Gov’t agencies gear up campaign vs human trafficking, illegal recruitment in Caraga region

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 19 (PIA) -- The Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking - Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) Caraga has geared up its campaign against trafficking in persons (TIPs) and illegal recruitment following the number of cases recorded in the region which already reached to 490 since 2011.

As part of their activities for the World Day Against Trafficking, the committee conducted an orientation on the prevention of human trafficking and anti-illegal recruitment with different sectors in Caraga held recently in this city.

Based on the data released by RIACAT-VAWC Caraga, most of the victims are aged 18-30 years old and perpetrators are not related or acquaintance of the victims.

The number of cases on human trafficking this year is lower compared to the previous years' data. However, government agencies levelled up their efforts to intensify the campaign to prevent such cases.

Ritchel Butao of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) also tackled how to prevent illegal recruitment to overseas workers.

She also reminded the Caraganons who want to work abroad to be very cautious, alert and meticulous in choosing their recruitment agencies so they will not become victims.

Atty. Rechell Bazar-Apao of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) further warned recruiters on the possible cancellation of their license or suspension of operation once they are proven to be involved in illegal recruitment.

For those recruitment agencies that are not yet licensed, they would also face charges in court.

Meanwhile, the welfare of the domestic helpers was given due emphasis as they are vulnerable victims of trafficking in persons such as in forced labor, debt bondage, and slavery.

The victims were also urged to raise their complaints or to report such incident to the RIACAT-VAWC, law enforcement agencies or to social workers so that immediate and appropriate actions be made to save them.

“We could not respond to human trafficking victims if there is no report or complaint, that’s why we need the help of the public in this fight against trafficking in persons and illegal recruitment in the region,” said Catherine Aranas, social worker officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga and focal person for RIACAT-VAWC. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Dar urges farmers to collectivize to be empowered

By Vanessa Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 19 -- Be active! Be part of farmers’ associations and cooperatives. This is the Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar’s message to the farmers and fisherfolk during his visit in Caraga on September 17.

Dar said it is high time that the farmers and fisherfolk are empowered for them to become strong partners in big businesses to improve their income and productivity.

The secretary added that the department is not only focusing on high levels of productivity but is also strongly promoting agribusiness because farmers should have higher incomes to better meet their needs and have a better quality of life. He said that the DA is aiming at making agribusiness as a way of life.

“This is not only looking at productivity but value-adding, processing, manufacturing, and markets. This is the new way with which we are now developing the countryside,” Dar said.

He also shared that at present, the farm family annual income is at P108,000 and that the DA intends to double this in the next five years.

In addition, he said that the DA in coordination with various stakeholders is doing their best to assist the farmers and fisherfolk in their endeavors to help lift them out of poverty.

The secretary was in the region to turn-over P50 million worth of agri-fishery projects and livelihood assistance to farmers and fishers’ groups of the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Dinagat Islands.

The interventions awarded include eight hauling trucks for various cooperatives and inputs for Grow Out Production of Bangus in Cage Project, Grow Out Production of Tilapia in Pen Project, Polyculture of Bangus and Mangrove Crab in Pond Project, and seaweed farming. The turn-over ceremony was held at Masao Fish Farm of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Butuan City. (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)

BFAR-Caraga holds orientation on new fishery management framework

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 19 -- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Caraga region recently held a series of orientations on the new Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 263, which establishes fisheries management areas (FMAs) for the conservation and management of fisheries in the Philippine waters.

The multi-sectoral orientation was held in Butuan City for FMA 9 and Surigao City for FMA 8, on August 28 and 29, respectively.

Serving as resource speaker during the two-day activity was Napoleon Lamarca, senior aquaculturist from the Capture Fisheries Division of BFAR Central Office, who discussed the key points of the FAO 263; the science and concepts of ecosystem approach to fisheries management (EAFM); and the history, development and rationale of fisheries management in the Philippines.

"We are now moving towards EAFM, finding a balance between human well-being and ecological well-being through good governance. We need cooperation among all sectors and coordination across municipal jurisdictions to have a common direction towards managing and conserving our resources," Lamarca said.

The FAO 263 seeks to provide a science-based and participatory governance framework for the management of these FMAs.

"With the FMA, it would be a science-based and participatory approach among the local government units (LGUs) and the different sectors in the preservation, conservation, and management of our fishing grounds. Hopefully, through this (FMA), overfishing will be addressed," said Omnia Olama, the acting chief of the regional bureau's Fisheries Management Regulatory and Enforcement Division.

Meanwhile, BFAR-Caraga regional director Visa Tan-Dimerin noted the importance of strengthening the fisheries and aquatic management councils (FARMCs) in all levels of local governance. "If your FARMC is strong and that you are able to represent your cause, the local legislative body will listen to you," she said.

Dimerin also encouraged the participants to speak out their minds and ideas, and called for strong support among the key stakeholders. "Let our minds be aware and our hearts be touched by our cause for our seas," Dimerin said.

The orientation convened representatives from different sectoral groups such as municipal fisherfolk, commercial fishers, aquaculture stakeholders, traders, integrated FARMC, non-government organization, academe, and LGUs.

Pursuant to its mandates, the FAO 263 delineates the Philippine waters into 12 FMAs wherein Caraga region is geographically covered by FMAs 2, 8 and 9.

As such, the event was conducted to facilitate the selection of the sectoral representatives among the key stakeholders for the establishment of the regional technical working group for FMAs 8 and 9. (BFAR-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

BFAR-Caraga conducts fish handling workshop

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 19 -- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) - Caraga conducted recently a two-day seminar-workshop on the proper handling of fish and fishery products and the management and operation of the Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) in Tubajon, province of Dinagat Islands.

The training oriented the personnel of the local government unit of Tubajon and 30 other participants representing the five fisherfolk organizations from the municipality on the CFLC guidelines to make it fully operational.

The CFLC will not only serve as a trading hub for fresh catch and processed products but also as a training center for skills development. It will further become an information hub for registration and licensing of fishers, boats, and gears.

Part of the activity was a series of lectures on the proper handling of tuna, shrimp, seaweed, and bivalve in order to extend its shelf life and retain the desirable quality and nutritional value.

The Bureau also aimed to empower the marginalized sector, especially the fisherfolk’s wives to become partners in economic upliftment in the area by formulating fishery-based food products.

The BFAR Caraga team, led by its training division chief Anna Melissa Talavera, with the support of regional director Visa Tan-Dimerin, has also been conducting a similar training to other five municipalities in the region, namely Malimono, Mainit, Magallanes, Libjo, and Marihatag since July. (BFAR-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Kabataan pinaalalahanan na maging alerto laban sa pangrerecruit ng NPA sa mga unibersidad

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 19 (PIA) -- Sa patuloy na kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa pangrerecruit ng mga makakaliwang grupo sa mga estudyante sa ibat-ibang unibersidad sa bansa, pinaalalahanan ni National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., ang lahat ng sektor na maging alerto at tumulong sa paghadlang ng gawaing ito ng Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Ayon kay Sec. Esperon, binibigyang-halaga ng administrasyong Duterte ang edukasyon lalo na ang kinabukasan ng mga kabataan. Dahil dito, binibigyan ding prayoridad ni President Rpdrigo Duterte ang mga programa, proyekto at mga oportunidad sa mga kabataan na umunlad.

“Ang pangulo mismo ang nanguna sa pagpapatupad ng libreng tertiary education sa lahat ng state universities. Nais ng pangulo na makapag-aral ang mga kabataan at umunlad,” sabi ni Sec. Esperon.

Nanghihinayang naman ang opisyal sa mga kabataang nalinlang ng mga makakaliwang grupo at hindi na nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral. May mga minor de edad na din ang napabilang sa mga nagbalik-loob sa gobyerno.

“Mayroong karamihan sa kanila ay Grade 3, Grade 5. Kung sana nabigyan lang ng pagkakataon ang mga ito na makapag-aral, naranasan din sana nila ang magandang buhay. Dahil din ditto, mas pinalawak pa natin ang alternative learning systems at mga skills trainings ng Technical Education and Skills Development upang maka-capacitate din sila,” dagdag ni Esperon.

Sinabi rin ng kalihim na mas maunlad na sana ang mga probinsya ng Caraga kung hindi lang dahil sa gulong idinudulot ng CPP-NPA, maging ang pangbibiktima at pag-aabuso nila sa mga Indigenous Peoples at magsasaka.

Kaya naman, mas paiigtingin pa ng Regional Task Force To End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) ang mga inisyatibo at aktibidad kasama ang ibang sektor ng rehiyon para masugpo ang insurhensiya sa barangay level.

Samantala, dapat din daw na maging tapat at seryoso ang mga opisyal sa barangay sa pagtulong sa gobyerno na makamit ang pangmatagalang kapayapaan at pag-unlad ng bansa.

“Pupuntahan namin yung mga barangay kapitan at opisyales. Napaka-importanteng sila ang kasama natin at nakikita naman na yung mga barangay kapitan natin ay tutulong sa inisyatibong ito,” sabi ni Esperon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Bayugan City rewards NPA surrenderees

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Punsalan

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 20 -- The 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion (3SFBn), Philippine Army presented on Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at the Bayugan City Mayor’s Office of this province the surrenderees, including alias “Sion,” a rebel surrenderee who disclosed last August 2019 the arms cache in Sitio Hugmakan, Barangay San Juan, Bayugan City to Mayor Kirk Asis.

The city government of Bayugan immediately handed cash assistance to surrenderees aside from the support and interventions from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Presented to the mayor are two surrenderees who are both residents of Barangay San Juan, Bayugan City with one M16 rifle and three caliber 30 Garand rifles which were disclosed by alias “Sion” last August.

Alias “Sion’s” disclosure of the arms cache is a clear manifestation that Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) forcibly exploit indigenous peoples in hinterlands for their logistical support. “Indigenous Peoples cannot say “No” when tasked to become couriers because they will be killed. The IPs are threatened and forced. Lumad killings are part of the Communist NPA Terrorists’ way to gain support from the masses,” he said.

Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of the 3SFBn, expressed his gratitude to the Bayugan City LGU for the constant support. “We express our sincerest gratitude to the Bayugan City LGU under Mayor Kirk Asis, who also leads the RDC-RPOC Social Welfare sector for his support in the attainment of the Executive Order No. 70’s Whole-of-Nation Approach in ending insurgency,” he underscored.

“With this gesture of providing assistance to surrenderees, it will greatly help in boosting the influx of surrenderees because they will see the government’s sincerity to attain lasting peace through ending the local communist armed conflict in this city,” added Baybayan.

The E-CLIP and Amnesty Program is one of the 12 clusters of EO 70 wherein the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is the lead agency. This cluster shall orchestrate the inter-agency operations to implement necessary assistance and interventions to surrenderees and their families. Further, it aims to reintegrate surrenderees into mainstream society and become productive citizens of the country. (CMO Officer, 3SFBn, PA/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

BFAR eyes sustainable strategy to manage fishery resources

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 -- Representatives from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regions 8, 11 and 13 convened on September 2, 2019 in Davao City for the inception meeting on the establishment of Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 2.

The Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 263, Series of 2019, or the establishment of FMAs for the conservation and management of fisheries in Philippine waters, was issued in January 28.

It seeks to provide a science-based, participatory and transparent governance framework and mechanism to sustainably manage fisheries in such areas, consistent with the principles of Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM).

FMA is based on biological, economic and social goals of the exploited fishery resources.

The group provided a status report on the FMA per region; created a technical working group (TWG) for FMA 2; and listed down the action plans and to-do's for this year that are necessary for the creation of an FMA 2 Management Body (MB) and Scientific Advisory Group (SAG).

They have initially identified the municipalities that cover FMA 2, and the top priority species in the value chain such as the yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, mackerel and shortfin scad (galunggong), big eye scad (matambaka), and bullet tuna (turingan) that are needed to be controlled and protected in order to improve production in the three regions.

Accordingly, some stocks like the skipjack tuna and mackerel are being exploited beyond the limit and are already in danger of collapse. Thus, it was suggested that there should be a very strict management control like closure until recovery.

The country's territory has been grouped into 12 management areas and delineated based on approximate stock boundaries, range, distribution, and structure.

FMA 2 is bounded by the coastline of Davao and Caraga (municipalities of Tago, Bayabas, Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agustin, Lianga, Barobo, Hinatuan, Bislig, and Lingig in Surigao del Sur), the eastern coastline of Siargao Island (General Luna and Pilar), and the eastern coastline of Samar and Northern Samar.

Regional directors Fatma M. Idris (BFAR 11), Visa T. Dimerin (BFAR 13) and Dr. John Albaladejo (BFAR 8), together with the provincial fishery officers (PFOs) and section heads, and representatives from the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), participated in the said activity. (BFAR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

15th techno forum highlights modernization of agri-fisheries sector

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 -- Celebrating its 32nd founding anniversary, the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) had officially launched recently this year's Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Forum and Product Exhibition at the DA-BAR Grounds, Quezon City.

DA-BAR director Dr. Nicomedes Eleazar, in his opening remarks, mentioned that the event is in line with the paradigm of DA Secretary William Dar, which is to modernize the Philippine agriculture through agripreneurship.

"There is a need for the agriculture sector to be modernized and industrialized, and one way to achieve that is to exploit the potential of research and development (R&D) and make sure that mature technologies reach smallholder agriculture and create agripreneurs," said Eleazar.

In his keynote speech, Sec. Dar highlighted the direction and vision of the Department under his stint.

"We envisioned a food secure Philippines, with prosperous farmers and fisherfolk. This is the 'new thinking,' the center of development in agriculture is the farmers and fisherfolk," Dar said.

Likewise, the secretary urged agencies to anchor their plans, programs, projects and activities toward the Department's vision and goals. He also stressed the need to have good data management system in the Department.

"Let us elevate our gains in terms of improving data management in all agencies. We are here to help this country grow our sector of agriculture, and the technologies that we generate are the engines of this growth on agriculture," Dar said.

Meanwhile, the event also highlighted the launching of the second edition of Sec. Dar's book entitled ‘The Way Forward: Level Up Philippine Agriculture.’ The sequel places emphasis on harnessing R&D for agriculture, and on creating agripreneurs.

"Through this book, I am optimistic that more and more individuals and organizations from government, private sector and civil society will join the growing movement to make Philippine agriculture a modern and vibrant sector, where technology is a major driver; more agri-based enterprises and jobs are created; smallholders and agripreneurs are resilient to the effects of climate change; and growth is inclusive to alleviate poverty," wrote Dar who is also president of the Inang Lupa Movement, Inc.

The annual staging of the national technology forum sought to showcase collaboration between and among agencies toward a common goal of improving the resiliency and productivity of the farmers and fisherfolks.

Series of seminars were laid out to feature research-generated technologies that will not only provide insights, but will also encourage the public to venture into livelihood and business opportunities.

The event, which ran from August 14-16, 2019, was participated by around 50 exhibitors from various R&D partner institutions such as the regional field offices of the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, along with state universities and colleges, international organizations, non-government organizations, and local government units.

BFAR Caraga headed by regional director Visa Dimerin, with the active participation of the training division chief Anna Melissa Talavera and regional staff, put up a booth in the exhibit area. The group had displayed products derived from some of the regional bureau's trained organizations that venture fish processing and value-adding.

They also attended a series of seminars and product demonstration on processing technologies of various agricultural commodities such as coffee, batuan, soybean, jackfruit, and ginger to name a few. (BFAR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PDEA idineklarang drug-cleared ang probinsya ng Agusan del Sur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Set. 20 (PIA)-- Sa pinaigting na kampanya ng pamahalaan kontra ilegal na droga, nadagdagan pa ang mga lugar na idineklarang drug-cleared sa rehiyon ng Caraga. Ito ay ang buong probinsya ng Agusan del Sur.

Ito ay matapos ang isinagawang assessment ng Barangay Drug-Clearing Program Regional Oversight Committee (BDCP-ROC) Caraga na pinangunahan ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) sa lungsod ng Butuan.

Matatandaan na sa natitirang 63 drug-affected barangays, lungsod ng Bayugan, at anim na bayan ng probinsya, ang lahat ng ito ay nadeklara na ring drug-cleared ng PDEA. Ibig sabihin ang mga ito ay pumasa sa itinakdang criteria na basehan ng ahensiya sa pagdeklara.

Ang nasabing probinsya ang ikatlong lalawigan sa rehiyon na idineklarang drug-cleared habang ang Bayugan City ang pangatlong lungsod ng naideklara rin.

Ayon kay acting assistant regional director Irvin John Coderis ng PDEA Caraga, mahalaga ang koordinasyon at cooperasyon ng mga barangay officials na siya ring bumubuo sa Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs).

Malaking tulong ang nagagawa ng BADAC sa pagtukoy sa mga residente na posibleng sangkot sa ilegal na droga, dahil sila ang mas nakakakilala sa mga ito.

“Mahalaga ang aktibong partisipasyon ng mga barangay officials na siyang bumubuo sa barangay intelligence network dahil sila mismo ang kakakaalam at nakakakilala sa mga residente ng kanilang lugar,” sabi ni Coderis.

Samantala, paiigtingin din ng PDEA at mga kinauukulang ahensiya ang rehabilitation program para sa mga biktima ng ilegal na droga sa rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Kasabutan nga magpalambo sa CDH giaprobahan

By Shiene V. Deligero

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Setyembre 20-- Pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 066-2019 nga gipangamahanan ni Bokal Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, gitagaag otoridad si Gobernador Dale B. Corvera sa pagpirma sa kasabutan o Memorandum of Agreement tali sa probinsya ug syudad sa Cabadbaran, alang sa pagpaayo sa mga serbisyo sa panglawas ug pasilidad sa ospital sa Cabadbaran pinaagi sa paggahin og pondo sa gobyerno sa siyudad aron suportahan ang pagpatuman sa mga programa ug proyekto alang sa giingon nga ospital.

Sulod sa maong kasabutan mao ang mga programa ug proyekto sa ospital, labi na ang pagdugang og trabahante, pagkuha og mga bag-ong gamit para sa ospital ug pagpaayo sa mga pasilidad.

Aron matubag ang mga panginahanglan sa lungsod ug mga nasakupan niini, hugot nga mihatag og suporta ang probinsya alang sa pagpalambo sa mga pasilidad ug aron masiguro ang paghatud sa serbisyo nga adunay pasalig nga mahatag ang kalidad nga pag-atiman sa pasyente ug masiguro ang bentey-kuwatro oras nga operasyon sa lain-laing mga serbisyo sa ospital sa Cabadbaran District Hospital alang sa mga katawhan sa syudad sa Cabadbaran.

Ang pagpasar sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 066-2019 nahitabo niadtong ika-9th regular sesyon sa SP. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Barangay officials play big role in solving insurgency

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) -- In the recent multi-stakeholders summit on Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communists armed conflict, Agusan del Norte 1st district representative Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba gave emphasis on the big role of barangay officials in curbing insurgency problem in the area and achieve peace and development.

“If you want to solve insurgency, help the government; work and do your part as the barangay executive; and know your constituents,” Matba told the barangay officials present during the summit held in Butuan City.

Punong barangay Ireneo Lauro of barangay Jaguimitan in the municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte believed that EO 70 is an ultimate solution to end insurgency in the country. “This is now the tool that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has given us, we will implement this to solve insurgency in our area,” Lauro said.

Also, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Datu Ronald Manhumosay called on the IPs to unite and support the implementation of EO 70 to live a peaceful and productive life.

Agusan del Norte governor Dale Corvera also encouraged all Caraganons to work together to stop the CPP-NPAs fifty years of chaotic and conflict-causing activities.

“There can be no development without peace, and there can be no peace without development. United effort is all that we need to solve the insurgency problem,” said Corvera.

Meanwhile, DILG Agusan del Norte provincial director Ellen Vee Chua is also hopeful that barangay officials will also cooperate in solving insurgency in their area, as they play an important role in the communities and they know best what interventions are needed from the government. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

3 NPA supporters surrender in Surigao Sur

By Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 23 -- A New People's Army regular member and two Militia ng Bayan (MB) members under the Weakened Guerilla Front 14, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (WGF14, NEMRC) voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army at the 75th Infantry Battation (75IB) headquarters in Bislig City on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019.

The surrenderees were identified as AKA Bernabe, AKA Loy, and AKA Jun, all residents of Sitio 1K (San Isidro), Brgy. Bunawan Brook, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

They brought with them the following war materials: one M2 Carbine with one magazine loaded of 10 live ammunition; two gallons of Improvised Explosive Device (IED); 150 meters flat cord #22; three pieces blasting cups with five meters detonating cords; one shotgun homemade rifle; one shotgun pistol (homemade); six magazines of AK47; one 7.62MM M14 Rifle with one magazine loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition; and two pieces of subversive books.

Cabakungan said they have decided to surrender due to the fear and exhaustion of hiding away from the operation of the government forces. “Naka desisyon mi nga musurender tungod sa kahadlok ug kakapoy sigeg dagan, tago palayo sa operasyon sa militar ug kapulisan ug dugang pa ang NPA wala nituman sa ilang saad sa amoa nga sila (NPA) musuporta sa among pamilya gani gigatungan pa mi og sakto nga masuko ug mokontra sa gobyerno. Dugang pa nga rason sa among pag surrender, gusto namo nga manginabuhig malinawon kauban sa matag namo nga pamilya (We have decided to surrender due to the fear and exhaustion of hiding away from the operation of the military and police, also, the NPA have not kept their promises that they (NPA) will support our family and they convince us to get mad and oppose to the government. In addition, we want to live peacefully together with each of our family)," said Cabakungan in their colloquial dialect.

Lt. Col. Warren Munda, Acting Commanding Officer of 75IB said, "With the support of our government, stakeholders and people in the community, together we'll resolve and act as one to this campaign in eradicating the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs)."

The surrenderees will undergo the process as they return to the folds of the government. They are expected to receive assistance from the government through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (75IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Army troopers recover war materials in Agusan Norte

By 1Lt. Roel Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Sept. 23 -- Troops of 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion, Philippine Army recovered two high powered firearms and NPA personal belongings after the series of encounter in the hinterlands of Barangay Sangay, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte from September 15-16, 2019.

The encounter transpired while the troops were responding to the information from the local populace regarding the presence of armed men in the area. The series of firefight resulted in the recovery of the following items: two M1 Garand rifles; one magazine of AK47; 20 rounds of 7.62mm M14 (serviceable); three clips of Garand loaded with 24 rounds; one cellular phone; two clips of caliber 30, M1 Garand; and two civilian bags with assorted clothing.

The said group of terrorists are believed to be members of Samahang Yunit Propaganda SIKOP, Guerilla Front Committee 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee under an unknown leader.

Lt. Col. Francisco Molina Jr, Commanding Officer, 23IB expressed his gratitude to the concerned citizens of Barangay Sangay, Buenavista for their cooperation and for providing timely and positive information about the presence of CNTs in the area.

“Through the help of the residents and the commitment of the troops to the mandated task in serving the people and securing the land, we prevented again the senseless CNTs from conducting extortion, recruitment, and manipulation to the vulnerable residents. Let us continue our partnership to finally End LocalCommunist Armed Conflict in our area and create a peaceful environment. We will never get tired of pursuing the enemies,” Molina said.

“To the remaining members of CNTs, now is the right time to go back to the folds of the law. Don’t waste your life being victimized by their false ideologies. Stand for what is right and open your eyes for the truth. Go back to the government and contribute to maintaining peace in our area,” Molina added. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Agusan del Sur province in Caraga region declared as drug-cleared

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) -- As the government continues to combat against illegal drugs menace, the province of Agusan del Sur was declared as drug-cleared after its remaining 63 drug-affected barangays, Bayugan City, and six municipalities had recently been declared by the Barangay Drug-Clearing Program Regional Oversight Committee – (BDCP-ROC) Caraga.

Agusan del Sur was the third province in the region declared as drug-cleared, while Bayugan City is also the third city declared by the committee as drug-cleared.

According to acting assistant regional director Irvin John Coderis of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga, constant coordination and cooperation of the barangay officials who also composed the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) are greatly needed for its operation to be successful.

The official added that BADACs contribute much as they are the ones to assess and monitor those residents in their area of concern that are identified as drug personality.

“The barangay drug clearing program in its core is all about what we call the barangay intelligence network. They are really the ones who determine and assess drug personalities in their area of responsibility,” said Coderis.

Meanwhile, PDEA and other concerned government agencies have been stepping-up its effort and activities to minimize if not eliminate the number of cases or people getting involved in illegal drug trade.

They will also strengthen the rehabilitation program for the drug victims in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Mga barangay sa PDI makabenipisyo sa libreng elektrisidad

By Susil D. Ragas

MUNISIPYO SA SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Sept. 23 (PIA)– Usa ka panagtagbo ug pulong-pulong ang gipahigayon tali sa lokal ng pangagamhanan sa probinsya uban ang mga opisyales sa World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) ug Dinagat Islands Electric Cooperative (DIELCO) bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa Governor’s Function Hall, San Jose, ning probinsya.

Gihisgutan sa maong panagtigum ang proyekto nga Solar Community-Based Island Tourism and Livelihood Energizer Platform (SMILE) nga tumong ug tinguha niini nga mahatagan og saktong elektrisidad ang pipila ka halayong mga isla nga nahisakop sa probinsya.

Ang una nga maka benipisyo sa maong proyekto mao ang Barangay Cab-ilan sa lungsod sa Dinagat ug Barangay Kanihaan sakop sa lungsod sa Libjo.

Usa usab kini kalakang aron matabangan ang komunidad para sa responsable nga panginabuhian nga dili makadaot sa kinaiyahan ug labaw sa tanan mapalambo ang turismo sa duha ka mga barangay.

Ang maong panagtigum gipangulohan ni Governor Kaka Bag-ao uban ang mga opisyales sa WWF Philippines sa pagpangulo ni Overall Project Manager Joeffrey T. Maglinte kauban ang pipila ka personahe sa DIELCO. (Dinagat Islands-PIO/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Mga sumukong miyembro ng NPA sa Surigao Norte tumanggap ng ayuda

By Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Setyembre 24 (PIA) -- Nasa 30 dating miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo na New People's Army o NPA sa Surigao del Norte ang nakatanggap ng ayuda mula sa pamahalaan sa ilalim ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o E-CLIP.

Ang mga sumuko ay may P15,000 immediate cash assistance at P10,000 mula sa Department of Social Welfare and Development o DSWD. Binayaran din ng pamahalaan ang mga armas na kanilang isinuko depende sa uri at kalidad nito.

Ang pagkaloob ng tulong-pinansyal ay pinangunahan mismo ni National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., cabinet officer for the regional development and security (CORDS) - Caraga region Cabinet Secretary Carlo Nograles, at iba pang opisyal kasabay sa isinagawang Barangay Summit sa lungsod ng Butuan.

“Ang ating gagawin, lahat ng departamento ay magbibigay ng kontribusyon. Sama-sama ang ating pagpaplano kasi ang target natin ngayon o ang ating tutulungan ay ang barangay. Diyan natin gagamitin at ipalaganap ang community support program o CSP,” sabi ni Esperon.

Inaasahan ring maibibigay sa kanila sa lalong madaling panahon ang P50,000 na livelihood assistance at P20,000 na reintegration assistance na kasalukuyang pinuproseso na.

Isa sa mga nabigyan ng tulong ay naging sundalo na ngayon.

“Malaki ang pasasalamat ko po sa ating mahal na pangulong Rodrigo Duterte at sa Philippine Army dahil binigyan kami ng oportunidad bilang isang former rebel na magiging isang sundalo. Hindi ako tinalikuran ng ating gobyerno at ako’y natulungan. Kung kayo man ay tutulad sa akin na nagbalik-loob, ganun din ang magyayari sa inyo. Ang nakamit ko ngayon bilang isand sundalo ay gayun din ang mararating ninyo,” sabi ni alyas Abdul.

Ipinaabot rin ni alyas Raymund ang kanyang pasasalamat sa ayudang natanggap.

“Maraming salamat sa 30th Infantry Battalion dahil sa tulong ng mga sundalo. Binigyan nila ako ng pag-asang maayos ang aking masalimuot na buhay. Tinulungan nila akong makapagtapos sa ninanais kong kurso,” sabi ni alyas Raymund, 21 taong gulang.

Ayon kay Cabinet Secretary Nograles ay may 800 miyembro ng NPA sa Surigao del Norte ang inaasahang susuko.

“May mga inaasahan pa tayong mga miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo ang tuluyan ng susuko at hangad na magbagong buhay. Ito ay malinaw na indikasyon na positibo ang ating mga ginagawang hakbang at kampanya laban insurhensiya,” sabi ni Sec. Nograles.

Patuloy ang kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa mga rebeldeng grupo at hinihimok ang mga ito na magbalik-loob na at mamuhay ng payapa. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

TESDA, DOTr launch 'tsuper iskolar' program in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 25 (PIA) -- With the implementation of the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) also launched the “Tsuper Iskolar” Program as a way of stepping up their efforts in helping those who are affected by the modernization program.

The “Tsuper Iskolar” aims to provide skills training and additional knowledge to the beneficiaries of the PUVMP, and even those who would want to become entrepreneurs.

During the launching held in Butuan City, different sectors understand better the intention of the concerned government agencies, as well as the opportunities which the “Tsuper Iskolar” program brings to the region.

“The Tsuper Iskolar program is really a big help especially for those who would venture into another field of work apart from the transport industry. With the skills trainings to be provided by TESDA and DOTr, I’m sure many would benefit from this scholarship program and would excel in their field of interest,” said Elizalde Mission, operator of Balangay Transport Service Cooperative (BALTRANSCO).

According to Director Florencio Sunico Jr., spokesperson of TESDA, this is in line with the scholarship program thru Memorandum of Agreement between the DOTR and TESDA signed on December 11, 2018 for the stakeholder support mechanism component of the PUVMP.

He said, under the “Tsuper Iskolar,” beneficiaries will receive food and transportation allowance while undertaking the skills training.

Atty. Martin Delgra III, chairperson of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said that the agency wanted to enhance the livelihood of the transport sector with their families. Based on their monitoring, Caraganons have positive feedback on the said program.

“We’ve been receiving positive feedback from Caraga region’s stakeholders on this program and we hope to help more. We also thanked the active support of the Caraganons in this endeavor,” said Atty. Delgra.

Meanwhile, TESDA-Caraga regional director Ashary Banto also bared that many have already visited their provincial and regional offices for queries and signified their interest to avail of the scholarship program.

The official further said that TESDA has also been implementing other programs that will address the needs of the different sectors in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

800 AgNor residents benefit social services

By Nora L. Molde

RTR, Agusan del Norte, Sept. 25 (PIA) -- More than 800 residents of Barangays Tagbongabong, San Antonio and Balang-blang in the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) in Agusan del Norte benefited from the various social, dental, medical and other services and assistance from the government through the conduct of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) immersion conducted by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte with the assistance from different line agencies and partner stakeholders of the province, held at the covered court of barangay Tagbongabong, here.

RTR Mayor Richard Daquipil expressed his thanks to the provincial government for conducting the PPOC immersion and for bringing the services to their municipality.

During the conduct of the PPOC immersion, Krizia Mae Mangadlao, a six-month pregnant from Barangay Balang-balang, was thankful for receiving a buntis kit containing supplies that will be used during her delivery.

Also, senior citizen Rosalinda Mundia has availed of the free dental, medicines and an eyeglass. She was thankful for conducting the said PPOC immersion in the area.

Accordingly, four barangays in the municipality of RTR, namely: Tagbongabong, Mahaba, San Antonio and Balang-balang were identified as rebel-infested barangays. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

'All-out' war vs NPAs yields 11 firearms in AgSur

By Cpt. Aldim T. Viernes

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 25 -- The 401st Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army based in Agusan del Sur has recovered 11 high-powered firearms, two low-powered firearms, three anti-personnel mines and two NPA cadavers together with various war materials as its campaign intensifies in the whole province a week after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte called for an all-out war against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) on Sept. 19, 2019.

In compliance with the directive of the Commander-in-Chief, the Armed Forces of the Philippines also announced on Wednesday an “all-out” war against communist rebels to finally end the five-decade-old insurgency problem in the country.

“With the pronouncement of PRRD, I ordered all commanders under my brigade to double their efforts to hit these NPA terrorists at all costs,” said Colonel Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Infantry “Unite N’ Fight” Brigade in Agusan del Sur.

Col. Hambala added that these significant accomplishments of battalions under his brigade are the results of the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict, and the high state of morale of the troops knowing that the president fully supports the Army’s mission on the ground.

Snowballing Number of Surrender

On Sept. 19, alias “Bong,” a 29 year old NPA medic, surrendered to 3rd Special Forces Battalion in Bayugan City, bringing along with him one Cal.50 Sniper rifle and one Cal. 45 pistol through a joint effort with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Mobile Force Battalion after having been traumatized by an encounter with the government troops, where one of his comrades was killed last December 2018.

This was in addition to the earlier surrender of two NPA elements led by alias “Sion” who disclosed an arms cache in the hinter area of Sitio Hugmakan, San Juan, Bayugan City, leading to the recovery of one M16 rifle and three Caliber 30 Garand rifles. They are all members of the Manobo tribe who decided to surrender because of continuous exploitation of the CPP-NPA in their tribal communities.

“We, the Lumads cannot say 'no' to NPAs when tasked to be their couriers because we will surely be killed. We were always threatened and coerced,” said alias Sion.

Another NPA squad leader and two members of Militia ng Bayan (MB) from Bunawan Brook also laid down their arms to the 75th Infantry Battalion on September 18 after experiencing hardship and demoralization inside the communist movement. They brought with them one M14 rifle, one Carbine rifle, two homemade shotguns, two Anti-Personnel Mines (APM), detonating cords and subversive documents.

These former rebels are now being processed by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office at Government Center, Capitol, Patin-ay for the immediate release of their financial assistance and psycho-social interventions under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), in which they are entitled to receive livelihood and housing assistance, educational program and other basic services of the government.

“We at the Provincial Government are delighted of their surrender and hopeful that more will follow. Rest assured that we will provide them the needed services and benefits due to them through ECLIP. We also hope they are committed to do their share and never to return again to rebellion,” said Arlene Sanchez, Provincial Director, DILG, the lead agency on ECLIP and Amnesty Cluster of Agusan del Sur.

Focused Military Operations

Meanwhile, two cadavers of NPAs were left behind after a 30-minute encounter between the 26th Infantry Battalion and an estimated 60 fully-armed NPAs in an uninhabited part of Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis on Tuesday afternoon, resulting to the recovery of two AK 47 rifles, one AR18 rifle attached with M203 Grenade Launcher, magazines with live ammunitions, one APM, medical paraphernalia, foodstuffs, seven back packs and voluminous subversive documents. The government troops also seized the terrorists’ hideout with 50 improvised shelters.

The security operation was conducted after the military received reports from the tribal communities in the area regarding the presence of NPAs roaming around inside their ancestral domains.

Said cadavers were brought to Poblacion, San Luis and received by the local government officials for identification process and proper disposition. (CMO Officer, 401st Brigade, PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Army commander visits Agusan, Surigao troops

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 25 -- The Philippine Army Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) commander, Brigadier General Lincoln Francisco T. Tagle, AFP made his first official visit to one of his organic units in Mindanao to include the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion (3SFBn) based in Barangay Noli, Bayugan City, this province from Sept. 11 to 13, 2019.

His visit boosted the morale of the 3SFBn which covers the areas of Bayugan City and municipality of Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur. The 3SFBn areas of operation in Surigao del Sur covers the municipalities of Lianga, San Agustin, Marihatag, Cagwait, Bayabas, and portions of San Miguel and Tago. 3SFBn is composed of the 7th Special Forces Company (SPARTANS) Company, 8th Special Forces (DRAGOONS) Company, and the 9th Special Forces (HOUNDS) Company.

Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of 3SFBn, expressed his gratitude, “We are thankful for your visit sir because your mere presence as our leader gives us the impression that you care about the morale and welfare of our troops. This alone inspires this unit to do its best towards the accomplishment of our mission here in our area of operations,” he said.

Upon arrival, BGen. Tagle paid a courtesy call to the 401st Infantry (UNITY) Brigade. Not the casual and usual visit, he made his rounds to all company headquarters and even went up the critical locations of CAA Patrol Bases to include the Mabuhay Patrol Base in Mabuhay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur and Janipaan Patrol Base in Janipaan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur to see the actual conditions of his troops.

Further, he participated in the Bayugan City on Wheels in the hinter barangay of Calaitan in Bayugan City to witness the convergence efforts of the local government unit and the 3SFBn in line with the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end local communist armed conflict in their area of operations.

On the other hand, LTC Baybayan presented the former rebels and firearms recovered from the successful combat operations and the influx of surrenders since the start of the year.

BGen. Tagle is proud of the unit’s performance and urged the troops to carry on the good work and continue to improve. “While we accomplish our tasks, let us not forget that this is not the end of the line. We will face far more challenging and more difficult missions that's why we have to be ready at all times. Never stop improving,” he said.

Currently, the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) battalions of the Philippine Army are strategically based in the critical areas of Mindanao particularly in Bukidnon, Sulu, Basilan, and Cotabato. (3SFBn, PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DOST, tutulungan ang mga kooperatiba sa Bayugan City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 25 (PIA) -- Nais ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST) na matulungan ang mga kooperatiba sa lungsod ng Bayugan, dahil madalas ay single proprietorship at maliliit na korporasyon ang kanilang nabibigyan ng tulong teknikal at pinansyal.

Ayon kay DOST Sec. Fortunato Dela Peña, malaki ang potensyal ng mga kooperatiba na umusad at mas mapalawak pa ang kanilang produkto gamit ang makabagong teknolohiya, hindi lamang sa lungsod pati na sa ibang lugar.

“Patuloy ang ating koordinasyon kasama ang lokal na pamahalaan at iba pang ahensiya upang matulungan din natin ang mga kooperatiba ditto sa Bayugan City,” sabi ni Sec. Dela Peña.

Lubos naman ang pasasalamat ng lokal na pamahalan sa patuloy na koordinasyon ng DOST upang masiguro ang pagbigay ng mga magagandang oportunidad sa lahat ng sektor ng lungsod.

Hinimok rin ni Mayor Kirk Asis ang lahat ng kabataan na maging aktibo sa paglahok sa mga kompetisyon na may kinalaman sa Science and Technology.

Susuportahan ng lokal na pamahalaan ang mga kabataang lalahok dito at bibigyan ng pinansyal na ayuda. May nakalaang budget umano ang local government unit para dito.

“Suportado naman ng lokal na pamahalaan ang mga aktibidad na tumutugon sa kapakanan ng mga kabataan at mag-aaral dito sa Bayugan City,” pahayag ni Mayor Asis.

Kaugnay nito, binigyang-diin ni Sec. Dela Peña na mahalaga ring matulungan ng lokal na pamahalaan ang mga kabataang nais mag-review para sa DOST examinations tulad ng Philippine Science High School Exam, maging sa mga mag-aaral na gustong lumahok sa Math, Chemistry at Science quizzes, at mga inbentor sa lungsod na lalahok din sa mga kompetisyon. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PCOO chief named as most effective communicator

By PCOO

MANILA, Sept. 26 -- The Philippine Cancer Society Inc. (PCSI) awarded Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar as the "Most Effective Communicator" during their charity event on Wednesday evening.

Secretary Andanar received the Most Effective Communicator special award during the Best Dressed Women of the Philippines, 17th Annual Awards Ball -- a fundraising activity of the PCSI -- held at the Okada Manila in Parañaque City.

The PCOO chief expressed appreciation for the PSCI's advocacy to prevent the development of cancer, especially among the disadvantaged families and individuals, through education, service, and research programs.

“I deeply appreciate the award given to me by the Philippine Cancer Society. But you know this award, the symbol and the importance of this is really what we can do to help cancer patients in our country. The Philippine Cancer Society has been in the advocacy of helping cancer patients especially those patients who cannot afford medicine and cure,” Andanar said.

Andanar thanked the nonprofit organization for recognizing the work of the PCOO.

“Thank you so much to the Philippine Cancer Society for recognizing my hard work and my commitment to spread the word that this society is a good society and it has a noble cause of helping cancer patients, and I will do everything I can within my powers and whatever influence I have to further the cause of the Philippine Cancer Society,” he said.

This is the second award given by the PCSI to Secretary Andanar. In 2017, he was recognized among the “men of extraordinary influence.”

“They never failed to recognize to appreciate our work at the Presidential Communications Operations Office. It is not about me. I believe that our good work at the PCOO is a reflection of the hard work of the people of the PCOO. My lieutenants, my staff, and everybody who has put so much effort, dedication, and hard work to the government for the sake of nation-building and public service,” Andanar said.

Also recipients of special awards include Senator Francis Tolentino, receiving the “Bold and Perceptive Thinker” award, and businesswoman Alice Eduardo bagging the “Luminary of Philanthropy.”

The PSCI also awarded 12 “Men of Extraordinary Influence,” including mayor Franciso “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, Ormoc Mayor Richard Gomez, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, basketball player James Carlos Yap, and Sterling Bank of Asia President and Chief Executive Officer Cecilio San Pedro. Rounding off the list include, Eddie Chua, Jonathan Dizon, Arlu Gomez, Wilson “Howee” Go, Charles Stewart Lee, and Nelson Licup. (PCOO)

Butuan farmers receive certificate of land titles

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- The 174 farmers from Barangay Taligaman of this city have finally received the certificate of land titles of their farmlands from the government.

These farmers have long been asking the government to grant them the land titles, however, only during this administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that their request was heard and given due attention.

With this, farmers of said barangay were thankful to the effort and assistance of the concerned government agencies.

Dioscoro Fuentes Sr., one of the farmer-beneficiaries expressed his gratitude while holding with much joy his newly-received certificate of land title. According to him, the land distribution to farmers was fast-tracked. He was also thankful to the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Caraga for reaching out to them and helping them get their land titles.

“After 19 years of waiting, it is only now that the original copy of the title was given to us. We’re very happy and thankful to President Duterte and to the Department of Agrarian Reform for facilitating the distribution of the land titles,” said Fuentes.

Milagros Diez, president of Taligaman Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association and was among the beneficiaries considered this as an achievement in her lifetime. She said it was a blessing that after so many years of waiting, the land titles were finally granted to them.

She further cited that right after she sent the letter addressed to the president, they were then issued the Administrative Order numbers 1-5 series of 2019 on March 29, 2019 and followed with the distribution of the certificate of land titles.

“We’re very thankful to PRRD for helping us farmers and for granting us these land titles,” said Diez.

According to Glen Petilla, officer-in-charge of the Legal Services Division of DAR-MARO, the lands given to the farmer-beneficiaries were part of the comprehensive agrarian reform program or CARP, which PRRD strongly emphasized that these lands should be properly distributed to the farmers. It is also part of the poverty alleviation program of the government that aims to enhance the economy and uplift the lives of the poor. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOST to help coops in Bayugan City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) wanted to extend help to the cooperative sector in Bayugan City, as they have potentials to grow and expand with the use of technology.

DOST Secretary Fortunato Dela Peña bared that the department has been reaching out and providing assistance to single proprietorship and small corporations, hence, they also want to give an opportunity for the cooperatives by providing them the needed technical and financial assistance.

“Bayugan City has great potentials and we want to continue our partnership and be able to help more of the locals from the different sectors,” said Dela Peña.

The city government of Bayugan is thankful to DOST for the continued coordination to ensure the provision of better opportunities, programs, and projects to the different sectors of the said city.

Mayor Kirk Asis also encouraged all the youths to be involved in science and technology-related competitions.

He stressed that the city government strongly supports the youth’s welfare and will give financial assistance if they would join the S&T competitions and represent the city in the regional and national levels. He further said that the LGU has allocated funds intended for these undertakings.

“The local government unit is very willing to support our youth as we continue to promote their welfare,” said Asis.

Meanwhile, Secretary Dela Peña also asked the city government of Bayugan to assist the youths particularly those who would want to take reviews on the DOST examinations such as the Philippine Science High School exam, as well as those who got interest to join the quiz bee in math, chemistry and science, and inventors who want to join any competition. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

MGB 13 conducts in-house training on basic drone operation

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Caraga recently conducted an in-house training on basic drone operation held this city.

The training aims to capacitate MGB’s field technical personnel by equipping them with basic knowledge and skills in conducting and operating the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) commonly known as “DRONE”, an acronym for Dynamic Remotely Operated Navigation Equipment.

Beda Louie O. Cagampang, Senior Geologist of the Geosciences Division, conducted the echo orientation and training for selected geologists, mining engineers, and geodetic engineers.

The training consisted of two components that included lecture series and a field demonstration on basic drone flight planning and operation.

While, the lectures focused on the introduction to the use and applications of drone technology, safety guidelines for drone operation, the basic air law of the Philippines, and acquisition of license in piloting UAV based on the regulations of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

The field component used the DJI simulation in determining the flight path for the aerial survey conducted in Sitio Looc, Barangay Punta Bilar.

Each participant was able to test by actual hands-on exercise the basics of flying and manipulating the drone to collect real-time visual data.

The MGB Caraga acquired a drone in November 2018. At that time, Cagampang attended the Basic Training Course in operating DJI Phantom 4 Professional V2.0 at the MGB Central Office.

Mapping with the use of a drone is an effective tool in facilitating data acquisition safely and more efficiently in the field and in improving timeliness and quality of output for the various geoscientific assessments, mining investigations and environmental monitoring activities of the Office.

It is aligned with the overarching objectives of the MGB Central Office to adopt and apply new technologies to enhance its various field assessment and regulatory enforcement functions in the delivery of best possible services to the public. (MGB 13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

153 AgNor IPs, OSYs graduate from Army’s mobile computer literacy training

By 1Lt Nonette B. Banggad

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Sept. 26 -- A total of 153 indigenous peoples (IPs) and out of school youths (OSYs) graduated from the Army’s mobile computer literacy (MCL) training in Santiago, Agusan del Norte on September 16, 2019.

The students who completed the MCL training were composed of 78 IPs and 75 OSYs, where 23 are males and 130 are females.

Mayor Franklin D. Lim of the municipality of Santiago through Roger B. Tonio, Municipal Planning and Development Officer, expressed his deep gratitude to the Army for their MCL program.

Buenafe G. Enaya, the supervising specialist of TESDA, emphasized the importance of computer literacy in modern technologies as this will give the youth an advantage over others.

Datu Roldan Porogoy, Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of Santiago also expressed his heartful thanks to the Philippine Army for their MCL training as this training provided opportunities to young IP and OSY to learn the use of computers which have been of great benefit to the young people in their everyday lives.

Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB, lauded the youths for their ccoperation, “You, young men and women did well by investing your time and effort in learning computer operations."

"The skill and lessons that you've gained in this course, will open your mind to the possibilities and opportunities that are just there waiting for you. However, your success will depend not just on having the skill but more importantly, on how you apply it to become productive citizens and members of your barangay, and your overall community,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Executive Officer, 402nd Brigade, also thanked the local government unit of Santiago and other stakeholders who have supported the training. "Your efforts to support this kind of endeavor proved that you value the future of our young Lumads and out of school youths. To the youths, the learnings which you have acquired will form part of your personal development leading to better opportunities that can help uplift your lives and inspire those around you. So, make the most out of it,” he said.

This MCL training dubbed as Project “GAKAL” (Gabay Aral para sa Kabataang Lumad), is in line with the Executive Order No. 70 mandated by Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and development to various conflict-affected areas. Such program was initiated by the Philippine Army in collaboration with other agencies and local government units. Its purpose is to provide access to computer education to the marginalized sectors of the community especially the IP and OSY.

Two batches of MCL graduates were produced in the municipality of Santiago this year for a total of 310. The next target beneficiaries will be the youths from the municipality of Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR). (CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

DepEd SurSur orders massive info campaign vs NPA’s recruitment

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 26 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division based in Balilahan, Mabua, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, in coordination with the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) has issued an office memorandum order on Sept. 16, 2019 to elementary and secondary schools to reproduce the “CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front) Hands-Off Our Children, Save our Youth” advocacy posters in large format to be displayed in all of the schools’ conspicuous areas. The memorandum order was officially made public on Sept. 20, 2019.

This is in line with the DepEd’s continuous commitment to declare schools as peace zones. Anti-government groups discredited this initiative but the DepEd and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stood firm in their mandate to protect the youth from being victims of the Communist NPA Terrorist deceptive recruitment scheme.

With the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) institutionalizing the Whole-Of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, various government institutions like the DepEd and AFP along with concerned stakeholders, particularly the parents, took bold steps and trailblazing initiatives to protect their children from being victims of CNT front organizations’ deception.

Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of 3SFBn, lauded the DepEd-Surigao Sur for their trailblazing initiative. “DepEd Surigao Sur Schools Division is the first in the education sector to officially issue this kind of memorandum in our area of operations. If I’m not mistaken, maybe even in the whole Caraga region and this is worth recognizing and emulating,” he said.

“We are grateful because the military can only do so much. Insurgency cannot be resolved through military solution alone. The recruitment and organizing works of the Communist NPA terrorists comprise 70% of their activities and that should be addressed by the combined efforts of all government agencies and our stakeholders. It can be done through this example by starting from our homes and our schools,” LTC Baybayan added.

Danilo Alcantara of DepEd-Surigao Sur said that all schools will hang the advocacy tarp. "We will monitor the field to ensure 100% implementation,” he added. (3SFBn, PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

AgNor LGU welcomes over 200 NPA surenderees

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Agusan del Norte has welcomed and received the more than 200 members and supporters of the New People’s Army in the three barangays of Agusan del Norte, who have voluntarily surrendered to the folds of the law and promised to closely coordinate with the government to help curb the problem on insurgency in the area.

This was in time with the conduct of the Provincial Peace And Order Council (PPOC) immersion held in Barangay Tagbongabong in the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR).

According to Rocky, a former member of the Militia Ng Bayan, his voluntary surrender to the government meant a lot to his family, as he would now be able to spend quality time with them and could now send his children to school.

“I’m happy to see my family again and will now live peacefully with them. My children would now go to school and I will be there to guide them,” he said.

Edwin, another surrenderee, also shared his hardships and sufferings while he was still in the organization. He expressed his hope that his decision of going back to the mainstream society will ultimately improve his way of living.

“It’s been hard, but now that I’m back in the community, I’m optimistic that there’s a lot of opportunities that I could avail from the government’s programs and services,” he said.

According to Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, commander of 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, the Barangays Tagbungabong, Balang-Balang, San Antonio and Mahaba are rebel-infested areas, where the terrorist-NPAs recruit new members and supporters.

Along with the conduct of the PPOC immersion in Barangay Tagbongabong, the local residents also declared the NPAs as persona non-grata. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Mahigit 2,000 residente nakinabang sa 'Project Heart' ng PNP Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Set. 27 (PIA) -- Mahigit 2,000 residente sa Barangay San Antonio, bayan ng Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) sa Agusan del Norte ang nakinabang sa isinagawang outreach program kamakailan na tinawag na “Project Kasing-Kasing” o “Project Heart” ng Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga, 33 porsyento nito ay mga Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

Tumanggap ng libreng gamot ang mga residente matapos dumaan sa medical check-up, tooth extraction, eye check-up, at circumcision. Nabigyan din sila ng school supplies, tsinelas, laruan, libreng gupit, at food packs.

Laking pasasalamat din ni Mayor Richard Daquipil sa PNP dahil sa napili ang kanyang barangay na maging benepisyaryo ng outreach program. Ang Barangay San Antonio ay napabilang sa NPA-affected barangay sa rehiyon ng caraga.

Ilan-ilang insidente na rin ang naitala sa lugar kung saan nagdulot ng pangamba sa seguridad ng mga residente. Matatandaan na noong nakaraang taon, tatlong sundalo ang napatay sa pag-ambush ng teroristang grupong Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) sa nasabing lugar.

Ayon kay dating PNP Caraga Regional Director Police Brigadier General Gilberto Dc Cruz, ang “Project Heart” ay flagship program ng Police Regional Office 13 na layung matulungan ang mga kababayang mahihirap na nasa liblib na lugar ng rehiyon. layun din nitong mas pagtibayin pa ang magandang relasyon ng mga kapulisan sa ibat-ibang komunidad na apektado ng insurhensiya.

Ito ay isang paraan din ng PNP sa pagpapatupad ng Executive Order No. 70 o ang whole of nation approach sa pagsugpo ng insurhensiya at pagkamit ng pangmatagalan na kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa bansa.

Ibinahagi rin ng opisyal na mula Enero hanggang Agosto ngayong taon, may kabuuang 2,000 Caraganons na ang nakabenepisyo sa kanilang “Project Heart.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

'Tsuper iskolar' ng TESDA at DOTr, inilunsad sa Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 27 (PIA) -- Sa harap ng pagpapatupad ng Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) ng pamahalaan, isinusulong din ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) at Department of Transportation (DOTr) ang "Tsuper Iskolar" Program para tulungan ang operators, drivers at maging sa iba pang stakeholder gayundin ang kanilang mga kaanak.

Layun ng programang “Tsuper Iskolar” na makapagbigay ng skills training at madagdagan ang kaalaman ng mga benepisyaryo sa PUVMP, pati na sa entrepreneurship o pagnenegosyo.

Sa isinagawang pagtitipon ng mga operators, drivers at ibat-ibang sektor sa lungsod ng Butuan, mas naintindihan nila ang magandang intensyon at oportunidad na hatid ng nasabing programa.

“Buo po ang aking suporta sa programang ito ng gobyerno at alam kong marami itong matutulongan. Mabibigyan po ng oportunidad na patuloy pa rin ang kabuhayan ng mga maaapektuhan ng modernization program sa pamamagitan nitong tsuper iskolar program,” pahayag ni Elizalde Mission, operator of Balangay Transport Service Cooperative (BALTRANSCO).

Ayon kay Dir. Florencio Sunico, spokesperson ng TESDA, alinsunod ang scholarship program sa nilagdaang memorandum of agreement ng DOTr at TESDA noong December 11, 2018 para sa Stakeholder Support Mechanism Component ng PUVMP.

Sa ilalim ng tsuper iskolar, makatatanggap ng food at transportation allowance ang mga benepisyaryo habang sumasailalim sa pagsasanay.

Sinabi naman ni Atty. Martin Delgra III, chairperson ng Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), na layon ng ahensiya na mapalago pa ang transport sector at umangat ang kakayanan at pamumuhay ng sektor at kanilang kaanak. Base sa kanilang monitoring, positibo ang pagtanggap ng mga Caraganon sa nasabing programa, at marami pa itong matutulongan.

Samantala, ibinahagi naman ni TESDA Caraga Regional Director Ashary Banto na marami na ring indibidwal mula sa ibat-ibang sektor ang komunsulta sa kanilang ahensiya at nais makabenepisyo sa scholarship program.

Regular din daw na pinapatupad ng ahensiya ang iba pang programang tutugon sa pangangailangan ng sektor sa rehiyon.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

200 miyembro, supporters ng NPA nagbalik-loob sa gobyerno

By May Amor O. Alabado

LUNGSOD NG CABADBARAN, Agusan del Norte, Setyembre 27 (PIA) -- Mahigit 200 myembro at supporters ng New People's Army o NPA sa tatlong barangay ng RTR, Agusan del Norte ang nagbalik loob at makikipagtulongan sa gobyerno upang tuluyang sugpuin ang insurhensiya sa lugar.

Sa ginawang provincial peace and order council o PPOC immersion sa barangay ng Tagbongabong sa bayan ng RTR, nanumpa silang itakwil ang teroristang grupo at nangakong makipagtulungan sa gobyerno at makipag-ugnayan sila sa militar upang tuluyang masugpo ang mga gawaing terorista ng mga NPA.

Pahayag pa ni Rocky, dating miyembro ng militia ng bayan, malaki ang tulong ng kanyang pagbabalik-loob sa gobyerno dahil makapag-aral na ng maayos ang kanyang anak.

Isinalaysay din ni Edwin ang hirap na kanyang naranasan noong siya pa ay miyembro ng NPA, umaasa siyang sa pagbabalik-loob nya sa gobyerno mag iba ang takbo ng kanyang buhay.

Ayon kay Brigadier General Maurito Licudine ng 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army ang barangay ng Tagbungabong, Balang-balang, San Antonio at Mahaba sa bayan ng RTR ay mga rebel-infested barangays kung saan dito ang mga NPA kumukuha ng mga bago nilang kaanib at mga susuporta. (May Amor O. Alabado/NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Statement of PCOO Sec. Andanar on Maria Ressa's opinion piece at The Los Angeles Times

We have read Maria Ressa's 25 September 2019 opinion piece at The Los Angeles Times, entitled "Opinion: Americans, look to the Philippines to see a dystopian future created by social media."

It is tragic that Ms. Ressa remains out of touch with the political realities on the ground as she continues to insinuate that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte won through lies and fake propaganda as she claims that “lies laced with anger and hate began to systematically tear our democracy apart in the Philippines,” and that “Like a virus, this disease spread fast. With the help of social media, President Rodrigo Duterte was elected in May 2016.”

The President won fair and square and trashed his nearest political rival with the largest electoral margin in Philippine history. Simply put, the CEO of Rappler refuses to accept that the President is what the people truly wanted and needed. The people hoped for an action man who can bring positive change to their lives and the Filipino people got what they wanted and truly wanted. His style of governance, albeit unorthodox, resonates with the people. This is not democracy being torn apart but rather democracy naturally playing out.

The results speak for themselves. Three years into President Duterte’s term, he maintained a high satisfaction rating where 80% of Filipinos are satisfied with his performance, and 85% approve of and trust the President according to two independent pollsters, notwithstanding all the black propaganda and loud political noise waged against the President and his Administration.

To debunk the "destruction of democracy" (in the words of Ms. Ressa), a non-commissioned survey conducted in the third quarter of 2018, disclosed that 84% of Filipinos are satisfied with the way democracy works in the country. Ironically, the latter was even reported by Ms. Ressa's own news website.

Again, Ms. Ressa continues to cite the baseless number of “27,000” drug addicts that were allegedly killed, which is actually the total homicide cases including cases not related to the drug war. Sticking to the hard facts that came from our law enforcement agencies, the number of unfortunate deaths from legitimate police operations are only 5,526.

The government reiterates that this anti-illegal drug campaign is backed by the public. In the second quarter, 82% of adult Filipinos are satisfied with this campaign according to another Social Weather Stations survey.

Moreover, the government assures that it does not employ “disinformation tactics." This is not the policy and the practice of the Duterte administration. Our office at the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) is at the forefront to combat disinformation not only to clear out matters that concern the government but also to empower individuals to be responsible and vigilant consumers of media, especially in the digital space, through our “Dismiss Disinformation” campaign and other of our many programs.

The allegations of Ms. Ressa that activists and news organizations face “top-down persecution by the government” are baseless and absurd. In fact, despite hurling criticisms against news organizations that carry fake news about his administration, the Chief Executive still signed his very first administrative order as Chief Executive creating an inter-agency body tasked to protect members of the press. The President also recently signed Republic Act 11458, which expands the coverage of exemptions from revealing the source of published news or information obtained in confidence.

Nevertheless, the Duterte government makes sure that justice is served, regardless of any political leaning. It is not the policy and practice of the current government to “harass” dissenters, as we only present our side of the story. The national government will keep on telling the truth, and we remain confident the people themselves will tell President Duterte’s true legacy. (PCOO)

Sec. Esperon to public: Help prevent NPA's recruitment to studes in HEIs

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 30 (PIA) -- With the government’s strengthened campaign against the recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to students of various colleges and universities in the country, National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., urged all stakeholders to be cautious and help prevent such acts of the communist-terrorist groups.

He said President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s administration gives priority to education to ensure the youth’s bright future. Hence, it also assures the provision of appropriate programs, projects, and opportunities for the youth’s welfare.

“Remember that the president, it is the president who wants for free tertiary education in all the state universities. So you can say that he has a big concern for education especially for those who could not afford to a more expensive tertiary learning institutions,“ said Sec. Esperon.

Esperon was also dismayed on several youths who were deceived and recruited by the CPP-NPA and were not able to continue their education. However, he also cited the significant number of young NPA members who surrendered to the folds of the law.

“We’ve seen that there are Grades 3 and 5 who were included in the surrenderees. Just imagine if only they were given the chance to continue their education, they could have experienced a happy childhood. And that is why we are now very strong on alternative learning systems and TESDA skills trainings and scholarship program because we want to capacitate our human resources,” said Esperon.

The official also emphasized that provinces of Caraga region could have been more developed without the chaos, exploitation, and abuse among indigenous peoples and farmers that were instigated by the CPP-NPA.

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) has been stepping up its effort and initiatives with the different sectors in Caraga to continuously address the insurgency problem in the barangay level.

Meanwhile, Esperon stressed that barangay officials should take this move seriously to help the government achieve lasting peace and development in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor villages avail free services

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 30 (PIA) -- As the government intensifies the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict in the Caraga region, the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC)-Agusan del Norte has conducted another immersion in the three barangays of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) town.

More than 800 residents from different walks of life in the barangays of Tagbongabong, San Antonio and Balang-Balang of RTR have availed and benefitted from the medical, dental and social services, including legal consultations held in Barangay Tagbongabong.

Krizia Mae Mangadlao, a six-month pregnant from Barangay Balang-Balang was one of the beneficiaries who also received a buntis kit from the government. She said she was able to save some money intended to buy things for her baby.

“This is really of great help to me and the rest of the pregnant women. I hope this kind of activity will continue to help more Agusanons,” said Mangadlao.

The senior citizens also availed of the free services, which included Rosalinda Mundia, who benefitted from the free medicines.

“Thank you to all the government agencies who took part in this immersion and we continue to give our trust and confidence to the administration,” Mundia said.

Mayor Richard Daquipil was thankful to the different government agencies for choosing the municipality of RTR as the venue for the conduct of PPOC immersion, as it was the first time that such kind of activity was held in their area.

This, according to the mayor, is one of the ways to show to the locals that the government is doing its best to provide what they need by bringing the services closer to the people.

Mayor Daquipil also urged all residents to help the government in its effort to address the problem on insurgency.

The barangays of Tagbongabong, Mahaba, San Antonio and Balang-Balang were among the identified rebel-infested barangays in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Investment forum opens opportunities to coffee farmers in Surigao Sur

By Dir. Cleon Lester Chavez

TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 30-- Opportunities sparked for coffee farmers after the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) held an investment forum last September 11, here.

Dubbed “Maximizing Gains in Marketing Niche Through Product Enrichment,” the forum sought to explore potential marketing contracts, buyers and linkages to different financial institutions that will provide investment to the agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs).

DAR Caraga Regional Director Leomides Villareal challenged the coffee farmers to take to heart the learnings from the investment forum.

“It is very timely that we promote and showcase our locally-produced coffee,” he said.

As a side activity, the actual cupping session was conducted by Mark Anthony Balahay, a licensed Q Grader in Caraga.

Among the activities conducted during the forum included roasting, brewing, and tasting of the sample coffee beans produced by the Mabuhay Coffee Growers Cooperative and Barangay Villaberde Coffee Growers Cooperative.

Balahay explained that the forum would cater to the specific requirements of the buyers depending on how coffee beans are being processed, either wet or dry.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Leoncio C. Bautista, Jr. expressed hopes that this initiative, carried out under the Project Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment, would open opportunities for the farmers, especially in the Barobo-Tagbina agrarian reform communities.

“I’m looking forward to bigger marketing contracts that will help increase the income of the farmers”, PARPO Bautista said.

Among the invited potential buyers and investors were Tribung Kape Inc., Coffee Industrial Machinery Cooperation, ACDI/VOCA PhilCAFE Project, Consolidated Cooperative Bank, Rizal Micro Banking, First Integrated Community Cooperative and Land Bank of the Philippines. (DAR/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

6 NPAs surrender to Army in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 30 (PIA)– Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) of the weakened Guerilla Front 14 North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (WGF14, NEMRC) have voluntarily surrendered to the troops of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion (75IB), Philippine Army based in Bislig City, this province on Sept. 23, 2019, a military official confirmed.

Capt. Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Officer, identified the surrenderees as AKA Bong, AKA Pat, AKA Adan, AKA Shiela, AKA Bugoy and AKA Galo.

Francisco said they have also surrendered several war materials, namely: one M4 Carbine; two cal. 45 pistol; one M16A1 rifle (Elisco); one M653 assault rifle; four rifle grenades; live ammunition; and three bandoliers.

The surrenderees will undergo the process of validation before they will be enrolled in a government program intended for Former Rebels (FRs) - the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). The process included the documentation, debriefing, and psychosocial intervention, the official said.

They will receive immediate cash assistance, reintegration, and livelihood assistance, as well. The firearms and weapons they surrendered will be assessed and the remuneration depends on the condition if it is serviceable or not, Capt. Francisco added.

Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to surrender and return to the folds of the government.

The official is optimistic to accomplish their mission with the support from people in the community and the local government units under their area of responsibility. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

NPA bomb expert surrenders in SurSur

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 30 (PIA) -- A New People’s Army (NPA) bomb expert identified as AKA Junio surrendered to the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB) headquarters in Bislig City on Sept. 24, 2019.

According to 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer Captain Edwin Leo Francisco, he brought along with him several war materials composed of one cal. 45 pistol, one magazine loaded with five rounds cal. 45, and one 357 revolver with four rounds of ammunition.

Capt. Francisco said AKA Junio was convinced by his comrades to surrender to the 75IB. Through proper coordination, the troops extended its assistance to secure for his safety, to live a normal life with his family and children.

"Wala na ko gaduha-duha nga mosurrender sa 75IB. Gusto na ko nga magpuyo nga malinawon kauban ang akong pamilya nga wala nay gikahadlukan pa (I did not hesitate to surrender to the 75IB. I want to live in peace with my family without worrying)," AKA Junio said.

Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda called on the remaining NPA terrorists to go back to the folds of the government. (75IB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

US, PH launch food for progress program

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 30 -- The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), together with the Philippine government, launched today a new 'Food for Progress' project focused on strengthening sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulatory systems in the Philippines.

On Friday, September 27, visiting U.S. Undersecretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Ted McKinney met with Philippine Undersecretary of Agriculture Rodolfo Vicerra and Undersecretary of Health Rolando Enrique Domingo to discuss the four-year project, which will be funded with the proceeds of donated U.S. agricultural commodities sold in the Philippine market. The most recent Food for Progress project in the Philippines used U.S. soybean meal as the donated commodity.

“This project aims to strengthen Philippine food security by delivering their consumers and agribusiness access to safe, affordable, and nutritious foods and feedstuffs through an improved regulatory framework based on risk-based principles and streamlined processes that ultimately enhance livelihoods while increasing opportunities for United States-Philippines trade,”McKinney said.

Meanwhile, Vicerra said, "The Department of Agriculture welcomes this opportunity to enhance the capacity of its regulatory agencies in ensuring that food safety, sanitary and phytosanitary concerns are addressed alongside the flow of trade.”

Domingo also added that he is “optimistic that the collaboration brought about by this project will strengthen the regulatory function capacity of the Philippines Food and Drug Administration. This will enable the agency to develop a risk-based regulatory system that will promote effective and efficient outcomes.”

Food for Progress is a USDA program that partners with developing countries and emerging democracies committed to introducing and expanding free enterprise in the agricultural sector.

USDA has selected Winrock International through a competitive award process to implement the project with an estimated $8.5 million operating budget. The project will pursue activities to strengthen Philippine regulatory agencies’ SPS systems through the adoption of risk-based and international standards to facilitate agricultural trade. (U.S. Embassy Manila/PIA-Caraga)

#FoodForProgressProject

Pinakaunang batch ng trainees sumabak na sa Masonry course ng TESDA

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 30 (PIA) -- Sumasabak na sa isang buwang pagsasanay ang 25 trainees ng Mobile Training Program sa Masonry National Certificate II ng Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga.

Isa itong inisyatibo ng TESDA kasama ang non-government organization na Villar SIPAG (Social Institute for Poverty Alleviation and Governance) upang mas mapalago pa ang construction industry sa rehiyon.

Isa si Alejandro Golle sa mga sumailalim sa nasabing training at nangakong pagbubutihin ang kanyang pagsasanay para makapasok at makapagtrabaho sa construction company pagkatapos ng isang buwang training.

“Malaki po ang aking pasasalamat sa TESDA kasi dahil dito madagdagan ang aking eksperyensa sa masonry at pagkatapos nito, mayroon na akong certificate sa masonry,” sabi ni Golle.

“Para sa aking mga kasamahan, nasimulan na natin ito kaya ipagpatuloy lang natin para matapos natin ang training at maging NC II holder,” pahayag ni Dennis Destreza.

Ayon kay TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Ashary Banto, ang nasabing pagsasanay ay bilang suporta na rin sa Build, Build, Build (BBB) program ng gobyerno. Nasa 250 trainees ang kanilang target sa lungsod.

“Ang training na ito ay naka-align sa standards kung ano yung latest na strategy or techniques at procedures sa construction industry. Kasi ang bottom line natin dito, kung may graduate tayo sa ilalim ng TESDA, madali na yung employment facilitation,” sabi ni Banto.

Dagdag pa ng opisyal, pagkatapos sa Butuan City, lilibot din sila sa Surigao del Norte, at iba pang probinsya ng rehiyon.

Para sa mga interesadong sumailalim sa trainings ng TESDA, hinimok ni Dir. Banto ang mga ito na bumisita sa pinakamalapit na TESDA office sa kanilang lugar upang malaman ang requirements.

Samantala, tiniyak naman ni Genome Jun Fortun, regional coordinator ng Villar SIPAG na ang mga trainees na masisipag at may pagmamamhal sa trabaho ay kanilang kukuning empleyado sa kanilang mga construction companies.

“Pagkatapos ng training, automatic na ma-hire sa construction company ang mga trainees. Ang hiling ko lang, galingan niyo sa training. Ang iba dito may alam na sa masonry pero madaragdagan pa ang inyong mga kaalaman at sana’y gamitin niyo yan as tool para sa mga bahay na inyong kinokonstrak,” sabi ni Fortun. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Mga magulang mula sa ibat-ibang barangay sa Butuan City, tinalakay ang mental health

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Setyembre 30 (PIA) -- Bagamat abala sa trabaho, gawaing bahay at pag-aalaga ng mga anak, naglaan ng oras ang ilang mga magulang mula sa ibat-ibang barangay sa lungsod para sa ika-27th selebrasyon ng National Family Week ngayong buwan ng Setyembre.

Kabilang sa mga tinalakay rito ang usapin sa mental health and wellness, responsible parenting at family planning.

Sa tulong ng resource persons mula sa mga kinauukulang ahensiya ng pamahalaan, nadagdagan pa ang kaalaman ng mga magulang sa mga mahahalagang usapin sa pamilya lalo na ang positibong pagdidisiplina sa mga anak.

Isa si Ellen Malalom, residente ng Barangay Pagatpatan na may 10 anak sa aktibong nakibahagi rito kung saan ibinahagi niya ang kanyang mga karanasan at hamong kinakaharap ng kanyang pamilya.

Sinabi niya na hindi madali ang pagiging magulang lalo na’t sampu ang kaniyang anak, at ilan dito ay minsan na ring napabilang sa “child at risk” o yung mga minor-de-edad na naglalayas o nasa lansangan.

“Hindi madali ang pagiging magulang sa mga anak lalu na sa akin na 10 sila. Minsan na rin akong dumaan sa depresyon dahil sa mga problema at hamon sa aming pamilya. Patuloy lang tayong manalig at huwag mawalan ng pagasa. Mas lalo nating ipakita sa ating mga anak kung gaano natin sila kamahal,” pahayag ni Malalom.

Ayon kay Luzvilla Fortun, focal person ng family, women and community section ng City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) sa Butuan, mahalaga ang paglaan ng oras at komunikasyon sa bawat miyembro ng pamilya upang maiwasan ang ano mang hindi pagkakaintindihan at nang maayos agad ang ano mang problema.

“Patuloy an gaming ginagawang counseling sa mga magulang sa mga barangay at handa kaming tumulong sa bawat pamilya na nangangailangan ng patnubay. Isinusulong natin ang mga aktibidad na mas lalu pang magpapatibay sa relasyon ng pamilya,” sabi ni Fortun.

Samantala, binigyang-diin din ni Edilyn Pujadas, focal person for family sector ng DSWD-Caraga na kailangang pagtuonan ng pansin ang mental health dahil ito ang kadalasang isyu sa pamilya partikular na ang pagkakaroon ng depresyon.

“Mahalaga na mas matutukan pa ng mga kinauukulang ahensiya ang isyu sa mental health dahil marami na rin ang nakakaranas nito. Ito rin ang madalas na isyu sa pamilya na nababaliwala at nagdudulot pa ng ibang problema, kaya napapanahon ang ating isinasagawang forum ngayon upang mas maintindihan ng mga magulang at pamilya ang pagkakaroon ng kompleto at panatag na pamilya,” sabi ni Pujadas.

Kaugnay nito, aktibo rin ang Regional Inter-Agency Committee for Filipino Family (RIAC-FF) Caraga sa pagawa ng mga aktibidad na mas magpapatibay pa sa relasyon ng bawat pamilya sa rehiyon. Patuloy din ang pagpapatupad ng mga programa para sa ikauunlad ng mga komunidad.

Ang taunang selebrasyon ay alinsunod sa Presidential Proclamation No. 60 na nilagdaan noong September 28, 1992. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Parents from Butuan barangays tackle mental health, responsible parenting

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 1 (PIA) -- Despite of their busy schedule from work, household chores and other activities, parents from various barangays of this city convened recently for the 27th National Family Week celebration this month of September.

Issues and concerns on mental health and responsible parenting were discussed during the event.

Through the invited guest speakers from the different concerned government agencies, parents gained more knowledge on significant family concerns, including how to positively discipline their children.

Ellen Malalom, who has 10 children, was among the participants who shared her parental experiences, as well as the challenges that confront her family.

She said, becoming a parent is not easy especially that she has 10 kids to raise and feed daily. She further relayed how she was disheartened when some of her kids were once among the “child at risk” or those minors who escape from home and live on the streets.

“I’ve overcome depression and I hope other parents who are also suffering from it could change their perspective on how they view life despite of the challenges. Parenting is never easy. We should give our best to provide our family’s needs and during tough times, we should show our children that we care and love them, instead of making them feel they add burden to our shortcomings,” said Malalom.

Luzvilla Fortun, focal person on family, women and community section of the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) in Butuan, stressed the importance of giving quality time and constant communication to every member of the family in order to prevent any misunderstandings and to resolve any family issues.

“We regularly conduct counseling to the parents in the different barangays and discuss with them how we could intervene as our way of helping the family cope with any anxiety or family problem,” Fortun said.

Meanwhile, Edilyn Pujadas, focal person for family sector of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga emphasized the need to promote mental health and wellness in the family, as this was the commonly raised issue including depression among members.

“The DSWD and other government agencies have programs and services that will address family issues, and we are ready to help them anytime,” said Pujadas.

In line with this, the Regional Inter-Agency Committee for Filipino Family (RIAC-FF) Caraga continues to conduct activities that will strengthen family ties and relationship, as well as community development.

The annual celebration is pursuant to proclamation no. 60 dated September 28, 1992. It is the government's policy “to fortify solidarity in the family and actively work for its total development.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Drug rehab center sa AgSur bukas na

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 1 (PIA) -- Matapos ang mahigit isang taon mula nang masimulan ang konstruksiyon ng Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center ng Department of Health (DOH) sa Barangay Alegria, San Francisco sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur, natanggap na rin ng rehab center ang certificate of completion noong August 23, 2019.

Kaya naman puspusan ang ginawang paghahanda ng mga kawani ng Department of Health (DOH), lokal na pamahalaan ng Agusan del Sur at iba pang kinauukulang ahensiya.

Sa opisyal na pagbubukas ng rehab center, handang-handa ang mga doktor at nurses na aalalay sa pagpapagaling ng mga biktima ng ilegal na droga.

Ayon kay Dr. Melhammid Tomawis, chief of hospital II, nasa 150 pasyente ang kapasidad ng rehab center, 100 nito para sa mga lalaki at 50 naman sa mga babae. Ito ang pinakamalaki sa Caraga at pinakaunang rehab center sa Mindanao na tumatanggap na ng babaeng pasyente. At bago matapos ang taong ito, nasa 100 ang kanilang target na mapagamot.

Dito sa Mindanao, Caraga pa lamang ang mayroong rehab center na tumatanggap na ng babaeng pasyente.

Nabigyan naman ng malaking pag-asa ang mga Agusanon na sa pamamagitan nito, mas mapapadali na ang pagpapagaling ng mga biktima ng ilegal na droga at hindi na rin kailangan pang pumunta sa malayong lugar dahil nasa probinsya na mismo ang rehab center.

“Masayang malaman na mayroon na tayong rehab center dito sa Agusan del Sur dahil yung mga nalulung sa ilegal na droga ay magagamot na dito, at hindi na kailangan pang pumunta ng Davao o sa ibang lugar para magpagamot,” pahayag ni Gebert Son, residente ng San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa gobyerno dahil binibigyan talaga nila ng atensyon ang problema sa illegal na droga,” sabi ni Richel Robles, residente sa San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Binigyang-diin din Agnes Cullantes, Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment coordinator ng DOH-Center for Health (CHD) Caraga na hindi sila tumitigil sa kanilang adbokasiya at aktibidad sa mga barangay upang tuluyang malayo ang mga residente sa masamang naidudulot ng ilegal na droga.

Hinimok naman ni Gobernador Santiago Cane ang lahat na makiisa sa gobyerno at tumulong sa pagsugpo ng ilegal na droga. Mahigpit rin ang kaniyang direktiba sa mga law enforcers sa paghuli sa mga sangkot nito. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Badjaos get free food, haircut this Maritime week

By Nole C. Nusog

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 1 -- For this year’s celebration of the Maritime week, a community of Badjaos got themselves a treat when members of the Surigao Port Community led by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) conducted on Thursday, September 26, 2019 community service at their settlement in Canlanipa, a coastal barangay in this city.

The Badjaos were treated with hot arroz caldo and a team of hairdressers offering free haircuts.

Over a steaming cup of the popular chicken rice porridge, tribe elder Dahilah Ahmad said that her fellow Badjaos were rather surprised and yet grateful for the treat since it is not every day that people make an effort to visit them as a community and recognize them as a group or tribe.

"It's usually only during election campaigns or the holiday season that they actually get to have things or food given to them," Ahmad added.

Commonly found at harbor waters of most major seaports in the country, the Badjao's nautical, itinerant lifestyle has earned them the nickname ‘sea nomads’ or ‘sea gypsies.’ Traditionally, the Badjaos lived on houseboats moving through the sea to fish and dive for pearls, sea urchins and/or coins thrown by passengers on board ships at the ports.

Today, with the crackdown on coin diving at ports and strict implementation of security regulations at harbor waters of port zones, the Badjaos now mostly live at coastal settlements like the one in Barangay Canlanipa.

Around 200 families were given the arroz caldo treat while a hundred individuals availed of the free haircut.

A joint effort of the PPA Port Management Office in Surigao, the Philippine Coast Guard Surigao del Norte Station, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) 13 and the Philippine Navy 72nd Naval Group Reserved, the feeding program/free haircut initiative is part of the activities held in celebration of the 24th Maritime Week 2019. (SDR/PPA-Surigao/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

28 NPAs, supporters in Tandag give up arms

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 1 (PIA) -- A total of 28 Communist New People's Army terrorists (CNTs) composed of regular members, Milisya ng Bayan affiliates, and mass supporters voluntarily surrendered to the Community Support Program (CSP) team of the 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB) in Sitio Banahao, Barangay Maitum, this city on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, an army official confirmed.

According to 36IB Civil-Military Operation Officer Lt. Jonald Romorosa, the said surrenderees are all residents of Sitio Banahao. Romorosa claimed that the CNTs manipulated the IP community of their ideology and propaganda.

"The CSP team unmasked the propaganda and deceptive strategy of the CNTs on the ground, through the immersion efforts of the troops," said Romorosa.

Alias Lim, a former Squad Leader of Squad 2, Platoon 2 of the weakened Guerilla Front 30, said he suffered so much hardship from the organization (CNTs). He then called for the CNTs to stop the propaganda to their community. He also urged them to lay down their arms and abandon their futile struggle against the government.

Meanwhile, 36IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the mass surrender in Surigao del Sur is the result of the military’s relentless combat operation against the CNTs and the immersion of the CSP Teams to the CNT-affected areas.

“The CNT operating in the province of Surigao del Sur is on the verge of collapse as they are continuously losing mass base support. We are expecting more to surrender from this development where the community started to realize the CNTs' deception and their futile armed struggle,” said Lt. Col. Trinidad. (With a report from 36IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

5th Caraga mining confab opens in Surigao City

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 1 (PIA) -- The city of Surigao has once again hosted the 5th Caraga Mining Symposium and Safety Competition on Sept. 26-27, 2019 at the Grand Convention Center of the Philippine Gateway Hotel here.

The two-day event with the theme, “Mining Industry: A catalyst for Economically Sustainable and Environmentally Resilient Communities” was made possible through the cooperation and partnership of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 13, Chamber of Mines Caraga Region, Inc. (CMCRI), Philippine Society of Mining Engineers, Caraga Mine Safety and Health Council, Caraga Mine Environment Management Council, and Community Relations and Education Development Officers Organization.

CMCRI President Engr. Corsino L. Odtojan said the two day-event aims to intensify public awareness of the positive contributions of the mining industry in terms of establishing sustainable and resilient communities that can withstand the present and future economic and environmental challenges.

On his part, Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers enjoined the mining sector to be pro-active and institute more improved planning and development strategy and see to it that the people living in the mining communities are properly involved in all development processes.

“It is also essential for the mining companies and other mining players to efficiently implement the so-called Social Development Management Program (SDMP) as a way of giving back its share from the mining and subsequently help improved the well-being of the people,” Barbers added.

Caraga Region, particularly Surigao del Norte, has been known as the mining capital in the country since out of 50 metallic mines operating in the Philippines, 25 operate in Caraga Region with one of two nickel processing plants and one of two gold processing plants are also in the region.

Various activities such as motorcade, exhibit/booths, Sumba, variety show contest, press conference, fire drill, rescue, and transfer relay were conducted during the event attended by the officials from the local government units, academe, non-government organizations, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and mining companies. (Susil D. Ragas/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

AgNor town, Army partner in delivering social services

By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 1 -- The 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in partnership with the local government unit of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte, conducted recently an outreach program to the Higaonon tribe in Sitio Bokbokon, Brgy Lawan-lawan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte with the theme, “Panguyamo para ho kalandag daw kalambuan (Caring for peace and development).”

The activity aims to deliver social services to the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas of the said municipality. The services provided are free registration of Certificate of Live Birth; Marriage, Death, Delayed, Senior Citizen Registration; Philhealth membership; free medical consultation; tooth extraction; circumcision; haircut; distribution of free medicines, dental kits, used clothing, food packs, slippers, free ice cream, and snacks. It also included the awarding of sprayer item to the tribal leaders and tree planting activity.

More than 300 leaders and members of the Higaonon Tribe under the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 118 benefitted from the said activity.

Datu Ronald S. Manhumosay, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Las Nieves extended his gratitude to the efforts of the local government unit and the 23IB for bringing social services to the IP community. "We are thankful to the government and the 23IB for giving importance to the IP community by providing and bringing basic social services closer to us and for maintaining peace in our community.

We will support them in ending insurgency problem,” said Manhumusay.

"We created LENYCARES to bring the services of the government closer to the people. This is the result of our continuous efforts with the 23rd Infantry Battalion in eliminating insurgency in the locality. Moreover, this is our way of implementing Executive Order Number 70 or the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace,” said Las Nieves Mayor Avelina Rosales. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

TESDA chief graces mass graduation of FRs in SurSur

By Robert E. Roperos

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, October 3 -- Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday graced the mass graduation of some 145 former rebels (FRs) in Sitio Ibuan, Barangay Mampi, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur.

Speaking before the graduates and the local community, Sec. Lapeña emphasized that the undertaking was conceptualized through a “whole-of-nation” approach where government agencies are coordinating with each other to bring the government closer to the people.

Sec. Lapeña said the government has been doing everything to serve the people especially the marginalized sector as directed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“Gusto naming ipaalam sa lahat na ang mga ahensiya ng gobyerno natin ngayon ay nagsasama-sama upang mapagsilbihan kayo ng maayos bilang pagtugon sa directives ng ating mahal na Pangulo – Rodrigo Roa Duterte (We want everybody to know that the agencies of our government now are converging to serve you well heeding to the directives of our President – Rodrigo Roa Duterte)," he said.

The TESDA chief also pointed out that the president is even telling his cabinet secretaries not to stay in Manila but rather to go and visit in different places in the country so that they will know the actual scenario.

Prior to the mass graduation, Lapeña, together with Usec. Joann Burgos of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary led the inauguration of the Ibuan Enterprise Village where the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur has donated P500,000.00 while the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Caraga has also pledged P600,000.00 thru the employment scheme.

Meanwhile, 28 former rebels from Barangay Banahaw in Tandag City took their oath of allegiance before Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander T. Pimentel, signifying their support to the cause of the government.

In the morning, Lapeña visited the Marihatag town where the proposed Provincial Training Center of Surigao del Sur will be established.

Under the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) as mandated in Executive Order No. 70, TESDA is the lead agency of the said cluster. (TESDA Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PRLEC leads mass graduation, enterprise village launching in SurSur

By Lee M. Escobal

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 3 -- The Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflic (PTF-ELCAC) of Surigao del Sur in close collaboration with the 36th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army and other member agencies spearheaded the mass graduation and inauguration of the enterprise village on Oct. 1, 2019, at Sitio Ibuan, Brgy. Mampi, Lanuza, this province.

The activity was attended by Sec. Isidro "Sid" S. Lapeña, Director-General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) together with other TESDA officials, Usec. Jo Ann M. Burgos of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, MGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and Gov. Alexander Pimentel and other local officials.

A total of 699 training certificates were awarded to 145 trainees who successfully completed the 13 skills and livelihood trainings such as Small Engine Repair and Maintenance, Food Processing (Native Delicacies), Basic House Wiring, Organic Agriculture Production NC II, Spiritual and Values Training, Coco Twine Rope Production, Vegetable Production, Duck Raising, Native Chicken Production, Tilapia Production, Entrepreneurship Training, Animal Production (Swine) NC II and Abaca Production and Disease Management.

Of the nine enterprises identified for the Ibuan community, only three were inaugurated on Wednesday. These were the habal habal mini spare parts store and vulcanizing shop, the coco twine rope production and the bigasan sa Ibuan. Six more enterprises will open to include vegetable production, native chicken production, itik farming/balut production, hog production, tilapia production and Ibuan cold spring. The inauguration of the Ibuan Enterprise Village was made possible through the financial support of the provincial government of Surigao del Sur amounting to P500,000.

Also, Genebelle Bal, Provincial Head of the Department of Labor and Employment-Surigao del Sur, announced the P600,000 assistance through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) or the Emergency Employment Program.

In response, the Ibuan community through Mrs. Thelma J. Salazar, the former rebel representative; Danilo B. Duaso, representative of the community; and Hawudon Cherlito G. Juagpao, representative of the IP community, thanked the government for the support they have received. The beneficiaries also assured them of their full commitment to be advocates of peace and development in their community.

It can be recalled that Sitio Ibuan, Brgy. Mampi was the first community in the province, that declared the communist NPA terrorist as persona non grata. (TESDA/PIA Surigao del Sur)

PRLEC SurSur pinasinayaan ang enterprise village sa Sitio Ibuan

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

LUNGSOD NG TANDAG, Surigao del Sur, Oktubre 3 (PIA) -- Bilang pagtugon na matuldukan na ang local communist and armed conflict sa probinsya ng Surigao del Sur, inilunsad ng Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Development Cluster (PRLEC) sa pangunguna ng Technical Education Skills, and Development Authority (TESDA) ang inagurasyon ng Ibuan Enterprise sa mismong kumunidad ng Sitio Ibuan, Baranggay Mampi, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur araw ng Martes, Oktubre 1, 2019.

Kasabay nito, nagpaabot ang lokal na pamahalaan ng probinsiya sa pangunguna ni Governor Alexander Pimentel ng pinansyal na tulong na nagakakahalaga ng P500,000 na personal na inabot ang tseke sa nasabing okasyon.

Kasabay nito ang Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) naman ay nagbigay ng kanilang pangako na maglalaan ng P600,000.00 na pundo sa pamamagitan ng “TUPAD,” ang cash-for-work program ng nasabing ahensya.

Idinaos din ang isang mass graduation sa 145 former rebels na residente ng Sitio Ibuan. Sila ay nakatanggap ng umabot sa 669 sertipiko matapos sumailalaim sa iba’t ibang skills and livelihood training na pinagkaloob ng ibat-ibat ahensya ng gobyerno para sa mga katutubo simula ng mabuksan ang programa nuong Hulyo 18 ng kasalukuyang taon.

Base sa datos ng TESDA provincial office ng Surigao del Sur ang mga benepisyaryo ay sumasailalim sa mga sumusunod na Skills and Livelihood Programs: Spiritual and Values Training; Coco Twine Rope Production; Vegetable Production; Duck Raising; Native Chicken Production; Tilapia Production; Animal Production (Swine) NC II; Entrepreneurship Training; at Abaca Production. Kasalukuyang nagpapatuloy naman ang Masonry NC II, at Carpentry NC II.

Kasabay nito nagpaabot ng pasasalamat ang mga taga-Ibuan dahil sa wakas ay nakarating ang mga ibat-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno sa kanilang lugar upang magdala ng ibang-ibang tulong at serbisyo para sa mga residente doon.

Ayon naman kay Thelma Salazar, presidente ng Ibuan Peace Farmers organization (IPFO), kasalukuyang Barangay Kagawad ng Mampi at isa sa mga benepisyaryong programa, na malaki ang kanilang pasasalamat sa gobyerno sa ibinigay na pagkakataon at tulong na rin para sa kanila.

“Nagpapasalamat kami dahil ang mismong mga kinatawan na ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno ang pumupunta sa aming lugar upang magbigay ng kanilang serbisyo. Umaasa kami na taga rito sa Ibuan, na ang lahat ng tulong na pinagkaloob sa amin ay magtuloy-tuloy na kasabay ng kooperasyon naming lahat na mga residente dito,” sabi ni Salazar.

Dumalo naman ni Secretary Isidro Lapeña, ang Director-General ng TESDA upang personal na masaksihan ang nasabing okasyon kasama si Usec. Joann Burgos bilang representante ni Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexie Nograles.

Matatandaan, noong Marso 2, 2018, aabot sa 23 NPA supporters ang nagsurender sa 36IB, at noong Marso 25 ng kasalukuyang taon, 65 NPA supporters and members ang boluntaryong sumuko at nagbalik loob sa gobyerno galing ng Sitio Ibuan. Lahat ng mga sumuko ay mga benepisyaryo ng kasalukuyang programa ng PRLEC na nabuo sa pamagitan ng “consultation – convergence – commitment.” (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga fisherfolks get environment-friendly fishing paraphernalia

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) - Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Sar led in the distribution of the different environment-friendly fishing gears and paraphernalia to the different farmer and fisherfolk cooperatives of Caraga region.

Secretary Dar believed that the assistance given to the cooperatives will help improve and alleviate the living condition of every member.

“It is high time that the farmers and fisherfolks be empowered to become strong partners in big businesses and to improve their income and productivity,” said Dar.

Aside from the fishing gears and paraphernalia, eight hauling trucks were also distributed to farmers cooperatives amounting to P10.9 million.

Vivian Cerilles, one of the organizers of San Roque Punta fisherfolks and livelihood association of the Municipality of Nasipit in Agusan del Norte expressed her gratitude to the government through the Department of Agriculture. She said these are of great help to the members of the cooperative. Her organization has already received fingerlings and livestocks.

Also, Mesail Molina of Kilometer Seven Farmers Producers Cooperative was thankful to the government for the hauling truck given to them. He said the truck is of big help to the cooperative because they will no longer rent a vehicle to deliver their produce like coffee to the market.

Because of the government’s intervention, the Palasao Agriculture Cooperative also received one unit of hauling truck. "It is a big help to us members of the rice processing center," said coop chairman Merly Azarcon.

Secretary Dar also led the fingerlings dispersal and met with the local farmers and fisherfolks.

The DA's total support given to the farmer and fisherfolk cooperatives in the region has reached more than P50 million, it was learned. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)

AgSur’s drug rehab center now open

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 7 (PIA) -- After more than a year from its groundbreaking and construction, the Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center of the Department of Health (DOH) situated in Barangay Alegria, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur has finally received the certificate of completion on August 23, 2019.

With this development, the DOH, together with the provincial government of Agusan del Sur and other concerned government agencies has geared up its preparation for the start of operation of the rehab center.

During its official launching, doctors, medical specialists, nurses and other health workers expressed their eagerness to help rehabilitate the illegal drug victims.

According to Dr. Melhammid Tomawis, chief of hospital II said, the P370-million center will cater to at least 100 male and 50 female patients severely addicted to drugs. He stressed that this is the biggest in Caraga and the first in Mindanao that accepts female patients. And before the end of this year, they target to serve some 100 patients.

This brings hope to the locals as they would no longer go to other regions for treatment.

“This would help the locals especially those affected by illegal drugs to be rehabilitated and they need not go in Davao or Tagum because we have it here in San Francisco,” said Gebert Son, a resident of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

“We’re happy to know that the government is really serious in addressing the illegal drug menace,” said Richel Robles, resident of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Agnes Cullantes, drug abuse prevention and treatment coordinator of DOH-Center for Health Development (CHD) Caraga, bared that they continuously conduct their advocacy in the different barangays to prevent locals from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane called on the public to unite and support the government in its fight against illegal drugs. It is also his strong directive to the law enforcers to run after those who are involved in the illegal drug trade. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Mga senior citizens sa Butuan City, nagpakitang-gilas sa kanilang talento

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 7 (PIA)- Sa selebrasyon nh National Elderly Filipino Week ngayong unang linggo ng Oktubre, nagpakitang gilas sa ibat-ibang kompetisyon ang senior citizens sa lungsod, kabilang na dito ang ballroom dance, duet at harana contests.

Isa si Ramon Ubac, presidente ng senior citizens chapter sa Barangay Maguinda, sa tumanggap sa hamon at pinakita ang galing sa pagsasayaw sa isinagawang final elimination round sa ballroom dance contest.

Masaya siya dahil sa edad niyang 72, malakas pa ang kanyang pangangatawan at aktibo pang nakakalahok sa taunang selebrasyon.

Dagdag pa niya, mahalaga ang pagkakaroon ng healthy lifestyle at daily exercise para mas humaba ang buhay.

“Dapat maging malusog lalo na sa edad namin. Kaya payo ko sa iba na maging aktibo sa paglahok ng mga aktibidad sa komunidad, kumain nang masustansiyang pagkain at sana kayo na naman ang sasabak sa kompetisyon sa susunod na taon,” pahayag ni Ubac.

Hindi rin nagpahuli si Necerita Celocia, 69 na taong gulang sa kanyang hilig at galing sa pag-arte. Sa harana contest na sinalihan ng kanilang grupo, isinadula nila ang konsepto kung papaano isinasagawa ang harana noong panahong nauuso pa ito sa kabataan niya.

Inaabangan niya ang nasabing selebrasyon kada taon, dahil sa pamamagitan ng ibat-ibang aktibidad, maipapakita nila sa publiko ang kanilang galing at talento kahit anu paman ang kanilang edad.

Hinimok din niya ang ibang senior citizens na maging positibo sa buhay sa kabila ng mga hamong kinakaharap.

“Sa mga senior citizens na katulad ko, dapat patuloy lang tayo sa pagiging aktibo upang maging masaya at kapakipakinabang ang ating buhay,” sabi ni Celocia.

Ayon naman kay Josefina Tan, focal person for elderly ng City Social Welfare And Development (CSWD) sa Butuan, mas pinaigting pa nila ang kanilang mga programa para sa mga senior citizens sa mga barangay at tinutulungan sila sa kanilang mga pangangailangan.

Mahalaga rin ang patuloy na pagpapakita ng pagmamahal, pag-aaruga at pagbigay oras o panahon ng mga anak sa kanilang mga magulang upang mas tumibay pa ang kanilang relasyon at maging inspirasyon sa iba.

“Respituhin natin ang ating mga magulang, sa mga senior citizens at mahalin natin sila,” sabi ni Tan.

Ang grand finalists sa ballroom dance, duet at harana ay sasabak ulit sa October 18 para sa kanilang culmination activity at dito ay mapipili na ang mga nagwagi at mabibigyan ng premyo mula sa CSWD at iba pang kinauukulang ahensiya.

Ang taunang selebrasyon ng Elderly Filipino Week ay alinsunod sa Proclamation No. 470 na nilagdaan noong September 26, 1994. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Seminar on ordinance, resolution drafting gipahigayon sa Sanggunian

By Shiene Deligero

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Oktubre 7 - Nagpahigayon bag-ohay pa lang og ‘Seminar on Ordinance ang Resolution Drafting’ ang Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) diin kini gitambongan sa 34 ka empleyado sa SP.

Tumong sa nahisgotan nga seminar mao ang paghatag og saktong kapasidad ug kaalam sa mga empleyado labi na sa mga newly-hired staff sa mga Provincial Board Member aron mahimong episyente ug epektibo sa paghatod sa mga serbisyo sa lehislatura sa ika-18 nga SP uban sa tuyo ug tinguha sa gobyerno sa probinsya ug makabaton og epektibong trabahante sa probinsya.

Ang nasangpit nga aktibidad gitambongan sa 34 ka partisipante nga mao ang committee coordinators, Board member staff ug researchers sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan kauban ang Secretary to the Sanggunian Gerry Joey Laurito ug Vice-Governor Rambu Bungabong.

Ang resolusyon ug ordinansa mao ang mga produkto sa SP aron mahimong legal ang usa ka dokumento ug balaod nga i-implementar sa probinsya.

Nahimong resource speakers sila Attorney Jeson D. Pagapong isip mao ang Designated Legal Reviewing Officer sa SP office, mga Division Head sa SP nga sila Aimee B. Sienes, Lydia Manulat ug Procerfina C. Santillan ug Section Chief nga si Myrna A. Dacoseo. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Mga kapulisan ng Caraga region, pinag-usapan ang gender equality kasama ang LGBTQI

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 7 (PIA)- Aktibong nakibahagi sa diskusyon ukol sa usaping gender equality ang mga miyembro ng Philippine National Police sa Caraga Region kasama ang Ladlad Caraga Inc. na binubuo ng lesbian/gay/ bisexual/transgender/queer at intersex (LGBTQI) community.

Isa sa mga mahalagang tinalakay rito ay kung papaano mas magiging gender sensitive ang mga pulis bilang law enforcers.

“Importante para sa aming mga law enforcers na mas maging gender sensitive at mabigyan ng pansin ang LGBTQI sector, lalu na sa panahong mauugnay sila sa ano pang pangyayari,” pahayag ni Police Master Sergeant Estaniel Galve, police community relation - PNCO, Rosario Municipal Police Station, Agusan del Sur.

“Handa naman kaming tumulong sa kanila kung sila’y may mga reklamo kahit ano pa man ang kanilang gender identity. Sana hindi sila matakot sa kapulisan kung nais nilang magreport ng anumang insidente. Kami naman ay patuloy na magiging gender sensitive,” sabi ni Police Staff Sergeant Helen Jane Cabalo, assistant women and children protection desk/ assistant human rights desk - PNCO, Sta. Monica Municipal Police Station, Siargao Island.

Ayon kay Ysang Bacasmas, chairperson ng Ladlad Caraga, mahalaga para sa LGBTQI community na maintindihan ng publiko partikular na ang law enforcers ang kanilang sitwasyon.

Sa tulong na rin ng mga eksperto sa gender and development mula sa kinauukulang ahensya ng pamahalaan, tinalakay ang mga batas na poprotekta sa karapatan ng nasabing sektor.

Sa harap naman ng mainit na usapin ngayon sa Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE), nilinaw ni Bacasmas na hindi nila ipinipilit ang same sex marriage, dahil ibang usapin ito mula sa kanilang isinusulong na gender sensitivity and equality.

Dagdag pa niya, naka-schedule na rin sa susunod na buwan ang kanilang Orientation-Seminar para sa Gender Equality kasama ang mga miyembro ng media sa rehiyon, upang matulungan din sila sa pagbibigay ng tamang impormasyon ukol dito.

“Gusto rin naming magkaroon ng network sa media at mapaigting pa ang kampanya laban fake news tungkol sa SOGIE na kumakalat ngayon sa social media,” sabi ni Ysang Bacasmas, executive director, Ladlad Caraga Inc.

Patuloy ding isinusulong ng Ladlad Caraga ang anti-discrimination ordinance lalu na sa mga paaralan sa rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Agusanon youths participate in 1st Bayugan City Youth Leadership Summit 2019

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 8– The youths from different barangays of this city have actively participated in the 1st Bayugan City Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) spearheaded by the Bayugan City Local Government Unit, in partnership with the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion held on September 24-26, 2019 at the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium, this city.

Ryan Enriquez, Chairman and chief executive officer of the National Youth Commission (NYC) was the guest of honor and speaker during the opening. Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis, who was also a product of YLS and became the president and chairman of the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) also delivered his message.

YLS emphasizes positive activism through values-based interactive discussions on the role of youth in nation-building, the youth of today, prejudice and biases, strengthening the youth spirit, the role of youth in ending local communist armed conflict in the city.

Further, a series of team building activities and workshops to craft their YLS Action Plan will be conducted.

After the activity, the 90 YLS graduates composed of Sangguniang Kabataan members, out-of-school youth and Indigenous Peoples (IP) youth were integrated to the Propelling Our Inherited Nation through our Youth, Incorporated (POINTY Inc.), who will also be the core group to lead the succeeding youth leadership summits in Bayugan City.

LTC Joey Baybayan, commander of 3rd Special Forces Battalion, expressed his gratitude to the partner units and government agencies; the 8th Special Forces (Dragoons) Company, 401st Infantry (Unity) Brigade, the POINTY Inc. Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bayugan City Police Station, and the LGU of Bayugan City for this effort to save the youth and transform them as ambassadors of peace to end local communist armed conflict in the city.

“The YLS is a mechanism and movement of peace-oriented advocates to protect our youth against Communist NPA Terrorists and its allied militant groups’ recruitment which violates the Republic Act on Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, the Anti-Human Trafficking Act and other Human Rights laws by recruiting minors and the youth in their armed and political struggle to overthrow the government,” said Baybayan.

Said event which was anchored on the theme: “Bridging Attainable Objectives in Gearing the Youth and Government in Adhering to Nation’s Effort in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict,” is in support to the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict in the region. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Narekober na IEDs galing sa NPA sa Caraga region, pinasabog ng Philippine Army

By Nora L. Molde

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oktubre 8 (PIA) -- Mahigit 600 improvised explosive devices o IEDs na narekober ng militar at pulisya sa rehiyon ng Caraga ang pinasabog ng 23rd Infantry Batallion, Philippine Army sa Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

Kabilang sa mga pinasabog ay ang 105 IEDs, 10 claymore mines at 526 na nitro 1500 TNT na nakuha mula sa mga rebel-infested areas ng probinsya ng Surigao del Sur.

Ayon kay Ltc Joey Baybayan, commanding officer ng 3rd Special Forces Battalion, kinakailangan na pasabugin ang mga ito dahil delikado kung itatago ng matagal lalo na’t posible itong sumabog sa oras na maexpose sa init o mga kemikal.

Hinikayat din ni Ltc Francisco Molina, Jr., commanding officer ng 23IB, Philippine Army ang publiko na kung may makakitang mga pampasabog o mga kahinahinalang mga bagay sa kanilang lugar ay agad na ireport sa pinakamalapit na istasyon ng Philippine Army o pulisya para sa karampatang aksyon. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

PNP Caraga personnel learn LGBTQI's SOGIE

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 9 (PIA) -- Personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) from the different police provincial offices of Caraga region learned about the Sexual Orientation And Gender Equality And Expression (SOGIE) during an orientation-seminar conducted by the Ladlad Caraga Incorporated - a non-government organization composed of the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender/queer and intersex (LGBTQI) community.

The participating PNP personnel were briefed on how to become more gender-sensitive as law enforcers, especially in handling cases with the concerned LGBTQI.

“We fully understand that aside from men and women, we, as law enforcers should also protect the rights of the LGBTQI community, and making sure that we do not violate their rights,” said Police Master Sergeant Estaniel Galve, police community relation - PNCO, Rosario Municipal Police Station, Agusan del Sur.

“As law enforcers, we practice gender sensitivity and promote equality and we do not discriminate the LGBTQI. We should also be careful in our decisions such as when handling cases involving the LGBTQI,” said Police Staff Sergeant Helen Jane Cabalo, assistant women and children protection desk/ asst. human rights desk - PNCO, Sta. Monica Municipal Police Station, Siargao Islands.

According to Ysang Bacasmas, chairperson of Ladlad Caraga, it is important for the LGBTQI community that the public including the law enforcers understand better their situation.

Thru the help of the experts on gender and development from various government agencies, the laws that protect and uphold the rights of the said sector were also discussed.

With the recent issue on the SOGIE bill, Bacasmas clarified that they do not insist passage of same-sex marriage while they campaign only for gender sensitivity and equality.

Bacasmas added that their organization has also scheduled next month another orientation-seminar on SOGIE with the media practitioners in the region. This is to provide them with an in-depth understanding about SOGIE, which they could also disseminate in their respective programs and publications.

“We want to enhance network with the media and we believe they could help prevent the spread of fake news about the LGBTQI community,” said Bacasmas.

Meanwhile, the Ladlad Caraga also continues to advocate for the anti-discrimination ordinance particularly in the schools of Caraga. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

CSP Teams deployed in AgSur

By 1Lt. Roel Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 9 -- The local government unit (LGU) of Sibagat, together with the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga conducted the send-off ceremony for the Community Support Program-Community Action (CSP-ComAct) Teams held on October 8, 2019 at the headquarters, Charlie Company, 23IB, Brgy. Poblacion, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

The deployment of the CSP teams is in line with the Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which aims to conduct development support operations; sustain peace efforts; ensure security; and help maintain public order to foster the foundation for economic and human development.

The activity symbolizes that the LGU, PNP, AFP and other stakeholders are one in achieving conflict-resilient, as well as disaster-resilient communities.

Mayor Ma. Liza L. Evangelista of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur was the honored guest speaker of said ceremony.

“It is our pleasure to fully support the program. You have been doing CSP, and the people with the local government have also been doing their best in bringing the government closer to the people. The lady mayor bared that she is thankful for this program and hopefully, this will kick-off a big difference. "I am a believer of Executive Order No. 70 and I believe that in everything we do in the government, it has to be a whole-of-nation approach. There is always this convergence of efforts; it is not always in the local government or from the people, but with all the partner agencies as well," she said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Francisco L. Molina Jr., commanding officer of 23IB, highlighted that “The CSP operation is one of our means to help our local government units in addressing the peace and security concerns of the communities and to deliver basic government services especially in the far-flung and conflict-affected areas. It also aims to bring our government closer to the people by delivering quality services down to the grassroots.”

This event also formed part of the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict in the region. (CMO, 23IB/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

IPs join LGU, AFP for peace covenant in AgSur

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 9-- The members of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from three tribal groups in the municipality of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur unite as they joined the local government unit of Esperanza and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through 401st Infantry Brigade and 26th Infantry Battalion during the recently held tribal forum.

The said activity was one of the major highlights of the 2nd Nalandang Festival and 66th Founding Anniversary celebration of Esperanza with the theme “Pagpukaw sa Kulturuhanong Kabilin alang sa Pangkatibuk-ang Kaugmaran.” The celebration showcased the cultural practices of the three major tribes, namely, Higaonon, Manobo and Banwaon, as well as promote the potential tourism sites, native products, local talents, beauty, and good local governance.

Municipal Mayor Leonida Manpatilan, assisted by the Municipal Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Victor Manpatilan led the event. Col. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander and Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion also attended the celebration, together with the supreme tribal leaders along with 168 members and representatives from the three tribal groups.

One of the major agenda discussed was the planned declaration of persona non-grata against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the municipality of Esperanza. “The IPs in Esperanza had already recognized the mayhem and disruption brought about by these leftist radicals. As the chief local executive of this municipality, it is my sworn duty to take necessary actions in support of the national mandate to end local communist armed conflict,” said Manpatilan.

With the intensified implementation of Executive Order No.70 which is the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict, every local government unit is given responsibility to contribute to this national mandate. “It is overwhelming to witness that our IP brothers and sisters from different tribal groups, unite to support their LGU and the AFP to end the five decades of armed conflict in order to achieve long-lasting peace and development,” Lt. Col. Jimenea said as he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the attendees.

Likewise, Col. Hambala lauded all the IPs for the decision and action they had done. “We have to work hand in hand to resolve the root cause of armed conflict in order to achieve lasting peace. These terrorist NPAs only bring violence and disorder to our communities. We are one with you in your call for justice to all the chaos done by these terrorists. They do not deserve a place in our community,” he said.

“Despite our differences in religious affiliation, traditions, and cultures, we should all be united to contribute to the success of EO No. 70 in eradicating the terrorist NPAs,” Hambala ended. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DA Caraga honors organic agriculture prime movers

By Rhea Abao

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 9 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga annually recognized the efforts of individual farmers, organizations, and local government units' exemplary contributions to the implementation of organic agriculture.

In the recently conducted 5th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress last September 5-6 in Butuan City, outstanding organic implementers were given recognition through the 2019 Regional Organic Agriculture Achievers Awards (ROAAA).

The ROAAA winners were named by categories, such as the outstanding municipal/city local government units, organic agriculture (OA) focal persons, agricultural extension worker, small individual farmer, and organic farming family.

The city government of Bislig won and received a plaque of recognition and ₱300,000 proposal-based agricultural projects. Bislig through the leadership of former Mayor Librado Navarro is steadfast in pursuing the program which is now being sustained by the present administration. The LGU of Bislig is also being shortlisted to the National OA Search on the said category with ongoing deliberation at the national level.

One of the major accomplishments is the implementation of the program to the grassroots level specifically in its vision to become the Model City for OA in the country by 2020.

Edgar Opalia from Alegria, Surigao del Norte was also recognized as Organic Agriculture Focal Person while Jenebelle B. Sasi of Trento, Agusan del Sur as Outstanding Agricultural Extension Worker. Outstanding Organic Farming Family was given to Mr. & Mrs. Romeo Estrella of Socorro, Surigao del Norte.

In the same occasion, Analyn P. Dulpina from Burgos, Surigao del Norte was named as ROAAA Outstanding Small Individual Farmer and at the same time the 2019 Outstanding Rural Woman in the region.

The Outstanding Rural Woman Award is in recognition of the vital role and valuable contribution of rural women in ensuring food security and economic stability in rural areas. They recognize individuals received a plaque of recognition and cash awards. (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Caraga RDRRMC tiniyak ang kahandaan sa human-induced hazard

By Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 9 (PIA)-- Isang komprehensibong plano na magsisilbing pamantayan sa mga nararapat na hakbang at pagpapatupad ng polisiya hinggil sa human-induced displacement ang binalangkas ng mga miyembro ng response cluster at regional disaster risk reduction and management council sa rehiyon ng Caraga.

Layon ng regional contingency plan for human-induced displacement workshop na i-review, i-update at isama sa nasabing dokumento ang interoperability ng naitatag na response system gaya ng cluster approach, emergency operations center at incident command system.

Binigyag-diin ni Office of Civil Defense Caraga regional director Liza Mazo ang kahalagahan ng pagsunod sa protocol sa pagresponde at pagtugon sa krisis hindi lamang tuwing may natural na kalamidad kundi pati na rin sa armed conflict.

“Nasimulan natin itong contingency plan for conflict-induced displacement noong taong 2016 dahil kinakailangan nating magkaroon ng contingency plan sa bawat hazard at mahalaga ang paggawa ng protocol sa pagresponde,” sabi ni Mazo.

Tinilakay din ni Arthur Casiño, resource person ng nasabing three-day workshop, ang conflict-sensitivity approach at ‘Do No Harm’ (DNH) principle.

“Natutuwa akong malaman na pinapraktis ng mga responsableng mga responder at organisasyon dito sa rehiyon ng Caraga ang Do No Harm principle,” sabi ni Casiño.

Kailangang daw sundin at iaplay ang DNH at conflict-sensitivity framework. Dapat din daw maintindihan kung paano harapin ang conflict at kung paano gawin ang mga hakbang sa mas mabisang paraan habang pinagtutulungan na makontrol ang negatibong epekto nito.

Para kay Captain Aldim Viernes na kasali sa nasabing workhop, mahalaga rin daw ang pagkakaroon ng konkretong plano upang makagawa ng mga angkop na aksyon para matulungan ang mga mamamayang maaring maapektuhan ng human-induced hazard.

Dagdag pa ni Direktor Mazo na kaakibat din ang pagbuo ng mga istratehiya upang lalong mapatibay at mapalakas ang kakayahan ng lahat na harapin at solusyunan ang human-induced disaster. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOTr, LTFRB puspusan sa paghahanda sa implementasyon ng PUVMP; iilang units ng e-jeep dumating na sa Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 9 (PIA)- Puspusan na ang paghahanda ng Department of Transportation (DOTr) at Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) sa implementasyon ng Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) sa rehiyon ng Caraga.

Sa katunayan, may ilang units ng electronic at solar modernized PUVs ang dumating sa Butuan City at magsisimula nang bumiyahe sa mga nakatalagang rota sa lungsod, maging sa ibang probinsya ngayong buwan ng Oktubre.

Sa isinagawang PUV Caravan sa lungsod ng Butuan na dinaluhan ng transport cooperatives sa Caraga, nakasama ng operators at drivers ang manufacturers mula sa ibat-ibang kompanya kung saan mas nabigyang-linaw ang concerns sa pag-operate sa modernized PUVs.

Dumalo rin ang mga kinatawan ng LandBank at Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) upang mas maintindihan ng transport sector kung papaano makakuha ng financial assistance.

Ibinahagi ni Jose Evagelous Lawenko, chairperson ng Diamond Transport Service Cooperative (DATSCO) na sa tulong ng LTFRB, naging mabilis din ang kanilang pagproseso ng loan sa bangko. pinaliwanag din niya ang magandang benepisyo sa PUVMP.

“Sa ibang hindi kasali sa coop, ang iniisip nila na mahal nga ang unit. Paano ba daw ang pagbayad o downpayment. Wala namang down yan, hindi naman sila magbibigay ng down payment. Tapos hindi naman sila magbabayad kahit piso, dahil base na rin sa automatic per collection system, automatic din yung amortization doon sa bank kaya wala silang babayaran. So ganyan kaganda ang modernization, kasi hindi sila magbabayad pero kasama sila sa sharing ng kita,” paliwanag ni Lawenko.

Nagpahayag din ng reaksyon ang ilang mga drivers. “Dapat sana hindi ito madaliin dahil mawawalan ng trabaho ang mga drivers. Kung matuloy na ito, kailangang mabigyan din ng trabaho ang mga drivers para may pangsuporta rin sila sa kani-kanilang pamilya,” pahayag ni Nicasio Sabellano.

“Okay lang naman ang modernization, wala namang problema doon kasi tama din naman 'yun. Ang hindi ko lang nagustuhan yung kailangang maging miyembro ng kooperatiba ang lahat. Dagdag perwesyo na aksi yun,” sabi ni Celedonio Goyocan, isa ring driver.

Ayon naman kay OIC-regional director Maria Kristina Cassion ng LTFRB-Caraga, ang PUVMP ang pinakamalaking non-infrastructure flagship program ng administrasyong Duterte. Napapanahon na rin na maranasan ng publiko ang mas komportable at ligtas na biyahe. Suportado naman ito ng mga transport cooperatives sa rehiyon.

Pagtitiyak naman ng opisyal na sa taong 2020, wala nang matitirang lumang pampublikong sasakyan.

“Matapos ang taong 2020, wala na talaga sila. Kasi sa July 1, 2020, wala nang lumang na mga public utility vehicles ang papayagan. Alam naman nila kung gaano tayo kahigpit. Kahit nuon pa, ilan na yong nahuhuli namin. Kaya alam din nila na magkakahulihan na sa July 1, 2020,” sabi ni Cassion. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga intensifies human-induced displacement preparedness

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) -- The members of the response cluster and Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council convened in this city to polish the comprehensive plan as the basis for concrete response action and implementation of policy relating to human-induced displacement.

The three-day workshop aims to review and update the regional document where the interoperability of the established response systems such as the cluster approach, emergency operations center and incident command center will be integrated in the updated contingency plan.

Office of Civil Defense Caraga regional director Liza Mazo puts a strong emphasis on the importance of following the response protocols in addressing crisis not only caused by natural calamities but including armed conflict.

“The formulation of this contingency plan started in 2016 and we need to revisit and update it as this will be our guide in responding well to an emergency and its potential humanitarian impact. This will be useful especially now that we are intensifying our efforts related to the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 of President Duterte,” said Mazo.

Arthur Casiño, resource person, also tackled the conflict sensitivity approach and ‘Do No Harm’ (DNH) principle.

He said the main call for the DNH is to encourage the responding individuals or organizations to make sure that their actions will not cause any problem.

According to him, there are practical tools that focus on how organizations interact with conflict and how they can work effectively in conflict contexts while helping to mitigate their negative impacts on conflict, and support local capacities for peace.

“To do that we have to exercise conflict sensitivity. It is good to note that state actors in Caraga region are doing this and that I see a growing practice of the DNH principle,” Casiño said.

Captain Aldim Viernes, civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army who joined the planning workshop, said the plan will be helpful in providing effective, efficient, timely and well-coordinated response mechanisms in the event of the occurrence of armed conflict in the region.

Mazo said the contingency plan and the formulation of strategies are vital in doing appropriate actions and in developing community resilience. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOTR, LTFRB step-up preparation for PUVMP implementation in Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) - The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) are stepping up its preparation for the implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) in Caraga region.

Several units of the electronic and solar modernized PUVs have been delivered recently in Butuan City and will start operating at the designated routes including in other provinces of Caraga this month of October.

During the PUV Caravan held in Butuan, which was participated by the transport cooperatives in the region, the operators and drivers interacted with the manufacturers from various companies and have clarified their concerns on how to operate the modernized PUVs.

The representatives from LandBank and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) were also present to discuss further with the transport sector the mechanism on the availment of the financial assistance.

Jose Evagelous Lawenko, chairperson of Diamond Transport Service Cooperative (DATSCO) stressed that thru the help of the LTFRB, their loan application in the bank was fast-tracked. He also explained the advantages they could get from PUVMP.

“The modernization would really give convenience to the commuters. These PUVs are equipped with CCTV and could also enjoy the free wi-fi and charging station for their cellphones,” said Lawenko.

Drivers in Butuan have also expressed their take on the PUVMP. “This should not be implemented too soon as drivers like us would no longer have a job. If this would really push through, we also asked the government to provide alternative jobs for the affected drivers to support their respective family,” said Nicasio Sabellano, pedicab driver.

“Modernization is good. However, what I do not like is that all are required to be a member of a cooperative to be qualified to avail the program. It gives us agony,” said Celedonio Goyocan, a driver.

According to OIC-regional director Maria Kristina Cassion of LTFRB-Caraga, the PUVMP is the largest non-infrastructure flagship program of the Duterte administration. She said, it is high time that commuters could experience a comfortable, convenient and safer travel. And transport cooperatives have been very supportive of this effort.

The official assured that by year 2020, no old PUVs will be allowed to operate.

“Starting July 1, 2020, no old public utility vehicles will be allowed to operate. We all know how serious we are in the implementation of the program. Even before, we already have apprehended several violators,” Cassion underscored. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Another AgSur town declares CPP-NPA persona non-grata

By 1Lt. Percival Carido

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 11– The municipality of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur has denounced the communist NPA terrorist and its allied organizations and subsequently declared them as persona non-grata on Monday, October 7, 2019.

The declaration took effect when the local legislative council headed by Vice Mayor Eric Rey G. Siohan passed and unanimously signed Resolution No. 273 series of 2019 during the conduct of their 9th Regular Session of 20th Sangguniang Bayan (SB) held at the SB Session Hall of the said municipality.

The said resolution states that the Communist Party of the Philippines – New people’s Army (CPP-NPA) and its leaning organizations have long been identified with the main ideology of replacing the democratic system of the government into communism.

The locals expressed that the presence and activities of the communist terrorists have been a problem of the entire nation and considered a threat to national security as they instill fear to people in the communities, recruit new members and sow terror to investors as well as killing members of Indigenous Peoples (IPs), barangay officials and civilians who contradict their propaganda.

In a statement, the Municipal Mayor Leonida P. Manpatilan said, “This is our contribution and our way of doing our part in the intensified campaign of the national government to end the five decades of communist armed conflict in the entire nation.”

“Rest assured that our municipality will continue to project good governance by way of addressing the issues and problems of the community in connection to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70,” she added.

Likewise, Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion, said that the resolution is in line with the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2018-211 or the Prohibition of Support to Left-Wing Rebel Groups, and Executive Order No. 70, which creates the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“I commend the legislative bodies and the whole municipality of Esperanza for initiating and signing resolution No. 273 and declaring the CPP-NPA as persona non-grata,” Jimenea added.

The official further said that Esperanza is now prepared to attain long lasting peace and development and is eager to participate in the socio-cultural and economic programs of the government. This will give its people a chance to have better and peaceful lives. (CMO officer, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Mga senior citizens sa Butuan, humihiling ng libreng gamot mula sa gobyerno, donors

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 11 (PIA) - Bagamat kompleto sa pang-araw araw na pangangailangan ang mga senior citizens sa Por Cristo - isang pribadong bahay-tuluyan para sa mga abandoned elderly, nanawagan ang mga ito ng libreng gamot para sa kanilang mga karamdaman.

Dahil sa kanilang edad, mas kinakailangan daw nila ngayon ang pag-aaruga at pagmamahal, lalo na at karamihan sa kanila ay wala ng pamilya o pinabayaan na.

Sa pagbisita ng mga miyembro ng Regional Inter-Agency Committee On Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) Caraga sa Por Cristo, nabigyan ng kasiyahan ang mga lolo at lola.

Ang mga ito ay nakatanggap ng libreng personal hygiene kits at food packs. Nagsagawa rin ng blood sugar testing ang Department of Health (DOH).

Isa si lola Remedios Ambal, 69 na taong gulang na mula pa Gingoog City ang natulungan ng naturang aktibidad.

Masaya siya at may bumibisita sa kanila mula sa ibat-ibang organisasyon upang magbigay ng donasyon at mga pagkain. Hiling din niya na mabigyan din sila ng gobyerno ng mga libreng gamot para sa mga sakit tulad ng hypertension, diabetes at iba pa.

Emosyunal namang ikinuwento ni lola Remedios ang kanyang pangungulila sa kanyang pamilya na hindi siya kayang bisitahin dahil sa kahirapan.

“Masaya kami at bumisita kayo rito sa min. May mga panahong wala bumibisita sa amin, kaya nalulungkot din kami ditto,” sabi ni lola Remedios.

Libreng gamot din ang hiling ni lolo Alfredo Luna para rin sa kanyang arthritis. Kaunti lang ang gamot na naibibigay ng Por Cristo sa kanila dahil na rin sa kakulangan sa budget, kaya nais niyang magkaroon ng pangmatagalang suporta ng gamot para sa mga kasama niyang senior citizens sa Por Cristo.

Ayon kay Susan Maestrado, home supervisor ng Por Cristo, bagamat dumarami na ang kanilang mga pasyente, sinisikap pa rin nilang maalagaan ng mabuti ang mga abandoned elderly at maibigay ang kanilang pang-araw araw na pangangailangan.

Umaasa din siyang patuloy na magbibigay suporta ang lokal na pamahalaan, maging ang ibang sektor na gustong tumulong.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa local na pamahalaan ng Butuan at Agusan del Norte dahil sa buong suportang ibinibigay nila ditto sa Por Cristo. Sana ay magpatuloy pa ang kaniolang pagbigay tulong lalu na’t lumalaki din ang populasyon ng mga senior citizens sa center,” sabi ni Maestrado.

Samantala, binigyang-diin naman ni Ana Semacio, focal person for senior citizens ng dswd caraga ang patuloy na pagbigay importansya ng mga anak sa kanilang mga magulang.

“Sa mga anak, dapat alagaan natin ang ating mga magulang hanggang sa pagtanda nila, bilang sukli rin natin sa kanilang pag-aalaga noong bata pa tayo hanggang sa ating paglaki,” pahayag ni Semacio. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Selebrasyon sa Elderly Week gipahigayon

By Susil D. Ragas

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Oktubre 11 (PIA) -- Ang buhatan sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) nagpahigayon sa pagsaulog sa Elderly Filipino Week niadtong Oktubre 7, 2019 didto sa San Jose Municipal Gym, ning probinsya.

Ang maong selebrasyon nagdala sa tema nga, “Healthy and Productive Aging Starts with Me.”

Atol sa maong programa gipakita sa mga senior citizen ang ilang kadasig ug kaabtik sa pagpartisipar sa kalingawan nga gipasundayag para kanila, sama sa sayawitan, kuratsa, padula, ug uban pang mga kalingawan nga ilang giapilan bisan pa sa ilang pangidaron.

Mahinumduman nga ang mga senior citizens usa sa mga gitagaan ug prayoridad ni Gobernador Kaka Bag-ao nga matagaan ug ayuda ilabi na sa ilang social pension.

Gitambungan ang maong kalihukan sa mga opisyal sa lungsod sa San Jose nga gipangunahan ni Vice Mayor Felix Q. Portullano, Sangguniang Bayan Members, Barangay Captain ug mga Senior Citizen sa 12 barangay nga sakop sa San Jose sama sa: Jacquez, Poblacion, Sta. Cruz, Luna, Wilson, Mahayahay, Aurelio, Cuarinta, Don Ruben, Justiniana Edera, Matingbe ug San Juan. (Dinagat-PIO/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Mokabat 766 mag-uuma sa Dinagat Islands nakadawat sa CLOA

By Susil D. Ragas

SAN JOSE, Dinaat Islands, Oktubre 11 (PIA) -- Sa katuyuan nga mahatagan ug pagmatuod ang yutang gitamnan sa mga mangunguma sa probinsya sa Dinagat Islands, mokabat sa 766 ka mag-uuma ang nakadawat sa Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) gikan sa Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) niadtong Oktubre 9, 2019 didto sa Provincial Guest Center, San Jose, ning probinsya.

Personal nga gitunol ni DAR Central Office Asec. Milabel Cristobal ang maong CLOA ngadto sa mga mag-uuma kauban si DAR Caraga Regional Director Leomides Villareal, DAR Region XI Regional Director Joseph Orilla, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Victor Canda sa Surigao Del Sur, kanhing Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) sa Dinagat Islands Jamil Amatonding, ug ang representante ni Governor Kaka Bag-ao nga si Atty. Jan Perry Eugenio, Vice Governor Nilo Demerey, ug mga Provincial Board Members.

Sa iyang mensahe si Atty. Jan Perry Eugenio namahayag nga ang pagbaton og CLOA nagpasabot nga aduna nay pruweba o kamatuoran ang mga mag-uuma nga ang yutang gitamnan ug giamoma ilaha na ug mao kini ang pinakalig-on nga pruweba sa pagpanag-iya sa yuta.

Matud pa ni Atty. Eugenio, ang pagpanag-iya sa yuta unang lakang lamang pero ang mas-importante nga lakang mao ang pagtikad ug pagpalambo sa yuta para makab-ot ang atong panginahanglan sa agrikultura sa atong probinsya.”

Gihangyo ni Atty. Eugenio ang DAR, Department of Agriculture, National Irrigation Authority ug uban pang ahensya sa gobyerno nga kanunay maghatag ug support services, credit facilities ug tanang suporta alang sa mga mag-uuma ilabi na sa binhi, abono, irigasyon ug uban pa.

Gihangyo usab ni Atty. Eugenio ang mga mag-uuma nga dapat amumahon ang yuta ug dili pasagdan, ug labaw sa tanan, dili dapat ibaligya o ipaarkila ang maong yuta kay pwede kini ang maong hinungdan para madiskwalipika ang usa ka benipisaryo. (Dinagat Islands-PIO/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

LGU-Lianga, Army donate TV set in IP community

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 11 – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, in partnership with the 9th Special Forces (Hounds) Company of the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion and the Diatagon Indigenous People’s (IP) community leaders have donated and installed a television (TV) set with satellite TV subscription to make the conflict-affected community of Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9) in Diatagon, Lianga, become aware of the current events and the government’s programs through the national and local news. The TV is located at the social hall of the sitio to cater all of its residents.

The Army and the LGU believed that in this way, it could widen their perspectives towards facing the challenges affecting their community. They also believed that this will liberate the community from misinformation and with this, they can fully exercise their right to self-determination because they will be given the liberty to decide and comment based on the wide array of information they can obtain through watching current events and relevant programs.

Lieutenant Colonel Joey Baybayan, commander of 3rd Special Forces Battalion said conflict is often caused by feeding any person with wrong information. “This wrong information can lead to misunderstanding. This happens when Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) poison the minds of the innocent people in the hinterlands. So, in our own little ways, we address this cause of conflict hoping that it will make people believe that the best way to address issues is to peacefully resolve it through the synergy of the government and the community,” he said.

“This initiative maybe as simple as it is but it can already provide the community a psychological barrier or shield against the CNTs deceptive propaganda that tears the country apart,” added Baybayan.

This is the first time in the sitio that a television set becomes readily available for the locals. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

145 FRs graduate from TESDA’s skills, livelihood trainings

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 14 (PIA) -- Some 145 former rebels from Sitio Ibuan, Barangay Mampi in the municipality of Lanuza, Surigao del Sur have graduated from the different skills and livelihood trainings provided by various government agencies in the region.

With this development, the provincial government of Surigao del Sur has extended financial assistance to the graduates in the amount of P500,000.00, while the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has promised to allocate P600,000.00 fund under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged / Displaced Workers (TUPAD) thru the cash-for-work program.

Secretary Isidro Lapeña, Director-General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), together with Undersecretary Joann Burgos, representing Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles also witnessed the said event.

“The locals need not to go to the government agencies to avail of the different programs because the government agencies are the ones coming to the communities to provide the programs they need. This is one way of bringing the government closer to the people,” said Sec. Lapeña.

It can be recalled that on March 2, 2018, some 23 New People’s Army (NPA) and supporters have surrendered to the 36th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army while on March 25 this year, 64 NPA supporters and members have also voluntarily surrendered and returned to the folds of the law, and all of them are residents of Sitio Ibuan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

RTR settlers makatag-iya na ug lote gikan sa probinsya

By Shiene Deligero

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Oktubre 14 -- Aprobado na sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte ang usa ka resolusyon nga nagtugot kang Gobernador Dale B. Corvera sa pagpirma sa Deeds of Absolute Sale tali sa napulo ka benepisyaryo sa RTR Hometown Association, Inc. kun RTRHAI kalabot sa pagpanag-iya sa yuta nga gipanag-iyahan sa gobyerno nga nahimutang sa Purok 2, Barangay 2 Poblacion, RTR, Agusan del Norte.

Ang maong lakang girekomendar sa Committee on Human Settlement, Land Use, and Provincial Properties diin tsirman si Bokal Rodulfo A. Pitogo. Nakita niini nga gibayran na sa gobyerno sa probinsya ang National Housing Association pinaagi sa Local Housing Fund Allocation sa Second Congressional District sa Agusan del Norte nga nagkantidad og P2,250,500.00 apil na ang gasto sa yuta niini. Ingon man nakita sa maong komitiba ang mga resibo sa mga nanag-iya sa maong luna nga nagpakita nga sila nakabayad na sa kadaiyang yuta nga ilang gipalit.

Aron sa legal nga pagbalhin sa pagpanag-iya sa yuta ngadto sa napulo ka benepisyaryo, isip ang provincial government may tag-iya sa maong yuta, gitagaag pagtugot si Governor Dale alang sa pagpirma sa mga indibidwal nga Deed of Absolute Sale usa ka importanteng dokumento aron legal ug epektibo ang pagbalhin sa titulo sa matag benepisyaryo.

Mahibaloan nga ang kanhi nahaunang kongresista, Hon. Edelmiro A. Amante, Sr., nag-aprobar ug gi-endorso sa National Housing Authority ang hangyo sa lalawigan nga makuha ang 1.8004 ektarya, nga nahimutang sa munisipalidad sa RTR.

Ang paghatag otoridad giaprobahan pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 055-2019 nga gipangamahanan ni Bokal Rodulfo A. Pitogo. (LGU Agusan del Nortre/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Pinoy pro surfer wins 25th Siargao International Surfing Cup

By Venus L. Garcia

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 15 (PIA) -- Filipino professional surfer John Mark Tokong captured the championship title during the 25th Siargao International Surfing Cup at the world-famous Cloud 9 in Siargao Island.

Tokong, a 23 year-old and locally known as “Marama,” defeated all other competing surfers from 13 countries and received a prize of US$5,000.

Apart from the impressive skill of Filipinos in surfing, the annual sporting event has once again proved Siargao Island as one of the top ten best surf sites in the world and the surfing capital of the Philippines.

In his messgae as the guest of honor in the awarding ceremony, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar cited surfing as a sport that transcends divisions in society just the same as diplomacy that aids in advancing country’s diplomatic aims.

“Surfing as a sport is like the art of diplomacy. One has to be strong enough to stand on a board, cruise over the ranging heights of the wave. Our foreign missions sail through the tides of different cultures and political waves enclosing us in the center of negotiations and dialogues,” Andanar said.

Secretary andanar also underscored the importance of cultural fusion in achieving peace and order, may it be in politics and sports, just like the success brought by President Rodrigo Duterte from his recent state visit in Russia.

“On his second state visit and meetings with the Russian President Vlademir Putin and Prime Minister Medvedev. Our Mayor and President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has once again surfaced with agility. Like our renewed relations in the global realm, may the Siargao International Surfing Cup flourish and may also serve as an avenue for the convergence of cultures,” said Andanar.

The event is sanctioned by the World Surf League and supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Tourism. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PH justices discuss money laundering, financial crimes with US experts

MANILA, Oct. 15 -- Twenty-one Sandiganbayan justices participated in a roundtable with United States (US) experts organized by the US Embassy in the Philippines - US Department of Justice Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (DOJ/OPDAT), the Supreme Court of the Philippines, and the Philippine Judicial Academy.

The event aimed to enhance participants’ capabilities, competencies and skills in examining and adjudicating money laundering and financial crimes; deepen understanding on how to freeze assets, recover laundered property; and ensure proper preservation and management of assets.

Judge Bernice Donald of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit shared her expertise on traditional and emerging methods of money laundering, discussing the role that bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies and the dark web can play in money laundering, as well as other money laundering methods, including using money cards and gift cards, and through online networks.

The knowledge-sharing program was designed to inform justices on relevant laws and decisions; sharpen justices’ ability to analyze accounts and follow the money trail; review emerging methods of money laundering and the role of electronic evidence and best practices for applying court technology in adjudicating cases.

‘’The Sandiganbayan justices truly appreciate the DOJ/OPDAT for organizing the roundtable discussion. The topics, especially the rules on electronic evidence, were a valuable revisit of the laws and rules and made the justices realize that there is still room for more improvement in the delivery of justice,” said Justice Geraldine Faith A. Econg.

As a friend, partner and ally, the United States will continue to support the development of the Philippines justice system through judicial training of judges on cybercrime and financial crimes to help ensure that all Filipinos are served by a swift, fair and modernized court system. (U.S. Embassy - Manila/PIA-Caraga)

Pinoy surfer, kampeon sa 25th Siargao International Surfing Cup

LUNGSOD NG SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Oktubre 15 (PIA) -- Wagi ang isang Filipino professional surfer na si John Mark Tokong na buong tapang na nakisabay sa alon ng tagumpay at tanghalin bilang kampeon sa katatapos lang 25th Siargao International Surfing Cup na ginanap sa Cloud 9, bayan ng General Luna, Siargao Island.

Tinalo ni Tokong o mas kilala bilang “Marama,” 23 taong gulang, ang 64 na surfers mula sa iba’t ibang bansa.

Nakatanggap siya ng $5,000 bilang premyo sa kumpetisyon.

Maliban sa galing ng mga Pilipino pagdating sa surfing, pinatunayan rin sa nasabing annual sporting event ang Siargao Island bilang isa sa top ten best surfing sites sa mundo at surfing capital ng Pilipinas.

Sa kanyang mensahe bilang panauhing pandangal sa awarding ceremony, sinabi ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar na ang surfing bilang sport ay gaya rin ng diplomasya na isang sining at pagsasanay ng pangangasiwa ng mga negosasyon.

“Surfing as a sport is like the art of diplomacy. One has to be strong enough to stand on a board, cruise over the ranging heights of the waves. Our foreign missions sail through the tides of different cultures and political waves enclosing us in the center of negotiations and dialogues,” sabi ni Andanar.

Mahalaga rin anya ang pagsasanib ng iba’t ibang kultura para sa layuning makamtan ang kapayapaan at kaayusan...mapulitika man o palakasan gaya ng tagumpay na dala ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte sa kanyang katatapos lang na state visit sa Russia.

“On his second state visit and meetings with the Russian President Vlademir Putin and Prime Minister Medvedev. Our mayor and president Rodrigo Roa Duterte has once again surfaced with agility. Like our renewed relations in the global realm, may the Siargao International Surfing Cup flourish and may also serve as an avenue for the convergence of cultures,” sabi ni Andanar.

Kinikila ang nasabing torneo ng World Surf League at suportado ng Philippine Sports Commission at Department of Tourism. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Mahigit 2K residente nakinabang sa serbisyong hatid ng gobyerno sa Agusan Norte

By Nora L. Molde

BAYAN NG NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte, Oktubre 15 (PIA)– Pusposan ang ginagawang kampanyan ng Agusan del Norte Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) sa pamamagitan ng ‘PPOC Immersion’ sa iba’t ibang barangay ng probinsya.

Mahigit 2,000 residente sa tatlong barangay sa bayan (Camagong, Aclan at Jaguimitan) ng Nasipit sa Agusan del Norte ang nakinabang sa mga serbisyo mula sa iba’t ibang sektor sa ginanap na PPOC Immersion sa pakikipagtulungan ng mga ahensya ng gobyerno.

Ayon kay Nasipit Mayor Enrico Corvera, malaking tulong ang PPOC Immersion para maihatid sa kanilang mga residente ang mga serbisyo mula sa gobyerno at malaman ang iba pa nilang pangangailangan.

Kabilang sa mga hatid na serbisyo ay medical, dental , legal consultation, at marami pang iba. Namahagi rin ng seedlings ng mga prutas at iba pang mga halaman sa mga residente.

Lubos ang pasasalamat ni Belmore Diamante dahil isa sya sa mga nakatanggap ng serbisyo. Anya sa ganitong paraan ay naiparamdam sa kanila na mahalaga sila sa gobyerno.

Kabilang din sa nakinabang ay ang mga senior citizens na nakatanggap ng ibat-ibang benipisyo gaya na lamang ng libreng salamin, bunot ng ngipin, gamot, at libreng kosulta.

Ayon kay Juanita Prejoles, residente ng barangay Camagong, ito ang kauna-unahang pagkakataon na siya ay nakatanggap ng ganitong tulong mula sa gobyerno. Sana magpatuloy ito at upang mas malaman pa kn gano ang ma pangangailan ng mga tao lalo na ang nasa malalayong lugar.

Naniniwala naman si Gobernador Dale Corvera na ang kahirapan at kakulangan sa serbisyo ay kabilang sa mga dahilan kung bakit ang iba ay naniniwala sa mga propaganda ng new people's army (NPAs) at mga tagasuporta nito.

Dagdag pa ni Corvera, ang PPOC ay gumagawa na ng paraan upang dalhin ang mga serbisyong kailangan ng mga mamamayan lalo na ang mga nasa malalayong barangay kung saan may impluwensya ang mga NPAs.

Umapela din si Rep. Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba ng pangalawang distrito ng Agusan del Norte sa mga NPAs na magbalik-loob na sa gobyerno. Walang rason ang mga NPAs na kalabanin ang gobyerno dahil ginagawa lahat upang matulongan ang mga tao.

Ayon din kay Department of the Interior at Local Government (DILG) provincial director Ellen Vee Chua, ang PPOC immersion ay isa lamang sa mga programa na naaayon sa executive order number 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na tapusin ang local communist armed conflict. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

LGU Santiago napatuman ang 100% road clearing

By Aimee B. Sienes

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Oktubre 15 -- Nakab-ot sa lokal nga panggamhanan sa Santiago ning lalawigan ang 100% rating nga hawan sa kadalanan human kini ma-assess ug ma-validate sa Department of Interior and Local Government Agusan del Norte bag-ohay pa lamang.

Mituman si Santiago Mayor Franklin D. Lim sa DILG Memorandum Circular 2019-121, ang direktibo gikan ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte aron mahawan ang mga kadalanan sa mga ilegal nga istruktura ug mga konstruksyon.

Ubos sa maong direktiba, gi-awhag ang tanan local chief executives sa pagpatuman sa ilang gahum sa pag-reclaim sa mga pampublikong kadalanan nga nagamit na sa ubang lumolopyo isip pribado nga dalan.

Obserbasyon usab nga ang mga panpublikong dalan gigamit sa mga negosyante nga butangan sa ilang mga struktura ug mga baligya.

Sa taho ni DILG Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Ellen Vee Chua, atol sa 1st Joint Provincial Development Council (PDC)- Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Meeting niadtong Oktobre 11 didto sa Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, syudad sa Butuan, ang uban lungsod ug syudad sa lalawigan nakakuha sa rating nga: 90 – Cabadbaran, 85- Buenavista, 80- Carmen, 95 – Jabonga, 90 – Kitcharao, 85 – Las Nieves, 70 – Magallanes, 90 – Nasipit, 90- RTR, ug 75 – Tubay.

Mipadayag ang uban mayor atol sa nasangpit nga joint meeting nga ilang isiguro nga mamahimong 100% rating na ang road clearing sa sunod nga assessment ug validation sa DILG. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

AgNor province, Cabadbaran City magtinabangay pagpalambo sa Cabadbaran district hospital

By Shiene Deligero

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Oktubre 15 -- Pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 066-2019 nga gipanginahanan ni Bokal Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, gitagaag otoridad si Gobernador Dale B. Corvera sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte sa pagpirma sa kasabotan o Memorandum of Agreement tali sa probinsya ug siyudad sa Cabadbaran, alang sa pagpalambo sa mga serbisyo sa panglawas ug pasilidad sa Cabadbaran District Hospital nga gidumala sa probinsya.

Kini pagahimoon pinaagi sa paggahin og pondo sa gobyerno sa siyudad aron suportahan ang pagpatuman sa mga programa ug proyekto alang sa giingon nga ospital.

Sulod sa maong kasabotan mao ang mga programa ug proyekto sa ospital, labi na ang pagdugang og trabahante, pagkuha og mga bag-ong gamit para sa ospital ug pagpaayo sa mga pasilidad.

Aron matubag ang mga panginahanglan sa siyudad ug mga nasakopan niini, hugot nga mihatag og suporta ang probinsya alang sa pagpalambo sa mga pasilidad ug aron masiguro ang paghatod sa serbisyo nga adunay pasalig nga mahatag ang kalidad nga pag-atiman sa pasyente ug masiguro ang 24 oras nga operasyon sa lain-laing mga serbisyo sa Cabadbaran District Hospital alang sa katawhan sa syudad sa Cabadbaran ug ang mga silingang lungsod.

Ang pagpasar sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 066-2019 nahitabo niadtong ika-9th regular sesyon sa SP. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Surigao City Airport Development Project

Rehabilitation of a portion of Surigao City Airport Runway done ahead of schedule

SURIGAO CITY - The partial rehabilitation and repair of a portion of the Surigao City Airport runway is now complete, much earlier than the committed November 2019 deadline.
With the additional restored 400 meters of the provincial airport's runway now ready for use, it is expected that the number of flights by commercial airlines in the city to and from Cebu and Manila will increase.

The airport has been limited in its operations after a magnitude 6.7 quake damaged the runway on February 10, 2017 and is only able to utilize 1 kilometer of its runway since.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, who was requested to intervene and help fast track the rehabilitation efforts for the airport welcomed the speed with which the contractors finished the project.
Sec. Andanar also thanked the Department of Transportation for closely monitoring the progress of the ongoing repairs.

"Thanks, Asec [Giovanni Lopez]! We, Surigaonons, owe you and Secretary Art [Tugade]," he said in a text message, further requesting the DoTr chief to inaugurate the runway once it is fully restored.

According to the airport's contractors, Vicente T. Lao Construction and Pacific Concrete, on Tuesday their works on asphalt overlay and pavement concreting projects are already done.

The airport development project which covers 700 meters repair and rehabilitation of the runway is expected to be completed by February of next year. (PCOO/PIA-Surigao)

Thursday, September 19, 2019

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5th Caraga mining confab opens in Surigao City

Thursday, October 3, 2019

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PH justices discuss money laundering, financial crimes with US experts

Wednesday, October 16, 2019