling basa at malagkit ang mga ilang bahagi ng katawan. Katulad nito ay ang gilid sa loob ng ating baga, lalamunan at bituka, pinagdadaanan ng ihi at ang ating mga nervous at reproductive systems. Ang mucous na galing sa mga cells ay may mga sangkap na nakapupuksa ng mga mikrobyo, kaya lumalakas ang resistensya at nalalabanan ang impeksiyon ng katawan. Kapag may kakulangan sa bitamina A, madaling dapuan ng sakit katulad ng sakit sa baga (respiratory infection) at pagtatae. Maaari ding lumala ang tigdas lalo na sa mga bata kung kulang sa bitamina A.

Bukod dito, ang bitamina A ay kailangan din para sa maayos na paglaki. Tumutulong ito sa paglaki ng mga buto o bone growth. Ang bitamina A ang nagpapanatili sa pagiging flexible ng mga buto para madali at normal ang paglaki nito.

Upang magkaroon ng sapat na bitamina A sa ating katawan, ugaliing kumain ng mga pagkaing mayaman sa bitaminang ito. Kabilang na dito ang atay, itlog, keso, dilis, mga lamang dagat tulad ng tahong at tulya, dilaw at berdeng gulay, at dilaw na prutas. Halimbawa ng dilaw at berdeng gulay ay carrot, kamatis, kalabasa, dahon ng malunggay, kamote, kangkong, pechay at saluyot. Ang mga prutas tulad ng mangga, papaya, saging at melon naman ay halimbawa ng mga dilaw na prutas. Marami na ring mga pagkain ang dinagdagan o fortified ng bitamina A tulad ng noodles, mga inumin, sawsawan, mantika at asukal. Piliin ang mga pagkain mayroong Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPS) dahil ito ang mga pagkain dinagdagan ng bitamina A.

Kaya sa susunod na kakain ng mga pagkaing mayaman sa bitamina A, isipin ninyo na ito'y para mapanatiling malinaw ang mata at lumakas rin ang inyong resistensiya.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon at kaalaman sa pagkain at nutrisyon, sumulat o tumawag kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Direktor, FNRI-DOST sa kanyang email address: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph o mar_v_c@yahoo.com o sa telepono bilang 837-2934/837-3164. Maaari ding bisitahin ang FNRI website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. I-Like din ang aming Facebook page sa facebook.com/FNRI.DOST o sundan kami sa aming Twitter account sa twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

TESDA Caraga conducts teambuilding, benchmarking in Cebu

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, May 19 – Personnel from the TESDA-Caraga Regional Office together with the Provincial Training Centers in Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte have recently participated the Team Building and Benchmarking Activities in the Queen City of the South – Cebu.

According to TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Ashary A. Banto, the conduct of the Team Building Activity is being institutionalized in all government offices to give all civil servants the time to bond and help them build a professional culture that is not only competent and efficient but also one where there is a maximum cooperation, interaction and socialization among officials and employees.

The official also said the activity is pursuant to the provisions of the Omnibus Rules Implementing Book V of Executive Order No. 292 (Section 31, Chapter 5) which states that “each department or agency shall prepare a career and personal development plan which include provisions, among others, for employees’ health, welfare, counseling, recreation and similar services.”

Dir. Banto likewise stressed that the activities were simultaneously conducted to maximize the time of the personnel while they are in Cebu. “First day of the activity is the conduct of the Teambuilding while the Benchmarking was conducted on the last day,” Banto said.

During the teambuilding, the personnel underwent teambuilding games that has intensified the relationship among the members in the team. Each team is composed of mixed personnel from the Regional Office, PTC-Agusan del Norte, and PTC-Surigao del Norte.

The benchmarking activity was conducted at the Regional Training Center of TESDA in Cebu. TESDA Region VII Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. received the participants and they were given the opportunity to visit the venues of the different qualifications offered by the said training center.

In his speech during the fellowship night at TESDA Region VII compound, RD Banto expressed his sincerest thanks and gratitude to the officials and personnel of TESDA Cebu for their hospitality and accommodating the request of the TESDA-Caraga. The official likewise awarded Certificates of Appreciation to RD Sunico and the TESDA Cebu as well as the RTC Administrator Engr. Winefredo Salas.

The activities were being conducted to afford all officials and employees an opportunity to undertake staff development activity that will enhance teamwork and improve team performance. It also discovers effective ways to get tasks accomplished through others; develops next line of leaders and see what they can accomplish through effective delegation; learn to ask for help and how much (or little) communication needs to be done among co-workers; discover the importance of communicating ideas and experiences among the group to accomplish goals.

Moreover, by overcoming obstacles, the team’s morale will soar, and discover how having fun and accomplishing goals can be the best morale booster around; assess how each team members approaches their work and what that means for reducing conflict and increasing cooperation; and maximize quality, productivity, employees’ involvements, and employees’ needs to be included in the issues that they influence. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RDC to start 2017-2022 development plan advocacy next month

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 22 (PIA) – With the successful conduct of consultations from the provincial and city local government offices of Caraga region, the 2017-2022 Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP), a blueprint for the region's development direction in the next six years, is set to be launched in the five provinces of the region starting next month.

National Economic and Development Authority Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño cites the importance of the people’s contribution in the achievement of the RDP goals, thus Cariño encourages Caraganons to contribute towards the realization of the plan.

“The RDP can only be brought to life, if all the stakeholders are involved in the implementation process,” Cariño said. In order to popularize the RDP, various advocacy activities will be conducted, she said.

Cariño said that inorder to promote greater ownership of the plan; RDC will implement activities involving various sectors. RDC will launch the plan in the five provinces and six cities in the region involving all sectors and gathering stakeholders from the poorest, least influential persons to those in authority, commencing in the Province of Dinagat Islands on June 20, being the youngest among the provinces, Cariño added.

Surigao del Norte and Surigao City’s launching is scheduled on June 22; Surigao del Sur, Tandag City and Bislig City on June 27; Agusan del Sur and Bayugan City on June 29; and Agusan del Norte and Cabadbaran City on July 5.

On July 11, 2017, RDC will hold the regional launching showcasing the launching activities in the local levels, Carino said. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur bags 3 national Gawad Kalasag awards

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 22 (PIA) – Three entries of the province in this year’s National Gawad Kalasag Search were adjudged national winners in different categories, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) here recently.

PDRRM Officer Abel de Guzman said the local disaster risk reduction and management council (DRRMC) of Hinatuan was proclaimed the Best Municipal DRRM Council for the 1st to 3rd class category, while the Nagkahiusang Mangingisda sa Hinatuan (NAMAHIN), also in Hinatuan, was named as Best People’s Organization Category.

De Guzman also bared that the Hinatuan District Hospital won as Best Hospital for the Local Government Unit Category.

Meanwhile, the Sibog Katawhan Alang sa Paglambo (SIKAP) based in the province of Agusan del Sur was also proclaimed as Best Civil Society Organization.

The Gawad KALASAG aims to recognize outstanding performance of Local Disaster Coordinating Councils (LDCCs), private/volunteer organizations, local, national and international NGOs, donor agencies, and the communities as major stakeholders in implementing significant DRM projects and activities and, in providing humanitarian response and assistance to affected communities.

It also aims to recognize individuals, groups or institutions that have shown extraordinary courage, heroism, self sacrifice, and bravery in times of natural and human-made emergencies and disasters. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Agusan Norte produces 1st IMT in PH, holds ICS training courses

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 22 (PIA)– The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of the province of Agusan del Norte has produced the first Provincial Incident Management Team (IMT) in the country.

According to PDRRMO officer Erma Suyo, the Provincial IMT, composed of 24 personnel from the provincial government, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police, and local government units of the province, completed their course in 2015. "The team underwent the four Ladderized Courses – the Basic Incident Command System; Integrated Planning; Position Courses; and the All-Hazard Incident Management Team Training," Suyo said.

"The team helps ensure that incidents or a non-emergency event be managed properly. This is also our aim to have a proactive approach to manage disaster consequences and reduce disaster risks," Suyo added.

Suyo, however, said that the PDRRMC sees the need to train and create a second batch of IMT to ensure continuity of services and uninterrupted management if an incident will last for a week or longer. Because of the need to create the 2nd Provincial IMT, PDRRMO has conducted a series of Incident Command System (ICS) training courses in the province.

Suyo said that on April 4-6, 2017 PDRRMC conducted the Basic ICS course and produced a total of 30 graduates. Also, 45 have graduated on the ICS Integrated Planning course on April 17-21, 2017.

Suyo also said that an ICS Position Course participated by 30 coming from different local government units, national government representatives, and Philippine National Police personnel of the province is ongoing until May 19.

Also, on May 29 to June 2, this year, an All-Hazard Incident Management Team (IMT) Training will be held in Cabadbaran City.

“The ICS was first implemented in Agusan del Norte in 2014 when Tropical Depression 'Agaton' struck the province, it is one of the flagship programs of the PDRRMC,” Suyo said. The ICS is used to manage an incident or a non-emergency event, and can be used equally well for both small and large situations.

The ICS is a standardized on-site management system designed to enable effective, efficient management by integrating a combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications operating within a common organizational structure. It helps to ensure the safety of responders, the achievement of tactical objectives and efficient use of resources, Suyo added. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PSA conducts 2016 respondents forum in Surigao Norte

By Guillermo M. Lipio, Jr.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 22 -The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Surigao del Norte conducted the Respondents’ Forum for the 2016 Annual Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (ASPBI) on May 16, 2017 held at the Hotel Tavern, this city.

The 2016 ASPBI is a continuing activity of the PSA, which aims to provide information on the levels, structures, performance and trends of economic activities of the formal sector in the entire country for the year 2016.

It is one of the designated statistical activities of the government and as such the survey generates the essential statistics required for economic planning and analysis.

The Respondents’ Forum aims to provide respondents of 2016 ASPBI with the opportunity and venue to discuss various matters about ASPBI. In the forum, there will also be presentation of statistics generated based on the previous ASPBI.

The distribution of questionnaires for 2016 ASPBI started on April 17, 2017 nationwide.

The PSA calls for the full support of establishments in the province by filling out the 2016 ASPBI questionnaires with complete and appropriate answers to all questions.

Bookkeepers, accountants, and managers of various establishments in the province participated the said forum. (PSA-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DAR AgNor organizational strengthening program hits 134%

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, May 22 – The 2016 performance of the Provincial Agrarian Reform Office of Agusan del Norte on organizational strengthening program reached 134 percent.

Sixty (60) Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs), that included cooperatives, farmers and irrigators’ associations, and women groups, completed the required trainings.

This year 2017, Provincial Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PPBDD) intensifies its effort to outperform last year performance by aiming to train 10,000 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) over the 7,500 ARBs trained last year.

PPBDD Chief Judith M. Domingo has expressed confidence that performance this year will be attained despite the biggest challenge confronting the department which the lack of manpower as a consequence of the RATPLAN.

Coop Development Coordinator Juanita Balibay pointed out that the trainings to be conducted for this year have targeted nearly fifty ARBOs in the province.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Andre B. Atega instructed the field-based personnel to exert effort in providing quality trainings that will make the farmer-organizations competitive as a rural enterprise.

He reminded the group of Baug CARP Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BCBMPC) which is now the classic “crab hunter to banker” story line of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) implementation history.

He said that the province capability-building program is one of the thrust of DAR’s Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano in strengthening the agrarian organizations.

The training program aimed at strengthening the ARBO to avail interventions from the government under the administration of DAR Secretary Rafael Mariano, such as access to credit assistance and other interventions to improve agricultural productivity. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Administrative issues tackled in TESDA ACE-Caraga’s general assembly

BUTUAN CITY, May 22 – Issues on administrative matters were highlighted during the conduct of TESDA Association of Concerned Employees (ACE)-Caraga General Assembly held recently in one of the local convention centers here.

TESDA ACE-Caraga President Romel M. Natad said the assembly served as a venue for the personnel to know on latest issues and concerns pertaining to administrative matters. He added issues such as job vacancies in the agency as well as orientation of personnel who will be assigned as TESDA representatives during the conduct of competency assessments were among those that were presented.

Consuelo T. Destacamento, Senior TESD Specialist and regional focal of the Competency Assessment and Certification System (CACS) stressed that since anybody from the TESDA personnel can be designated as TESDA representatives during the conduct of competency assessment, they should be oriented on the do’s and don’ts.

Meanwhile, Robert E. Roperos, TESDA-Caraga Human Resource Management Officer presented the job vacancies of both the corporate offices and the TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs) or the TESDA Administered Schools.

Roperos said a total of 24 vacancies are being offered by TESDA-Caraga: six plantilla positions are opened for the Corporate Offices; five (5) for the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades; seven (7) from the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF); and six from the Surigao del Norte College of Agriculture and Technology (SNCAT).

Further, Roperos underscored that complete requirements must be submitted by interested applicants. “Since we have criteria as part of the evaluation of qualified applicants, all requirements stated in the Job Opening must be complied, thus interested applicants are reminded to read and understand what have been stated in the Job Opening,” he said. Deadline of submission of complete application documents is on May 26, 2017.

Moreover, Natad presented the financial status of the organization as well as the status of the cases lodged to the personnel of TESDA-Caraga.

The conduct of the activity supports the transparency program of the present administration. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: Making exercise part of daily life

By Divorah V. Aguila

Almost everybody knows that exercise is good for the body, but not everyone likes to run, dance, lift weights or simply to walk the extra mile.

Although the health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore, many of us may have even tried changing our routine but kept sliding back to old behaviors eventually.

Exercise doesn’t need to be such an all or nothing commitment, as it can be a fun time to socialize with friends and working out with others can help keep you motivated.

If you haven’t exercised before or you’ve tried an exercise program in the past and was unable to stick with it, it’s important not to set unrealistic goals.

Committing to exercise for an hour a day in a gym may be too challenging at first, as compared to committing to 10 minutes just three or four times a week which is more manageable.

Once these short windows of activity become a habit and you start experiencing the benefits, it’s easier to progress to the next level.

Find an exercise that you enjoy doing which could be as simple as a walk, or as unique as washing the clothes while mopping the floor.

If you don’t already have an exercise hobby yet, there are a variety to choose from that are both fun and healthy.

Remember that if you hate what you are doing, you are far less likely to stay engaged.

Look at your daily routine and consider ways to sneak in a physical activity here and there.

Bear in mind that even very small activities can add-up over the course of a day.

In and around your homes, you can clean the house, wash the clothes, tend to the yard and garden, mow the lawn with a push mower, sweep up the sidewalk or patio with a broom.

At work and on the go, you can look for ways to walk or cycle more.

For example, walk to an appointment or use the stairs, briskly walk to the bus stop then get off one stop early, park at the back of the lot and walk into the store or office. Take a vigorous walk during your coffee break or walk while you’re talking on your cell phone.

With friends or family, you can walk or jog around an open field or park with your husband, kids or friends, make a neighborhood bike ride part of weekend routine. Play tug-of-war with your children in the yard, play exercise video games or walk the dog together as a family.

While watching TV, you can gently stretch while watching your favorite show, do push-ups, sit-ups or lift light weights during the commercial breaks. You’ll be amazed at how many repetitions you can fit in during the commercials of a half-hour show.

On weekends that you cannot watch your favorite telenovela, turn off the TV and take a walk outside the house.

Making lifestyle and behavior changes is not easy.

But over time, as you continue to exercise, you’ll start to reap the physical and mental health benefits and improve your performance.

Soon enough, you’ll be able to exercise longer and harder and have the confidence to try new activities.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

DOE turns over energy-efficient cars to gov't agencies

BUTUAN CITY, May 22 - Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi and Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhide Ishikawa turned over on Friday 24 units of advanced hybrid vehicles to various national government agencies (NGAs).

“We give distinct focus to the promotion and mainstreaming of efficient, emerging and advanced energy solutions to manage our energy utilization and consumption levels—from the households all the way to the energy-intensive sectors,” Cusi said during the ceremonial turnover held at the DOE’s headquarters.

Cusi pointed out that the program aims to promote the local use and patronage of efficient and environment-friendly alternative fuel vehicles, by deploying demo units and consequently developing familiarity with their operation, maintenance and service.

He said the donation of alternative fuel vehicles to different government agencies nationwide "would help trigger a paradigm shift in the mindset of the public so that we would be able to witness a dramatic reduction in both our fuel consumption and carbon emissions."

Underscoring the responsibility of recipients, Cusi said, “We entrust the 24 units of highly fuel-efficient 2017 model Hybrid Toyota Prius to our partner agencies, which are fortunate to act as government’s veritable endorsers of clean technology and harbingers of the future of passenger transport.”

The Government of Japan gave the Philippines a grant amounting to JPY500 million for the procurement and delivery of next generation vehicles (i.e., hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles) under the Japan Non-Project Grant Aid (NPGA) with the DOE as its implementing agency.

For this tranche, recipients of the Japan-made hybrid cars are the Office of the President, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Finance, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Transportation, Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Economic Development Authority, Department of Science and Technology, and the Philippine National Police.

As agreed upon, the NGA beneficiaries will be assisting the DOE in its conduct of research, performance testing and promotion for the local adoption of alternative fuel vehicles.

On the other hand, another eight units will be distributed to the Region-VIII national government offices involved in emergency response operations and rehabilitation, such as the Philippine Information Agency, Office of Civil Defense, Department of Transportation – Land Transportation Office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau, Department of Interior and Local Government – Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Trade and Industry.

The turnover ceremony of the vehicles for Region 8 is scheduled on 25 May 2017. Another 45 units of 2017 model of Toyota Prius will be used as patrol cars by PNP Region-VIII, particularly in the provinces of Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Food Safety, mahalaga ngayong Summer

Ni Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, May 22 - Nagpaplano ba kayong mag outing o magkaroon ng family gatherings ngayong summer?

Kung outing ang pag-uusapan ang laging nasa isip natin ay swimming at masasarap na pagkain na nababagay dito.

Wala na ngang sasaya pa sa paglalangoy sa beach o sa pool at ang pagkain ng mga summer foods.

Ngunit huwag natin kalimutan ang food safety o kaligtasan ng pagkain sa panahon ng tag-init o summer.

Ang pagkain ay dapat laging malinis, mula sa paghahanda hanggang sa pagkonsumo.

Mas lalong dapat maging maingat kapag magluluto ng pagkain sa labas o outdoors.

Narito ang ilang paalaala tungkol sa ligtas at malinis na paghahanda ng pagkain ngayong summer:

• Panatilihing malamig ang mga pagkaing tinuturing na cold foods. Gumamit ng coolers at lagyan ng maraming yelo. Ilagay ang coolers sa lugar na di naiinitan. Dagdagan pa ng yelo kung tunaw na ang yelo sa coolers. Ang pinakamainam upang mapanatiling malamig ang pagkain tulad ng tinamplahang karne, manok at isda ay iimbak muna sa freezer para maging frozen bago ilagay sa coolers.

• Unahing kainin ang mga pagkaing madaling masira at ihuli ang mga pagkaing di madaling masira.

• Baunin sa picnic o sa outing ang mga pagkaing di madaling masira tulad ng adobong baboy o manok, inihaw na baboy o isda, sariwang prutas at gulay.

• Hugasang mabuti ang prutas at gulay bago i-empake.

• Kung mag-iihaw, panatilihin muna ang pagkaing iihawin sa loob ng coolers at ilabas lang kung kailan iihawin na ang mga ito.

• Kung maghahanda ng pagkain, panatilihing malinis ang lahat ng kagamitan. Maghugas ng kamay bago hawakan ang pagkain.

• Ilagay sa malinis na lalagyan ang inihaw na pagkain. Huwag gumamit ng parehong pinggan para sa hilaw at lutong pagkain.

• Uminom ng malinis na tubig o magdala ng bottled water

Ayon sa ika-anim na mensahe ng Gabay sa Wastong Nutrisyon para sa Pilipino, kumain ng malinis at ligtas na pagkain lamang upang maiwasan ang sakit na sanhi ng maruming pagkain at tubig.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain at nutrisyon, lumiham o tumawag kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837 2934 or 837 2071 loc. 2287, email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, o mar_v_c@yahoo.com. Maaari ding bisitahin ang FNRI website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. I-like ang aming Facebook page sa facebook.com/FNRI.DOST o sundan kami sa aming Twitter account sa twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Food-borne diseases iwasan, malinis at ligtas na pagkain at tubig tiyakin

Ni Marilou R. Galang

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, May 22 - Ang Gabay sa Wastong Nutrisyon para sa Plipino o 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos na binalangkas sa pamumuno ng Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute ng (DOST-FNRI) ay binubuo ng sampung pangunahing rekomendasyon ng naglalayong itaguyod ang mabuting kalusugan at wastong nutrisyon ng mga Pilipino.

Ang ika-anim na gabay ay nagsasaad na “Kumain ng malinis at ligtas na pagkain at tubig upang maiwasan ang diarrhea at iba pang sakit na nakukuha sa kontaminadong pagkain at tubig”. Layunin ng mensahe na ito na ipabatid ang mga paraan kung paano maiiwasan ang mga sakit na nakukuha sa kontaminadong pagkain at tubig. Ipinababatid din ng gabay na ito ang iba’t-ibang pinanggagalingan ng kontaminasyon ng pagkain.

Ang food-borne disease o mga sakit na nakukuha sa pagkain at tubig ay resulta ng pagkonsumo ng mga ito na:

• galing sa hayop na may sakit bago pa ito katayin

• kontaminado ng mga organismo dala ng mga insekto, langaw, ipis o daga

• kontaminado dahil sa hindi ligtas at maayos na pamamaraan paghahanda at paghahain ng mga pagkain at tubig ng mga taong may kinalaman dito

• nagtataglay ng mga nakalalasong mga sangkap galing sa pagkain at tubig mismo o naidagdag nang hindi sinasadya.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain at nutrisyon, lumiham o tumawag kay Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837 2934 or 837 2071 loc. 2287, email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, o mar_v_c@yahoo.com. Maaari ding bisitahin ang FNRI website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. I-like ang aming Facebook page sa facebook.com/FNRI.DOST o sundan kami sa aming Twitter account sa twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Army to hold media safety training in CDO

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army is set to hold the two-day training on Media Safety on May 27-28, 2017 at Camp Edilberto Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.

According to 4th Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Battalion commanding officer LTC Manuel Valdez IV, the said training is aimed to equip the participants the essential knowledge and skills on safety especially while performing media coverage in a hostile environment; to strengthen good working relationship; as well as to promote camaraderie between the 4ID personnel and media partners from regions 10 and 13.

“This will also enhance the state of readiness of the participants while covering military’s support to law enforcement, anti-illegal drug operations, support to nation-building, and the like,” underlined Valdez.

The command will provide meals and billeting for the duration of the training.

For more information on the said event, the 4CMO Battalion here can be reached at their hotline number 0997-5673087. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOH Caraga intensifies campaign vs cervical cancer

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region leads in the celebration of the annual Cervical Cancer Awareness this month of May with the aim to raise consciousness on cervical cancer prevention and Human papillomavirus (HVP) vaccine.

On its 9th year of continuous campaign anchored on the theme “Babae, Mahalaga Ka! Magpa-screen…Now Na!", DOH regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., urges women to be educated on HPV-related diseases and be conscious if there are changes in the cervix due to HPV infection, which may eventually progress into cancer.

“No woman should die of cervical cancer,” says Dr. Llacuna. The cancer can be prevented by regular screening especially after sexual contact, he said.

Llacuna also recommends the use of cervical cancer vaccine to Filipino women 10 years and above and encourages to have a regular cervical cancer screening such as pap smear or visual inspection of the cervix using acetic acid.

Early and regular screening plus vaccine are the key ingredients to combat cervical cancer, Llacuna says. “If we can prevent it then let us do it,” he adds.

As per DOH data, about 12 Filipino women die each day of cervical canver with 6,000 cases being diagnosed yearly and commonly occurs among women from age 30-55.

About 22 percent per 100,000 women will most likely get the disese with only 44 percent survival rate. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

CSC enjoins Caraganon-employees to the 2017 Public Sector HR Symposium

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 (PIA) – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has called on employees of government and private sectors to participate in the 2017 Public Sector Human Resource (HR) Symposium on July 4-6 in Pasay City.

According to CSC chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala, this year’s HR Symposium highlights concepts, perspectives and insights in managing change brought about by new directions and management approaches. It also showcases practices and experiences of progressive organizations in introducing, coping and shaping change, as well as emphasizes the need to shape changes in various levels.

“The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Community is an example of a changing organization. As it celebrates its 50th year, it is undergoing significant changes particularly with respect to the integration of its member states. The Philippines, as the current ASEAN’s advocacy to bring positive change in the region and its neighbors,” underscored Bala.

It was also learned that participants are requested to register online at csc.gov.ph/hr on or before June 1, 2017. Registration fee is P9,600.00 per participant inclusive of training kits, snacks and lunch during the symposium, and certificate of participation for 16 hours of leadership and managerial training. Meanwhile, accommodation is not yet included in the registration fee.

For more information, interested participants may contact the Civil Service Institute at telephone numbers (02) 931-4182; 931-7935 or 931-7939 local 305 or email at 2017hrsymposium@gmail.com.

Said event is anchored on the theme “Shaping Change.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

OWWA to celebrate Migrant Workers Day 2017 in Surigao Norte town

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 23 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will once again celebrate the “Araw ng Pasasalamat” in observance of the Migrant Workers Day 2017: a one-day celebration to pay tribute to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families at Claver Municipal Convention Hall in Claver, Surigao del Norte on Wednesday, June 7, 2017.

The annual program intends to provide the OFWs relevant activities promoting the importance of spending quality time and togetherness amongst OFW families.

"This is the government’s response to the great contribution of our OFWs in keeping our economy vibrant through their sacrifices and endurance in working overseas," says OWWA Caraga Regional Director Samuel Madrid.

Madrid extends his invitation to all Caraganon OFWs (vacationing and returnees) including their families, especially those from nearby towns of Claver to participate in this fun-filled day.

Previous year’s Migrant Workers Day was a huge success at the town of Agusan del Sur with 500 participants from all over the region.

Interested participants may visit the nearest Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or contact with OWWA Regional Welfare Office-13 with telephone numbers (085) 342-6178/815-1894 and mobile numbers 09399259895/09173150590 for further information regarding the activity. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Market vendors participate in training on packaging, labeling in AgSur town

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 23 – About 34 market vendors joined the seminar on packaging and labeling held recently in Prosperidad, this province.

The activity is a component of the Bottom-up-Budgeting (BuB) project for market vendors and food processors in the municipality.

The BuB project itself aims to capacitate and better prepare the targeted micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to develop business strategies and to have a proper mind set in building up their confidence and responsibilities to handle their businesses.

Evelyn Monato, Municipal Economic Enterprise Development Officer and BuB focal person said this will be through capability development activities, provision of equipment/facilities, production, and marketing support services.

The project administered by the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad is funded through the Department of Trade and Industry in the amount of P800,000.00. It is expected to enhance productivity and expand market reach.

All in all, the project will eventually benefit 80 MSMEs in the municipality. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

1 dead, 2 arrested, P11M shabu seized in Caraga’s biggest buy bust operation

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 - A drug dealer died while two others were arrested by the police during the drug bust that resulted in the confiscation of P11 million worth of shabu Thursday evening here.

Operatives from Butuan City Police Office and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency staged the operation aroud 8:00 p.m. against the target Reynaldo Abordo in Brgy. Libertad.

Abordo’s cohort Johny Calawigan, 32, was nabbed after he sold illegal drugs to the poseur buyer.

“After learning that the target was waiting in his Ford Escape parked near the place of transaction, our operatives rushed to the vehicle but were fired upon by the armed men, prompting our police operatives to return fire,” Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Caraga Police director said.

While the exchange of gunfire was ongoing, Calawigan (although handcuffed) escaped on aboard a Starex van.

After a long chase, he fell to the police team in Brgy. San Vicente, this city and was brought to the hospital due to gunshot wounds.

Abordo died in the anti-illegal drug operation while his cohort the wounded Reneboy Guno was arrested and brought to a hospital for medical treatment.

Aside from one kilogram of shabu, operatives also recovered four caliber .45 pistols and some illegal drug paraphernalia inside the Ford Escape.

“This is the biggest worth of shabu confiscated so far by the police in one operation since the implementation of Project Double Barrel Reloaded. Arrested suspects are facing charges for violation of Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 and illegal possession of firearms,” Felix added. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AFP, PNP sign security pact in Surigao Norte

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 23– The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) signed recently the Joint AFP-PNP Action Center (JAPAC) and Counter Terrorism IMPLAN here.

The JAPAC and Counter Terrorism IMPLAN aims to strengthen the partnership of the AFP and PNP in providing security in the whole province.

The signing of the said partnership was led by 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander Colonel Franco Nemecio Gacal, Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Director PSSupt Anthony Maghari, 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) Commander Lt. Colonel Rico Amaro and attended by military and police officers and members of the local media.

Col. Gacal, in his message, said the JAPAC intends to maintain the tight security on all vital installations of the province.

“It is a joint effort of the AFP and PNP in the responsible security operations within our area of responsibility," Col. Gacal said.

Also, PSSupt. Maghari said that Counter Terrosim IMPLAN is a joint security operations between the AFP and PNP in combating terrorist groups that may conduct possible atrocities in urban areas and the PNP are considered the front-liners to lead the counter terrorist operations.

The JAPAC includes the implementing guidelines of the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC) created in October 2013 in order to have a collaborative effort between the AFP and PNP. (30IB-Phil. Army, PNP/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Negosyo Center in Sibagat town holds training on business planning

SIBAGAT, Agusan del Sur, May 23– The Negosyo Center in Sibagat, this province has recently trained 27 individuals on entrepreneurship and business planning.

How to become entrepreneurs, plan, start and manage their businesses - these are the collective expectations of the participants of the said training.

The 27 trainees were part of the 50 identified enrollees of Yamang Pinoy under the Bottom-Up Budgeting (BuB) project of the local government unit (LGU) of Sibagat.

They are among those who are into bag, basket and mat making using different indigenous materials in the municipality.

Nestor Sobrepeña, training facilitator and resource speaker guided them in rating their individual skills through the skill matrix. This, he said will help them determine their entrepreneurial strengths and weaknesses and their levels in identifying and assessing their capabilities to start business.

Sobrepeña also introduced the components of a business plan such as marketing, production, organization and management and finance. Before the training ended, the participants were taught how to prepare a simple business plan.

The Yamang Pinoy project will also provide other capability building activities for this group including skills training and product development for their mat, bag and basket making activities. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PLEMO Dinagat Islands conducts SPES orientation

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, May 23 - The Provincial Labor and Employment Manpower Office (PLEMO) in Dinagat Islands conducted the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) Orientation on May 4, 2017 held at the Provincial Capitol Guest Center, San Jose town.

The SPES is intended for students who seek a summer job to support their financial needs in school. SPES beneficiaries are those poor but deserving students.

Out of 349 students who applied, only 100 students have been selected.

The program has 20 working days, which run from May 4-31, 2017. The salary rate of SPES beneficiary is P175.00 per day, 60 percent of which is from the LGU and 40 percent is the counterpart of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

During the orientation, SPES beneficiaries had an opportunity to learn some knowledge about Adolescent Health Development which aims to improve and promote healthy lifestyle and responsible sexuality and assist the youth to avoid early sexual engagement, teenage pregnancies, early marriages and sexually transmitted infections.

In his message, Vice Governor Benglen B. Ecleo stressed the importance of punctuality.

“Punctually is very important and I hope you will learn the value of working and getting along well with others,” Vice Governor Ecleo said.

The orientation wrapped up with the Pledge of Commitment of the SPES beneficiaries led by PLEMO officer Emma Y. Mausisa.

The SPES program is being sponsored by the provincial government through the PLEMO and DOLE. (PLEMO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Feature: What can exercise do for you?

By Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso

Is exercise important in your daily life? Do you still have time to exercise inspite of your busy schedule? Do you allot 20 to 30 minutes of your time to exercise?

Walking, running, bike riding, playing sports, dancing, doing push-ups, and simple stretches, such as touching your toes or side stretches are simple exercises that you can enjoy doing.

When you exercise, you are helping build your body to be strong. This will enable you to move around and do all the things you need and want to do.

Exercise has many benefits:

• It burns off energy thereby assisting weight control or reduction. It keeps your weight under control.

• It also helps improve blood circulation, muscle tone and efficiency of heart and lungs.

• It also helps you to relax, cope with stress, and promotes sound sleep. When you exercise, it releases tension.

• Exercise enhances your psychological well-being, improves self-esteem, and maintains motivation.

In your busy days, what is the best exercise that you can do? Walking is perfect to burn your excess calories and fats. You do not need special equipment to exercise. You can incorporate exercise in your daily life by taking the stairs instead of using the elevator, going for a walk during your coffee break or lunch break ; doing household chores at a fast pace, and gardening.

To obtain the benefits of exercise, perform aerobic exercise regularly for at least 3 to 5 times a week for 20-30 minutes or more. However, make sure to consult your doctor about what and how much exercise is right for you.

For healthy body and mind, exercise regularly!

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

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