Monday, May 9, 2016

May 9, 2016, 7:51 pm

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Opening of polls generally peaceful amid adverse incidents in Caraga

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 (PIA)– The Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Office-13 disclosed that the opening of today’s elections and conduct of polls are generally peaceful despite reports of two shooting incidents in different provinces of the region.

“There were no violations on gun ban being reported and the situation is commonly peaceful region-wide as around 3,000 personnel police personnel were deployed. Our troops have also intensified the checkpoints operations,” stated PNP Caraga regional director PCSupt Rolando Felix in an interview via Philippine Information Agency Caraga’s 107.8MHz Power FM held this city.

However, PCSupt Felix confirmed that unfavorable shooting incident transpired in Purok 2, Brgy. San Antonio, RTR, Agusan del Norte, on the election day at about 2:00 p.m., victimizing Guillermo Egbot Antong, 43 years old, married perpetrated by Primo Constancia, married and of legal age, Brgy. Councilor of Brgy. San Antonio, RTR, Agusan del Norte and Jojo Cabatsiti, legal age and married, with the use of .9mm pistol.

Investigation disclosed that the victim together with other passengers were on board travelling a Starex van and upon reaching the place of incident, the suspects on board motorcycles shot them several times hitting the left ankle of the victim and was immediately brought to the Cabadbaran District Hospital for medical treatment. The suspects remain at large but recovered from the crime scene were one red SYM Wolf motorcycle for registration, one black Keeway CS110 motorcycle bearing plate number LC91221 and four fired cartridge cases of caliber .9mm pistol.

In addition, day before the conduct of elections at about 9:15 a.m. in Purok Camia, Brgy. San Pedro, Alegria, Surigao del Sur, Sherwin Odvina Solis, 37 years old, single and a resident of aforesaid location was shot by unidentified suspect with the use of firearm of unknown caliber.

Recovered from the victim’s pocket was one sachet of suspected shabu with estimated weight of 0.5 gram and dangerous drugs board value of P 5,900.00. Accordingly, the victim is listed as number 9 Drug Watch List Personality in the municipal level.

With these adverse incidents, RTR and Alegria municipal police stations, respectively, are conducting thorough investigations for the possible arrest of the suspects, said PCSupt Felix.

Also, PCSupt Felix assured that the police forces, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Commission of Election (COMELEC) will be on the lookout for a peaceful, clean and honest elections. He further encouraged everyone to be more responsible and vigilant, and to report any violations especially on election-related crimes to the nearest authorities. (VLG,PIA-Caraga/PNP-13)

All is set & manageable in AgSur, says Comelec

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

PATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, May 9 (PIA) – “All is set and manageable for today's election.”

This was the statement of Atty. Alvin Canta, Agusan del Sur provincial election supervisor during his live radio interview over 107.8 MHz Power FM/ Advanced Froward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS) Network of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, this city.

Atty. Canta emphasized that the Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) that were distributed and installed in the 13 municipalities of the province and one city were all functional after the conduct of final testing and sealing. He also stressed that the Comelec is doing its best to make today's election credible, honest, peaceful, and successful.

Canta added that they have also prioritized lanes for the senior citizens, persons with disability, lactating and pregnant women in all the polling centers of the said province. It was also learned that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has recently issued a memorandum mandating the different public kindergarten schools to help the parents take care or look after their children as parents will cast their votes in their respective polling centers.

Canta further encouraged the general public especially those who will cast their votes to avoid committing any election offense such as taking pictures of the VCM or LCD screen of the machine, and ballot receipt. The commission will not tolerate any election offense that voters might be committing in today's election.

The Comelec is operating 24-hours to ensure a secure and fair election today. For any election-related complaints, Atty. Canta reiterated that it should be in writing and submitted to concerned Comelec office, and appropriate action shall be taken by the authorities. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

COMELEC Caraga requests immediate shipment of additional VCMs due to defective units

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 9 (PIA) – Commission on Elections (Comelec) Caraga regional director Atty Renato Magbutay bared that their office has requested for an additional units of Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) as several units were reportedly malfunctioned.

“An additional VCMs have been requested for immediate shipment from Central Office Manila to replace the malfunctioned units encountered during Monday’s conduct of national and local elections in Caraga region,” said Atty. Magbutay in a live interview over Philippine Information Agency’s (PIAs) 107.8 MHz Power FM.

As of 11:00 a.m., several defective VCMs have been reported and needed to be replaced but Atty. Magbutay emphasized that whether the machine is functioning or not, there shall be no suspension in casting the votes thus, the electoral process must go on.

In Surigao del Sur alone, more than 56 VCMs reportedly broke down hours after polling precincts opened.

Meanwhile, the provincial election supervisors in the different provinces revealed that there had been no related incidents reported aside from minor malfunction of several VCMs in various polling precincts in the region. (NCLM/JPG, PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Rich family plus with working mom equals less exclusive breastfeeding

By Mildred O. Guirindola

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. This is regardless of the child’s race or social and economic standing.

Related to this, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) determined the characteristics of children and their families who are exclusively breastfed through a study based on the 8th National Nutrition Survey.

Results of the study showed that children belonging to the richest quintile have only 0.1 times as likely to be breastfed exclusively compared with children from the poorest quintile. On the other hand, mothers who were not working had 2.0 times greater chances of practicing exclusive breastfeeding compared to their counterparts who were working.

The study further cited that 17.3% of mothers did not even try to give any breastmilk to their children because of work.

The study proves that working mothers need support in workplaces to continue breastfeeding while working. Establishment of lactation stations in workplaces and allowing at least 40 minutes lactation breaks, as mandated Republic Act (RA) 10028 or the Expanded Breastfeeding Law should be implemented.

All children deserve breastmilk as the sole source of nourishment from birth until six months. Breastfeeding should continue after six months until two years and beyond, with the addition of nutritious complementary foods. The campaign on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding with focus on the families from the rich sectors and working mothers need to be intensified.

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. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: HIV does not have to be a death sentence

By Jund Rian A. Doringo

Starting as a mysterious pneumonia-like infection in the 1980s, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection usually manifested by the accumulation of diseases rooting from having very low or no immune system response.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV targets the immune system and weakens people’s defense systems against infections and certain cancers. It destroys and impairs the functions of the immune cells while increases the vulnerability of an infected person a wide range of diseases that a person not infected can normally fight off.

Although a lot of misconceptions about the transmission of HIV have been circulating for years now, HIV can only be transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids specifically the blood, vaginal secretions, semen, and breast milk.

Consequently, saliva or sweat and any other body fluids can not transfer the virus, not even mosquito bites.

Signs and symptoms of the virus infection may vary from one person to the other, but the most noticeable are swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, fever, diarrhea, and cough that can later develop to severe illnesses such as tuberculosis, cryptococcal meningitis, lymphoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, to name a few, as confirmed by the WHO.

Nevertheless, the only way to know if a person is HIV positive is through HIV testing.

The WHO revealed that “HIV continues to be a major global public health issue, having claimed more than 34 million lives so far in 2014, where 1.2 million people died from HIV-related causes globally. Moreover, there were approximately 36.9 million people living with HIV at the end of 2014 with 2 million people becoming newly infected with HIV in 2014 globally.”

In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) revealed that there are over 27,000 cases of reported HIV as of July 2015. Though the prevalence of HIV and AIDS in the country is low, the Philippines has the fastest growing HIV epidemic in the world (WHO).

As of this writing, there is no known cure for HIV. The issue of HIV has imposed a stigma in the society up until today. However, getting tested positive for HIV is not a death sentence anymore.

There is a continuous development for the regression and treatment of the virus through effective anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs to help prevent transmission of the virus and let people living with it enjoy productive lives.

In line with this, the United Nations (UN) in 2000 has committed and signed time-bound and quantifiable targets to address issues of extreme poverty, along with its underlying causes known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which are expected to be met by 2015.

The MDG 6 focuses on combating HIV or AIDS, malaria and other diseases by reversing the spread of HIV or AIDS, malaria and other diseases by 2015.

The battle against HIV or AIDS is achievable by limiting exposure to risk factors and observing HIV preventions like using condom and sterile injecting equipment, and early detection of the virus via HIV testing.

If found positive, don’t lose hope. With continuous ARV treatment, regular check-up and counseling coupled with healthy lifestyle, eating properly, having the right mind and attitude, and regular exercise, people living with the virus can live longer and stronger.

Tagalog News: Comelec Caraga pinabulaanang may dayaan sa vote counting machines

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Mayo 9 (PIA) - Pinabulaanan ni Commission on Elections (Comelec) Caraga regional director Attorney Renato Magbutay na may dayaan sa vote counting machines (VCMs) na syang gagamitin ngayong eleksyon sa araw na ito.

Sa ginanap na pagtitipon ng mga opisyales ng Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at local media kamakailan lang, binigyang-diin ni Atty. Magbutay na walang katotohanan ang napabalitang may magaganap na dayaan gamit ang mga vote counting machines sa eleksyon.

Anya, ito ay isa lamang black propaganda ng mga taong gustong manggulo sa halalan at maimpluwesyahan ang pag-iisip ng mga botante.

Dagdag pa ni Attorney Magbutay, handang-handa na ang kanilang hanay kasama ang ibat-ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan sa anumang posibleng mangyari sa eleksyon lalung-lalo na anya na may mga taong nagbabalak na guluhin ito.

“Handang-handa na tayo para sa eleksyon at lahat po ng ating mga vote counting machines ay gumagana at wala pong madadaya rito,” diin ni Atty. Magbutay.

Napag-alaman din na sa Libertad Elementary School, isa sa mga barangay sa lungsod ng Butuan na may pinakamalaking botante ay handang-handa na sa mga kinakailang preparasyon pati na ang seguridad ng mga board of election inspectors at supervisors at mga botante.

Ayon kay Nenita Mejica-Diolata, principal II ng nasabing skwelahan, handang-handa na ang kompletong listahan ng kanilang mga polling precincts at siniguradong functional ang lahat ng mga vote counting machines matapos ang final testing and sealing ng mga ito. May mga technical team din anya na handang umayos sakaling may technical problem na ma-eencounter saan mang polling centers.

“Naka-set up na lahat ng ating mga VCMs sa ibat-ibang polling centers pati na rin ang mga kinakailangang election paraphernalia. Handang-handa na rin ang ating deputized teachers na magsisilbing board of election inspectors,” sabi ni Diolata.

Samantala, ipinahayag din ni regional director Abner Caga ng PIA Caraga na ang designated media center ay sa Sandigan Hall na nasa loob ng Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga regional office.

Dagdag pa ni director Caga, ang nasabing media center ay magiging bukas at accessible sa mga media sa anumang oras sa araw na ito. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Tuesday, May 10, 2016

May 10, 2016, 2:18 am

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≪ Previous: Monday, May 9, 2016

News Feature: Butuan incumbent admin loses by 13-0 over opponent’s landslide victory

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA)– In this year’s conduct of elections in the local level, construction mogul Engr. Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada’s (RCL) political line-up gains the electoral victory as the group received an overwhelming majority of the votes, in effect, eliminating the incumbents from their position through a rare landslide win of 13 contested electoral seats with nil over its opponents.

In an official result, the team RCL has achieved a genuine success, beginning from the mayoral and vice-mayoral positions, 10 city legislative councilors, to include its congressional representative of the first district. A political fight won by a clean knockout.

Incoming solon Lagnada, a well-known supporter of city mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., will soon to assume office that will eventually hailed him as a harbinger of future progress of the only chartered city in Caraga region. This is one of the biggest upsets in political history in the area, Lagnada earning a mark of annihilating the rivals by somehow putting an end to a well-entrenched political clan, which is an extraordinary feat of a neophyte in the local political arena.

After completing the electoral phases and subjecting to the rules of fair play among the candidates, Butuan City proclaimed winners are the following per official and final tally of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC):

Mayor: Lagnada, Ronnie Vicente – 89,811

Vice Mayor: Aquino, Joboy – 88,641

Member, House of Representatives; Agusan del Norte, First Legislative District: Fortun, Lawrence Lemuel – 82,773

Members, Sangguniang Panlungsod; Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Lone District:

Carampatana, Glenn - 94,445

Nalcot, Ferdinand - 87,022

Burdeos, Rema - 84,591

Plaza, Derrick - 82,892

Nortega, Cromwell - 76,042

Andaya, Omar - 75,397

Busa, Cherry May - 75,237

Rosario, Vincent Rizal - 71,919

Sanchez, Ehrnest John - 70,901

Unay, John Gil Sr. - 68,563

The winning political contenders had reached more voters in a smooth electoral process and it is now a challenge for a person who is elected for the favor of the people and who is dependent on the suffrages of his fellow citizens to prove worthy of taking the place for true public service. (VLG, PIA-Caraga)

Caraga’s PRDP approved projects rises to P982 Million

By Fretcher Magatao

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA) - The Philippine Rural Development Project–National Project Coordination Office (PRDP-NPCO) reports that Caraga’s approved infrastructure and enterprise subprojects have already reached a total of P982,605,907.

Intensified Building-Up of Infrastructure and Logistics for Development (I-BUILD) Component which aims to put in place strategic and climate-resilient rural infrastructure facilities along the value chain got the bulk of this amount with nineteen approved subprojects amounting to a total of P 966,385,906.98. Seven of these are already under implementation and twelve subprojects are still on the procurement process.

Other than the approved 19 subprojects, I-BUILD for Caraga still has five subprojects in the pipeline which has a total amount of P516,563,803.89 and hoped to be approved within the year.

These infrastructure subprojects would translate to improved road networks linking production areas with markets to enhance efficiency of transporting agricultural products; increased productivity from irrigation and water supply systems; and lower postharvest losses.

The 24 I-BUILD subprojects for Caraga would create a total amount of P1,482,949,710.92.

I-BUILD team in the region is doing its best to achieve the target and has formulated a program that would reach the attainment of 41% disburement of implemented subprojects by June. “We have been busy helping the LGUs and contractors comply the needed requirements so we can reach our goal for this year,” Engr. Rene Morales, I-BUILD Component Head said during the provincial coordination meeting.

On the other hand, Investments for Rural Enterprises and Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity (I-REAP) Component, which aims to strengthen and develop viable agri-fishery based enterprises through efficient value chains of key agriculture and fishery products already has one approved subproject amounting to P16,220,000 on procurement process for the Integrated Abaca Enhancement Enterprises in Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

The component has also four other subprojects amounting to a total of P65,584,180.32 in the pineline. One production, processing and marketing subproject for Agusan del Sur and the same subproject for the Province of Dinagat Islands. Two additional enterprise subprojects are also hoped to be implemented in Agusan del Norte within the year.

The realization of I-REAP subprojects would translate to an increased smallholder groups operating viable enterprises; enhanced producer productivity through formalized arrangements for marketing and technical services; and increased smallholder and fisher resilience to climate change and adverse weather conditions.

PRDP is a six-year national government platform for an inclusive, value chain-oriented and climate resilient agriculture and fisheries sector. It is the upscale version of the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) where innovations are introduced to address current and emerging challenges and make rural development more effective.

It is currently implemented under the Department of Agriculture (DA), PRDP is jointly funded by the World Bank, National Government and the Local Government Units (LGUs).

The project has partnered with LGUs and the private sector in providing key infrastructure, facilities, technology and information that will raise income, productivity and competitiveness among the players in agriculture. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Call for Nominations: 2016 Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis in Herbal Medicine Award

By Margarette Faye Urbizondo

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA) - The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) in cooperation with the Gruppo Medica, Inc. (GMI) and the Caraga Health Research and Development Consortium (CHRDC) is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the 2016 DOST-PCHRD – Gruppo Medica Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis in Herbal Medicine.

The award is given to provide motivation for students, with technical guidance of their faculty adviser, to view undergraduate thesis as an excellent opportunity to contribute to national interest. The Award recognizes relevant the innovative research works on herbal medicine that can lead to practical and/or commercial applications.

The search is open to all undergraduate students of Colleges of Pharmacy, Chemistry, Nursing and Arts and Sciences who have completed their thesis projects on medicinal plants in the current school year. Nominations must be made by the students’ faculty adviser using the attached prescribed nomination form. Aany alteration on the nomination form is not allowed. All nominees must submit the following requirements together with the nomination form: (1) one soft copy and hard copies of the thesis report, (2) plant authentication certification and (3) Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) certification for researches involving animals and/or Ethical clearance from the Ethics Review Committee for researches involving human participants. Nominations with incomplete requirement will automatically be excluded from the list of official entries. A maximum of three (3) thesis projects are allowed per institution.

The Gruppo Medica Inc. will be giving a cash prize of P60,000.00 for the first prize or (P42,000 for the student, P12,000 for the mentor and P6,000 for the school), P40,000.00 for the second prize winner (P28,000 for the student, P8,000 for the mentor and P4,000 for the school) and P20,000.00 for the third prize winner (P14,000 for the student, P4,000 for the mentor and P2,000 for the school).

Deadline for submission of nomination to the consortium is on May 20, 2016. The nominees will be reviewed and short-listed by the consortium. The short-listed nominees will be submitted to PCHRD not later than May 27, 2016. (DOST-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte tourism office pushes for water infra projects

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 10 (PIA)– In another partnership program with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Tourism through the Provincial Tourism and Culture Office (PTCO) of Surigao del Norte will identify water infrastructure projects for priority tourism areas with problems on potable water supply.

According to PTCO Officer-in-Charge Arturo M. Cruje, the province has pushed for the development of its priority tourism areas which has potentials to become tourist destinations. However, most of these areas have no sufficient water supply especially in Siargao Island.

He said that the funds will come from the savings from Water Supply Funds of Fiscal Year General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2013 and 2015.

"Under the GAA for 2015 and 2016, water supply projects in these priority areas can now be funded. The DPWH Regional Office or District Engineering Office shall be responsible for the full implementation of the identified water infrastructure projects," Cruje said.

The provincial tourism office will identify the projects areas and endorse the list to a unified management body which shall be created soon. (Provincial Culture and Tourism Office-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DENR-13 develops 4,452 hectares mangrove plantation under NGP

By Eric Herzon F. Gallego

BUTUAN CITY, May 10 (PIA) – Areas developed and planted to mangroves and beach forest by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) personnel under the National Greening Program (NGP) have reached 4,452 hectares since 2011.

Surigao del Norte reported that 55 percent of the total target area have been planted in 1,989 hectares coastline with bacauan mangrove species and 447.6 hectares of beach forest. Surigao del Sur reported that some 1,544 hectares of beach coast were planted with mangrove propagules.

There were only 5 percent or 220 hectares of mangroves developed and planted in Dinagat and 215 hectares in Agusan del Norte.

“We are focusing our efforts for the meantime on mangrove propagules planting considering the long months of dry-spell that hit the country since October 2015,” said DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo.

The personnel of the PENR Office of Agusan del Norte and CENR Office of Nasipit including the DENR Regional offices went to the different planting sites along the beaches to plant mangrove propagules in celebration of the 46th Earth Day with the theme “Let us plant trees.”

CENR officer Norman Asugan of CENRO Nasipit, Agusan del Norte said more than 3,000 mangrove propagules have been planted by the DENR personnel during the Earth Day celebration, spread in different sites of the western coast of the province with a combined area of 10 hectares. (DENR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Smoking and excessive alcoholic drinking a deadly tandem

By Jund Rian A. Doringo

It is quite impossible to imagine a party without a generous amount of booze on the table especially on occasions such as birthdays or weddings.

Within the Filipino culture, alcoholic beverage consumption among peers and family, locally referred as inuman or toma, is a social norm almost visible in every corner of the streets in the barangay. It signifies the Filipino custom of pakikisama or being one through social events.

And more often than not, a full blown party is completed with a shot of alcohol in the right hand and a stick of cigarette in the other. Not to mention the sounds of the videoke blasting like there’s no tomorrow, but that’s a totally different story.

The combination of smoking and drinking alcoholic beverage maybe enjoyable but this pleasure comes with a price to pay or a life to risk.

Excessive alcoholic beverage consumption may lead to being overweight or obese, having nutrient deficiencies, hypertension, erratic blood glucose control and in severe cases, liver cirrhosis, cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.

Remember that alcohol becomes fat once digested and broken down in the body, thus taking too much of alcohol will lead to certain types of lifestyle or non-communicable diseases.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the harmful use of alcohol results in 3.3 million deaths each year. On the average, every person in the world 15 years old or older drinks 6.2 liters of pure alcohol per year.

Smoking or tobacco use, on the other hand, has been associated with different kinds of cancer such as cancer of the mouth, tongue, throat and lungs as well as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and other diseases.

What is more alarming is that even those who do not smoke but are exposed to cigarette smoke can also have the diseases of the smoker due to second-hand smoke.

The WHO revealed that tobacco kills up to half of its users or around 6 million people each year where more than 5 million are the result of direct tobacco use, while more than 600,000 are the result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.

In the Philippines, the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) in 2013 found that one in every four Filipinos are current smokers and smokers are as young as 10 years old.

The presence of harmful substances in tobacco or cigarettes alters the normal functions of the body in supplying enough oxygen in the blood to other body organs.

For that reason, it is best not to ever try smoking or if the habit is formed, quit smoking. Here are some helpful tips on how to quit:

Decide when to quit and stick to it. It is advisable to have a time frame of when to quit.

If withdrawal symptoms occur, consult a doctor on how to cope with them. Withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, cold perspiration, trembling and restlessness.

Drink plenty of water.

Be physically active

Avoid going to places that would entice smoking. Throw all cigarettes and cigarette paraphernalia.

It is never wrong to go out and bond with friends or unwind sometimes. But then, it also not right to compromise health with these fun activities.

So quit smoking and drink moderately if you can’t avoid it.

News Feature: HIV does not have to be a death sentence

By Jund Rian A. Doringo

Consequently, saliva or sweat and any other body fluids can not transfer the virus, not even mosquito bites.

Nevertheless, the only way to know if a person is HIV positive is through HIV testing.

As of this writing, there is no known cure for HIV. The issue of HIV has imposed a stigma in the society up until today. However, getting tested positive for HIV is not a death sentence anymore.

The MDG 6 focuses on combating HIV or AIDS, malaria and other diseases by reversing the spread of HIV or AIDS, malaria and other diseases by 2015.

↧

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

May 11, 2016, 10:37 pm

≫ Next: Thursday, May 12, 2016

≪ Previous: Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Siargao agrarian orgs undergo strategic planning

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 11 (PIA) - Five assisted agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) of the Department of Agrarian Reform in Surigao del Norte (DAR-SDN) underwent a two-day Strategic Development Planning and Workshop held at D’Islanders Pension Hauz, Dapa, Siargao Island, this province.

The officers and members of Esperanza Farmers Credit and Consumers Organization (ESFARCRECO) of Brgy. Esperanza, Del Carmen underwent the said activity on April 26-27, 2016 as the ARBO embarks on a project under the Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Project of DAR-SDN.

According to Levy P. Alatraca, secretary of ESFARCRECO, “the strategic planning really helped our organization because we were able to identify the weaknesses and gaps of ESFARCRECO that we need to work out for it to grow.”

Meanwhile, the officers and members of both Don Paulino United Farmers and Fisherfolks Credit Organization (DOPUFAFICO) of Brgy. Don Paulino, Dapa; Osmeña Small Farmers Credit Cooperative (OSFACO) of Brgy. Osmeña, Dapa; Corazon Farmers Credit Association (COFARCA) of Brgy. Corazon, Gen. Luna; and Poblacion San Isidro Farmers Association (POSAIFA) of Brgy. Del Carmen, San Isidro have undergone the strategic planning last April 28-29, 2016 in preparation for the reportorial requirements of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) should the said ARBOs register themselves with the CDA.

According to Delia E. Pelicano, chairperson of COFARCA, “we are very grateful to the DAR for this opportunity because through this strategic planning we are able to come up with a one-year action plan and most importantly the 5-year development plan for COFARCA.”

Meantime, Eugenio Escopete of OSFACO added that the said activity was a big help in establishing the vision, mission, goals and objectives of their organization. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

News Feature: Barangay BUB: Bringing participative governance to the barangays

By Emmylou P. Burias

BUTUAN CITY, May 11 (PIA) - The implementation of Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) which embodies inclusive growth, participative governance, and people consultation at its very best has been remarkably successful in cities and municipalities all over the country. The gains and benefits of BUB after only three years of implementation have already been felt and so, the national government deemed it appropriate to bring the project down to the barangay level. Communities are the ultimate beneficiaries of the improved delivery of basic services, development in the barangays will translate to progressive and peaceful communities which would eventually be the over-all picture of the country. This is the overarching goal of Barangay Bottom-Up Budgeting (BBUB).

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 8 provides the policy guidelines and procedures in the implementation of BBUB. BBUB’s target is to cover all barangays by Fiscal Year (FY) 2019. The pilot phase will cover at least 30 percent of the total number of barangays in 2017 subject to the criteria provided in the JMC. Recipient barangays will be given PhP1 M through direct downloading of funds to the barangays. It shall be utilized for identified priority projects and activities in line with the delivery of basic services and facilities per section 17 (b) of the Local Government Code (LGC).

The objectives of BBUB are reducing the effects of poverty by addressing the most basic needs of communities; encouraging active people’s participation in the implementation of projects in their respective barangays; and strengthening the barangays as the primary unit of governance.

In BBUB, barangays officials do not decide on the prioritization of projects by themselves, community members are involved in choosing projects fit for their felt needs. This process was started in March 2016 through the Barangay Assembly.

For barangays to qualify, they will be assessed on two areas, Good Governance and Capacity to Implement Projects. Good governance will look into Compliance to Barangay Full Disclosure Policy; Conduct of Barangay Assembly; and Presence of Barangay Development Plan or Annual Investment Plan. Capacity to implement projects assesses leadership; track record; and good financial management.

To date, the filled-in assessment forms and results of qualified barangays have been forwarded to the National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO) of DILG central office for consolidation and basis for budgetary allocation once approved by Congress. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

HELP Online: A digital frontier in FNRI nutrition counseling

By Edward Vincent Magtibay

As part of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s (FNRI-DOST) Information and Communication Technology (ICT) program – iFNRI, the Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Program (HELP) Online project was created in response to the growing need to deliver information anchored on scientific knowledge to the ICT-driven global and national society.

This web-based resource hub contains of up-to-date nutrition and wellness solutions that promote positive lifestyle changes to the public. It also provides quicker access to nutrition counseling service which is one of the frontline services of FNRI-DOST.

One of the main features of HELP Online is an improved nutrition counseling service inquiry and response system via web. Just like booking your hotel room or flight, individuals or groups seeking one-on-one nutrition counseling can simply make an appointment with FNRI’s in-house Registered-Nutritionist Dietitian (RND) online.

For those who want to quickly assess their nutritional status, the Fast Assessment and Screening Tools (FAST), a collection of nutrition calculators which can compute and classify Body Mass Index (BMI), Desirable Body Weight (DBW), Waist and Hip Circumference and Ratios and Waist-Height Ratio, is also available for use.

HELP Online also features innovative information materials such as infographics on specific topics about non-communicable diseases. These are downloadable for free. Nutrition brochures with enhanced images and current data will also be helpful for additional client education. These materials will be given for free for those who had nutrition counseling and available for download at the iFNRI website.

Individuals who opt to register in the site can freely track their food intake and physical activities on a daily basis using the Food and Physical Activity Tracker beta. The current module, which is continuously being improved, allows individuals to understand their caloric intake for the day and see their caloric expenditure on the different physical activities they did. Calculations on these trackers are based on the Philippine Food Composition Tables (PhilFCT) and from the metabolic equivalents of physical activities based on the Compendium of Physical Activity.

At the back-end of the HELP Online, RNDs with administrator privilege can also access the automated calculators for the calorie and nutrient requirements, Food Exchange List, meal planners and 24-hour food recall sheets. This would eliminate the tedious manual calculation every Dietitian performs when creating a personalized diet for clients. More importantly, all client information will be kept confidential and be stored in a secured system that follows the standard nutrition care practice model.

With HELP Online, modernizing the nutritional assessment practices and delivery channel of nutrition counseling through the use of ICT in the Philippines can be realized.

ET2M2: FNRI’s technology transfer information at your fingertip!

By Alexis M. Ortiz

The electronic Technology Transfer Monitoring Map (ET2M2) is an online web-based application on the Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s technology transfer activities. The ET2M2 can be accessed through the iFNRI website under the database category.

This application stores data on technologies transferred and diffused nationwide classified as bakery products, noodle products, complementary foods, stabilized brown rice, iron rice premix, and low fat low sugar ice cream, among others.

The ET2M2 is a useful tool for entrepreneurs, personnel of local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), other stakeholders and the FNRI management in identifying the available FNRI technologies and products developed which are ready for transfer and commercialization.

The tool was jointly developed by the Institute’s Business Development Unit (BDU) and Management Information System Unit (MISU).

DOST launches SETUP project in Bislig City

BUTUAN CITY, May 11 (PIA) - A P1.7Million project of Mangagoy Fishermen Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAFISCO) funded by the Department of Science and Technologys’ (DOST’s) Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) was launched rececntly in Bislig City. This is so far the biggest SETUP funded project in the 2nd district of Surigao del Sur.

The launching of the upgraded ice plant with 17 tons capacity, from 10 tons capacity before, was attended by cooperative’s officials and Caressa Leanne V. Lim, OIC Provincial Science and Technology Director of DOST-Surigao del Sur.

Technology upgrading of the ice plant started last November 3, 2015. It was completed by the end of January 2016. Series of test runs were conducted to make sure that the equipment installed were running on its specification.

The key features of the upgrade include having 360 cans of ice per batch compared to 165 cans before and, harvesting of ice and water filling is now five cans per batch compared to one can before.

Members of the cooperative include fishermen, boat operators, fish traders, market and ambulant vendors. A thousand of these beneficiaries are expected to benefit from the gains of the project. The upgraded facility aims to a increase 100 percent in sales during the first year of operation.

DOST SETUP is a nationwide flagship program of DOST that helps micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to improve their business by boosting up their productivity and competitiveness through science, technology and innovation interventions. (DOST-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Thursday, May 12, 2016

May 12, 2016, 4:15 am

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DENR launches "Operation baklas" in SurSur

By Johny S. Natad

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 12 (PIA)– The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Surigao del Sur initiates an "Operation Baklas to Save Trees" from illegal posting of election campaign materials nailed and plastered to trees along the national highway on May 11, 2016.

OIC PENR Officer Raul A. Rosales himself led the team for the said operation which started from Barangay Balibadon of Cortes town to Barangay Dayo-an of Tago town. The election posters taken from the trees during the "Operation Baklas" were turned over to Tandag City Environmental Solid Waste and Management office for recycling and proper disposal as mandated by Republic Act (R.A.) 9003.

“We initiated the tearing down of election campaign posters and commercial advertisements installed on trees along public roads as part of our mandate to protect and save the trees,” Rosales said.

“Nailing or stapling advertisements and posters to tree branches or trunks can damage the growth of the trees, and in fact it makes trees become harmful and stressful. The openings caused by the nails hammered or staplers fastened to trees could damage the tissues of trees and make them susceptible from fungi and other pathogenic organisms which might kill the trees. It is therefore our task to immediately teardown all advertisements nailed and posted on trees to rescue and save them from such destruction,” Rosales explained.

The "Operation Baklas to Save Trees" was based on the Presidential Decree No. 953 issued on July 1976 and R.A. 3571. Under this law, it is unlawful to damage or destroy “trees of any kind” in public roads, parks, plazas or other public areas.

Rosales also disclosed that “Operation Baklas to Save Trees” is part of DENR’s task in accordance with the Joint DENR-DILG-COMELEC Memo Circular 2013-01 which ensures a “Basura-Free Election.”

Meanwhile, PENRO Surigao del Sur Technical Services Division Chief Federico A. Senoc, Jr. bared that nailing or stapling of whatever materials on trees is a clear violation of Comelec Resolution No. 6616 and Republic Act 9006, or the Fair Elections Act, which prohibits the posting of campaign materials in public places outside the assigned common poster areas.

“Comelec Resolution No. 6616 upheld the Presidential Decree No. 853 and R.A. 3571 which created a task force to monitor violators and tear down materials found violating the law during pre and post-election periods,” Senoc revealed. “It is for this reason that the DENR is now implementing this activity and help ensure a clean and green election,” Senoc added. (PENRO-SDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

FNRI-DOST launches iFNRI website

By Divorah V. Aguila

MANILA, May 12 (PIA) - In a communication initiative to boost virtual access to crucial health and nutrition information in the country, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) established a web-based service called iFNRI that serves as an online tool for food and nutrition information.

The website launched last February 23, 2016 will serve as an authoritative food and nutrition resource for both consumers, especially homemakers, nutrition practitioners, students, and educators. Extension workers, policymakers and planners, local government units, food manufacturers and food industry participants also stand to benefit from the site.

The new online site is a convenient reference source for current data and trends in food and nutrition for professionals and can help mothers apply sound nutrition concepts in daily life. It can also serve as a basis for developing school nutrition programs, provide reference information to hotels, restaurants and other institutions in menu planning, and guide industrial canteen concessionaires in maximizing the nutritional value of menus for employees.

The FNRI, created in 1947, is the principal research arm of the government in food and nutrition, and is one of the research and development institutes (RDIs) of the DOST. The online resource for food and nutrition information is in line with FNRI’s mandate of providing relevant technologies and scientific information on food and nutrition.

Over the years, the FNRI’s major accomplishments include developing and commercializing nutritional food products; conducting periodic, nationwide nutrition surveys; building an analytical food quality and safety assurance system; establishing strategies and programs to address malnutrition; and formulating tools, guidelines and standards to serve the needs of nutrition and nutrition-related workers.

Under-nutrition and over-nutrition are persistent concerns in the country that bear socio-economic and health implications. The most common of this being protein-energy malnutrition or PEM and micronutrient deficiencies. Infants and children under five years, as well as pregnant women and lactating mothers, are the most vulnerable groups, especially those in depressed areas.

One of the recognized causes of malnutrition is the limited access to up-to-date and accurate food and nutrition data among stakeholders including the well-to-do. Thus, constant exposure to food and nutrition information data delivered through various means of communication channels and strategies is crucial. With iFNRI, the Institute’s mission to provide optimum nutrition for Filipino people is facilitated!

Hinatuan agrarian reform beneficiaries take oath

By Myra Yu

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 12 (PIA) - Ten agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from Hinatuan, this province took their oath recently at the Municipal Trial Court of Barobo affirming their commitment to the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of government.

Said oath taking is required as provided in the rules and regulations of becoming an ARB and what are their obligations upon receiving the certificate of land ownership award (CLOA). Among the obligations cited include the paying of their annual amortization with Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), prohibition period of 10 years not to sell, transfer or convert the awarded lot unless fully paid at LBP, cultivate the land productively and pay taxes.

The obligations stated above are also relative to one of the requirements of the LBP in the processing of Voluntary Offer to Sell Claim Folders (VOSCFs) and/or Compulsory Acquisition Claim Folders (CACFs).

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Benjamin M. Mataksil said the oath ensures that the identified farmer-beneficiaries have underwent a selection process conducted by the Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officers as provided in Section 22 of Republic Act No. 6657 also known as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law. (PIO-DAR/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

FNRI Laboratory Services to go online through SL IOS

By Rosemarie J. Dumag

MANILA, May 12 (PIA) - The FNRI-Service Laboratory (FNRI-SL) is an ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited group of facilities that is committed to deliver high quality and timely laboratory testing and consultation services. It aims to meet customers’ satisfaction overseen by professional management while promoting advancement and safe working environment. It offers chemical, microbiological and biochemical analyses in food, feed, water and biological samples.

To improve its services, the FNRI-SL Integrated Online System (FNRI-SL IOS) was developed as an innovation in serving customers through an online system of transaction to replace paper-based processes. The FNRI-SL IOS is under the iFNRI program which harmonizes the different ICT projects of the institute. Under the iFNRI are six components namely iAsses, iServe, iBusiness, iPromote, iLearn and iAdmin. The FNRI-SL IOS is under iServe that enables the laboratory processes more automated for an efficient and effective workflow and iBusiness which links the internal and external data processing system of the Institute to work closely with partners.

The FNRI-SL IOS provides faster and convenient transaction and better data management with full traceability of all stages of the laboratory processes. The laboratory workflow was automated and all forms and processes, including service quotation, request of analysis, payment transaction, customer feedback, report of analysis, and statistical reports were translated electronically. Tracking of status of laboratory services requested can be easily monitored any time.

For inquiries, visit our website at i.fnri.dost.gov.ph/sl-ios.

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Friday, May 13, 2017

May 13, 2016, 4:14 am

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Gov’t agencies to participate in Senior Citizen plan of action workshop

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY May 13 (PIA)– The focal persons/representatives from government agencies will be participating in the two-day assessment-workshop on the Philippine Plan of Action for the Senior Citizens (PPASC) on May 24-25, 2016 here.

According to Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga regional director Minda Brigoli, the PPASC 2012-2016 is on its end-term this calendar year 2016.

“The DSWD, being the chair of this committee is spearheading the said assessment-workshop. On May 24, there will be a Regional Inter-Agency Committee (RIAC) assessment-workshop on the PPASC 2012-2016 and on the second day, May 25, will be the formulation of the PPASC Successor Plan 2017-2022 and the Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) second quarter meeting,” disclosed Brigoli.

Brigoli further advised that each member agency is required to bring their accomplishment report based on the programs, projects and activities implemented that benefitted the senior citizens sector since 2011 up to the first quarter of 2016.

“Each agency accomplishment will be accounted and reflected in the manual of the PPASC 2017-2022,” Brigoli added.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte to celebrate 115th founding anniversary

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 13 (PIA)– The provincial government here will celebrate its 15th Founding Anniversary on Sunday, May 15, 2016.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “Surigaonon-Mapagarbohon sa Probinsya Na Mauswagon (People of Surigao-Prideful of the Prosperous Province).”

The celebration is pursuant to Provincial Ordinance No, 01, an ordinance declaring May 15 of every year as Founding Day Anniversary of the province.

Surigao del Norte governor Sol F. Matugas, Dinagat Islands vice governor Benglen B. Ecleo, Surigao del Sur governor Johnny T. Pimentel, 1st District representative Francisco T. Matugas, and Surigao City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas are expected to grace the event.

According to Provincial Tourism and Culture Officer-in-Charge Arturo M. Cruje, the activity will start at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday with a Diana around downtown of the city to be followed by a holy mass and program at the Provincial Convention Center, here.

The celebration will be highlighted with the awarding of Tourism and Culture Awards, Service Excellence Awards, and HEALS Awards. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOH Caraga to commemorate AIDS candlelight memorial

By Romelyn Esther C. Torralba

BUTUAN CITY, May 13 (PIA) - The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region is commemorating the Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (PIACM) through a Philippine AIDS Hour on Saturday, May 14 at Guingona Park here.

The activity is set to start at 5:00 p.m. in which the public is encouraged to light a candle as a symbol of hope in the quest for solutions to the challenges posed by HIV and AIDS to humanity.

The AIDS Candlelight memorial is a global event that is not only a commemoration for those who have died from the disease but as a platform for HIV/AIDS as well, said DOH Caraga regional director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. This event is celebrated worldwide in collaboration with advocacy partners, The Project Red Ribbon (TRR) and Pilipinas Shell with the popular theme, “Know your status, Get tested,” director Llacuna added.

According to the Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry, a total of 31,911 cases were tallied nationally of people living with HIV (PLHIV) from 1984-2016. As of February 2016, there were 751 new Absero-positive individuals confirmed STD/AIDSs Cooperative Central Laboratory (SACCL). Most of the cases were males (96%). Of the 751 HIV positive cases in 2016, 15% were AIDS cases.

In Caraga region, the latest disease surveillance report (February, 2016) tallied six new Absero-positive individuals confirmed of STD/AIDSs from SACCL with a total of 13 cases from January, 2016. From 1995, however, HIV cases now totals to 253 with 20 reported HIV-AIDS related deaths. Butuan City remains to have the most number of cases (95) in the region.

With the data both in the national and regional level; and the worldwide increasing count of HIV/AIDS cases, strategies to combat this disease should be and constantly strengthened. The Philippine AIDS Hour is only a part of a maximized awareness campaign for the disease.

“One hour. Let’s give an hour to solemnize the people who battled and continuously battles HIV/AIDS. This will also remind us to work harder and work together to inform people of the disease and aid the public in precautionary measures; And for those who are in doubt of their status, DOH is readily accessible for free testing and counseling services and most importantly, free medicines warranted by test results,” director Llacuna said. (DOH-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur Comelec cites good peace and order for feat in May 9 polls

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 13 (PIA)– Atty. Raquel Limbaco, provincial election supervisor (PES) here, attributed to good peace and order situation of the province of Surigao del Sur the success of the just concluded May 9, 2016 elections.

The Comelec provincial chief told media that the conduct of the said polls was generally peaceful and orderly.

However, she admitted that the Election Day was not at all that glitch-free owing to technical problems that surfaced, citing that some 79 vote counting machines (VCMs) failed to work well, also adding that these were addressed anyway by contingency measures put in place.

Meanwhile, Atty. Limbaco had given due credit to both the PNP and AFP here for their show of gallantry and dedicated service to ensure that everything would be alright as far as peace and order was concerned.

It could be recalled that Comelec had always made it a point to maintain close coordination with P/SSupt. Romaldo Bayting, acting PNP provincial director, and Col. Isidro Purisima, commander, 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA).

With the just concluded national and local elections, the Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC) here, was already able to proclaim all winners at the provincial level after a day or two.

The proclaimed winners were Prospero Pichay, Jr., 1st District and Johnny T. Pimentel, 2nd District at the congressional level.

Likewise, the provincial officials who emerged victors during the electoral contest were Vicente Pimentel, Jr. as Governor and Manuel Alameda, Sr. as Vice-Governor.

With five each in both Districts I and II, the following board members were all the same duly proclaimed winners: Eleanor Momo, Glenn Plaza, Mariano Atacador, Teresita Donasco, and Henrich Pimentel for District I; Donell Polizon, Mary Grace Lim, Rening Nazareno, Pol Suan, and Raul Millan for District II.

Surigao del Sur, which is comprised of two cities and 17 municipalities, has a reported total of 367,528 number of voters, 310,397 of which have had actually voted or voters’ turnout was posted at 84.45 percent. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Lagnada wins mayoralty post, party sweeps slate in Butuan City polls

By Ma. Lourdes P. Apego

BUTUAN CITY, May 13 (PIA) - Engineer Ronnie Vicente Conde Lagnada of the Team RCL wins the Butuan City Mayoralty post over reelectionist Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante Jr. in the just concluded local elections here.

Official results from the City Board of Canvassers show Lagnada garnered a total of 90,081 votes against 67,492 votes of Amante.

Meanwhile, Lagnada’s running mate former Congressman Jose S. Aquino II secured the vice mayoralty post with a total of 88,898 votes against his closest rival Councilor Ryan B. Culima who garnered 36,991 votes.

For the position of Councilor, team RCL or team Ronnie Conde Lagnada consolidated its win with a historic hundred percent sweep of the number of positions at stake with all its candidates winning the post.

Elected as number one Councilor is Atty. Glenn Carampatana, a board topnotcher. He is followed by incumbent Councilors Ferdinand Nalcot, Atty. Rema Burdeos and Derrick Plaza, former SK Federation Chairman Cromwell Nortega, businessman Omar Andaya, Cherry Mae Busa, incumbent Punong Barangay Engr. Vincent Rizal Rosario, Atty. Ernest John Sanchez and human rights lawyer Atty. John Gil Unay, Sr.

The winning candidates were proclaimed by the City Board of Canvassers past lunchtime on May 10, 2016. (Radyo ng Bayan-Butuan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Menu Eval Plus: Online menu evaluation for Pinoys

By May Ann R. Devanadera

MANILA, May 13 (PIA) - Ever wonder how you can have your recipe or menu calculated for energy and nutrient content, percentage contribution for specific age group and food cost in an instant? Worry no more…

Menu Eval Plus is online web-based software developed to speed-up calculation of estimated energy and nutrient content and percentage contribution of recipes and menus or meals.

It consists of recipe evaluation and menu evaluation modules. The first module allows the user to compute the estimated energy and nutrient content and percentage contribution, food cost and quantification of the user’s own recipe. The second module determines the estimated energy and nutrient content and percentage contribution of menus or meals.

The Menu Eval Plus consists of personalized and protected user account, user-friendly searching of ingredients, recipe photo uploading and pdf file export of recipe or menu evaluation. Calculation of percentage contribution of the recipe or menu based on the Recommended Energy Intakes/ Recommended Nutrient Intakes (REIs/RNIs) of the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI, 2015), saving of recipes and menus in a library and FNRI-developed recipes are also included in the software.

The software under the iFNRI domain is intended for professionals in nutrition and dietetics and food technology, food service operators, students, and for those who want to evaluate energy and nutrient contribution of their own recipes and menus. It can be accessed at i.fnri.dost.gov.ph/menuevalplus.

Cebuano News: Children’s Summer Festival gilusad sa probinsya sa Surigao Norte

By Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mayo 13 (PIA) - Ang probinsya malampusong milusad bag-uhay pa lamang sa Children's Summer Festival nga nagdala sa temang "Bata, Bililhon ka, Yawe ka sa Kalambuan" nga gipahigayon didto sa Provincial Convention Center, ning dakbayan.

Ang kalihukan gisugdan sa usa ka Santos nga Misa nga gisilebrar ni Rev. Fr. Carlito Tiu, DCS ug misunod dayon ang mga nagkadaiyang programa isip pag-abli sa maong kalihukan.

Gipaabot ni Fr. Tiu ang iyang pagdayeg ug pagpasalamat kang Gobernador Sol F. Matugas nga sa kanunay sa tanang mga aktibidadis sa kapitolyo pagabuksan gayod kini pinaagi sa Santos nga Misa.

Tipik sa mensahe ni Gob. Matugas, iya gayod gihatagan ug importansya ang mga kabataan nga mahatagan ug maayong pagtagad tungod kay sila ang paglaum sa probinsya ug sila usab ang simbolo sa Bag-ong Surigao.

Ang maong kalihukan gitambungan sa mga kabataan nag edad 5-11 anyos ug kasagaran mga anak sa mga empleyado sa kapitolyo. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Monday, May 16, 2016

May 16, 2016, 2:55 am

≫ Next: Tuesday, May 17, 2016

≪ Previous: Friday, May 13, 2017

SurSur DTI to hold “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan”

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 16 (PIA)– The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here headed by Provincial Director Romel Oribe is set to carry out “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan” in time for the scheduled conduct of Brigada Eskwela on May 30 – June 4.

Manny Disca, Consumer Welfare Division chief, said that the caravan would be held in four remote villages of Tandag City, namely, Mabuhay, San Isidro, Pandanon, and Maticdum.

Diskwento Caravans (Discount Caravans) had been being conducted by the said agency here for many years already by way of selling goods to consumers at discounted prices. But, at this time, it would mainly offer school supplies, it was pointed out.

Disca added that they would be tapping the services of big stores/distributors to take part in this endeavor.

Early on, the DTI Consumer Welfare Division chief also said that based on the latest monitoring, no price movement had been noticed among basic goods, citing that this could be “due to many outlets.” (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA Surigao del Sur)

SurSur DTI to hold “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan”

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 16 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here headed by Provincial Director Romel Oribe is set to carry out “Balik-Eskwela Diskwento Caravan” in time for the scheduled conduct of Brigada Eskwela on May 30 – June 4.

Manny Disca, Consumer Welfare Division chief, said that the caravan would be held in four remote villages of Tandag City, namely, Mabuhay, San Isidro, Pandanon, and Maticdum.

Disca added that they would be tapping the services of big stores/distributors to take part in this endeavor.

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Tuesday, May 17, 2016

May 17, 2016, 6:03 pm

≫ Next: Wednesday, May 18, 2016

≪ Previous: Monday, May 16, 2016

OCD Caraga conducts 15-day medical first responder course in AgSur

By April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 17 (PIA) – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga is conducting the 15-day Medical First Responder (MFR) Course for 23 selected local responders in the region from May 15–28, 2016 at the Agusan del Sur Provincial Learning Center in Prosperidad, this province. These local responders are from Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) councils and non-government organizations (NGO).

The course which covers 23 lessons aims to capacitate the local responders who will become Accredited Disaster Community Disaster Volunteers (ACDVs) in the region. It is also to provide the participants the exact knowledge and skills needed in rendering aid on site to sick or injured persons. Further, it trains the participants on how to stabilize patient’s condition and transport the patient to a medical facility.

The 15-day course involves lecture presentation, interactive-lecture group discussion and exercises, individual practical exercises and examination. Activities of the course are graded and serve as bases for either failure or completion of participants.

“This is a 15-day very stressful course that requires medical and physical fitness clearances of participants,” stressed Dir. Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena, OCD Caraga Regional Director and RDRRMC Chairperson. (OCD Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DOT Caraga releases accredited tourism-related establishments in Siargao Island

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, May 17 (PIA)– The office of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga region has released the list of accredited tourism–related establishments (TREs) in the province as of April 2016.

Most of these establishments are located in Siargao Island which include Dedon Island Siargao Resort; Isla Cabana Resort; Nermit Surf Resort Siargao; Siargao Blue Resort and Spa; Cherinicole Beach Resort; Esther’s Kitchen at Coffee Shop Restaurant; and Island Vacation Travel and Tours.

Establishments wherein the accreditation is still on process are Jafe Resort; Romantic Beach Villas Resort; Eddie’s Beach Resort; Reef Beach Houses Resort; Point 303 Beach Resort; and Ocean 101 Beach Resort.

Governor Sol F. Matugas has encouraged tourism – related establishments to apply for accreditation with the DOT.

She is glad that the number of accredited establishments has increased which means that there are now more establishments compliant to tourism standard.

“This will make province more competitive as a tourist destination in this part of the region,” Matugas said. (Provincial Tourism and Culture Office-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Wednesday, May 18, 2016

May 22, 2016, 7:01 pm

≫ Next: Thursday, May 19, 2016

≪ Previous: Tuesday, May 17, 2016

450 schools offer SHS in Caraga region

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 18 (PIA)– A total of 450 schools, 367 in public secondary schools and 83 in private schools/state universities and colleges (SUCs), in the region will be offering the Senior High School (SHS) effective June 13, 2016.

It was learned that the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga is now closely monitoring the status of all the inputs that are important to the successful implementation of the SHS.

Some of the preparations of DepEd include the hiring and training of SHS teachers, construction of classrooms, training of school heads, provision of tools and equipment for Technical-Vocational and Livelihood (TVL) as well as for science and mathematics, reproduction of instructional materials, and among others. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

DILG 13 holds procurement compliance and performance indicators seminar-workshop

By Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY, May 18 (PIA) - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office 13 (Caraga) through the Regional Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) has conducted a two-day Seminar-Workshop on the Implementation of Agency Procurement Compliance and Performance Indicators (APCPI) on May 12-13, in one of the convention centers here.

The conduct of activity is in line with adoption and use of the Agency Procurement Compliance and Performance Indicators (APCPI) System as one of the new requirements for the grant of Performance Based Bonus (PBB) for F.Y. 2015. This is by virtue of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on the Harmonization of National Government Performance Monitoring, Information and Reporting System Memorandum Circular No. 2015-1 dated August 12, 2015 on the Guidelines on the Grant of the PBB.

Designed to provide the participants with a working knowledge on the use and application of the APCPI, workshops on APCPI Assessment using actual data were conducted per field operating unit (FOU). It was concluded with the Analysis of the 2015 Procurement Assessment Results and the Preparation of an Action Plan.

A total of 33 participants composed of the DILG Regional Office BAC Members, BAC-Technical Working Group (TWG), BAC Secretariat, Ad Hoc Committee (to be created), one end-user representative of each Division/Section/Unit and a BAC Chair and two BAC Secretariat from the DILG Provincial Offices participated in the said event.

The whole activity was facilitated by Regional BAC Vice-Chair Ray Gregory F. Jaranilla serving as Resource Person with the assistance of Monet C. Bullecer and Kristine Jean E. Forsuelo, both Regional BAC Secretariat. The activity also included a review on the Government Procurement Process with a brief discussion on Republic Act No. 9184 and a lecture and hands-on practice of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PHILGEPS) by Atty. Allen M. Gasulas.

With the APCPI Assessment Result as the main output of the activity, the participants per FOU were committed to submit it to the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) on or before June 30, 2016. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DOLE inks MOA with SurSur state univ for establishment of PESO academe

By Romelyn Bactol

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 18 (PIA) - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Caraga in partnership with the Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) has recently established a public employment service office (PESO) academe in the six campuses of SDSSU.

DOLE Caraga regional director Atty. Evelyn Ramos and SDSSU officer-in-charge Catherine Solomon representing SDSSU university president Dr. Baceledes R. Estal led the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between DOLE and SDSSU last Apr. 28 at the SDSSU Tandag Campus Board Room, this city.

The MOA signing was witnessed by Provincial PESO Manager Marcos M. Quico and 24 other PESO Managers from LGUs and academe.

“The role of PESO to DOLE is very significant in terms of accomplishing the programs. They have a direct access in reaching out our constituents - in the public, in our people, and that is a privileged public service. I hope that PESO will continue to engage with us in terms of accomplishing our programs. Rest assured that our provincial field office and the regional office would be here to support you,” said Atty. Ramos.

Meanwhile, Solomon revealed that they have more than 2,000 graduates in the last academic year 2015-2016. This would mean additional unemployed graduates in Surigao del Sur that need to be addressed. Thus, Atty. Ramos emphasized that both DOLE and PESO should work hand in hand in assisting these graduates.

As one of the DOLE’s assistance to SDSSU, a Job Search Kiosk will be assigned to the six campuses to provide labor market information (LMI). This is a stand-alone labor market information system capable of employment facilitation like job search and skills matching facility. Likewise, programs and services of DOLE’s attached agencies and other partner agencies such as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) can be accessed.

The six campuses of SDSSU are located in Tandag City - the main campus, Cantilan, Cagwait, San Miguel, Lianga, and Tagbina. (DOLE/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Negosyo Center Butuan extends labeling assistance to 5 new products developed

BUTUAN CITY, May 18 (PIA)– Five newly developed products of Sapyaw Fisherfolks Association (SFA) were recently provided label designs with starters kits by Negosyo Center (NC)-Butuan.

Several skills trainings on food processing for SFA members under the Bottom Up Budgeting Program led to the development of five novel foodstuffs utilizing home-grown ingredients. These are polvoron, cookies and tarts made of “Unaw” or sago flour as well as “kayam” chips and “laksoy” (nipa wine). And to improve and increase marketability, enhancement through product labeling assistance was deemed necessary.

During the lecture and workshop, participants learned the basic features of a product label, its significance and some tips on designing labels.

Jason C. Balacuit, the resource person from JCB Express Solutions, stressed on the importance of a product label in marketing and in conveying the company’s image, values and perceived worth of the product. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DTI-AgNor conducts green economic devt sensitization

BUTUAN CITY, May 18 (PIA)– The Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Norte (DTI-ADN) recently conducted a green economic development sensitization to its staff held recently at the Negosyo Center – Butuan Training Room with Raquel J. Capio of the Promotion on Green Economic Development (ProGED) Project as the resource person.

The event was intended to facilitate in phasing of green economic development (GED) with the DTI programs, projects and activities and enable the personnel to integrate greening in the daily operation of the organization.

As such, inputs included GED as driver of economic growth amidst climate change and environmental degradation, and approaches and strategies to go green.

The activity was graced by DTI ADN Provincial Director Gay A. Tidalgo who gave the welcome remarks and GIZ-ProGED Project Manager Dr. Volker Steigerwald who enlightened the participants on GED and posed a challenge to everyone with his message.

A workshop capped the session with the participants discussing and formulating strategies on greening.

ProGED is a development cooperation project jointly implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) with the aim of increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs by adopting environment friendly and climate smart growth strategies. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DTI provides SSF to women entrepreneurs in AgSur town

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 18 (PIA) – The Women’s Association of San Francisco Agusan del Sur, Inc. (WASFADSI) launched recently its Shared Service Facility (SSF) for the Upgrading of Catering Services Project.

Ester D. Libo, WASFADSI President thanked the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Agusan del Sur for the opportunity to operate the SSF for the federation’s catering business as well as to make available these facilities for use of its members.

In response, DTI-Agusan del Sur OIC-Provincial Director Brenda B. Corvera asked the group to take good care of the SSF facilities. She reminded the group that they can impose fees for the facilities’ use to allow them to earn income which they can use for their operations as well as set aside for the maintenance and replacement of equipment in the future.

WASFADSI is the mother organization of all the 27 women’s association in the municipality.

The launching done last April 26, 2016 at the Women Training Center in Brgy. 3 in San Francisco town was attended by the presidents and representatives from these associations.

The SSF for the Upgraded Catering Services included one unit of each of the following: electric rice cooker, stainless preparation table with bottom shelf, chafing dish, food processor, meat grinder, pressure cooker, chest freezer and meat slicer for a total cost of P264, 000.00.

This SSF is one of seven SSFs granted in the municipality of San Francisco to several cooperators. The said facilities amounted to P6.14 Million representing 33 percent of the total amount of SSFs in the province.

The federation also manages the training center which was provided the local government unit of San Francisco as a shared facility which accommodates seminars and other functions. As a women’s group it also handles advocacy activities related to violence against women and children (VAWC), assistances directed at women in especially difficult circumstances (WEDC) and the disadvantaged women through skills development training and livelihood opportunities. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

↧

Thursday, May 19, 2016

May 22, 2016, 7:10 pm

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Caraga RCWC members to participate in Capability Building cum Strategic Planning

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 19 (PIA) – The focal persons of the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) from the different government agencies will be participating in the Capability Building cum Strategic Planning on June 7-9, 2016 at the Hotel Tavern in Surigao City.

The highlight of the activity is to assess and evaluate RCWC performance including its roles and functions. It is aimed to identify issues and concerns encountered by the committee members that affect its performance.

It was also learned that the activity will culminate with the formulation of the Three-year Work and Financial Plan (WFP) that includes milestone activities that will strengthen the RCWC.

The RCWC is a convergence of various clusters and partners that respond to child protection issues before, during, and after emergencies; facilitate the development and coordination of child protections strategies and responses; and advocate for support and assistance with authorities and humanitarian actors as necessary, among others. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

RPOC to launch Caraga Roadmap for Peace in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 19 (PIA) – The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga as the head secretariat will be launching the region’s Caraga Roadmap for Peace on May 24, 2016 at the Robinsons Place, this city.

According to DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion, with the RPOC Caraga’s efforts in upholding peace and order in the region, the Caraga Roadmap for Peace was crafted with the active participation and support of the council members and partners.

“The roadmap, the first of its kind of document and Caraga as the first to come up with such, serves as the blueprint of the RPOC towards achievement of peace and development and fulfillment of human security in the region,” highlighted Famacion.

The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) plays a vital role in maintaining the peace and order situation in every region of the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor creates body to take actions during crisis, emergencies

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 19 (PIA) – The provincial government of Agusan del Norte has created its Crisis Management Committee (CMC) during its recent Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting through PPOC Resolution No. 2016-03.

The CMC is a governing body of the province that will take decisive actions to resolve crisis or emergencies. It is primarily concerned with the formulation of crisis management policies, integration and orchestration of government and public efforts towards the control of crisis or incidents.

The CMC is chaired by governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, co-chaired by vice governor Ramon AG Bungabong and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) provincial director will serve as the technical adviser, as need arises.

. Point persons were also identified to include:

· Medical Services - Dr. Elizabeth N. Campado;

· Legal Services - Fiscal Cyril B. Viva;

· Logistics - Atty. Ramie Duropan;

· Community Relations - Edgar Palarca;

· Public Information/Dissemination - Nora C. Lanuza Molde;

· Public Safety and Security - PSSupt Ronelo D Jaurigue;

- LTC Adonis Ariel G Orio;

- LTC Lynart D Castisimo;

- F/Insp Rey Antonio C Restauro;

· Social Services - Daisybiel O. Demavivas.

The Provincial CMC shall function as follows:

1. Establish procedures for producing timely direction and guidelines;

2. Coordinate and implement responses to crisis in an integrated manner;

3. Ensure that the perspective of government agencies and other stakeholders are integrated into the overall government responses;

4. Provide and mobilize available resources through an established inter-agency resource sharing protocol;

5. Coordinate inter-agency crisis management efforts;

6. Ensure that operational demands during crisis are met and all actions are coordinated and complementary; and

7. Establish accessible communication lines so that reliable and timely information are received and disseminated to appropriate offices or persons responsible.

During the first CMC meeting on May 5 held at the DILG Agusan del Norte conference room on May 5, officer-in-charge Ellen Vee P. Chua has reiterated the functions of the point persons.

“Each of us plays a very important function, role and responsibility in order to maintain a peaceful province and have a secure community. There should be a thorough coordination between and among the members of the CMC to achieve its very purpose of creation," Chua said.(NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

SurSur new NIA chief bares plan to seek more irrigation projects

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 19 (PIA)– The new chief of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) here has bared plan to seek more irrigation projects for the province.

Citing the lack of irrigation service facilities, Engr. Ferdinand Amon, Provincial Irrigation Management Office (PIMO) manager, said that he would try to push hard for more irrigation service expansion to cover the remaining irrigable areas in Surigao del Sur.

He was talking about 40 percent of the 26,778 hectares of potential irrigable farmlands yet to be covered by irrigation service.

Amon noted that if the new dispensation would indeed be aiming to make good about food security program, then it had to put premium on constructing more irrigation projects for the agricultural sector.

The new NIA provincial chief, who just assumed post on April 5, 2016, replacing predecessor Engr. Salome Layasan, said that he would go doing the rounds province-wide to muster support from the farm sector just to push through with the proposal.

Engr. Amon explained that a significant issue such as this must have to undergo the process of passing the respective development councils especially from the municipal or city, provincial, and regional levels for the backing needed. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Friday, May 20, 2016

May 22, 2016, 7:15 pm

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AgNor election 'generally peaceful'

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 20 (PIA)– “The conduct of the May 9 national and local elections in the province of Agusan del Norte is peaceful and successful,” Comelec said.

Agusan del Norte provincial election supervisor Atty. Ernie Palanan during the conduct of the Provincial Joint Security Control Center Exit Command Conference and Thanksgiving held Friday here expressed his sincerest gratitude to all the partners/stakeholders for the successful and peaceful conduct of the May 9 election in the province.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) officials' and our teachers' great experiences have made the election successful,” Atty. Palanan said.

On the part of the AFP, 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), Phil. Army executive officer LTC Jezreel Diagmel affirmed the statement made by Atty. Palanan that based on their assessment, the conduct of the 2016 national and local elections in their area of responsibility (AOR) is generally peaceful. Diagmel added that a week before the election, their troops were already deployed in the critical areas of the province to ensure that the area will be safe for everybody during the election.

Also, Maj Juanilio Olfindo, Jr. of the 29IB acknowledged the good partnership, constant coordination and early preparation and deployment of security forces to the different polling areas of the province for the successful and peaceful conduct of the election.

The 29IB's AOR covers the municipalities of Remedios T. Romualdez, Tubay, Jabonga, Santiago, Kitcharao, Cabadbaran City and portions of Butuan City while for the remaining areas of the province such as Las Nieves, Buenavista, Nasipit and Carmen towns, and Butuan City are under the 23IB.

According to Agusan Norte police provincial director PSSupt Ronelo Jaurigue, they have successfully provided appropriate security measures from the delivery up to the retrieval of official ballots and Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) from the provincial hubs down to the 155 polling centers in the province.

However, PSSupt Jaurigue also admitted that there are still aspects that need further improvement especially in the field of communication. He also said that intelligence fusion with other intelligence community with regards to rebel atrocities need be addressed.

Deputy city director PSupt Joseph Boquiren of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) also bared that in an overall assessment, coordination among rightful authorities were carried out appropriately; security measures especially in strategic locations were imposed resulting to a smooth, peaceful and efficient elections. BCPO covers 86 barangays with 296 polling centers.

In his message during today's Exit Command Conference, PNP Caraga regional director PCSupt Rolando Felix said that based on their assessment and as heard from the feedbacks of the general public and media, the conduct of 2016 elections was generally successful. Support elements have collectively coordinated with one another and have done their part well in their areas of competence towards honest, clean and credible elections.

Also, regional election director Renato Magbutay of Commission on Elections (Comelec) Caraga reiterated the several problems encountered during the 2016 elections. However, there is always a room for improvement to rectify and patch up the glitches, he underscored. He also accepted the fact that they have failed to cater the concern of the Department of Education. So far, no formal complaints and protests were received by the Comelec.

Meanwhile, Smartmatic provincial coordinator Jason Mercado also thanked everyone for their understanding as to the lapses and problems encountered during the recently concluded elections. He said that in as much as they wanted to shorten the procedures, skipping important protocols was never an option since accuracy and credibility of results were at stake.

Also during the activity, certificates of recognition were given to the stakeholders for their unrelenting support and cooperation in the peaceful conduct of 2016 national and local elections. Philippine Information Agency Caraga headed by regional director Abner Caga is likewise accorded with the same award for the PIA Caraga team's communication support and intervention. (NCLM/VLG/FEA/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Police, partners hold medical outreach program in Surigao City

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 20 (PIA) –The Philippine National Police (PNP) in the city in partnership with the City Health Office, Caraga Regional Hospital (CRH), Barangy Health Workers (BHW) and barangay officials of Poctoy recently conducted a medical, dental and free circumcision dubbed as “Libreng Operation Tuli” held at the covered in Barangay Poctoy, here.

Beneficiaries of the said barangay were able to avail the medical consultation, dental check-up and tooth extraction, and free circumcision for children with complimentary medicines and vitamins.

During the said activity, the CRH through the Hospital Blood Bank Department personnel conducted a blood letting activity.

Meanwhile, City Police Community Relation Officer (PCR) PSI Tessiel R. Moleta and Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office-Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) Officer PSI Elsa G. Montenegro spearheaded an information education campaign through leaflets/flyers distribution and dialogue with the constituents, parents, children and beneficiaries of the said activity.

Moleta and Montenegro also discussed the topics about Gender and Development (GAD) related laws, Children and Youth Welfare Code and health education and awareness. (SCPS-PPO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga poll chief tells bets to file SOCE

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 20 (PIA) - Atty. Renato Magbutay, regional election director (RED) of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in Caraga region has reminded all candidates—losers and winners alike—during the May 9, 2016 polls to file their respective Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) on or before June 8, 2016.

According to the regional poll chief, “They have to file their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE). So, they have until June 8 to file that. All candidates—losers and winners.”

“Otherwise, pag ‘yung kandidato hindi mag-submit ng SOCE hanggang June 8. . . one, they will be charged administratively to be filed by the COMELEC—kung first offense that would be P10,000; second offense P15,000. Ano ‘yan graduated ‘yan. . . hanggang ‘yung penalty maging disqualification to run for public office,” he explained.

Submission should only be done during weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Magbutay clarified, adding that no extension was given.

“For winning candidates,” he warned, “they cannot take their oath of office unless they can show a certification to the DILG that they have complied with the requirement of the SOCE.”

In a related interview, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), this province, confirmed the pronouncements of RED Magbutay.

Provincial Director Pedrito Alacaba said that both agencies had forged a memorandum of agreement (MOA) regarding the requirement for a winning candidate to present a certification from the COMELEC that such filing had been satisfactorily complied with under Section 14 of Republic Act No. 7166.

However, the same director was citing a different deadline—June 9, 2016—contrary to what Atty. Magbutay had stated.

But Alacaba stood his ground and even offered a copy of the Memorandum in this regard.

Moreover, the provincial DILG chief said that the set timeline for SOCE submission of newly-elected officials to their office or any of its attached agencies was June 17, 2016.

Keeping in mind the contents of the memorandum, he said that all newly-elected officials at the provincial, city, and municipal levels should file their SOCEs with the Provincial Director, City Director or CLGOO and MLGOO in their respective areas. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

↧

Monday, May 23, 2016

May 24, 2016, 4:50 am

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2016 Search for Outstanding Volunteers now open

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 (PIA)– This year’s Search for Outstanding Volunteers (SOV) is now open.

“If you have engaged the services of volunteers who made commendable contributions in your area of interest, we are encouraging you to participate in this undertaking by nominating them,” said regional director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga.

The SOV is an annual event that highlights the annual celebration of National Volunteers’ Month every December.

The search aims to recognize the unsung and ordinary Filipino citizens and organizations that have contributed extraordinary milestones for the country through their small, yet invaluable acts of service towards nation-building and national development.

The search is open to individuals and organizations currently providing volunteer assistance in the Philippines.

The following are the types and categories of awards: National Outstanding Volunteer Award (NOVA) – The NOVA is conferred to an individual or organization for outstanding volunteer service that has made a significant contribution to uplifting the lives of people and communities served. The individual can be a youth or an adult; and Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award (VLAA) – The VLAA is conferred to an individual or organization for consistent and outstanding volunteer service and whose achievement is regarded as an inspiration and role model in the field of volunteerism

A Special Citation in Volunteerism is also conferred to recognized volunteering efforts and/or support to volunteerism by an individual, group or organization that do not qualify under the regular SOV categories but which are deemed equally meritorious in accomplishment.

The deadline for the submission of nomination is on July 30, 2016.

For more information and inquiries, please contact Venus S. Derequito or Donabelle A. Bonghanoy at (085) 341-4066; 342-5774 loc. 21 & 22. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Nation’s top cop visits Police Regional Office 13

BUTUAN CITY, May 23– Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ricardo C. Marquez arrived here on Monday morning and spearheaded the awarding of PNP personnel and the conference on post-election assessment held at Camp Rafael Rodriguez, PNP Caraga regional office here.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 has prepared an arrival honor led by its Regional Director, PCSUPT Rolando B. Felix to the Chief, PNP. “The Chief, PNP spearheaded the giving of awards to the deserving PNP commanders who also led in the successful conduct of 2016 Elections, and the command conference on post-election assessment,” he said.

Chiefs of the National Support Units, City and Provincial Directors from the City/Provincial Police Offices, and the Battalion Commander of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 13 also attended the said conference. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Validation activity hopes to settle confusion on NGEI-NGPI lands in AgSur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 23 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Agusan del Sur has been conducting validation and re-documentation regarding NDC-Guthrie Plantation and Estate Incorporated (NGEI) and NDC-Guthrie Plantations Incorporated (NGPI) formerly National Development Corp. (NDC) lands involving more or less 8,000 hectares located in Rosario and San Francisco, this province.

The said project is aimed to resolve problems pertaining to land aspect, agrarian beneficiaries issues and intra-organization matters of the cooperatives.

It has three components: the validation and identification of Agrarian reform Beneficiaries; the land consolidation and segregation surveys of the distributed NDC lands and the formation and registration of new small cooperatives whose members wanted to separate from the original registered coops.

The validation process also involves more than 2,000 ARBs and potential ARBs who will be entertained from May 17, 2016 to June 30, 2016.

Original and potential ARBs were interviewed recently and will be screened by the Beneficiaries Screening Committee (BSC).

“We are thankful that the DAR acted immediately to resolve this problem that we are facing so that once and for all, confusion will be ironed out. The validation and re-documentation will really help the cooperatives and will put to rest the issues on hand. Hopefully after this, we can focus on improving our respective cooperatives,” expressed Antonio Sison, Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation Incorporated Multi-Purpose Cooperative (FPPI-MPC) chairperson.

DAR Caraga regional director Julita A. Ragandang with the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II of DAR Agusan del Sur spearheaded the validation andrRe-documentation project.

“We are doing our best to resolve this problem the soonest possible time. We are hoping that everybody will cooperate so that we can restore peace and harmonious relationship in the area and among the cooperatives,” underlined director Ragandang. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Surigao Norte MSMes gain knowledge on e-commerce

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 23 (PIA)– Some 15 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province recently participated the Expanding Your Business Thru E-Commerce seminar spearheaded by the Sector Planning Bureau - E-Commerce Office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga held at Go Hotels, Robinson’s Place, Butuan City.

The activity is the Caraga-leg of the E-Commerce Caravan conducted nationwide initiated by the agency in support to the implementation of the Philippine E-Commerce Roadmap 2016-2020.

“By introducing e-commerce, micro, small and medium enterprises nationwide are exposed to a wider range of options on how to expand their market reach and do business with ease,” said E-Commerce Trade and Industry Specialist chief Maria Crispina S. Reodica.

The e-commerce seminars are designed to engage MSMEs into becoming online merchants, it provides a venue for e-commerce champions, gurus, and service providers to share their know-how and expertise on e-commerce.

Among those service providers who were present are the representatives from DigitalFilipino.com, Market Zalora, Lazada Shopify, Shopinas, among others.

At the end of the session, 50 MSMEs were being enrolled and activated their respective online account stores/shops.

The activity was attended by over two hundred MSME participants coming from the five provinces of Caraga.

For more information on the details of e-commerce just contact the Surigao City Negosyo Center at telephone number (086) 826-2373 or email Caraga.SurigaodelNorte@dti.gov.ph. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DAR starts re-validation of beneficiaries of NGEI-NGPI lands

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan Sur, May 23 (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Agusan del Sur has started the re-validation process of the beneficiaries of the Guthrie Plantation and Estate Incorporated (NGEI) and NDC-Guthrie Plantations Incorporated (NGPI) lands in Rosario and San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

DAR Field Operations Office Undersecretary Jose Z. Grageda reported that at the close of the first day of the validation process, a total of 136 farmers were interviewed. 95 of these are those from the 1988 original list while 41 are found to be potential beneficiaries.

“We are 66 percent higher than our expected target of 90 farmers to be interviewed per day,” Grageda added.

According to the DAR, even those that are not in 1988 list will be interviewed for as long the farmer can present proof of identity and proof of relationship with the company and the ARB-cooperatives.

The re-validation process is DARs initial step towards resolving the various issues confronting the area and its beneficiaries.

However, the DAR would like to stress out that the interview is just part of the gathering of information stage. “The qualification of the agrarian reform beneficiaries is a long process but we are doing all our best to speed up and finish this endeavor the soonest,” said DAR Caraga regional director Julita Ragandang.

The DAR also said that with the pace of the interview, the office hopes to complete the interview of the 1988 ARBs and other potential ARBs by the end of June 2016.

“This will pave the DAR to proceed to the next step of the validation process,” Ragandang added.

The entire re-documentation process aims to segregate the lands not eligible for coverage out of the 7,927 hectares of lands turned-over by the National Development Corporation which was covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of the government and was distributed in 1988. These lands were under lease by the National Guthrie Plantations Incorporated (NGPI) and National Guthrie Estates Incorporated (NGEI). (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga roadmap for peace launching set on May 24

By Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY, May 23 (PIA) - The Caraga Roadmap for Peace, a document that will provide a regional direction in achieving the pursuit of an inclusive, just and lasting peace for varied conflict lines in the region, is set to be launched in the afternoon of May 24, 2016 at Robinsons Place, here.

“This is a milestone for our peace and development efforts, not just in Caraga Region, but in Mindanao and the whole country. Together let us traverse this journey. We have hundreds of miles still to go, but at least now we have set the direction, we have set the pace,” said DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion.

On the launching, the German Ambassador to the Philippines will grace the occasion as the German government through GIZ-COSERAM is one of the technical service providers in the crafting of the roadmap.

The completion of the Roadmap is realized through the concerted action of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 as the Secretariat, the City Government of Butuan as the chair, GIZ-COSERAM as technical service provider, the partner agencies and the CSOs’ support.

RPOC chair and Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. said that he hopes that the region will remain united as it will now embark on the next step of implementing the agreements on the roadmap and fulfilling our commitments to achieve sustainable peace and development in Caraga Region.

In the morning of the roadmap launching, an On-The-Spot Poster Making Contest will be conducted to be participated by various participants in the region. A photo display and exhibit will also be conducted at Robinsons Place from May 24-29, 2016. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Tuesday, May 24, 2016

May 25, 2016, 7:45 pm

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RDRRMC to hold RSC Desktop Evaluation of Gawad Kalasag entries

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga through its Regional Selection Committee (RSC) for Gawad KAlamidad at SAkuna, SAriling GAling ang KAligtasan (KALASAG) will be holding a three-day desktop evaluation of provincial entries on May 31 to June 2, 2016 at the Red Palm Suites and Restaurant, this city.

According to RDRRMC chair and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director Manuel Luis Ochotorena, during the three-day evaluation, the RDRRMC technical working group (TWG) will also discuss the program of activities for this year’s observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) on May 31, 2016.

Gawag KALASAG is the NDRRMC’s recognition scheme in its search for excellence on DRRM and humanitarian assistance. It is the mechanism in obtaining sustained commitment and support by recognizing exceptional contributions of DRRM practitioners in strengthening the resilience and adaptive capacities of nations and communities to disaster risks.(OCD/RDRRMC Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DENR Caraga to hold “Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan”

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) – In line with this year’s Environment Month celebration, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga will be holding the “Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan” (Offer a Walk for the Environment) on June 1, 2016, 5:00 a.m. from J.C Aquino Avenue and will end at the city’s Guingona Park.

According to DENR-Caraga regional director Nonito Tamayo, said celebration is pursuant to Proclamation No. 237 seires 1988 declaring the whole month of June as Environment Month.

“For this year, the theme focused on ‘Combat Biodiversity Loss, Beat Climate Change’ promoting public awareness on the importance of wildlife that needs protection and conservation as part of the country’s natural resources,” disclosed Tamayo.

Tamayo added that a short program will also be held at the Guingona Park, wherein each head of delegation will pledge a commitment for the environment based in this year’s theme. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

OTOP tindahang pinoy stores now open at Robinsons Place, Gaisano Mall

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) - The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) Caraga in partnership with Gifts, Decors and Housewares (GDH) Entrepreneurs Inc., and CREATE Food Inc. opened OTOP (One Town One Product) Tindahang Pinoy with two branches at Robinsons Place Butuan and Gaisano Mall.

OTOP Tindahang Pinoy store sells the best town favorites that are locally produced with global quality. These products are made in Butuan City and other towns in Caraga. Products sold ranges from local delicacies and specialty food to a variety of goods.

Undersecretary Nora K.Terrado, the keynote speaker during the launching said that Butuan OTOP Tindahang Pinoy stores have the distinction of being the first to have met the more stringent criteria to carry the OTOP brand. Thru its Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotions (BDTP) DTI will provide package of assistance in promoting the stores. “Your stores are now advertised with SMILE magazine of Cebu Pacific courtesy of DTI- BDTP,” she added.

DTI Caraga regional director Brielgo O. Pagaran said that with these two OTOP Tindahang Pinoy stores in the region, entrepreneurs will now have a strategic place to sell their products.

OTOP Tindahang Pinoy store is a good place for local and foreign tourists to shop and buy their “pasalubong / souvenirs.” Stores are open from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. at 2nd Floor Robinsons Place Butuan and at the Ground Floor Gaisano Mall this city.

The stores are managed by the GDH Entrepreneurs Inc., and the CREATE Food Inc. These two organizations led the region’s Industry Clusters on processed food and gift, decors and housewares (GDH). (DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DAR educates Butuan farmers on basic cooperative formation

By Gil Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has recently conducted a seminar on Basic Cooperative Course to 34 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who are members of farmers’ cooperatives and associations in Barangay Dulag, this city.

Agusan del Norte Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) Andre B. Atega said the activity was aimed to capacitate the farmers on the fundamentals of cooperative formation, identify the importance of legal underpinnings of a cooperative and discuss further the plans, programs and policies of the cooperative.

Atega said among the participants were members from the Manila De Bugabus Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MDBMPC), Dulag Organic Farmers (DOF), Dulag Dairy Cow Farmers Association (DDCFA), Dulag Women’s Association and Barangay Dulag Organic Farmers Association Inc (BDOFAI).

He added that the seminar was held through the effort made by the DAR-Agusan del Norte in partnership with Propegemus Foundation, Inc. (PFI) to educate and empower the farmers and strengthen their organizations.

BDOFAI Chairman Lorenzo Salar, Jr. said the training is very timely and useful to cooperative members and officers like them as it provides relevant information on how they can improve their cooperative operations.

“I was challenged to further enhance and develop our cooperative with the updates provided in the course. I am thankful to the facilitators for enlightening us in the various topics discussed which enables us to increase our knowledge on the basic of cooperative formation,“ Salar said.

DDCFA chairperson Germa Bagasbas also expressed their gratitude to the organizers for allowing them to attend the said training. (PIO-DAR-ADN/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Caraga Roadmap for Peace, matagumpay na inilunsad sa lungsod ng Butuan

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Mayo 24 (PIA) – Inilunsad sa lungsod ng Butuan ang kauna-unahang Regional Roadmap for Peace sa Caraga Region.

Pinangunahan ito ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Butuan, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) bilang secretariat ng Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), kasama ang GIZ-COSERAM na nagbigay ng technical assistance, at mga aktibong civil society organizations.

Ang nasabing roadmap for peace ay isang dokumento na magbibigay direksyon sa mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan sa pagganap ng kanilang mga tungkulin sa kampanya at pagpapatupad ng mga programang makakatulong sa pagkamit ng pangmatagalan na kaayusan at kapayapaan sa rehiyon.

Ayon kay DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion, ang regional roadmap for peace ay isa ring adbokasiya para sa mga peace actors na siya ring tutulong sa ibat-ibang sektor upang mapalaganap ang peace and development programs sa rehiyon.

Pinasalamatan din ni director Famacion ang lahat ng ahensiya at ibat-ibang sektor na nagbahagi ng kanilang kaalaman at suporta upang mabuo ang nilalaman ng roadmap for peace.

Samantala, hinikayat din ni German Ambassador to the Philippines Thomas Ossowski ang publiko na tumulong sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan at kapayapaan hindi lamang sa rehiyon ng caraga kundi sa buong isla ng mindanao. pinuri rin niya ang lahat ng law enforcement agencies na patuloy na sinisigurado ang kapakanan at kaligtasan ng lahat.

Dagdag pa ni Ambassador Ossowski na patuloy ang kanilang suporta at pagbibigay technical assistance sa regional peace and order council ng caraga region at sa iba pang mga inisyatibo ng pamahalaan na lubos na makakatulong din sa marginalized sector ng lipunan.

Kasabay sa paglulunsad sa Caraga roadmap for peace, isinagawa rin ng RPOC ang on-the-spot poster making contest na sinalihan ng mga studyante sa ibat ibang probinsya ng Caraga region. May photo exhibit rin na makikita sa loob ng Robinsons Mall mula May 24 hanggang 29, 2016, kung saan naka-highlight ang mga pagsisikap at inisyatibo ng ibat-ibang sektor upang mapalaganap ang kapayapaan sa rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Wednesday, May 25, 2016

May 25, 2016, 8:21 pm

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DTI Caraga facilitates 'Buy Caraga By Caraga' trade fair and exhibit

By Irene L. Macheca

BUTUAN CITY, May 25 (PIA) - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Caraga once again facilitated the conduct of “Buy Caraga By Caraga” at Robinsons Place Butuan on May 11-13, 2016 to showcase the region’s best products. “Caraga does it Best” is this year’s theme. Truly, Caraga’s local products have gone a long way.

Sales performance for three days hit P3.2 Million, a significant increase over last year’s performance of P1.2 Million. Most of the products that sells good were the processed food. At least 20 producers from the different parts of the region participated. “Balikbayans” on vacation were among the buyers. Irenea R. Hitgano of Hillsview Food Products said that summer is indeed the best time for the Buy Caraga By Caraga Trade Fair and Exhibit. She is happy with her sales and she can’t wait for the 2017 edition.

With this year’s good sales performance, DTI Caraga regional director Brielgo O. Pagaran vowed to double the Department’s efforts in product development. DTI Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado also committed to give more support for the development of Caraga’s products.

In partnership with Gifts, Decors and Housewares (GDH) Entrepreneurs Inc., and CREATE Food Inc., this regional trade fair and exhibit exclusive for Caraga will continue as an annual event in the region. (DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AFP, PNP gear up for “Brigada Eskwela” in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 25 (PIA)– Both army and police here have assured to be sending their respective contingents during the conduct of Brigada Eskwela to be spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd) on May 30 to June 4.

Capt. Regie Go, civil military operations (CMO) officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA) under Col. Isidro Purisima, said that an instruction in this regard had already been received from higher headquarters, adding that coordination with concerned officials of DepEd had likewise been made at their level.

The CMO officer pointed out that DepEd had likewise been requested to provide specifics in order for them to know how to go about their task, citing limited resources.

He particularly underscored the schedule of the kick-off ceremony apart from the “specific service” the army could render.

Capt. Go indicated that their partnership with DepEd in the annual conduct of Brigada Eskwela had started a long time, linking this to their Bayanihan Team Activity (BTA).

In a separate interview, P/Chief Insp. Noel Naranjo, Police Community Relations branch head at the Police Provincial Office (PPO) confirmed sending a message regarding “Operational Guidelines and Procedures” on “Ligtas Balik Eskwela” to all lower units.

He said that P/SSupt. Romaldo Bayting, acting PNP provincial director, had taken the cue of his action from the earlier memorandum coming from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13.

Compliance included the submission of the respective implementation plans (IMPLANS), it was stressed. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

BFP steps up inspection of classrooms, boarding houses, dormitories for school opening in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 25 (PIA) – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), this city, headed by F/Insp. Kenneth Van De los Reyes, has intensified efforts to inspect school buildings, boarding houses as well as dormitories to make sure that all are fire safety compliant.

Set to accomplish the mission in June, the city fire chief said that such fire safety inspection being conducted had been underway since kicking off early this month.

A memorandum to this effect had been issued to be carried out nationwide, SFO2 Rogelio Secarro, BFP provincial operations chief, said in a separate interview.

To make sure about compliance, an “after activity report” would be required to be submitted to their office headed by F/Insp. Rowella Dinolan, provincial fire marshall, he confirmed.

Meanwhile, F/Insp. De los Reyes remarked that “So far, only minor violations of the Fire Code were noted,” citing about compliance to requirements of fire extinguishers, exits, automatic fire sprinkler system and building permits.

Besides, the city fire chief wanted to seek cooperation of the Department of Education (DepEd) in his area of responsibility (AOR) to observe quarterly fire drill on a regular basis according to the existing rules and regulations.

On related developments, De los Reyes admitted seeing lack of fire hydrants especially in the business district considering that Tandag City had been continuously booming, saying that it had to be part of the “social responsibility” of any water distribution utility, which in this case, under Tandag Water District (TWD).

The city fire chief however quickly added being unsure whether funding for the purchase and installation of such fire hydrants had to be shared between the concerned local government unit (LGU) or to be shouldered alone by the servicing water distribution utility existing in the area. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DPWH implements 3B road maintenance along Daang Maharlika

BUTUAN CITY, May 25 (PIA) - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is all laid out to exploit more than P3 billion for five years or 1,800 calendar days for asset preservation and maintenance of the Daang Maharlika which stretches from Lipata, Surigao City in Surigao del Norte to Boundary Agusan del Norte Section in Caraga Region.

This project is dubbed as “Hybrid Long Term Performance Based Maintenance Contract (LTPBM), PBM-4 Maharlika Highway Surigao (Lipata) – Boundary Agusan del Norte Section (K1113+500 – K1237+000) Asset Preservation Contract – Preventive Maintenance (APC-PM) Component, JICA L/A No. PH-P247” which contract cost is P3,321,551,974.95 to be exact.

It started in October last year and expected to expire on September 2020.

A total of 123.5 kilometers is covered in this contract implemented under performance-based maintenance (PBM), which is a new concept of road asset preservation designed to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of road maintenance operations that ensures all physical conditions of the road, is adequate for the need of road users over the entire period of the contract, and compliant to required service levels.

According to DPWH Assistant Secretary Dimas S. Soguilon, who recently visited the region on February 2, 2016 to conduct ocular inspection on operations for the said project, “this concept is a type of contract that significantly expands the role of the contractor, from simple execution of works to the management and preservation of road assets.”

The project is currently implemented by DPWH-Unified Project Management Office (UPMO), but periodically submits report to DPWH-Regional Office 13. Also, a team is created by virtue of D.O. 76, series of 2016 to monitor and check compliance of the contractor to the levels of service under the maintenance portion of their contract which consists of Representatives from: the Maintenance Section of the District concerned, Maintenance Division of the Regional Office concerned, Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) RUPP, Road Cluster I, JRUPP Consultants; and Bureau of Maintenance.

UPMO Project Engr. Emigio L. De Leon discussed in details the background of the Hybrid LTPBM Contract during the Regional Coordination Conference held at Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

“The major item for this project is asphalt overlay which is equivalent to more than 67% of the total contract cost,” he said.

Program of works for the project includes rehabilitation and minor improvement to maintainable standards of existing pavement, shoulder reformation, cross-fall reinstatement, road safety related improvement, cross drainage improvement work and bridge structure maintenance work.

Performance based works are also included such as maintenance of the carriageway by preventive maintenance work using asphalt concrete overlay with 50 mm – 75 mm thickness, as well as roadside maintenance including drainage and vegetation.

He also informed that twin bridge known as Paypay Bridge in Brgy. Poblacion of Santiago, Agusan del Norte will be reconstructed into four lanes as included in the contract during the initial 18 months of contract period; but the design for the bridge was currently on the process of finalization.

As of April 2015, 2016, the project’s actual rate of accomplishment is at 28.0% and currently expended P933,488,207.52 for 187 calendar days that have elapsed.

This project became feasible from JICA Loan Agreement No. PH-P247 as the fund source. (DPWH/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Labi ng namayapang Agusan del Sur peace negotiator Josefina Bajade, inilibing na

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Mayo 25 (PIA) - Inihatid na sa huling hantungan ang labi ng pinatay na peace negotiator sa Agusan del Sur at retired Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO) na si Josefina Bajade noong myerkules sa San Lorenzo Ruiz Memorial Garden, San francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Maagang nagsidatingan sa Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish ang mga kaibigan, pamilya at supporters ni Josefina Bajade o nanay Nic-Nic kung tawagin ng mga nakakakilala sa kanya para sa kanyang necrology service. Nagbigay rin ng mga mensahe ang malalapit na kapamilya at kaibigan ni nanay Nic-Nic.

Ayon kay Ian Louie Bajade, anak ni Josefina Bajade, wala silang nakitang matinding dahilan o kasalanan ng kanilang ina laban sa New Peoples Army (NPA) kaya ito pinatay. “Wala kaming nakitang dahilan upang patayin nila (NPA) ang aming ina. Sa pagkakaalam namin, marami nang natulungan ang aming ina sa kanyang ilang taong paninilbihan sa gobyerno. Walang pinipiling tao ang aming ina, kung sino yung humihingi ng tulong niya, hindi siya nagdadalawang isip na tumulong,” sabi niya.

Dagdag pa niya, karumal-dumal ang ginawang pagpatay ng mga kasapi ng NPA sa kanyang anim-naput apat na taong gulang na ina na may karamdaman.

Nananawagan din siya na tulongan ang kanyang pamilya na makamit ang hustisya para sa kanyang ina na naging aktibo noon sa kanyang pagiging peace negotiator sa probinsya.

Samantala, nagpahayag din ng kanilang sentimiyento at pagdadalamhati ang ilang mga leaders ng indigenous peoples sa pagkamatay ni Josefina Bajade. Hangad anya nila na mapanagot at makulong ang mga responsable sa pagpatay kay nanay Nic-Nic at pinaaalahanan ang publiko na lalong maging maingat sa kanilang komunidad at iwasang maimpluwensyahan ng mga karumal-dumal na gawain ng mga NPA. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Thursday, May 26, 2016

May 26, 2016, 5:56 pm

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DENR Caraga to hold Youth Forum on Biodiversity & Protected Area Management

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 26 (PIA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga, in partnership with the National Youth Commission (NYC) and Regional Youth Advisory Council (RYAC) will be holding the one-day Youth Forum on Biodiversity and Protected Area Management on June 7, 2016 at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.

DENR Caraga regional director Nonito Tamayo bared that several youth organizations in the region are invited for this event.

NYC Northeastern Mindanao cluster head Evanesa Pasamba also encourages the RYAC member agencies to attend and support the said forum and be able to cascade the significant information from the forum to their respective agencies.

“The activity will be a very good venue for the council to enhance further their consciousness towards the conservation of the environment and natural resources and be able to strengthen the significant role of the youth as stakeholders in the promotion of the Protected Area Management Biodiversity Conservation geared towards environmental sustainability,” says Pasamba.

The DENR has been an active partner and member of RYAC Caraga.

For more information on the said activity, the DENR Caraga can be reached at telephone number: (085) 342-7856.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd Caraga chooses SurSur as launch pad for Brigada Eskwela 2016

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 26 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Office in Caraga has chosen this province as its launch pad for the Brigada Eskwela 2016 on May 30.

Set to take place at St. Christine National High School in Lianga town with the kick off ceremony at 8:00 a.m., Alex Mistula, DepEd Division Office Brigada Eskwela Coordinator here, indicated that the said public school got what it takes to host such a regional event being one of the schools to implement senior high school.

“As per Memorandum DepEd Order No. 35 po, Brigada Eskwela 2016, isa po sa mga requirements na pagdadaosan po ng kick off ceremony. . . is isang school implementing senior high school,” he explained in a mix of Filipino and English.

Earlier, Mistula assured in an exclusive interview that the DepEd Division Office in the province under Dr. Marilou Dedumo, schools division superintendent, together with the host school, would be all set for the big day.

“Kaya nga po pusposan na ang paghahanda ng host school, particularly po ‘yung school head natin, si Dominador Verano at saka ang Division Office,” he pointed out.

Also, Governor Johnny Pimentel included, all stakeholders were already notified and invited to take part as well during the ceremony to be spearheaded by no less than DepEd Caraga Regional Director Dr. May Eclar, it was learned.

Among the stakeholders that the Brigada Eskwela coordinator mentioned in particular were the army and police, saying however that their respective contingents had to come in “working clothes.”

Mindful that the upcoming week-long “May 30 to June 4, 2016” activity was getting closer, Mistula took the opportunity to call the attention of all concerned stakeholders and communities “to participate and contribute their time, effort and resources” in what was “also known as the National Schools Maintenance Week.”

With the theme “Tayo Para sa Paaralang Ligtas, Maayos at Handa Mula Kindergarten Hanggang Seniour High School,” the event coordinator himself expressed hope that Brigada Eskwela 2016 would be a success. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

FMR benefits coco planters in AgNor town

BUTUAN CITY, May 26 (PIA) - A newly paved Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) in Brgy Poblacion, Carmen, Agusan del Norte constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Agusan del Norte District Engineering Office is now benefiting coconut planters; easing the transport of the crop and rendering additional income.

“Through the Kabayawa-Pintolocan FMR, coconut planters will be more encouraged to increase their production since they can already transport their products easily to any points of Agusan del Norte and even to other neighboring provinces,” said District Engineer Nicolas O. Alameda.

The improvements, consisting of road concreting with shoulders and line canal for the total length of 1.414 kilometers has an allocation of P15 million under the convergence with the Department of Agriculture 13.

It was completed on December 14, 2015, then recently, on May 5 this year it was turned-over to the local government of Carmen.

“The provision of FMR in this area is key to improve the economy of the province,” according to Municipal Mayor Ramon Calo, who expressed gratitude during the ceremonial turn-over of the newly-paved road.

“Although Carmen is the mango capital of Agusan del Norte, the municipality also contributes 6,936.77 metric ton to the 75,184.34 metric ton of coconut produced by the province,” he added.

Coconut is one of the major agricultural crops largely produced in the province, along with mango, rice, corn, banana and abaca. (DPWH/PIA-Caraga)

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Friday, May 27, 2016

May 29, 2016, 6:32 pm

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TESDA-Caraga undergoes IQA

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) – In preparation for the re-certification audit on August this year, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Caraga is currently undergoing the Internal Quality Audit (IQA).

According to Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico Jr., the conduct of the audit is for all the Operating Units personnel to be aware of how far the system is being implemented in their respective areas of responsibility.

Sunico added this is to ensure that all personnel have followed the procedures that TESDA as an organization has set. “Being an ISO-certified organization, everybody must be one in performing the mandates of the agency,” Sunico said.

Also, Liza B. Budtan, Regional Operations Division Chief said that in case there are procedures in the system that are not followed correctly, “at least, concerned process owners or personnel are being corrected so that the same will not occur, thus avoiding non-conformity.”

Earlier this year, the audit was conducted in different Provincial Offices as well as in the Provincial Training Centers. On May 30-31, 2016, the Regional Office is scheduled to be audited.

On October 23, 2014 the Provincial Office of Agusan del Norte was the subject for audit where the Regional Office was awarded by TUV SUD Philippines as an ISO 9001:2008 Certified. On October 7, 2015, it was the Regional Office that was being subject for the Surveillance Audit and passed. On August, 2016, the audit is expected to be conducted in other TESDA Provincial Offices in the region.

During the awarding ceremony on April 13, 2015 at Malacañang Palace, former TESDA Secretary and now Senator-elect Emmanuel Joel Villanueva received the certification together with Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and other TESDA officials in the presence of President Benigno S. Aquino III, making all regional offices and 81 provincial offices internationally-certified. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Sunday, May 29, 2016

May 29, 2016, 6:35 pm

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Rice yield drops anew in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 29 (PIA) – A streak of undesirable condition has continued to harm the rice industry in the province, despite the mitigating measures that had been put in place to blunt the impact of the dry spell as well as other plagues, according to Marcos Quico, chief of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg).

Citing the adverse effect of mild El Niño followed by the infestation of “Brown Plant Hopper, Stem Borer, Rice Blasts and Rodents,” harvest had been all the more kept down, he noted.

On the “RICE INDUSTRY SITUATION” status report as of April 30, 2016, OPAg had posted a shortfall of 0.60 metric tons per hectare in just three top performing municipalities, specifically, Madrid, Carmen, and Cantilan.

Province-wide, in all three ecosystems—irrigated, rainfed, and upland—production had been badly hit as harvest was only averaging 3.15 metric tons/hectare. In 2015, farmers in Madrid town had hit an average production of 4.83 metric tons/hectare; but during the first cropping this year, yield had gone down to as low as 2.16 metric tons/hectare, based on reports released by the same office.

Also, this year, in areas serviced by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the target to be planted with rice was placed at 12,760 hectares, but only 12,603.79 hectares were able to be accomplished—a difference of 156.21 hectares.

The above figure was apart from the rainfed and upland areas of 1,125.61 hectares combined that were missed to be planted.

In January, this year, Quico said that in 2014, a total of 33,701 hectares were reported to have been planted as compared to only 31,059 hectares in 2015.

Worse, during the first cropping this year, only a total of 23,772.39 hectares were reported to have been planted in spite of the 24,898 hectares being targeted, it was learned. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Monday, May 30, 2016

May 30, 2016, 11:18 pm

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ICRC set to conduct media orientation on international humanitarian law

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is set to hold a media briefing on ICRC activities in the Philippines and will orient participants on the basic principles of the international humanitarian law (IHL) on Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at the Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

According to ICRC Butuan head of office Olav Sinsuat, the media briefing is a follow-up to the one-day workshop held in October 2012 for jouralists in Caraga region.

“With this event, we aim to bring together Butuan-based journalists to update them with ICRC’s significant undertakings; enhance their awareness on IHL, its applicability and basic principles, who it protects globally, and how it protects journalists specifically; and encourage ethical reportage of humanitarian issues,” emphasized Sinsuat. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

BSP Butuan briefs stakeholders on NGC

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) conducted on Thursday the in-house seminar entitled "Know Your Money" at the BSP Multi-Purpose Hall, this city.

BSP Butuan City branch Jovito Mainit said their focus at this time is on the New Generation Currency (NGC), the currency banknotes in circulation.

“The in-house seminar entitled 'Know Your Money' is aimed to educate the public in the design, characteristics, and distinct features of the NGC and also disseminate the information on the demonization schedule of the old banknotes, the New Design Series (NDS),” Mainit disclosed.

Also, during the said seminar, Rose Zarate, Research Analyst II of BSP-Butuan reiterated that to carry out its mandate, the BSP focuses on these three Pillars of Strength: 1) Price Stability that entails keeping inflation low and stable to promote economic efficiency and improve the well-being of Filipinos; 2) Financial Stability wherein BSP seeks to maintain the health of the banking system so that it can effectively intermediate between providers and users of funds; and 3) Payments and Settlement System which helps ensure the safe, timely, and accurate payment and settlement of financial transactions.

Zarate further reiterated that the banknotes, denominated in P20, P50, P100, P200, P500 and P1000, contain upgraded security features, as well as fresh and old design elements.

“Familiarize yourself with the design, characteristics and distinct features of the banknotes. Remember the following: feel the paper, examine the watermark, inspect the security fiber, view the windowed security thread and the embedded security thread, check the concealed value, optically variable ink and serial number, and recognize the portrait and color,” elaborated Zarate.

Zarate also reminded the general public on the pertinent laws and regulations to protect and maintain the integrity of the currency.

BSP is committed to promote and maintain price stability and provide proactive leadership in bringing about a strong financial system conducive to a balanced and sustainable growth of the economy. It shall conduct sound monetary policy and effective supervision over financial institutions under its jurisdiction. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Peace consultant in AgSur peacefully buried

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 30 (PIA) - Family and friends of the late Josefina Bajade, a peace consultant and retired provincial social welfare and development officer (PSWDO) who was killed recently by the New People’s Army (NPAs) were gathered at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur to attend her final interment and burial.

Governor Santiago Cane delivered his message in a eulogy expressing that no words of comfort would describe the sorrow felt by the bereaved family whose dearly departed died violently in pursuit of peace. He recollected the interventions of the late Josefina Bajade or Nic-Nic as a full-blooded social worker and as a peace process negotiator.

Cane further underscored that Nic-Nic is an epitome of a woman with courage who steadfastly stood amidst life threatening situations for fighting to bringforth lefties in the folds of the government. Also, all other co-workers and direct family members have enunciated late Josefina's utmost extent of boldness to take, even in struggle and risking life, in order to advance negotiated peace. For the hundreds of people who attended her funeral, they considered her brutal death as a huge loss of the province.

While the necrological mass was ongoing at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, supporters and friends of the late Josefina Bajade also brought with them placards with statements against the NPAs and praying for justice be served to her.

After the mass, an indignation rally was held going to San Lorenzo Ruiz Memorial Garden where she was buried. (JPG/VLG, PIA-Caraga)

PNP 13 nabs over 406 individuals linked to illegal drugs

By PO2 Ryan C. Cagula

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - The Philippine National Police (PNP) 13 had intensified its operations against illegal drugs making a total of 406 persons arrested from January 1 - May 29, 2016.

Based on the record, the PNP seized a total of 1,398.27 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” and 17.90 grams of marijuana which the Dangerous Drug Board valued at P16.3 million.

They have also conducted a total of 280 operations mostly buy-bust, checkpoints, implementation of search warrants, and saturation drives.

“The days of drug pushers/users are already numbered as our troops will stage more police operations to bring them behind bars,” said PNP-13 regional director P/CSupt. Rolando B. Felix.

Included in the arrested persons were three PNP personnel: SPO2 Elmer L. Dela Torre, PO1 Edgaro M. Aquino, and SPO1 Eleonor N. Osico.

Felix warned that erring PNP personnel caught in illegal drugs activities will be dismissed from the service.

The region’s top cop also urged the community to strengthen its cooperation with the PNP to sustain these substantial gains against illegal drugs. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

DavNor solon vows to help Siargao Island to be the country's top tourist destination

By John Glenn Platil

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, May 30 (PIA) - Davao del Norte first district representative Pantaleon "Bebot" Alvarez has vowed to support the development of Siargao Island to be one of the country's top tourist destinations.

In his recent visit to the island along with Philippine Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) president Atty. Fred Lim, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Usec. Ernesto Adobo, Jr., Alvarez said he fully supports Governor Sol Matugas and incoming Congressman Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas of the first district to develop Siargao as a universally-acclaimed leading tourism destination.

“I am always here in Siargao because I own a beach resort in General Luna since 1996. I really admire the warm hospitality and kindness of the people that is why this paradise is home to me, my family and President Duterte’s family,” said Alvarez.

He also praised Siargaonons for their good manners, principled values and absolute sincerity.

Alvarez is President-elect Rodrigo Duterte's bet for the speakership of the 17th Congress.

On May 28, Alvarez and Usec. Adobo also toured Sohoton Cove in Socorro town. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PNP 13 joins Flag Day celebration

By SPO1 Zena Menioria Panaligan

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - The Philippine National Police (PNP) 13 joined the entire nation in a simple but significant celebration of the National Flag Day during the ceremonial activity on Saturday, May 28 here.

The celebration is in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 374 declaring May 28 of every year to commemorate the first time the national flag was hoisted in Imus, Cavite after Filipino fighters defeated the Spanish forces in the battle of Alapan.

PNP 13 regional director P/CSupt Rolando B. Felix led the raising of the national flag.

In his message, he called on the officers and men of PNP Caraga to keep in mind their significant role in safeguarding the democratic ideals and in upholding the role of law.

The flag will remain on display from May 28 to June 12 signifying the country’s 118th Independence Day. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: IP groups sa Agusan del Sur kinondena ang mga rebeldeng NPA sa karumal-dumal na pagpatay sa mga inosenteng sibilyan

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Mayo 30 (PIA) –Mariing kinondena ng mga indigenous peoples (IPs) sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur ang mga miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) na pumapatay umano ng mga inosenteng sibilyan, lalung-lalo na ang pagpatay sa kinikilalang peace negotiator na si Josefina Bajade ng nasabing probinsya.

Ayon kay Datu Batan-on II, pinuno ng San Francisco Tribal Leaders Cultural Association Incorporated, nanghihinayang anya siya at nang kanyang mga kasamahang IP leaders sa pagkamatay ni Josefina Bajade o Nanay Nic-Nic na walang-awang pinatay at nilinlang ng mga kasapi ng mga rebeldeng NPAs kamakailan lang sa Compostella Valley

Anya, isang ina ng mga lumad ang turing nila kay Nanay Nic-Nic na naging tapat sa tungkulin sa ilang taong panenerbisyo nito. Inaakyat umano ni Nanay Nic-Nic ang bundok para lang matugonan ang kinakailangang tulong ng mga lumad at naging mabuting facilitator sa mga miyembro ng NPA na gustong sumuko at magbagong-buhay at matulongang makapag-aral ang kanilang mga anak.

“Hindi napo kami makakahanap ng kagaya ni Nanay Nic-Nic na magaling talaga sa kanyang trabaho. Para na siyang ina sa aming mga lumad pati na rin sa mga beneficiaries ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program o 4Ps,” mungkahi ni Datu Batan-on.

Napag-alaman din na magpupulong-pulong ang lahat ng mga IP leaders sa probinsya at paplanuhin kung ano pa ang maaari nilang gawin o ibahagi sa pamilya ni Nanay Nic-Nic upang makamit ang hustisyang nararapat sa kanya.

Ayon naman sa dating miyembro ng NPA na si Julieto Canoy alyas Ka Boom na ang pagkamatay ni Josefina Bajade ay talagang kagagawan ng mga rebeldeng grupo na sila ring salarin sa pagkamatay ni Loreto, Agusan del Sur mayor Dario Otaza ilang buwan palang ang nakakalipas.

Pinaaalalahanan din ni Ka Boom ang lahat, lalung-lalo na ang mga miyembro ng media na iwasang magbigay suporta sa rebeldeng grupo sa anumang paraan dahil umano may dala itong pahamak sa kanilang buhay at kapamilya sa panahong matigil ang kanilang pagbigay ng suporta at kapag wala na silang silbi para sa mga NPAs. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Tuesday, May 31, 2016

May 31, 2016, 7:44 pm

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Corn output in AgNor up in Q1

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 31 (PIA) – The corn production in the province of Agusan del Norte has increased in the first quarter of 2016, said PSA chief.

Reynelo S. Magno, officer-in-charge of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Agusan del Norte, said the province has increased by 1.1 percent in its corn production for the first quarter of 2016 with an estimated 577 metric tons (MT) higher than the January 2016 standing crop forecasts of 571 MT.

“Harvest area based on standing crop forecasts were all realized since there were no damages in area being monitored,” said Magno.

Magno also said that the increment in production was attributed to the increase in yield. “Yield grew by 1.1 percent from 2.55 MT per hectare in 2015 to 2.58 per hectare in 2016," Magno added.

Magno further said that compared to last year’s level, the total corn production registered an increase of 135.6 percent from 245 MT to 577 MT. The increase in production was attributed to the increase in area and yield. "Harvest area has expanded by 89.8 percent from 118 hectares in 2015 to 224 hectares this year,” he said.

More farmers were encouraged to plant white corn for consumption and due to availability of seeds from the Department of Agriculture-Local Government Unit (DA-LGU), it was learned.

Magno likewise said that more plantings of yellow corn were observed due to higher demand resulting from good price and yield per hectare increased from 2.08 MT in 2015 to 2.58 MT this year, or by 24.1 percent owing to more usage of high quality seeds.

Also, corn production forecast for the second quarter of 2016 may reach 7,232 MT, 64.7 percent above the last quarter’s forecast of 4,391 MT and the increase in production forecast was attributed to the increase in area and yield. Corn area was forecasted at 2,119 hectares from 1,965 hectares based on planting intentions, Magno said. (PSA-Agusan del Norte/NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)

OWWA Caraga to celebrate 2016 Migrant Workers Day

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, May 31 (PIA) - As tribute to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga is set to celebrate the 2016 Migrant Workers Day or ‘Araw ng Pasasalamat’ on June 11 at the Municipal Gymnasium, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

With this year’s theme, “Salamat OFW, Saludo Kami sa Inyo,” the agency has laid down fun-filled activities such as parlor games, raffle draws and surprises to promote camaraderie and give importance to spending quality time and togetherness amongst OFW families.

OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel Madrid extends his invitation to all Caraganon OFWs (vacationing and returnees) including their families, especially those from nearby towns of Agusan del Sur, to participate in this celebration dedicated for them.

More than 600 active and inactive OFWs, their beneficiaries and families are expected to gather from all over the region to join in this celebration of merriment and thanksgiving.

One of the highlights in the event is the conduct of the Regional Stakeholders’ Forum, a convention of the Provincial Federation of OFW Family Circles with other stakeholders in the region, geared towards the enhancement of OWWA’s programs and services by engaging the OFW Family Circles and their families in addressing their pressing concerns particularly on overseas employment.

Interested members are encouraged to pre-register at the nearest Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or make contact with OWWA Regional Welfare Office-13 with telephone numbers (085) 342-6178/815-1894 and mobile numbers 09399259895/09173150590. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PNP AgSur joins Brigada Eskwela 2016

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Norte, May 31 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) in this province has joined this year’s conduct of Brigada Eskwela with the theme: "Tayo Para sa Paaralang Ligtas, Maayos at Handa Mula Kindergarten Hanggang Senior High School."

The PNP is committed to support said activity to strengthen the partnership between teachers, parents and pupils in promoting healthy and secure premises in relation to the opening of classes this school year 2016-2017.

In the municipality of San Francisco, the Municipal Police Station provided road security during the conduct of a motorcade and attended Brigada Eskwela's kick-off ceremony held at Teodoro B. Ong Yiu Memorial School in Barangay Hubang.

In Sibagat, the PNP has also provided security measures to all the participating individuals at Sibagat National High School of Home Industries and Sibagat Central Elementary School.

Meanwhile, the PNP personnel in Rosario provided road security assistance together with the force multipliers during the caravan and kick-off ceremony of Brigada Eskwela 2016 at Datu Lipus National High School and Wasian Elementary School. Said activity was followed by a short program spearheaded by the school principal and was attended by the different Bayanihan Volunteers from private sector, national agencies, local government unit, parents, teachers and students.

Also, in Bayugan City, the PNP provided same support to all the participating groups during said activity held at Noli National High School. (With a report from PNP-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DOLE awards livelihood grant to Surigao dockworkers labor union

By Xriel Bravo & Olga Virginia A. Demata

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 31 (PIA) - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has recently awarded the Surigao Dockworkers Labor Union (SDLU) a livelihood grant under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) as a jumpstart to their existing rice retailing project.

The grant includes 400 sacks of rice and two weighing scales with plastic cellophanes. The said livelihood grant gives priority assistance to the employees’ union with programs engaged in livelihood activities that need capitalization to spur their economic initiatives.

“This livelihood assistance will not only earn income for the union but will also serve as assistance to the beneficiaries by way of promoting their rice requirements through credit schemes,” said union president Arcisco Artiquio Jr. (DOLE-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Army troopers conduct Bayanihan Job Fair in AgSur

By Rizza Marie S. Obedoza & Olga Virginia A. Demata

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, May 31 (PIA) - The 401st Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army under the supervision of Col. Alexander Macario sponsored the recently concluded Bayanihan Job Fair in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga and Agusan del Sur Field Office, and Philippine Employment Service Office (PESO) Provincial Office held at Gaisano Mall, San Francisco Branch, this province.

This is in celebration of the 119th Philippine Army Anniversary with the theme “Asenso sa Katawhan,” giving the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) the opportunity to showcase their recruitment processes.

Out of the 57 qualified applicants, nine were hired on the Spot (HOTS) and 10 were pre-qualified for further screening for the 401st Infantry Brigade Philippine Army. A total of 1,868 local job vacancies were opened during the said fair.

Private companies that participated in the said Job Fair were Sweetsation, Inc., Gaisano Grand Mall, Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation, Inc., Philsaga Mining Corp., Taytay sa Kauswagan Microfinance Corp., Timberland Security Agency, Rose Bakeshop, and E-Performax. Also, the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur joined with 95 job vacancies offered. (DOLE-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Wednesday, June 1, 2016

June 2, 2016, 5:42 pm

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Govt employees, private individuals hold walk to protect environment

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, June 1 (PIA)– In line with this year’s Environment Month celebration, government employees and private individuals on Wednesday took out a walk dubbed ‘Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan’ (Offer a Walk for the Environment) to increase public awareness on environmental protection.

The walk began from the four strategic points in the barangays of Libertad, Baan Kilometer-3, Pangabugan, and Bading this city and ended at the Guingona Park, where the short program was held.

DENR Sec. Ramon J.P Paje said that with this year's theme 'Combat Biodiversity Loss, Beat Climate Change,' the fight against illegal wildlife trade must continue, noting that the extinction of species is irreversible and losses are permanent.‪

Also, DENR Caraga regional director Nonito Tamayo bared that the theme is focused on promoting public awareness on the importance of wildlife that needs protection and conservation as part of the country’s natural resources.

As the country's timber capital, director Tamayo asked the public to help expand the region's forest area by planting trees to help protect and preserve the biodiversity.

“There is a need to expand the Caraga region's forest cover. And with the advent of new technology, the country is continuously developing, however there is also a need to indulge in renewable energy to protect the environment,” underlined Tamayo.

Tamayo also announced that various significant activities for the whole month of June will be conducted by the department together with other partner stakeholders. Slogan and poster making contest is one of the activities that will also be participated by the students from different schools in the region. ‪

Right after the conduct of 'Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan,' each head of delegation also signed in the pledge of commitment tarp based on this year’s theme.

Meanwhile, it was also learned that the World Environment Day is celebrated every 5th of June, to raise global awareness to take positive environmental action to protect nature and the planet earth. This celebration aims to inspire people to take action to prevent the growing strain on planet Earth from reaching its breaking point.

The Environment Month celebration is pursuant to Proclamation No. 237 series of 1988. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Be ready for La Niña - DOH

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 1 (PIA)– The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region urges the public to be ready for the La Niña phenomenon.

In an advisory issued by DOH Caraga, regional director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. advises the public to be ready on the coming of La Niña because exposure to this phenomenon may cause ill effects to health.

According to director Llacuna, exposure may cause to diseases related to contaminated water due to flooding like acute gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, cholera and Hepatitis A; diseases related to contaminated water due to urine of infected animals like leptospirosis; vector borne diseases such as dengue and malaria; and accidents and injuries such as contusion, laceration, fracture and electrocution.

In order to prevent from the contamination of the above-mentioned diseases, director Llacuna advises the public to follow preventive measures like boiling the drinking water (or any water to be used for food preparation and drinking) and may extend to 2 minutes when reaching boiling point; doing hand washing before preparing food and after using the toilet; avoiding wading in floodwater; wearing of rubber boots if necessary; and destroying all possible mosquito breeding sites (e.g. old tires, tin cans).

Also, in case of flood, Llacuna also suggests to stay indoors during heavy rains; avoid wading and taking baths in floodwater; listen to advisories, turn on TV and radios for updates; go to higher grounds, avoid crossing low-lying areas during evacuation; and if water rises to your homes before evacuation, go to the top floor, attic or roof.

La Niña Phenomenon is the increased number of tropical storms in the Pacific Ocean.

For more information and health emergency response for La Niña phenomenon, contact DOH regional office XIII at hotline no: (085) 3425724. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur ARB group receives bamboo slats production facilities

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, June 1 (PIA) – A group of agrarian reform beneficiaries who are into bamboo growing and nursery operation received recently tools and equipment for its shared service facility (SSF) on bamboo slates production.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur has formally turned-over the package worth P436, 750.00 to Ago Magsaysay Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries MPC Multipurpose Cooperative (AMARBEMCO) based in Ago Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

The bamboo slats production SSF will assist 30 enterprising bamboo growers and is seen to generate at least 60 jobs for its whole operation.

AMARBEMCO was identified and selected as an eligible cooperator because of its vast potential contribution for the bamboo industry in the province. The group has already planted 500 hills of bamboo. It has also at present 5,000 planting materials at its nursery aged two weeks to one month old.

“We are all fired up to work harder with the facilities entrusted to us by DTI,” said Bebylyn V\B. Villarta, President of AMARBEMCO. She said the coop members who are also into cacao growing are very excited to take on this added project. Aside from growing the bamboo for the slats production, they also discovered that their area also is home to several species of ornamental bamboo which they can also propagate and market.

The SSF provided include one unit pole cutter, one unit twin rip saw, four stainless steel treatment vats, five units manual splitter (ten cuts), five units manual splitter (eight cuts) and 10 units standing drum improvised dryers.

DTI-Agusan del Sur OIC PD Brenda Corvera challenged the group to make full use of the facilities to improve their lot. She also told the group that the future of the bamboo industry is very good. She discussed the two new proposed bills of Sen. Bam Aquino which seeks to strengthen the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Council and the provision of implementation support for the development plan of the industry.

This particular SSF project is planned to feed into the engineered bamboo furniture project of another group which is also an SSF cooperator in the province. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

OWWA Caraga holds OFCs provl consultation

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) - In observance of the week-long celebration of the 2016 Migrant Workers Day on June 4-12, 2016, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga is set to hold a series of provincial consultations to all the OFW Family Circles (OFCs) in Caraga Region.

The activity is purposely organized to encourage the active participation of OFWs and their families in creating a productive pace towards the enhancement of the agency’s programs and services as well as engage the OFCs in addressing their pressing concerns particularly on overseas employment/ migration cycles.

Highlights of the said consultation shall include the presentation of the accomplishments and the government’s response to request of our OFCs to the previous administration encapsulated in the 2011 Manifesto of OFCs and their families.

The consultation also endeavors the crafting of the OFCs’ resolution/agenda based on the consolidated issues and concerns on overseas migration and eventually propose programs and services and policy recommendations or enhancements, among others.

The inputs gathered from the series of consultations shall be addressed to the incoming administration through the “Ulat Mula sa OFW at Kanilang Pamilya.”

In Caraga region, the activity kicked off in the province of Agusan del Norte on May 13, 2015 at the Training Hall of the OWWA Regional Office. A total of 28 OFWs and dependents from six OFW Family Circles from Agusan del Norte participated in the first leg of the series.

The consultation for the province of Surigao del Norte was set on May 20, 2016, Friday, at the premises of 107.3 All Star FM ng Masa, Jovita Residence, Brgy. San Juan, Surigao City attended by some 33 members of various OFCs in the said province. A total of 38 attendees participated in the same consultation for the province of Dinagat Islands on May 24 and 40 in the province of Surigao del Sur on May 27.

The province of Agusan del Sur will conclude the series for their scheduled consultation on June 2, 2016 at the Municipality of San Francisco. Said municipality shall also host the 2016 Migrant Workers Day which will convene the Provincial Federation Members to come up with the Regional Manifesto for Caraga. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: Displaced worker turned DOLE staff thru SEnA

By Olga Virginia A. Demata

Rowena E. Arañez, a displaced worker in the province of Dinagat Islands, proves the effectiveness of the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), as she got back from the mainstream of the society.

Arañez was previously employed at Water Ups Multi-Purpose Cooperative as the Human Resource-Admin Services Manager together with her husband Johnbert Arañez, a Sales and Marketing Manager, and they both experienced the dilemma of losing a job.

With the change of the cooperative’s administration and some net loss, they got separated from work on January 16, 2016.

After which they decided to create an organization with the other displaced employees from Water Ups MPC and some farmers.

On February 25, 2016, they both filed a Request for Assistance to DOLE- PDI Satellite Office, and as a result, the displaced workers signed a quitclaim together with the employer on March 13, 2016 with an amount equivalent to their 13th month pay.

Then, on March 17, 2016, the first ever displaced workers association was created which they called “Integrated Displaced Workers-Farmers Association.”

In order to sustain the vital needs of their families, the organization will provide employment for their displaced members through livelihood programs.

They opted to tap to different government agencies that could provide these livelihood assistance to them, apart from the organization created, an opportunity opened for Arañez to land a job as DOLE support staff in the PDI-Satellite Office on April 1, 2016.

“I am grateful for this job opportunity from DOLE. SEnA program paved the way for me to land to this new job as a public servant and I really treasure my work now,” said Arañez. (DOLE-Caraga/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DPWH admits delay in classrooms construction for Senior High in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 1 (PIA)– Both district offices of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Surigao del Sur have admitted that construction of most classrooms intended for senior high school students here will not be completed in time for the school opening on June 13.

Engrs. Ruel Bantugan and Eulogio Milla, respective DPWH chiefs in the two congressional districts in the province aired the same cause as to their predicament—delayed fund release for the “soil exploration and testing.”

They said in separate interviews that most of the areas where the two-storey school buildings were being built needed the necessary “micro piling” to ensure quality construction.

However, both district engineers assured that school buildings funded by the Department of Education (DepEd) would be completed in July or August.

Aware of the unfavorable situation, Dr. Marilou Dedumo, schools division superintendent, said that “contingency plans” were already put in place in order not to disrupt classes of all “senior high” enrollees for the school year.

While awaiting completion of the school buildings, the DepEd provincial chief cited the temporary use of non-instructional rooms like libraries, faculty rooms, and other structures inside the school premises.(Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Tagalog News: ‘Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan’ isinagawa sa Butuan City

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Hunyo 1 (PIA) - Isinagawa noong Miyerkules ang ‘Alay Lakad Para sa Kalikasan’ (Offer a Walk for the Environment) dito sa lungsod kasabay ng pagbubukas sa selebrasyon ng Environment Month ngayong buwan ng Hunyo.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga, nagtipon-tipon ang ibat-ibang sektor at mga ahensya ng pamahalaan alas singko ng umaga nitong miyerkules para sa isang lakad para sa kalikasan. Apat na barangay ang naging highlight sa isinagawang alay lakad kabilang na ang Libertad, Baan Kilometer 3, Pangabugan at Bading.

Ayon kay DENR Caraga regional director Nonito Tamayo, ang buwan ng Hunyo ay idineklarang Environment Month base sa Proclamation number 237 series 1988. Layon ng nasabing selebrasyon na manawagan sa publiko na makiisa sa mga gawaing pangkalikasan.

Anya, nararapat lamang na patuloy ang mga inisyatibo ng pamahalaan kasama ang ibat-ibang sektor ng lipunan sa pagtugon, pagproteksyon at pag-alaga sa kalikasan na syang pangunahing pinagkukunang yaman ng mga tao maging ng mga hayop.

“Patuloy lang po tayo sa ating adbokasiya at kampanya na mas maalagaan pa natin ang ating kapaligiran at kalikasan. Marami pa po tayong kailangang gawin kaya magsama-sama po tayo, magkaisa sa isang layuning ito,” mungkahi ni direktor Tamayo.

Dagdag pa ni direktor Tamayo na ang isinagawang alay lakad ay isa lamang sa napakaraming paraan kung paano mapaigting pa lalo ang kampanya laban sa ilegal logging at iba pang mga gawaing nakakasira sa kalikasan. kinakailangan mapreserba umano ang biodiversity sa rehiyon.

Inanyayahan din ni direktor Tamayo ang lahat na magtanim ng mga puno na nagbibgay nang malaking kontribusyon upang maiwasan ang pagbaha at iba pang kalamidad na dulot ng climate change. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Thursday, June 2, 2016

June 2, 2016, 5:52 pm

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RCWC gears campaign on “One Million Lapis” Project

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, June 2 (PIA) – In time with the opening of classes for school year 2016-2017 and in preparation for the National Children’s Month celebration in November, the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) has embarked and geared its advocacy project entitled “One Million Lapis” for the underprivileged students in elementary schools of 4th to 6th class municipalities.

The One Million Lapis campaign aims to collect One Million pencils to be given to the aforementioned students, and at the same time set a Guinness Book of World Record for the longest line of pencils.

In line with this advocacy, all government agencies are enjoined to participate in this event by providing a drop box for the One Million Lapis Project, where interested individuals can place their pencil donations. The Lapis drop-boxes will be collected every two months if already filled-up.

Campaign runs from April until October 2016. Final counting and official declaration of Lapis generated will be on November 5, 2016 as a kick-off activity of the 2016 National Children’s Month celebration, official turn-over of Lapis generated will be given to the Department of Education (DepEd) on November 20, 2016 as a culminating activity.

Also, upon end of the Project Campaign, all Lapis drop-boxes will be returned to CWC for use in subsequent activity.

The CWC is a focal government inter-agency body mandated to formulate polices and plans, monitor the implementation and enforcement of laws to protect and promote children’s rights by virtue of Presidential Decree 603, otherwise known as the Child and Youth Welfare Code. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOLE Caraga conducts government internship program, labor laws compliance orientation

BUTUAN CITY, June 2 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga conducted an orientation on Government Internship Program (GIP) Payroll System and Labor Laws Compliance System (LLCS) for field office focal and staff on May 26-27, 2016 at Big Daddy’s Convention Hall, this city, with the aim to empower the people to work hard for poverty reduction in Caraga region.

Eighteen (18) DOLE personnel and staff from the different field offices actively participated in the orientation-workshop as they are motivated to effectively and efficiently achieve their targets for 2016.

“As a new employee, I am still hungry for knowledge, thus I am so eager to explore more of the major programs of DOLE most specially the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) and Registration of Workers Association,” said Rowena E. Arañez, a staff from the province Dinagat Islands.

During the orientation, Arañez shared her personal experience as to the assistance she got from the services of DOLE. She is a product of SEnA settled in PDI on March 2016. (DOLE-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

21 Barangay Agrarian Reform chairpersons take oath in AgSur

By Cyrene Flor B. Tajonera and Kristine H. Pedralvez

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, June 2 (PIA) - Twenty one (21) Barangay Agrarian Reform Committee (BARC) chairpersons of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur took oath before Hon. Erwin G. Ruiz, Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (PARAD) held reently at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Provincial Office in San Francisco, this province.

The ceremony was done in order for the BARC to attest the master list of qualified Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) from the said municipality.

Two hundred forty two (242) farmers were qualified to become an ARB of the 50 landholdings covered under Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) with a total area of 428.0966 hectares.

“The farmers listed should be screened and identified thoroughly with the help of the BARC and thus, they are the one to confirm the legitimacy of the ARBs,” PARAD Ruiz pointed out.

One of the functions of the BARC contained in Sec. 47 of R.A. 6657 is to assist in the identification of the qualified beneficiaries in the barangay and to attest the accuracy of the initial parcellary mapping of the beneficiary’s tillage.

“Isip usa ka BARC, dili lang paghusay sa mga gubot bahin sa agraryo sa barangay level ang among responsibilidad, lakip pa ni ini ang pagpamatuod sa mga benepisyaryo nga sila gayud ang nagtikad sa maong luna (As a BARC, aside from mediating local agrarian disputes in the barangay level, it is also our responsibility to confirm that the beneficiaries are the actual tillers of a certain landholding),” said Conrado Abraham, BARC chairperson of Barangay Nato, Esperanza.

Also, in line with the policy of encouraging people’s initiative and self-reliance, the government promulgated Executive Order 229 and affirmed its commitment to building a community-based implementing and coordinating mechanism for CARP by establishing the BARC. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Butuan police units to receive silver eagle award

By PO2 Anthony S. Echin

BUTUAN CITY, June 2 (PIA) - Three police units of the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) will be awarded with Silver Eagle Award by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 on June 6 at Camp Rafael Rodriguez here.

Said award is in line with the BCPO’s PATROL (Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule-Of-Law) Plan 2030 compliance stage.

According to P/SSupt Francisco Dungo, acting city director, the award is a clear manifestation that BCPO renders trustworthy law enforcement as a key for progressive nation to achieve affluence in global circuits.

“These units have successfully passed the Compliance Evaluation Process composed of three sequential phases – the Strategic Readiness Test or SRT, the Performance Audit, and the Unit Revalida," Dungo said.

The Certificate of Silver Eagle Award will be given to Butuan City Police Station 3; Butuan City Police Station 4; and Butuan City Police Public Safety Company.

The award will be given due to the effective implementation of PATROL Plan for a highly capable, effective and credible police service which will be received by the chiefs of police, company commander and Advisory Council Chairperson from PRO 13 regional director P/CSupt. Rolando B. Felix.

The PNP PATROL Plan 2030 institutionalizes a quantifiable tool in measuring accomplishments, various plans, programs and activities embodied in the agency scorecard to ensure the continuity of change and transformation within the organization. (BCPO/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DTI: BMBE registration now free of charge

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 2 (PIA)– The Barangay Micro-Business Enterprises (BMBEs) can now register their businesses free of charge at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Negosyo Center, after a Department Administrative Order (DAO) was recently signed by Secretary Adrian Cristobal, Jr.

The DAO No. 16-01, which was signed last April 22, 2016 provides guidelines on registering BMBEs at Negosyo Centers to encourage more micro enterprises to avail of the incentives that come with the full implementation of the BMBE Law.

Registered BMBEs can avail of government incentives that include exemption from the payment of income tax for income arising from operation of the enterprise, exemption from the coverage of the minimum wage law, special credit window of government financing institutions that will service the needs of BMBEs, as well as technology and marketing assistance.

As provided under Republic Act No. 9178 or the BMBEs Act of 2002, a BMBE is referred to as any business entity or enterprises engaged in the production, processing or manufacturing of products or commodities, including agro-processing, trading, and services whose total assets, excluding land, shall not be more than P3 million. Such assets shall include those arising from loans but not the land on which the plant and equipment are located.

Pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act, the DTI will be the sole agency to issue a Certificate of Authority (CA) that shall entitle registered BMBEs to avail of the incentives.

Prior to its full implementation, registration of BMBEs is done at the Office of the Treasurer of the city or municipality where the business is located.

But with the signing of the Department Administrative Order, BMBEs can register and obtain a Certificate of Authority at the Negosyo Centers or DTI offices where Negosyo Centers have not been set up.

Republic Act 9178 or the BMBE Act of 2002 recognizes the role of BMBEs as essential driving forces for the country’s economic development. It sees them as “seedbeds of Filipino entrepreneurial talents and strengthening them would increase job generation, provide livelihood and augment Filipino’s quality of life. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PNP personnel ordered to turn in firearms with expired licenses

BUTUAN CITY, June 2 (PIA) - Police Regional Office 13 regional director Chief Supt Rolando B Felix, has released a marching order to all Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel to turn in their firearms with expired licenses.

The region’s top cop personally talked to the PNP personnel assigned to the different units and ordered them to turn in their firearms with expired licenses to avoid sanctions.

Felix said that police officers shall serve as role models to the community and shall be the first one to obey the law they are enforcing.

“Guns with expired licenses are considered loose firearms and will be subjected to police operations; delinquent gun owners will face charges for violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 10591,” he said.

RA No. 10591 is the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammuntion.

Based on the record of the Regional Operations and Plans Division as of May 25, 2016, a total of 506 guns comprised of 355 from the PNP personnel and 151 from the civilians were deposited for safekeeping while application for License to Own and Possess Fireams is pending. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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