PIA - Caraga Regional Office

TWG to monitor DPWH’s upgrading of Butuan City-Pianing-Tandag City Road Project

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, June 28 (PIA) – As per Resolution No. 08 series of 2015 approved by the Taguibo Watershed Management Council (TWMC) during its meeting held on Tuesday here, the council has created a technical working group (TWG) to monitor the activities of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the upgrading of Butuan City-Pianing-Tandag City Road Project.

The DPWH has a road-upgrading project (gravel to concreting of Butuan City-Pianing-Tandag City Road) with a total of 9.365 kilometers situated within the proclaimed Taguibo River Watershed Forest Reserve (TRWFR).

As indicated in the said resolution, the TWMC shall monitor the adverse impact of the project in the present biodiversity of Taguibo Watershed, if there is, and assist in providing remedial measures to mitigate these impacts.

With this development, the DPWH has assured the council that the department will give timely updates on the status of the project.

The council has agreed that the following shall compose the TWG: 1) Local government of Butuan City; 2) Butuan City Water District (BCWD); 3) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); 4) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB); 5) Anticala-Pianing Tribal Organization (APTO); 6) Save Taguibo Watershed Network/Father Saturnino Urios University (STWN/FSUU); 7) Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-proponent; and Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

It was also learned that the EMB Caraga will act as the team leader of the TWG that will coordinate its tasks to the council to ensure an efficient monitoring of the entire project; preside over the pre and post monitoring meetings; lead in carrying-out of the monitoring activities and call special meetings whenever there is a need to have one to address urgent issues and concerns; and participate in actual monitoring activities and preparation of monitoring reports.

Other member-agencies have also their corresponding specific functions and responsibilities based on their mandates.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

'Project Paglaum' workshop set in Butuan

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 28 (PIA)– The Career Executive Service Board (CESB) in partnership with the Association of Caraga Executives (ACE) will conduct the Paglaum Training Workshop Batch 10 on July 11-12 here.

According to CESB executive director Maria Anthonette C. Velasco-Allones, the workshop aims to capacitate Career Executive Service officers and other government community leaders with skills and competencies in providing psychological support to survivors of calamities and disasters.

Allones also said that Project Paglaum also aims to rekindle hope and enable the rebuilding of lives of survivors of calamities and disasters.

Allones also said that the training program will include instructional materials and meals and is free of charge. However, she said, the program will be conducted on a live-out arrangement. The participants shall be responsible for finding and securing their own accomodations and daily transportation to and from the venue, she added.

For queries and concerns, you can contact Imee Guanzon or Lhuz Arbutante at telephone numbers: (02) 366-1979, 951-4981, locals 109, 113 and 127; or by wmail at pdd@cesboard.gov.ph. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

PRC Agnor-Butuan chapter bares accomplishments

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 28 (PIA) – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del Norte-Butuan City chapter in its regular Board of Directors meeting held Tuesday here bares the accomplishments of the six different committees for the month of May 2016.

For the Disaster Management Services, the chapter was able to conduct a three-day International Humanitarian Law Training for Disseminators for Red Cross Action Team 143 held at the RCY development training center here.

Also, the committee conducted a Training of Trainers of Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for the Department of Education teachers and children to the five municipalities of Surigao del Sur under the Save the Children Project held in Tandag City.

On Blood Services, the committee was able to collect 578 units of blood including those acquired from blood letting activities. Donors are categorized as walk-in, patient-directed, replacement, mobile blood donation, and units acquired from other blood service facilities.

On the Safety Services, the committee conducted Standard First Aid and Basic Life Support – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Professional Provider Training Course and produced 23 graduates from the members of the Agusan National High School (ANHS) Senior Red Cross Youth (SRCY).

A total of 157 graduates from the members of ANHS SRCYs, employees of Coca-Cola and Solaris Shell Gas Station also graduated from the Occupational First Aid and Basic Life Support – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Adult Lay Rescuers Training Course.

Also, 103 students attended the lecture discussion on First Aid and Basic Life Support – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.

Meantime, the Committee on Health Services has attended the Epidemic Control for Volunteers Training of Trainers Course which aims to capacitate volunteers in handling epidemic emergencies. Senior Health Volunteers were also mobilized during the 2016 national and local elections to assist in First Aid and Health Emergencies.

The Welfare Services also referred 123 clients to different agencies for blood processing assistance.

The Red Cross Youth/Volunteer Service also conducted two batches of the Leadership Development Program Training Course and trained 100 SRCY of ANHS. Twenty one SRCY of Saint James College were also trained and 25 SRCY from the Caraga State University-Cabadbaran Campus Laboratory High School and Cabadbaran National High School. (NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PRO 13 awards outstanding PROs, joins 21st PCR Month kick-off ceremony

By SPO1 Zena M Panaligan

BUTUAN CITY, June 28 (PIA) - The Police Regional Office (PCR) 13 joins in the observance of 21st Police Community Relations (PCR) month kick-off ceremony during the traditional Monday flag raising ceremony which was held at RHQ Grandstand, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Libertad, this city with this year’s theme “Matatag na Ugnayan, Ligtas na Pamayanan.”

One of the highlights during the culmination activity is the awarding and giving of recognition to the deserving police personnel, units and offices, and local government unit leaders who immensely contributed and supported the conduct of various police community relations activities.

The following awardees are Outstanding Police Provincial Office – Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (PPO), Outstanding City Police Station/Municipal Police Station – Bayugan City Police Station, Outstanding Senior Police Commission Officer - PSupt. Reynante Sibayton (chief of police, Bayugan City Police Station), Outstanding Junior Police Commission Officer – PInsp. June Hontanosas (OIC Cagwait Municipal Police Station), Outstanding Senior Police Non-Commission Officer - SPO1 Rey Gabrielle B Maderal (BCPO-Station 1), Outstanding Junior Police Non-Commission Officer- PO2 Goldie Lou S Yu (PCR PNCO Barobo MPS) and Outstanding Local Chief Executive – Hon. Kim Lope A Asis (Mayor of Bayugan City).

In his message, Atty Maximo Lasaca I, regional director of National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Caraga, stressed that “In fighting crime, so long as the community is not ours by heart and soul, our hands will always be awash with continuous supply of crime.”

He also emphasized that winning the community demands patience, understanding, love, and dedication to service and without these the Philippine National Police will end up a mere stranger to the community, and crimes would continue to proliferate. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte women entrepreneurs undergo greening gender responsive value chain analysis project 2

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 28 (PIA) –The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga in partnership with project’s Regional Convergence Group conducted recently a back-to-back roll-out of the Greening the Gender Responsive Value Chain Analysis (GGRVCA) for Women Micro Enterprises (WMEs) held at Almont Inland resort in Butuan City.

The activity was conducted as part of the preliminary activities in the implementation of the Gender-Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of Women (GREAT Women) Project 2.

The three-day activity was attended by sixty one pre-selected women micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, seven of which came from the province of Surigao del Norte.

The roll-out focused on the improving the competitiveness of WMEs by using the GGRVCA as an instrument for planning and implementing activities and interventions that would address the gap in women’s economic empowerment.

DTI Calabarzon assistant regional director and GREAT Women Project 2 National program Coordinator Marcelina S. Alcantara gave an overview of the project while GIZ consultant Rita I. Palarca discussed the value chain approach and overlaying gender and greening business practices to enhance MSMEs’ competitiveness.

The activity included workshops on value chain mapping, constraints and opportunities analysis and strategic objective and action planning formulation.

The GREAT Women Project 2 is a governance and capability development project that aims to promote and support a gender-responsive enabling environment for women’s economic empowerment, particularly those in microenterprises.

It is a five-year project (2016-2020) that will provide technical and consultancy support to WMEs which is funded by the Canadian International Development Agency.

The project is implemented by the Philippine Commission on Women together with its project partners: DTI, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Agriculture and ECHOSI Foundation Inc. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DSWD Caraga prepares for La Nina

By Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY, June 28 (PIA) - As PAGASA announced the coming of the la niña season, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga already prepared a disaster plan, which includes stockpiling of food and non-food items, prepositioning of goods, capability building of human resources, and inter-agency coordination and networking.

To date, a total of 12,380 food packs are readily available at DSWD Warehouse located at Brgy. Tiniwisan, this city. These are ready for augmentation to the local government units.

The field office also ensured that there is an on-going procurement of 17, 620 family food packs.

It was also learned that some 2,000 family foodpack are already prepositioned to geographically difficult areas and potential to be isolated in times of disaster.

In addition, stockpiled non-food items worth P2,378,018.33 are also available at the said warehouse.

Monitoring of standby and stockpile goods are conducted weekly by the field office.

DSWD Caraga regional director Minda B. Brigoli assured the public that DSWD is doing necessary preparations for the upcoming rainy season. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Dinagat Islands SEAK association successful in weaving venture

By Mary Carmelle C. Jumawan

DINAGAT, Dinagat Islands, June 28 (PIA)– The Justiniana Edera Agra Producer's Association (JEDAPA) has been successful on its weaving venture and their story proves that action is the key to all success, a sure product of people's initiative and empowerment.

It all started on March 31, 2013 when the 25 members of JEDAPA SEA-K Association of Brgy. Justiniana, Dinagat, this province received P10,000 each from the Sustainable Livelihood Program’s (SLP’s) SEA-K of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

To ensure economic sustainability, the association merge their grants for a capital, thus, collaboration with Justiniana Edera Agra Producers Cooperative (JEDAPCO) happened.

“SLP’s coming to our lives has given us hope to be free from poverty,” says Moises C. Laborte, president of their association.

The two parties became partners in managing the handicrafts production and less-interest rates micro lending projects.

The group partnered with the Municipal Agricultural Office (MAO) of Justiniana, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) which improved the quality of their handicrafts, hence, market value or price has increased. It has also upgraded the operation's efficiency.

“ We are very grateful to the partners who have helped us because without them, our business operations would not get better,” Laborte explains.

MAO conducted skills training on hat and mat weaving. En route to a more efficient business operations, DTI provided Solar Dryer and Dye Pan. Skills training on bleaching, dyeing and recycling of waste materials was conducted by DOST.

With an improved quality of products, more farmers and tourists have been patronizing the product.

Moreover, the group has been providing bulk orders to schools that join in street dancing contest. A local buyer also purchases their products which are distributed to places like Cebu, Leyte and Manila. The products are also displayed in Dinagat’s DTI: One Town, One Product (OTOP).

Eventually, the group’s profit increased. With this, the craftsmen's honorarium has increased to P2,000 and the officers are given Php100 per month for allowance.

Further, the production has generated income not to handicraft makers but to bamboo growers as well. As the project grows, demand on bamboo production has increased.

The business growth has led off to putting up a general merchandise last May 28, 2015. Today, members and non-members have access to their daily basic needs and other wide array of goods.

Last year, Their Statement of Financial Condition shows the groups assets has increased from P480,943.89 in 2013 to P761,001.76.

To promote active involvement in decision-making, the group conducts a monthly meeting where policies and guidelines implemented are discussed to avoid misunderstanding among the members.

At present, JEDAPA is striving more to continually improve the socio-economic well-being of its members.

“We will continue our efforts for the betterment of our projects,” Laborte concluded.

The group’s success implies that hard work pays off and all toils are never in vain. JEDAPA is indeed an effectual livelihood not only to its members but to the community of Justiniana as well. (SLP/Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Cebuano News: Malakanyang gidepensahan ang 'Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino' Program

Ni Nida Grace P. Barcena

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Hunyo 28 (PIA)– Gikatahong midepensa ang Malakanyang sa Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), diin sumala pa sa mga kritiko niini nga nakapa-aghat sa mga benepisyaryo nga mag-agad na lamang sa tabang sa gobyerno.

Sumala pa ni Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Hermino Coloma Jr., ang 4Ps napamatud-an nga epektibo sukad pa sa pag implementar niini niadtong 2010.

“Napamatud-an na kini sa nilabay’ng unom ka mga katuigan kon maayo ang pagdumala sa maong programa, kini tataw nga dili “dole-out”, og klaro pod nga wala magpa-ulipon ang mga katawhan sa hinabang (Napatunayan naman kasi sa nakaraang anim na taon na kung maayos ang pangangasiwa ng ganitong programa, ito ay definitely hindi isang dole-out at definitely din, hindi ito lumilikha ng dependency),” kini ang gibutyag ni Secretary Coloma.

Si Coloma usab mitumbok sa "Social Contract ngadto sa mga katawhang Pilipino" ni Presidente Aquino nga nag-ingon "Gikan sa programang anti-poverty nga misilsil nga usa ka dole-out, kini giisip nga mga programa nga makapatukod sa kapasidad ug sa paghimo sa kahigayonan ngadto sa mga kabus ug sa mga walay palad sa nasud."

“Sugod sa sinugdanan determinado na si Presidente Aquino nga ang atoang programa sa “anti-poverty dili makonsidera nga usa ka dole-out tungod kay ang pinulongang dole-out nagpamatuod lamang nga gihatag lang. Adunay palad nga able, ug ihatag lamang kini, gihatag og gikalimtan na. Dili ingon niana kini…(Mula pa sa umpisa ay determinado na si Pangulong Aquino na ang ating anti-poverty program ay hinding-hindi maituturing na dole-out dahil ang salitang dole-out ang ibig sabihin ay inaabot lang. Merong kamay na nakabukas, at inaabot lang ito, ibinibigay at kinakalimutan na. Hindi naman po ganyan ito)…,” kini ang ekplenasyon ni Coloma atoll sa pakighinabi kaniya sa Radyo ng Bayan.

Dugang pa niya, kini gi-estudyohan og maayo pinaagi sa National Household Targeting System (NHTS) kung kinsa ba gayud ang angayan nga mahiapil sa maong programa.

Subay sa datus gikan sa Philippine Statistical Autority, mokabat uno punto kwatro (1.4) milyones ka pamilya kon mokabat sa pito ka milyones nga katawhang Pilipino ang naluwas sa kalisdanan kon kakabus, diin miusbaw na sila sa gitawag nga poverty threshold, butyag pa ni Coloma.

Ang implementasyon sa 4Ps gikatahong gitino na sa World Bank og panggamhanan sa Estados Unidos. (NGBT/ PND/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Cebuano News: Kapin 10 ektarya natamnan og mga kahoy atol sa pagsaulog sa Arbor Day sa SurSur

Ni Nida Grace P. Barcena

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Hunyo 28 (PIA) – Atol sa kasaulogan sa “Arbor Day” mokabat sa 10.21 ektaryas ang naitala sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) sa probinsiya sa Surigao del Sur ang natamnan sa mga kahoy dili pa lang dugay.

Sumala pa sa taho, ang maong pagpananom gipahigayon sa upat ka piniling dapit didto sa: Barangay Mabuhay, sakop sa dakbayan sa Tandag, Barangay Rizal didto sa lungsod sa Barobo, Sitio San Nicolas, Barangay San Jose sa dakbayan sa Bislig, og Barangay Bocaue sa Lungsod sa Lanuza.

Matud pa ni PENRO-Surigao del Sur National Greening Program (NGP) coordinator Forester Nannette Quinonez nga lima ka ektarya ang natanuman sa 8,330 ka mga seedling didto sa dakbayan sa Tandag. Mokabat 301 ka mga rehistradong nitanum nga gilangkuban sa mga personahe/empleyado sa local nga pangamhanan sa probinsiya og sa maong dakbayan, lakip na usab ang mga opisyales sa barangay Mabuhay, buhatan sa Department of Interior & Local Government (DILG), Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) King Cooperative, Tandag Water District (TWD), estudyante sa Saint Theresa College og Mabuhay Workers Organization.

Ang CENRO Lianga, mitala sa 190 ka mga rehistradong partisipante og mitanum ug 4,998 ka mga seedling ngadto sa 3 ka ektarya sa lungsod sa Barobo.

Didto sa dakbayan sa Bislig, ang buhatan sa CENRO mitala og 2,000 ka mga seedling ang gitanum sa mokabat 1.21 ka ektarya sa 71 ka mga rehistradong mipartisipar sa maong kalihukan.

Samtang ang CENRO Cantilan usab gikatahong 160 ang mitanom sa 1,666 ka mga seedling ngadto sa usa (1.0) ka ektarya nga gipahigayon sa lungsod sa Lungsod sa Lanuza.

Sumala pa sa taho, ang “Arbor Day” pagasaulogon matag tuig pinaagi sa pagpananum og pagpreserbar kon pagprotehir sa mga kakahoyan pinasubay sa RA 10176 kon Arbor Day Act of 2012 nga gilagdaan niadtong Setyembre 12, 2012. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DOH Caraga confers Red Orchid award to LGUs, hospitals, offices

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga has conferred on Wednesday the prestigious Red Orchid award to several local government units (LGUs), hospitals and government offices in Caraga Region in recognition of their successful anti-smoking initiatives.

On behalf of DOH-Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna Jr., Dr. Agnes Cullantes, non-communicable disease cluster head said the Red Orchid Award is an award system developed by the department to encourage the LGUs and other government agencies to actively implement the 100 percent Tobacco-Free Policy as mandated by DOH Administrative Order No. 10.

“It symbolizes the fight against the ill-effects of tobacco and recognizes the efforts of the LGUs and different government agencies in promoting the 100 percent Smoke-Free Environment. It further reminds people that the campaign to end the tobacco epidemic is far from over, and it is a symbol of Tobacco-Free World,” highlighted Cullantes.

For the local government units category, the following received the Red Orchid Award for implementing 100 percent Smoke-Free environment: San Francisco, Agusan del Sur; Esperanza, Agusan del Sur; Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; and Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Surigao del Norte, BJMP-Dapa town, BJMP-Surigao del Sur, BJMP-Surigao City, as well as, the provincial capitol of Surigao del Sur also received the Red Orchid Award.

The city government of Surigao received the Pink Orchid Award while a White Orchid Award was given to Tandag City.

For government hospital category, the DOH handed-over the award to Talacogon District Hospital in Agusan del Sur; Hinatuan District Hospital in Surigao del Sur; and Bislig City District Hospital in Surigao del Sur.

Also, the Hall of Fame Award was awarded to Caraga Regional Hospital in Surigao City.

Meanwhile, certificate of participation was given to San Agustin, Surigao del Sur; Nasipit, Agusan del Norte; RTR, Agusan del Norte; Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; Cortes, Surigao del Sir; and Butuan City. Same certification was also given to CSC Caraga.

The Red Orchid award is the highest honor given out by the DOH under its search for 100 percent tobacco-free provinces, municipalities, government offices and health facilities.

The award is conferred based on the entity’s initiatives in terms of the imposition of tobacco control measures and efforts to implement tobacco-free environments following the World Health Organization’s MPOWER initiative. MPOWER stands for Monitor tobacco use, Protect people from tobacco smoke, Offer help to quit tobacco use, Warn against the dangers of tobacco, Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, and Raise taxes on tobacco. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Army set to hold project ‘shoebox’ distribution ceremony in Caraga

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army will be having its Project Shoebox Distribution Ceremony on June 30, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. to be held at the Division Advance Command Post, Bancasi, this city.

According to Lt. Col Rey Pasco, commanding officer of the Army's 4th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, the project aims to distribute more than 20,000 school kits among recipient students throughout the region.

“The project actually started when a co-soldier personally took an initiative to collect a variety of school supplies from his friends and neighbors using a shoebox, and from that accumulated materials, he brought them back to his unit and out from his generosity he voluntarily shared them to the less fortunate pupils and students. It is truly a manifestation of a soldier’s extraordinary character of benevolence apart from performing the duties as a military man, a wondrous deed that is worthy of emulation,” enunciated Pasco.

The program also gained support from the Department of Education (DepEd), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), National Book Store, 2Go Group, Inc, and Shoemart (SM).

“I always believe that working together with the community and our partner stakeholders shall define our success in winning the peace and progress in this part of our country,” expressed Pasco. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor PPO gets outstanding PCR award

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA) – The Police Provincial Office of Agusan del Norte (PPO-ADN) was awarded plaque of recognition during the 21st Police Community Relations (PCR) celebration held at the Police Regional Office (PRO-13) here during Monday’s flag raising ceremony.

The celebration highlights the crucial role of the community in crime prevention and crime solution.

The recognition was given to the PPO-ADN for its outstanding accomplishments in the implementation of the PCR plans and programs that significantly contributed in the attainment of the overall mission and objectives of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

It was the second time PPO-ADN received the same award, thus making the agency as the back-to-back winner in PCR.

In accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 764, the month of July every year has been declared as Police Community Relations (PCR) Month with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) as the lead agency and the PNP as the implementing agency.

This year’s PCR month is celebrated with the theme, “Matatag na Ugnayan, Ligtas na Pamayanan.” (PNP/NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Kalahi-CIDSS, SurSur town ink MOA for partnership on community driven development program

By Nida Grace Barcena-Tranquilan

SAN AGUSTIN, Surigao del Sur, June 29 (PIA) - Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Service (KALAHI-CIDSS) and the local government unit of San Agustin signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) as partners for the implementation of the Community Driven Development Program (NCDDP) held recently at the Family Resource Training Center in this town.

It was learned that an orientation was also conducted on same day that emphasized that importance of collaboration to ensure for the success of its implementation.

KALAHI-CIDSS Sub-Regional Program Coordinator for Cluster 3 & 4 Maredith Julve discussed the overview of the program, and elaborated the roles and functions of the different stakeholders including the delivery of services.

“This is a welcome development for the people of San Agustin…the people of this town will again benefit from the program just as it reaped the profits of KALAHI-CIDSS a few years back,” said San Agustin Mayor Libertad Alameda.

“Our municipality was a recipient of the KALAHI-CIDSS PODER modality in 2005-2010, so when the opportunity came for the program to be implemented in the town this year, we really grabbed the chance as or involvement to helped the people here,” Alameda added.

According to Marko Davey Reyes of DSWD Field Office, KALAHI-CIDSS is a program that utilizes the Community-Driven Development Approach, where the community is given activie participation in identifying and implementing community sub-projects which will address the community’s needs in their respective barangays.

The said activity was attended by Surigao del Sur provincial administrator Efren Rivas representing governor Johnny Pimentel, Sangguniang Bayan members headed by vice mayor Mamerta Milo, local department heads and staff, barangay officials, and representatives from the civil society organizations. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PNP-13 registers decreased crime rate in Caraga region

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA)– Philippine National Police (PNP)-13 deputy for operations PSupt Rudy Elandag said recently that there is a decrease by 22 percent in the crime volume in the region for the period January to May 2016 which totaled to 4,616 as compared to the same period last year with 5,884 crimes recorded.

This was revealed in the presentation of accomplishments during the 87th Regional Development Council (RDC) Caraga meeting held in this city, while other agenda also include the following: State of the Region and RDC Accomplishments under the leadership of Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas; 2015 Regional Development Report; 2015 Annual Regional Economic Situationer; Reorganization of RDC-GADCC; Millennium Development Goals Final Report; and Updates on the K-12 Implementation.

Meanwhile, commanding general of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army MGen Benjamin Madrigal disclosed that they have recorded 77 encounters, 75 firearms gained, and 74 enemies neutralized.

MGen Madrigal said that the 402nd Brigade was able to neutralize the New Peoples Army’s (NPA) shadow government in Surigao del Sur. He added that 38 barangays in the region were already cleared from NPA for the first semester of this year and 157 more are still to be cleared.

“Our campaign against the left-leaning groups is on the right track and gaining headway, and that the 'Bayanihan' is the suitable formula to beat the New Peoples Army (NPA). The consistent high engagement rate will weaken the rebel enemy's fighting power, with the integration also of the military's peace and development activities, and socio-economic programs of other government agencies,” said Madrigal.

Meanwhile, as chair of the RDC Caraga for six years in her term, Surigao del Norte governor Sol Matugas expressed that she is very lucky to have been elected to lead the RDC. She also assured that with the coming new administration, she will continue to support the council and give her best to assist in anyway she can in order to sustain and achieve a more peaceful, secured and developed region. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

OWWA conducts entrep training to 19 OFW loan applicants

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s (OWWA) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted an Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT) to the 19 OFW entrepreneurs at the Go-Negosyo Center, DTI - Agusan del Norte Field Office here on June 21-22, 2016.

Three personnel from the lending center of the Land Bank of the Philippines- Butuan Branch also joined in the activity to give orientation and address the technical background of the OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP) then known as the 2-Billion Reintegration Program to the participants especially on concerns of collateral and the duration of the loan availment.

Gemma Clarin, Senior Trade and Industry Specialist of the DTI, discussed the vital keypoints on understanding business venture and as well as the necessary qualities which the participants must employ to aid in their business activities.

The EDT also aided the participants in drafting their business plans. Clarin critiqued each participant and added inputs in the improvement of the plans they have laid out for their business.

The reformulated loan facility of OWWA now features the loanable amount of P100,000 to a maximum of P2,000,000 for single proprietorship and P5,000,000 to group loan borrowers. The loan still bears the same interest rate of only 7.5 percent per annum fixed for the duration of the loan.

Jean Mary G. Ronquillo, OWWO II and in charge for the Reintegration Program, added that the documentary requirements for verification and endorsement to the partner bank includes: the certificate of attendance to the Entrepreneurship Development Training, Bio data, Statement of Assets and Liabilities, Barangay Clearance, Residential sketch, Business/ Project Plan, Certificate of Business Registration from DTI, Mayor’s permit, Income Tax Return for the last three years, if applicable, Latest interim financial statement, if applicable; and Collateral (Land Title or Real Estate), among others that may be required by the bank.

After endorsing the papers to the Landbank of the Philippines, a 40-day verification period shall be expected. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur 4Ps IP-beneficiary, an active peace advocate

By Ryan M. Tapayan

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PIA) - “Peace should start from within. When you do something, do it gently and with love. This simple gesture will manifest accordingly and would eventually live a footprint to everyone’s heart. Not for your own benefit, but for your kin and everyone around.”

This was the statement shared by Jocelyn B. Navarro, 44, an Indigenous People (IP) partner-beneficiary from Purok 8, Barangay Mat-e, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. Jocelyn is a peace advocate and has been serving as a frontline representative of their tribe-Manobo. Raised and educated in Luzon, and finished her undergraduate degree on Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Saint Anthony College of Baguio City.

She was one of the resource persons tasked to discuss responsibilities of a parent leader during the latest Capability Building for Parent Leader’s Training held recently in one of the convention halls here.

“Thanks to Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program though the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous People (MCCT-IP) for giving us an idea through the monthly conducted Family Development Session (FDS) that unity through peace is achievable and can happen if all of us will work for it,” she stressed. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Surigao Norte officials take oath of office

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 29 (PIA) - Governor Sol F. Matugas took her oath of office on Monday at the Provincial Convention Center together with the newly-elected and re-elected members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the first and second legislative districts.

Vice governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr., and first district representative Jose Francisco "Bingo" Matugas were joined by board members Mamerto Galanida, Leonila Gorgolon, Edgar Andanar, Constantino Navarro IV and Nathaniel Plaza, with their respective spouses, loving children and relatives.

For the second district, those who were sworn in were Board Members Melva Garcia, Fernando Larong and Eddie “Geed” Gokiangkee, Jr.

During the inaugural and oath-taking ceremony, three-termer Francisco Matugas also presented his accomplishments and projects like the Siargao circumferential road, construction of school buildings, library hubs, and other establishments.

He said that the overwhelming victory and success of the Matugas administration are sincerely dedicated to the love of his life, Governor Sol.

"I don't want to bid farewell, but there is always a time for everything under the sun. All the good works that I started will be continued and completed by Cong. Bingo," he said.

Municipal and barangay officials as well as representatives from national line agencies and the private sector also attended the inauguration ceremony.

In her message, Gov. Matugas said that in her first two terms, the province of Surigao del Norte became the fastest growing economy in the region. The province also gains 100 percent compliance to transparency and full disclosure policy. This is the reason why according to Gov. Matugas the province is a consistent recipient of the Seal of Good Local Governance.

Gov. Matugas also explained how her hands-on and fast-moving leadership moved the government nearer to the people in line with her flagship program known as HEALS PLUS, centering on the areas of Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture and Aqua-culture, Livelihood and Tourism, and Social Services and Security. On top of the centerpiece advocacies are Infrastructure Development, Good Financial Management, Economic Literacy and Good Governance. (PGO-SDN)

Cebuano News: Probinsya sa Surigao Norte midaug sa 2015 Search for Outstanding Local Project Monitoring Committee

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Hunyo 29 (PIA) – Ang probinsya nakadawat ug pasidungog isip mananaug sa 2015 Search for Outstanding Local Project Monitoring Committee, Provincial Category.

Ang maong pasidungog gihimo atol sa ika-87th Regional Development Council (RDC) Meeting nga gipasiugdahan sa buhatan sa National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga nga gipahigayon bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa Butuan City.

Ang maong tigom gipangulohan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas isip chairperson sa RDC Chair ug mao kini ang katapusang tigom nga gipahigayon ubos sa iyang pagdumala.

Matud ni NEDA Caraga regional director Myla Faye Cariño si gobernador Matugas maoy pinakaunang RDC Chairperson nga nakaabot sa ikaduhang termino.

Isip paghatag og pahinungod ug pasalamat sa iyang duha ka termino nga pagdumalasa RDC si gobernador Matugas gihatagan sa konseho ug usa ka Bust Statue.

Ang maong statue simbolo agig pag ila ug pagpasalamat sa iyang nga nahimo ubos sa iyang pagdumala ilabina ang paghaw-as sa listahan sa rehiyon sa Caraga sa usa sa pinakapobre nga rehiyon sa nasod. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Police beefs up security for joint oath-taking ceremony in SurSur

By Nida Grace Barcena-Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 30 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) beefed up the security in the city in preparation for the joint oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected city, congressional, and provincial officials, which will be held at 2:30 p.m., Thursday at the city gymnasium here.

According to chief of police Arvin Montenegro, the security plan is already in place and has already been implemented, as he cited the deployment of their troops in the different areas of the city.

Montenegro said that they have not received any information for any protest schedule since nobody applied for a permit, as of press time.

Based on the program, the newly-elected officials of the city will swear their oath before Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 40 Executive Judge Rufo U. Naragas, while the newly-elected provincial officials and congressional representatives from districts 1 and 2 will swear their oath before RTC Branch 27 Executive Judge Edwin Malazarte. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

MGB-13 joins environment month celeb

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 30 (PIA) - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office 13 has joined the celebration of the Environment Month this whole month of June.

This year’s celebration in anchored on the theme, Combat Biodiversity Loss, Beat Climate Change!”

The said celebration is aimed at increasing awareness and urging all stakeholders to undertake activities to reaffirm their concern for the protection and preservation of the environment.

MGB-13 Mine Management Division chief Engr. Daniel S. Belderol bared their month-long activities which include mangrove planting, coastal clean-up, zumba exercise, technical forum, photography and environmental video competition, hand painting and quiz bowl, recycling competition, and interpretative dance competition.

He said that the theme of this year’s celebration underscored the urgency to intensify our collaborative efforts in the conservation of our country’s rich biological diversity and the fight against the increasing threats to our ecosystems particularly illegal wildlife trade.

“We collaborate with other stakeholders to intensify public awareness of environmental preservation and instill in the participants from mining companies and host communities a sense of accountability as stewards of the environment,” said Engr. Balderol.

The Environment Month is celebrated by virtue of Proclamation No. 237 on April 4, 1988, declaring the month of June every year as Philippine Environment Month and to give time and effort towards the protection, enhancement and development of the country's environment.(SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Mindanao leader receives senior honors from PNoy

DAVAO CITY, June 30 (PIA) – President Benigno Aquino III conferred Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chair Luwalhati Antonino with the Order of Lakandula, one of the highest honors granted by the Republic of the Philippines to individuals who have “demonstrated dedication to the welfare of society.”

Secretary Antonino was given the rank of Gold Cross Bayani together with 23 other cabinet secretaries of the president during a ceremony on June 23 at the Malacañan Palace.

The Order of Lakandula is awarded for political and civic merit in memory of Lakandula’s dedication to the responsibilities of leadership, prudence, fortitude, courage and resolve in the service of one’s people. President Aquino also bestowed the Presidential Medal of Merit on other senior officials who have rendered outstanding service to the country.

“I think it is incumbent upon me to give official recognition to those who have gone above and beyond our expectations,” said President Aquino in a statement delivered at the awarding ceremony.

During President Aquino’s term, Secretary Antonino through MinDA launched numerous banner programs aimed to strengthen drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth, following the strategies and directions set in place by the Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan. The plan is considered as the region’s socioeconomic roadmap for 2011 to 2030.

Among these projects include the Mindanao Development Corridors, aimed to bolster infrastructure and connectivity within the island-region to facilitate its transformation as a cohesive and integrated economy participating in the international community. The corridors program was endorsed by key national government offices, ensuring budget for key infrastructure projects in Mindanao.

The MindaNOW! Nurturing Our Waters Program, a project designed to ensure that Mindanao’s natural resources are properly managed is also being currently implemented by MinDA. The project utilizes the “ridge-to-reef” approach, a strategy that requires the protection, utilization, and rehabilitation of the environment from the mountains to the seas.

Through the MindaNOW Program and in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, a Guinness World Record for Most Trees Planted Simultaneously in an hour was achieved by the Philippines on September 26, 2014. The record, dubbed as TreeVolution: Greening Mindanao, facilitated the planting of 4 million trees across Mindanao’s six regions.

Under Antonino’s leadership, MinDA launched the Mindanao Collective Trademark (MCT), a system designed to enhance the competitiveness of products originating from the region. Once fully utilized, the MCT will give Mindanao agri-products a certain distinction in the global markets. The MCT was launched in partnership with the European Union-Philippines through its Trade Related Technical Assistance Project 3.

Over the past six years, MinDA also forged partnerships with the Philippine Business for Social Progress for the conduct of the Mindanao Inclusive Agribusiness Program; the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry for an investment promotion and policy formulation agreement; the Asian Development Bank and the US Agency for International Development for the implementation of infrastructure projects and feasibility studies in the South Central Mindanao Corridors; and the Philippine Institute for Development Studies for the promotion of policy research in Mindanao and the establishment of the Mindanao Knowledge Center, among others.

In 2012, the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee (MPMC) was organized by MinDA and the Department of Energy to address Mindanao’s power situation. Since its inception, the committee has facilitated the improvement of the region’s power capacities and secured more than 347 megawatts of power supply to the Mindanao grid. Additional power supply of 639 megawatts are expected to come online within the year.

The MPMC also opened the One-Stop Facilitation and Monitoring Center to accelerate the approval of permits for renewable energy projects to cut one to two years from the three to five year requirement. A focused target to keep the region’s energy mix diversified with emphasis on renewable energy is being pushed by MinDA through the MPMC.

Antonino is the first woman to take leadership of the agency that serves as the Philippine government’s principal planning and coordinating agency in Mindanao. As MinDA secretary, she performs a broad range of responsibilities that includes addressing critical issues involving Mindanao, and those that require national representation or presidential intervention. Antonino was appointed as MinDA Chair by President Aquino in 2010.

She also sits as a board member of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and serves as the chairperson the agency’s infrastructure committee. As the infrastructure committee chairperson, Antonino pushed for higher tourism infrastructure budget for Mindanao, and facilitated the completion of several tourism projects across the island-region. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte launches 'Oplan Tag-ulan'

By Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 30 (PIA) - After a record-breaking drought during the months of April to June this year brought about by the El Niño phenomenon, the provincial government is now bracing for the coming of heavy rains.

To prepare for the coming of the rainy season, an activity dubbed “Oplan Tag-ulan” activities and contingency plan for La Niña were beefed up recently by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).

According to PAGASA Surigao chief Francis Semorlan, La Niña is expected to affect the eastern part of the country in the next six months. It is expected that more rainfall is expected in the Caraga provinces.

Engr. Lilibeth Filoteo of the Surigao Metropolitan Water District (SMWD) said that the report of PAGASA is good news to all Surigaonons. She explained that the drought triggered low water levels and prolonged water interruption.

The La Niña phenomenon is characterized by prolonged and intense rainfall and thunderstorms brought about by low pressure areas (LPAs), Inter Tropical Convergence Zones (ITCZs), easterlies and other weather disturbances.

Flooding, rain-induced landslides and storm surges are among the hazards of La Niña.

With the exception of Alegria, Mainit, Tubod and Sison, all municipalities in the mainland and Siargao Island are susceptible to surges, including Surigao City.

“Flooding affects 48.1 percent or 197,189 people out of the total population of 409,468 Surigaonons. In terms of exposure, half of those affected are very highly exposed while the rest are highly exposed,” the official report from PDRRMO noted.

To drum up its emergency plans and mitigate for the impact of La Niña, strategic measures to be initiated by PDRRMO comprise of advocacy, awareness raising through radio broadcasts and education, enhanced policy framework, search and rescue, evacuation and relief, water and sanitation, health and medication and rehabilitation.

Other stakeholders and concerned offices were also clustered to identify relevant tasks on top of cluster planning, needs and activities, training of rescue volunteers, early warning, logistics, early recovery and a lot more. (PGO-SDN, PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Cebuano News: SurSur nangandam sa pagsaulog sa World Population Day sa Hulyo

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Hunyo 30 (PIA) - Ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa probinsiya sa Suriga del Sur pinaagi sa buhatan sa Population Management Division gikatakda nga makighiusa sa pagsaulog sa “World Population Day” karong umaabot nga Hulyo 11, 2016.

Ang naasoy nga tinuig nga kasaulogan adunay katuyoan nga mas mapapalapdan pa ang kahibalo sa mga hisgutanan nga adunay kalabutan sa papulasyon.

Samtang gipamahayag ni Provincial Population Officer Milagros Arreza nga padayon ang gipahigayon ang kampanya sa Population Health and Development.

Gani, sa bahin sa mga estudyante sa elementarya, diin matud pa niya nga aduna nay mga pauna nga mga gihan-ay nga dunay kalabutan sa populasyon nga pagahisgustan alang sa kahibaloan sa mga estudyante.

Kalabot niini sa naasoy nga taho apil usab sa mga aktibidad niining bulan sa Hunyo mao ang kabahin sa script-writing contest sa nga estudyante nga anaa sa grade 7 ngadto na sa grade 10. (NGBT/RNB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Army distributes school kits to recipient pupils, schools in Caraga

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army (4ID, PA) on Thursday spearheaded the ceremonial distribution of 20,670 ‘Project Shoebox’ school kits to recipients pupils and schools at camp Bancasi here.

The school kits were given to recipient pupils of the city and Civil Military Operations (CMO) officers of Caraga region who will then distribute the kits to their respective recipient municipalities and schools.

The school kits are intended to pupils from Kinder to Grade six from the different schools of the region.

During the ceremonial distribution, two schools from Butuan City – the Consuelo Elementary School and Bancasi Elementary School have received a total of 360 and 422 school kits and were received by Sylvia B. Cabrera and Rosilda B. Bacon, school principals of said schools, respectively.

Capt. Angelo Jose Gomez, CMO officer of the 29th Infantry Battalion (IB) has received 2,689 project shoebox school kits intended for the recipient schools in the municipalities of Jabonga, Kitcharao and Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

A total of 5,000 project shoebox school kits intended for the recipient schools in the municipalities of Cagwait, Marihatag and Tago, Surigao del Sur were also received by CMO officer of the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion 2Lt Johngie Siatanan.

For the municipalities of Carmen, Cantilan and Cortes, Surigao del Sur, a total of 2,503 project shoebox school kits were also received by 16IB CMO officer 2Lt Edelyn Glarian.

CMO officer of the 75th Infantry Battalion 1Lt Miguel Borromeo also received the 2,910 project shoebox school kits intended for the municipality of Barobo and Bislig City in Surigao del Sur. The municipalities of Bacuag, Alegria, Mainit, Malimono, Tubod, Gigaguit and Sison in the province of Surigao del Norte received 3,162 project shoebox school kits through 30IB CMO officer Capt. Rofhel Pacheco.

The 2,650 project shoebox school kits intended for the recipient schools of the municipalities of Tago and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur were received by 2nd Special Forces Battalion CMO officer Capt. Rommel Salve.

Also, the municipality of Sibagat and Bayugan City school recipients in Agusan del Sur received a total of 789 project shoebox school kits through 3rd Special Forces Battalion CMO officer Capt Ray John Labiao.

The distribution of school kits was attended by 4ID assistant division commander BGen. Paul Atal, Philippine Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Caraga regional director Atty. Pinky Grace P. Pabelic, assistant regional director Dr. Ramir B. Uytico of the Department of Education (DepEd) - Caraga, and Department of the Interior and Local Government Caraga assistant regional director Donald Seronay.

The Project Shoebox is an initiative and partnership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, DepEd, National Bookstore Foundation, SM and 2GO Express. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

New Butuan City mayor bares 10 priority impact projects

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) – In time with the inauguration and oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected officials here on Thursday, newly-elected city mayor Ronnie Vicente Conde Lagnada also bared his ten Priority Impact Projects that his administration wanted to accomplish for the first 100 days.

Among these are: 1) Bright Butuan (to include street lights; 2) Clean Butuan (campaign on solid waste management will be intensified); 3) Orderly Butuan (peace and order situation); 4) Progressive Barangays (no barangay will be left behind in the development); 5) People-friendly City Hall; 6) Excellent-Driven City Hall; 7) Clean Water (with upgraded water facilities); 8) Fast and Efficient Licensing in Butuan; 9) Transparent City Hall; and 10) Save Butuan.

“We will see to it that the change that we have been longing to see and experience will be realized by this administration. We will work together to achieve our common goals for the betterment of our city and our people,” stressed Lagnada.

The newly-elected mayor also asked the public to help the city government on its advocacy campaign that will also lead to the development of the city.

Meanwhile, along with mayor-elect Lagnada who took oath are Agusan del Norte 1st District Cong. Lawrence Lemuel Fortun; Vice Mayor Jose Aquino II. 10 city councilors also took their oath, to wit: Glenn Carampatana; Ferdinand Nalcot; Rema Burdeos; Derrick Plaza; Cromwell Nortega; Omar Andaya; Cherry Mae Busa; Vincent Rizal Rosario; Ehrnest John Sanchez; and John Gil Unay.

The aforementioned newly-elected officials belong to one political party during the May 2016 elections. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

NNC Caraga spearheads 2016 National Nutrition Month celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA)– The National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga is once again spearheading this year’s National Nutrition Month celebration this July with various activities in coordination with other government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society organizations, academe, and media.

Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr., regional director of the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga announced that on July 4, 2016, the NNC-DOH will be holding the “Jog and Zumba for Health” with the different sectors. Assembly area will be at the Agusan del Norte Provincial Capitol and will jog going to City Hall, where the Zumba for Health will be conducted. A Nutrition Month Forum will also be participated by partner stakeholders in one of the local convention centers here.

Llacuna also bared that this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “First 1,000 days ni baby pahalagahan para sa malusog na kinabukasan (Give importance to the first 1,000 days of a baby to ensure his/her healthy future).”

“The theme focuses on the first 1,000 days of life starting from conception and before the second birthday of the child. It is during this period when growth faltering happens. Many studies have shown a link between undernutrition, especially stunting, in the first years of life and over nutrition in the later years,” highlighted Llacuna.

The good director also underlined that the First 1,000 Days has been called the “golden window of opportunity” for a comprehensive package of nutrition and related interventions to achieve significant changes in reduction in child stunting, underweight and wasting, at the same time contribute to complete child development.

Llacuna further encouraged all sectors to celebrate with them and increase awareness about the First 1,000 Days campaign. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RDRRMC leads 2016 NDCM celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) – In time with the kick-off celebration of this year’s National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM), the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga chaired by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) briefed the media partners on disaster-related updates and other undertakings of the council.

In Caraga region, said observance kicked-off with a thanksgiving mass, motorcade and a short program at the Agusan del Norte provincial covered court.

Right after the program, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga also facilitated a press conference held at the provincial governor’s conference room with the regional heads of the OCD, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH), PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as panelists. ‪

RDRRMC chair and OCD Caraga regional director Manuel Luis Ochotorena asked the help of the media partners to help the council disseminate relevant disaster-related information and updates to the localities especially with the La Niña phenomenon.

“The council is conducting the Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) days before a typhoon is expected to hit the area, in order to strategize plans for appropriate preparations and response,” stressed Ochotorena.

Ochotorena also thanked the partner agencies for their constant cooperation. As in-charge in coordination, he bared that the council stays comprehensive in promoting strategic platforms approved by the council. “We are also into humanitarian assistance and the council is not digressing but progressing in terms of performing the directives in advancing efforts in calamity/disaster mitigation and prevention,” he said.

With regards to preparedness on the silent calamity earthquake, Ochotorena reiterated that the council has continuously capacitated the responders with skills on search, rescue and retrieval. He said that contingency planning is always part of the preparation, and they are going to conduct emergency telecommunication simulation exercises.‪

Regional director Abner Caga of PIA Caraga reiterated that the agency has established a portable radio equipment and developed a system that can manage communications even during disaster/calamity. “The 107.8 Power FM/ Advanced Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS) Network of PIA Caraga has tested its functionality and effectiveness during the Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban. It is ready to be utilized even in extreme weather condition,” he highlighted.

Vice chair for Disaster Preparedness and DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion emphasized that policies on disaster preparedness are strictly implemented and monitored in the different local government units in the region.

LTC Rey Pasco, executive director of 4th Infantry Division Advance Command Post, Philippine Army also emphasized that they are very ready to respond to any eventualities/emergencies. They are also equipped with necessary facilities and have been continuously capacitating its personnel thru trainings.

Also, Angelita Amista of DSWD Caraga reiterated that the department has already established a system that will immediately respond to the needs of the local citizens during disaster/calamity. At any given time, they have a standby relief packs of 30,000.

Meanwhile, in anticipation of La Nina, Dr. Ernesto Pareja of DOH Caraga revealed that their agency has already prepositioned teams to respond to any possible effects of said phenomenon. A quick response team to focus on La Nina and other disasters that the region will encounter has been proposed.

The 2016 NDCM is anchored on the theme, "Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa."(JPG/ VLG/NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

ANECO conducts electrical rehab for PIA Caraga’s communication service platform

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) – In its objective to enhance more the communication capability through stable and increased power capacity source, the Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ANECO) headed by its general manager Horacio Santos provided special assistance to Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga for its establishment’s electrical rehabilitation and upgrade.

According to PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, the attention and swift action afforded by the ANECO management to the agency in the restoration of low-rated electrical lines, conversion of substandard connections to excellent quality will really aid in defining compliance to its requirement for the International Standard Organization (ISO) certification.

“We are pleased with the immediate response of the ANECO team to the request of our agency in pursuit of putting in place a dependable power supply lines that is viable in the utilization of more advanced communication service platforms conceptualized by the PIA Caraga team,” expressed Caga.

Also, Caga underlined the importance and the need for adequate and reliable supply of electricity especially during this wet season where weather disturbances can possibly interfere the information dissemination operations of the agency.

“I deeply appreciate the cooperation of ANECO for addressing our agency’s needs in the uninterrupted implementation of unique communication platforms by upgrading the power lines of which will manifest safety of usage as well,” said Caga.

ANECO is the main electricity supplier to the province, incuding the cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran.

ANECO's power requirements are currently supplied by National Power Corp. and Therma Marine Inc. of the Aboitiz Group.(VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOH Caraga urges public to do 4S

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga in its quest to raise awareness against dengue has intensified its campaign to bring down dengue cases in the region.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Jose R. Llacuna, the agency has provided logistic support to the local government units in the region so they can also make strategies of informing the public about dengue.

The 4S is still the best way to prevent from infecting from the dengue virus.

“The Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, using of Self-protection measures, Seeking early consultation when symptoms appear, and saying ‘No’ to indiscriminate fogging are the main strategies to prevent dengue,” director LLacuna said.

“While it is true that dengue awareness campaigns has been existing for years, dengue cases in the region remains on an unstable plateau,” director Llacuna said.

Llacuna further said that in 2014, a total of 8,252 cases were tallied in the region.

“Although the total has decreased in 2015, having a 6,590 cases, cases per month seemed to have increased if compared to the months in 2014,” Llacuna added.

In 2016, the month of January scaled up to 1,104 compared to the 512 in January of 2015.

Llacuna also said that currently, a total of 2,917 cases is tallied in the region "and we are only down to the first half of the year." This however correlates to the strengthened dengue awareness campaigns which means that people are more knowledgeable to the disease and its dangers making them cautious enough to report whatever initial symptoms are felt relatable to the disease, he said.

Others strategies that have been present to combat dengue include vaccination to all nine-year old children enrolled in all public elementary schools, which was already started in other regions through School-Based Immunization Program. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Local nutrition, population officers in AgNor to receive monthly honorarium

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to give monthly honorarium to the Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs) and Municipal Population Officers (MPOs) in the province starting January of next year.

This was sealed under Provincial Ordinance No. 414-2016, entitled: “An Ordinance Providing Honorarium to the the Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs) and Municipal Population Officers (MPOs) in the province of Agusan del Norte, and Appropriating Funds Thereof,” authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo.

The said ordinance covers all MNAOs and MPOs in the ten municipalities of the province.

The provincial government will appropriate P132,000.00 under the Nutrition and Population Program of the Provincial Social Welfare, Population and Nutrition Services Office (PSWPNSO) starting calendar year 2017 and every year thereafter. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

AgNor demo farm gets boost

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte, in its thrust to further improve its farming, production and harvest, got a hand from the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office XIII (DA-RFO XIII) as it provided farm equipment for the Demonstration Farm of the province.

These farm equipment known as a one power sprayer and a one knapsack sprayer, will be utilized by the Provincial Agriculture Office for the Demonstration Farm of the province under the High Value Crops Development Program.

For its immediate implementation, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to sign the Memorandum of Agreement by and between the province and the DA-RFO XIII through Sanggunian Resolution No. 125-2016, authored by Provincial Board Member Antidio B. Amora.

Said MOA stipulated the terms and conditions, as well as the responsibilities of the two agencies relative to the provision of said farm equipment under its High Value Crops Development Program.

This would further boost the production of high values crops in the province. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DAR-Surigao Norte conducts forum for landowners, farmers

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 1 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform Surigao del Norte provincial office (DAR-SDN) conducted a one-day forum for landowners and farmers on June 27, 2016 held at Gateway Hotel, this city.

Around 50 landowners and farmers from the different municipalities of the province attended the said forum designed to develop landowners’ and farmers’ awareness on agribusiness opportunities, investments, financial and entrepreneurial program of the government.

It also served as the DAR’s initiative to facilitate agri-productivity and countryside development with landowners and farmers playing crucial role in facilitating investments and development.

In his message, Jose T. Sebucao, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II of DAR-SDN, urged the participants to ask questions on the things they do not understand.

He said that the output of the forum is timely because of the change of administration and that the issues and concerns pointed out by the concerned participants will be brought to the higher DAR management.

Provincial offices of some government agencies were also tapped to participate in the forum to present their services being offered to the public like the PhilHealth, the Social Security System (SSS) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). (DAR-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DA pushes for completion of BUB, PAMANA projects

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, July 1 (PIA) - To monitor and evaluate the implementation of projects, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga through the Special Projects Section conducted the Bottom Up Budgeting (BUB) and PAMANA Program Mid-Year Assessment and Coordination meeting. The activity was conducted in two batches on June 27 to 29 here.

Batch 1 was attended by representatives from the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Dinagat Islands. The second batch was comprised of representatives from Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

The activity served as a venue for updating the status of implementation of projects under the two programs and discussion of issues and strategies for the smooth implementation of the projects.

DA Caraga regional director Edna M. Mabeza, in her message, urged the participants to do everything to save the projects that can still be saved and beat the deadline in having the projects obligated and completed. She appealed to the local government units to complete all the required documents. “DA has always been transparent in implementing projects, however, there are things beyond control which sometimes factors also in the delay of the project implementation,” she said.

“These projects are for the benefit of the farmers and fisherfolk so let us do everything we can to ensure its completion. And we need your full support to achieve that,” she further said.

For 2013 to 2014, a total of 399 BUB projects which include Livelihood, Farm to Market Roads, Irrigation, Postharvest Facilities, and Fisheries were completed. For 2015, two BUB projects have been completed while 14 are still on-going. While for 2016, 34 BUB projects amounting to P35,815,184 were obligated.

On the other hand, PAMANA is the national government's program and framework for peace and development and is implemented in areas affected by conflict and communities covered by existing peace agreements.

For PAMANA, of the 16 projects implemented in 2013, seven have been completed while nine are still on-going. For 2014, all four FMR projects have been completed. Of the 10 projects targeted for 2015, three are on-going while seven are still on the pipeline. While for 2016, 16 projects are targeted and three are already obligated. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: DOH Caraga pinarangalan ng Regional Red Orchid Awards ang mga lokal na pamahalan, ospital at ahensiya ng gobyerno

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 1 (PIA) - Pinarangalan ng Department of Health (DOH) Caraga ang ibat-ibang lokal na pamahalaan, ospital at ahensiya ng gobyerno na pumasa sa criteria o batayan para sa Red Orchid Awards na syang pokus ay ang pagpapatupad ng Tobacco-Free Environment Policy at iba pang mga programang pangkalusugan.

Ayon kay doctor Agnes Cullantes, non-communicable disease cluster head ng DOH Caraga, ang prestihiyosong Red Orchid Awards ay isa sa kanilang mga inisyatibo upang mahikayat ang mga lokal na pamahalaan at iba pang ahensiya ng gobyerno na maging aktibo at maging 100 porsyento ang pagpapatupad ng tobacco-free policy base sa kanilang mandato na nakasaad sa Administrative Order No. 10.

Ang Red Orchid Award ay nagsisimbolo rin ng kanilang kampanya laban sa nakakasirang epekto ng paninigarilyo sa kalusugan ng tao.

Napag-alaman na sa local government units category, ang bayan ng San Francisco at Esperanza sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur; Bislig City at Hinatuan ng Surigao del Sur ay tumanggap sa nasabing Red Orchid Award.

Ang ahensya naman ng Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) sa probinsya ng Surigao del Norte; bayan ng Dapa; at ang mismong kapitolyo ng Surigao del Sur ay tumanggap rin ng nasabing award.

Samantala, sa government hospital category naman ay tumanggap ng Red Orchid Award ang Talacogon District Hospital sa Agusan del Sur; Hinatuan District Hospital at Bislig City District Hospital sa probinsya ng Surigao del Sur.

Naging hall of famer naman ang Caraga Regional Hospital sa taong ito.

Ipinahayag ni Maria Cecilia Bayana, health, education and promotion officer ng Caraga Regional Hospital na maigting nilang pinapapatupad ang Tobacco-Free Policy sa kanilang ospital at sinusunod naman umano ito ng kanilang mga pasyente.

Dagdag pa niya, mayroon din silang ginagawang counseling para sa mga naninigarilyo nang matulungan silang mahinto ang kanilang bisyo at mapangalagaan ang kanilang kalusugan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: 20,670 school kits ipinamahagi ng 4ID, Phil. Army sa mga batang mag-aaral sa Caraga region

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 1 (PIA) - Umabot sa 20,670 school kits ang ipinagkaloob ng 4th Infantry Division (4ID), Philippine Army (PA) sa mga batang mag-aaral na lumad at hirap sa buhay sa isinagawang Project Shoebox Distribution Ceremony dito sa lungsod ng Butuan nitong Huwebes, Hunyo 30, 2016.

Ang nasabing school kits ay naglalaman ng notebooks, lapis, krayola at iba pang pangunahing school supplies na siyang kakailanganin ng mga mag-aaral. Maliban pa sa school kits ay namahagi rin ang 4ID ng mga tsinelas sa bawat isa sa kanila.

Ang nabanggit na proyekto ay sinimulan noong 2012 na pinalaganap sa Luzon, Visayas at dito sa Mindanao sa kasalukuyan. Ito ay suportado din ng Department of Education, National Book Store Foundation at ng 2go Express.

Ayon pa kay BGen Paul Atal, assistant division commander ng 4ID, PA, ang proyektong Shoebox ay isang inisyatibo ng kapwa niya kawal na si Col. Thomas Sedano, battalion commander ng 4th Light Battalion Armor.

“Layunin ng proyektong ito ang makatulong upang maibsan ang problema sa pantustos sa eskwela lalung-lalo na yuong galing pa sa malalayong lugar upang makapasok man lamang sa paaralan,” sabi ni BGen Atal.

Ito ay bunga daw ng kagandahang loob na ipinamalas ng isang sundalo na bigyang kabuluhan ang bawat serbisyo hindi lamang sa pagpapalaganap ng peace, security at development kundi pati rin ang pagbibigay importansya sa social services component ng kanilang organisasyon.

Dagdag pa ni BGen Atal, hangad din ng Philippine Army na palakasin at palaganapin ang adbokasiyang Project Shoebox, sa tulong na rin ng iba pang partner stakeholders na handang makibahagi ng kani-kanilang kontribyusyon.

Samantala, ipinaabot din ng mga mag-aaral ng Consuelo Elementary School ang kanilang taos-pusong pasasalamat sa biyayang hatid ng Philippine Army. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Mga opisyal sa Agusan Sur, nanumpa sa katungdanan

Ni Annah Sharon Rosales

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, July 1 —Pormal nang nanumpa ang mga bag-ong napili ug subling napili nga mga kadagkoan sa probinsiya alang sa laing tulo ka tuig nga termino sa nagkadaiya nilang mga katungdanan.

Ang mga opisyal sa lalawigan nga gipangunahan nila Gobernador Adolph Edward G. Plaza, 1st District Rep. Maria Valentina G. Plaza ug 2nd District Rep. Evelyn Plaza-Mellana nanumpa atubangan sa mga lokal nga husgado sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall sa kapitolyo.

Sa naandan, gisugdan ang mahinungdanong kalihukan pinaagi sa usa ka misa sa Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish Church sa Barangay Patin-ay ning lungsod nga gipasiugdahan ni Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos, DD, Obispo sa Diocese of Butuan sa may alas 8:30 sa buntag.

Ang pagpanumpa ni Gobernador Plaza sa iyang ikatulo nga termino gipangunahan ni Judge Kimal M. Salacop, Presiding Judge sa RTC Branch VI.

Sa unang higayon, duha ka Kapitan ang nanguna sa pagpanumpa sa duha sa representante sa Agusan del Sur.

Si Climaco C. Rosauro, Kapitan sa Barangay Gamao, Bayugan City ang ni-administrar sa pagpanumpa ni 1st District Rep. Plaza samtang si Premo C. Lara, Kapitan sa Barangay Katipunan, Loreto ang administering officer ni 2nd District Rep. Mellana.

Si Judge Lou A. Nueva, Presiding Judge sa Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) ning lungsod ang ni-administer usab sa pagpanumpa sa mga Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members gikan sa District I nga sila Santiago B. Cane, Jr., Alfelito M. Bascug,. Edelberto D. Bastareche, Nestor L. Corvera, DMD ug Susan G. Gerona, DMD.

Siya usab ang nanguna sa pagpanumpa ni Provincial Vice Governor-Elect Samuel E. Tortor.

Si Judge Dymphna G. Labindao, Presiding Judge sa MCTC San Francisco usab ang nanguna sa pagpanumpa sa mga Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members gikan sa District II nga sila Edward P. Mellana, CPA, Hazel O. del Rosario, Gilbert G. Elorde, CE, Agusani A. Ananoria ug Edwin D. Demigillo, ME. (PGO-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: Lagnada pormal ng nanumpa isip bag-ong mayor sa dakbayan sa Butuan

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 1 (PIA) - Pormal nang nanumpa si Engr. Ronnie Vicente Conde Lagnada isip bag-ong amahan ning dakbayan atol sa gipahigayon nga inaugural ug oath-taking didto sa Almont Inland ning dakbayan.

Gisundan dayun ang opisyal nga pag turn-over sa renda sa panggamhanan nga gitunol ni outgoing Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. ug gidawat sa bag-ong Mayor sa dakbayan sa Butuan nga si halangdong Mayor Engr. Ronnie Vicente Lagnada nga girepresentahan ni Vicente Lagnada Jr., ang seremonyal nga yawe kagahapong adlawa Hunyo 30, 2016 sa gipahigayon usab nga Turn-over Ceremony sa City Hall Lobby.

Napuno sa bagang doot sa katawhan ang tugkaran sa City Hall diin gidawat sa mainitong palakpak ang bag-ong amahan sa syudad nga si Mayor Lagnada.

Sa iyang mensahi nga gipadangat pinaagi ni Vicente Lagnada, gipaabot sa bag-ong mayor ang dako niining pagpasalamat ngadto sa mga katawhan sa dakbayan nga misalig sa iyang liderato, diin iyang gisaad ang tinud-anay nga pagpangalagad sa katawhan ug paghimo sa kausaban og bag-ong kalambuan sa panggoberno. (LGU Butuan/PIA-Caraga)

School children in Caraga receive school kits

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 4 (PIA) – Some 20,670 school kits were distributed by the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), Philippine Army to the pupil recipients from Kindergarten to Grade Six who are enrolled at the different public schools throughout Caraga region.

As disclosed by 4ID assistant division commander BGen. Paul Atal during the Project Shoebox Distribution Ceremony held recently here, the 'aral kits' containing notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other school supplies intended to be distributed among indigenous and deprived pupils in conflict affected areas, was initiated by a generosity-driven soldier in the person of Col. Thomas Sedano, battalion commander of 4th Light Battalion Armor.

“Now is the reaping time of the then conceptualized effort to collect several school supplies to be given to the underprivileged children- a synergy to help address the problem on education specifically the materials needed for pupil's learning,” expressed BGen Atal.

He thanked all their partners who supported in the realization of the project and advocacy for peace and development. Atal also said the project shoebox is their way of sharing their blessings to the underprivileged children especially in the far-flung areas.

Meanwhile, Brgy. Councilor Regalado Gerzon, chairman of the Committee on Education, Brgy. Bancasi in Butuan City and a retired Phil. Army officer said during his welcome address that they are glad that the services of the government especially of the Phil. Army has extensively reached among civilian populace, the pupils who need much support for their education.

In expressing his amazement and support to the Project Shoebox, DILG Caraga assistant regional director Donald Serona recalled how the underprivileged children strive hard just to acquire education, and so he addressed the pupil recipients to give value to what they have received - the school kits as it will somehow aid them in uplifting the difficulties of getting proper education from school. He added that it is an important component in the social services of an institution, and that he greatly appreciates the noble endeavor of AFP and its partners.

Also, speaking in behalf of indigenous peoples (IPs), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Caraga regional director Atty. Pinky Grace Pabelic recognized the significant endeavor of the Phil. Army and other stakeholders in giving priority to educational assistance through 'aral kits.'“Keep holding onto your dreams because the future belongs to those who believe in their dreams, and achieve those dreams with all your might amidst obstacles and struggles in going to school,” addressed Atty. Pabelic.

In a deeper meaning of gaining momentum and success of the Project Shoebox, Phil. Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner Caga stressed that it is through the benevolent heart of the uniformed men of AFP and other sponsors that ensures continuity of the advocacy. “Hence, it is just appropriate to acknowledge their efforts in helping address the hindrances of getting the right education among less fortunate children,” said Caga.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ramil Uytico, assistant regional director of Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga enunciated that said project will not just address the problem of poverty but it will surely go a long way including the decrease of drop-outs. He added that it is a message of more than the contents of the shoebox, such that it takes a village to educate and escalate the level of education, and not a responsibility of the DepEd alone. “This is a celebration of hope and generosity,” underscored Uytico.

Every child gladly received each share of shoebox. It is hoped that the advocacy will strengthen as more public and private institutions are expected to take sponsorship of the said project.

It was learned that Regions 10 and 13 pupil recipients received a total of 32,739 school kits from the Project Shoebox of the 4ID, Philippine Army.

The Project Shoebox is an initiative and in partnership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Education (DepEd), National Bookstore Foundation and 2GO Express. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

People-based projects will continue in AgSur, assures Cong. Plaza

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, July 4 (PIA) - “I will continue to implement people-based projects in Infrastructures, Education, Protective Services Program, Peace and Order, Environment Protection and Health Services of which the greater populace of Agusanons benefited on this endeavor since the 15th and 16th Congress. Your undying support to us in public office for three consecutive terms is also our strength in pursuing our dedication in serving our beloved and awesome province of Agusan del Sur.”

This was the statement of Agusan del Sur 1st district representative Ma. Valentina Plaza, during her oath-taking ceremony held recently at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Hall, this town.

Cong. Plaza expressed her warm thanks and gratitude to all the Agusanon constituents for their support, cooperation and trust to the activities and programs of the provincial government. She further emphasized that the local government units of the province will be more equipped with the necessary logistics and support for the different programs and services that will benefit the local citizens.

“I take my oath of office, to one of our many multi awarded Barangay Captain of Gamao, Hon. Climaco C. Rosauro in the City of Bayugan. I give a very high regard to our barangay leaders because they are the public sergeants who are closest to people. By taking an oath to Hon. Barangay Captain Rosauro symbolizes that our hard work is dedicated to the frontliners of progress and development of our people,” Plaza underlined.

This will be the last term of office of Cong. Plaza as member of the 17th Congress representing the province's first district, it was learned. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga literacy awards committee screens entries for 2016

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 4 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga region through its Literacy Coordinating Council has conducted the screening of entries for this year’s National Literacy Awards (NLA).

Entries have been conducted by the members of the 2016 Regional Literacy Awards Steering Committee (RLASC) recently.

The entries screened include outstanding local government units (LGUs) highly urbanized city, component city, class A and B municipalities and outstanding literacy program.

The NLA aims to recognize best practices in literacy, which help alleviate poverty, provide livelihood, address welfare needs, promote freedom and make education facilities accessible.

According to DepEd regional director May B. Eclar, the NLA has two categories: the Outstanding Literacy Program and the Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU).

The Outstanding Literacy Program is an award given to civil society organization, national government organization, private organization or educational/academic institution, that has developed and implemented a literacy program which has had a positive impact on the learners and their respective communities.

The Outstanding LGU will also given to an LGU that has developed and implemented literacy policies, programs and projects that have impacted positively on the quality of life of their constituents.

Also, the LGU category is divided into highly urbanized city, component/component independent city, class A municipality (first to third), and class B municipality (fourth to sixth class).

The RLASC is chaired by director Eclar of DepEd, co-chaired by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion with Philippine Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga, regional director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Carino of the National Economic and Development Authority Caraga, and Dr. Adelyne M. Abrea, executive director and provost of Philippine Normal University as members.

This award is given every other year. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Healthy lifestyle saves our kidney - DOH

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 4 (PIA) – Department of Health (DOH) Caraga regional director Jose R. Llacuna, MD reminds people to keep a healthy lifestyle and do away from stress to save the kidney.

“Help our kidneys by taking only what the body needs such as enough water for organ hydration, less or no alcohol if possible, no smoking, and adaption of a healthy diet,” Llacuna said.

LLacuna also reminds people that too much of something is bad enough and that moderation is the key to have a healthy kidney.

Chronic Kidney Diseases (CKD) according to Llacuna affects an estimated of 10,800 Filipinos each year and each year, 30,000 to 40,000 Filipinos undergo dialysis.

“Kidney diseases are often cannot be cured but can be prevented,” Llacuna said. The condition is caused by gradual loss of kidney function leading to complications like high blood pressure, anemia (low blood count), weak bones, poor nutrition health, nerve damage and increased heart and blood vessel diseases, he added.

CKD may be the cause of diabetes and other disorders. Early detection and treatment can keep CKD from getting worse. When it progresses, however, may lead to kidney failure which will require dialysis or kidney transplant to sustain life.

Just recently, the DOH has conducted a urine tests to Grade 1 pupils of Butuan Central Elementary School here but there were no unfavorable deeming results found.

“All organs are vital for us to function. It is sad to note that we neglect the importance of the filter system of our body which is the main function of our kidneys,” Llacuna said.

"Our lifestyle allows us to eat and drink too much that we damage the capacity of our kidneys in helping our body drain the toxins," he added.

He also said that many are undergoing dialysis because their kidneys need help in filtering toxic substances which could have been avoided if only people are more conscious and cautious. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

3rd regional tourism stakeholders summit set in Tandag City

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 4 (PIA) - The 3rd Regional Tourism Stakeholders Summit is set to open Monday at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel, this city.

Said event will be joined by the City/Municipal Tourism Officers, City/Municipal Tourism Council chairs, tourism stakeholders, and Provincial Tourism Council Officers.

This year’s theme is “Enhancing and Sustaining Tourism Development.” The three-day activity, which will run until July 6, 2016, aims to tackle the important data and records for the information of the concerned, and important laws for the development of the entire Caraga Region.

Accordingly, the city government here will be the host of the said prestigious event in cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT) - Caraga, Caraga Regional Tourism Council and Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur.

Other lined-up activities include, site visit to the local tourist destinations showcasing the province of Surigao del Sur with DOT Caraga director Letty Tan and participants of the said summit. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

AgNor turns over RabMIS to LGUs

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 4 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte turned over the Rabies Management Information System (RabMIS) and equipment to the city and municipalities of the province during the convocation at the Capitol lobby on Monday.

Provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba handed-over the computer sets to the different local government units (LGUs) assisted by Provincial Board Members Aquino W. Gambe and Elizabeth Marie R. Calo.

Dr. Joseph Rizalyndo P. Dargantes, Veterinarian IV of the province, initiated the RabMIS program with the help of Paul Cupay of the Management Information System Division of the Provincial Governor’s Office in the creation of the said system and assistance from the Provincial Planning and Development Office, Provincial Health Office and Provincial Social Welfare, Population, Nutrition and Services Office.

RabMIS is a computer-based anti-rabies record keeping of the mandatory registration of dogs (3 months old and above) by their respective dog owners. The RabMIS data include 1) dog-anti-rabies vaccination, 2) dog population monitoring, 3) dog impounding, 4) dog adoption and euthanasia, 5) dog control status, 6) dog population control, 7) dog bite cases, 8) animal and human rabies case report, 9) human anti-rabies vaccine recipients and 10) vaccine inventory. The old system will replace the old recording system with the comfort and ease of computer mouse and search buttons.

The said event was witnessed by the officials and employees of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

BFAR Dinagat Islands launches community fish landing in Cagdianao

By Audie Dodz Lerog

CAGDIANAO, Dinagat Islands, July 4 (PIA) - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in coordination with the lone congressional office of Dinagat Islands has led the turn-over of Community Fish Landing to Barangay Sta. Rita in this town.

According to BFAR-13 regional director Nerio Casil, the said facility worth P2,850.000 was constructed purposely to improve the socio-economic welfare of the fisherfolk sector and promote the sustainability of aquatic resources.

“It serves also as a hub for trading of fish and other seafood products as well as training center for fish processing, value adding and conservation and protection of fisheries resources,” Casil said.

The turn-over ceremony was led by director Casil, Dinagat Islands representaive Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao, LGU Cagdianao executive assistant Teodoro L. Alipayo, and Sta. Rita barangay captain Nestor L. Mangalao. (MIO-Cagdianao/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DA Caraga strengthens cacao industry

By Vanesa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, July 4 (PIA) - There are three things to improve productivity in cacao - knowledge, hardwork, and attitude.

This is according to Valentine D. Turtur, Executive Director of Cacao Industry Development Association of Mindanao, Inc. (CIDSAMI) as said during the Regional Cacao Industry Promotion and Investment Forum cum Planning workshop held recently here.

Cacao is now a trending crop, being talked about everywhere in the world because of the declining production and its increasing demand in the global market. According to recent studies, demand of the said commodity increased because of its known health benefits and the high global demand for chocolate.

The forum which was conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga together with Mindanao Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry was aimed at strengthening the cacao Industry by encouraging more investments and expansion of production areas. It was attended by 100 farmers, LGU representatives and other cacao industry stakeholders from all over the region.

DA Caraga regional director Edna M. Mabeza said that with the support of both the national and local governments as well as the private sectors, Caraga can has a viable and sustainable cacao industry.

“In time that there will already be enough production areas, processing facilities can then be set up so that there will be an added value to the products and command better prices,” Mabeza said.

During the forum, Turtur presented the National Cacao Industry Roadmap that target to develop at least 100,000 hectares with 50 million trees by 2022. Caraga’s challenge would be to plant 3,000 hectares by that year.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority data in 2014, Caraga has only 701 hectares planted to cacao. With a ready market for its products, Turtur has assured the farmers a lucrative income if they engage in Cacao production. “For the last five years, the price of cacao has been stable at P100-125 per kilo for dried beans and P28-32 per kilo for wet beans,” Turtur added.

Another cacao stakeholder, Zenon Rachiel Alenton of Kennemer Food, Inc. (KFI) said that Caraga can contribute much for the targeted increase in cacao production considering its large available lands potential for growing cacao as well as potential lands for intercropping cacao with coconut. In addition, Caraga has also good soils and suitable climatic condition. Furthermore, Asia’s biggest cacao nursery operated by KFI, is located in the region, particularly in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. It lies on a six-hectare land and has a capacity of 2.4M seedlings.

The Department of Agriculture has also identified cacao as one of its priority High Value Crop commodity where support interventions can be accessed by interested farmer groups. (DA-13/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte wins regional award

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 4 (PIA) - A plaque of recognition was conferred recently by the Regional Development Council (RDC) to Governor Sol Matugas after the provincial government was declared the regional winner in the over-all search for the Most Outstanding Local Project Monitoring Committee.

Governor Matugas was also honored with a bust mini statue for her sincere service as the chairperson of RDC for two consecutive terms, during the 87th Full Council Meeting which took shape at NEDA Regional Building in Butuan City.

National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga regional director Mylah Fae Cariño, acknowledged the efforts and dedication of Gov. Matugas who was instrumental for the speedy passage of important legislations and pertinent resolutions of RDC which greatly contributed toward the development of the region in the spheres of tourism, economy, infrastructures, health, agriculture, livelihood and social services.

During the term of Gov. Matugas, Caraga Region was removed from the list of poorest regions nationwide. In addition, the poverty incidence in the province also dropped significantly from 49 percent in 2009 to 32 percent in 2013.

For her part, Gov. Matugas said that “she has always been vocal in her dream of taking Caraganons out of the rubbles of poverty.”

When she became the RDC Chairperson, Gov. Matugas said she dreamed of freedom for Caraganons, “and that is freedom from poverty.”

“We dreamed and we worked. We did not wait for solutions, but we went out and found the solutions ourselves. We never stop dreaming. We should always dream for the better, pursue these dreams, for only through this, we are able to achieve great things,” she explained. (PGO-SD/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Caraga RDRRMC nanguna sa National Disaster Consciousness Month; siniguradong nakahanda ang gobyerno sa anumang kalamidad

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 4 (PIA) - Kasabay sa pagbubukas ng obserbasyon sa National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) sa buwan ng Hulyo sa Caraga region, sinigurado ng Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) na nakahanda sa anumang kalamidad ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa rehiyon.

Ayon kay RDRRMC chairperson at Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director Manuel Luis Ochotorena, patuloy na pinaiigting ng RDRRMC ang kampanya sa paghahanda sa anumang sakuna o kalamidad na inaasahang maaapektuhan ang ibat-ibang probinsya ng rehiyon. Ayon kay Ochotorena, nagiging mas aktibo na ang kooperasyon at partisipasyon ng mga lokal na residente dahil na rin umano sa patuloy na pagbibigay-alam sa mga palatuntunin na may kinalaman sa kalamidad.

Sa buong buwan ng Hulyo, may ibat-ibang programa na inihanda ang RDRRMC Caraga kabilang na ang Disaster Risk Reduction - Climate Change Adaptation (DRR-CCA) awareness contests para sa elementary at high school students sa pamamagitan ng quiz bowl, essay writing contest, jingle and poster making contest. May gaganapin ring three-day joint advocacy on disaster preparedness na pangungunahan ng Department of Health (DOH) sa lungsod ng Butuan.

Pangungunahan rin ng Regional Public Safety Batallion ang isang Awareness Run for a Peaceful and Safer Butuan, at iba pang inter-agency activities sa rehiyon.

Binigyang-diin din ni director Ochotorena, na ang RDRRMC na binubuo ng ibat-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno kasama ang non-government organizations, civil society organizations, academe at media ay nagtitipon-tipon sa isang Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) ilang araw bago paman dumating o pumasok ang isang inaasahang bagyo sa Philippine area of responsibility, upang ma-strategize at ma-streamline umano ang plano ng gobyerno sa kanilang paghahanda at sa pagresponde sa anumang insidente.

Dagdag pa ni director Ochotorena na patuloy rin ang ginagawang capability training ng mga responders upang maging handa sa anumang operasyon. Parte rin daw ang Contingency Planning sa preparasyon ng mga local government units at may ginagawa ring emergency telecommunication simulation exercises upang matugunan din ang pangangailangan sa komunikasyon.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

NYC partners with PIA for SK, Barangay elections advocacy campaign

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 5 (PIA) – The National Youth Commission (NYC) has partnered with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga for the advocacy campaign on Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and Barangay Elections in October 2016.

Jigs Pasamba, Presidential Staff Officer IV/Northeastern Mindanao Clusterhead of NYC said that the commission, together with the member agencies of the Regional Youth Advisory Council (RYAC) will coordinate with PIA in the information dissemination of advocacy materials to the different sectors along with media partners.

“Many of our youths do not have that enough knowledge about the SK. And with the coming SK and barangay elections, there is a dire need for us to intensify our campaign on SK so our youths will see the advantage of being in the political field. It is important that they get involve and let their voices be heard, as they are the future of our next generations,” expressed Pasamba.

Pasamba also highlighted that with PIA as partner, the advocacy campaign on SK and barangay elections will be inculcated among young ones. She also revealed that those (youths) who will be interested to join the political arena will undergo trainings so they will be equipped on parliamentary procedure of governance, among others.

Meanwhile, the PIA Caraga headed by regional director Abner Caga also expressed its commitment to provide continued communication support to NYC, RYAC and other concerned agencies for the same purpose.

Sangguniang Kabataan ("youth council" in English), commonly known as SK, is a council for youth in each barangay in the Philippines. It was put "on hold", but not quite abolished, prior to the 2013 barangay elections. In January 2016, the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Law was signed into law, which made some significant changes to the SK and schedules new elections for October 2016.

The SK Chairman leads the Sangguniang Kabataan council. A Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) composed of representatives of different local youth groups supports the SK and its programs. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PIA Caraga promotes transparency, upcoming events now posted in FB page

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 5 (PIA) – As the information arm of the government, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga continuously innovates and updates the public on relevant information, issues and concerns, as well as upcoming events.

The PIA Caraga Updates, which is the official regional Facebook (FB) page of the agency has recently been verified by Facebook as a legitimate account. The said FB page has been established/registered sometime in April 2011 and has already 8,156 page likes and counting as of reporting time.

According to PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, it is but proper to also update the public on the invitations received by PIA on the upcoming events of the different partner agencies and other stakeholders that have national interest and are open to public.

Dir. Caga emphasized that people should also know that the government agencies are conducting activities from time to time where they can witness, participate and get involve in such activity.

“Posting of upcoming activities as per invitation from other agencies should also be timely so people can mark their calendars ahead of time and be able to participate and contribute significant ideas,” said Caga.

Caga further highlighted that PIA Caraga provides communication support to government agencies’ endeavors and will continue to explore, innovate and initiate significant platforms that will enhance communication processes and working relationship between the public and the government.

“If they have inquiries regarding our posts in Facebook, they may just send us a personal message and we will respond as soon as possible. We can also refer them to the concerned agency for more information about such activity,” Caga added.

Other provincial Facebook pages of PIA Caraga include the following: PIA Agusan del Norte; PIA Agusan del Sur, PIA Surigao del Norte, PIA Dinagat Islands and PIA Surigao del Sur. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Lady rep optimistic for socio-economic development in Agusan Sur

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 5 (PIA) – “Because of my long standing belief with Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative’s (ASELCO) principles and ideas, I declare my strong support to your mission of providing effective and efficient power generation services for the socio-economic growth for all Agusanons,” undercored Agusan del Sur 1st district representative Ma. Valentina Plaza.

This was her positive inspiring remark as she addressed the officers, members, consumers, owners and employees of ASELCO during its 34th Annual General Assembly held recently in Agusan del Sur.

According to Cong. Plaza, despite the power crisis which the Mindanao region has experienced before, she is with full confidence that the cooperative’s board of directors, management and staff of ASELCO are all working together to achieve a common goal to benefit the member-consumers and the entire province in general. "Your effort to deliver service through excellent customer service and the improvement of the distribution lines are highly commendable,” she said.

Cong. Plaza also cited that since electrification system has become a part of modern life and has many uses in the day-to-day life, it has a significant role in pursuing progress of her province and country. “Think of a world without electricity, all the inventions that uses it such as computers, machines in factories, appliances, modern medicines and surgery, modern transportation and communication, and other electricity dependent operations and systems will be compromised without a stable supply of energy,” said Cong. Plaza.

The lady representative is confident that socio-economic boost of the province is feasible as the stakeholders continue to revolutionize the method of providing reliable power source. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte joins observance of National Disaster Consciousness Month

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 5 (PIA) - The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Surigao del Norte joined in the observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) this whole month of July.

This year’s observance in anchored on the theme, “Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa.”

PDRRMO Officer Ramon Gotinga said that the activities of this month-long observance are the council’s way of bringing awareness to the people about disaster, global warming and Climate Change.

He said that the council spearheaded the kicked-off activity on July 1 that started with the holy mass at 8:00 a.m. followed by a motorcade around the city and a symposium.

Other upcoming activities include bloodletting, mangrove planting, coastal clean-up, disaster summit, Incident Command System executive course, information drive on Climate Change Adaptation, video making contest, and closing ceremony.

“We hope that through these activities which aimed at increasing awareness, more people especially the schools and others stakeholders in the province will participate,” Gotinga said.

The NDCM celebration is in connection with Presidential Executive Order No. 137 that designates the month of July as National Disaster Consciousness Month in order to heighten public awareness on the importance of disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Agusan Sur solon recognizes ASELCO’s accomplishments

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 5 (PIA) - In celebration of the 34th Annual General Assembly of Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative (ASELCO), Inc. held recently and simultaneously in different municipalities and city within the province of Agusan del Sur, 1st district representative of Agusan del Sur Ma. Valentina Plaza extended her gesture of appreciation for the organization’s another milestone in the attainment of continued success in the field of electrification system.

“ASELCO deserves a meaningful celebration. It plays an important role in addressing energy crisis and ensuring least cost and stable supply of electricity to all Agusanons,” said Cong. Plaza.

Anchored on this year’s theme, “ASELCO: Transforming Lives, Pushing Progress,” Cong. Plaza bared that it imposes a great challenge to all as the growth of the economy drives the demand for electricity, “thus, a government that successfully implements a program to spur economic program will drive up the demand for electricity,” she said.

Cong. Plaza added that the electricity demand is projected to grow more and more to cater the basic needs like education, health, entertainment and communication, comfort and protection, convenience and productivity.

“Electricity improves children’s study condition during the evening, enhances the flow of information to rural households, and improve the productivity of small and big businesses,” emphasized Plaza.

Among the activities during the event were the awarding of plaques of recognition and giving of cash incentives to the best performing barangay power associations; awarding to local government units (LGUs) who promptly pay its power bills; awarding for the support extended to the cooperative during the conduct of medical and dental missions.

It concluded with the usual conduct of business meeting among the attendees which include the following agenda: presentation of the multi-year capital expenditure projects of the cooperative for calendar year 2017-2019 and discussion of the group insurance for member-consumer-owners (MCOs), followed by an open forum and a raffle draw activity. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DAR spearheads landowners forum and investment counseling in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

LIANGA, Surigao del Sur, July 5 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Provincial Office of Surigao del Sur recently conducted the Landowner’s Forum and Investment Counseling held at Brgy. Kansilad in this town.

According to DAR Information Officer Myra Yu, the participants in the said forum were all landowners whose landholdings were covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program through Voluntary Offer to Sell (VOS).

The said activity serves as the venue for the landowners in discussing issues with DAR and line agency officials on matters relating to the processing of their covered landholdings.

Yu said that the representatives from the line agencies like Provincial Assessor's Office, Provincial Treasurer's Office and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) – Land Valuation Office gave some inputs that enlightened the landowners in terms of tax clearances and fees including the mode of valuation on their properties applied for VOS.

It was also learned that the representative from Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) gave an orientation and encouragement on how to invest and engage in business related to agricultural production thus maximizing their retention areas.

Meanwhile, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Benjamin M. Mataksil made clarifications with the landowners that DAR is an implementing agency of CARP as mandated under Republic Act (R.A.) 6657 and amended by R.A. 9700 to cover and distribute private agricultural lands. The office is just following what is stipulated in the laws, he added.(NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DOT awards achievers on tourism program implementation in Caraga

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 5 (PIA)– The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Caraga honored on Monday the individuals and institutions who have exemplified excellence in implementing the region's tourism projects and programs held in time with the opening of the 3rd Caraga Regional Tourism Stakeholders Summit here.

The awarding ceremony was led by Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga regional director Letecia Tan and Surigao del Sur Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr.

The Most Outstanding Tourism Officer was given to Roselyn Armida Merlin of Surigao City. She was also an awardee of Caraga Region as the Most Outstanding Officer in 2008 and 2013 and was also elected as National President for the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines last 2008.

Tandag City Tourism Officer Florence Abis was awarded with Most Promising Tourism Officer.

The Most Outstanding Local Government Unit was received by the municipality of Mainit, Surigao del Norte with its known tourist destinations such as the Kasili Resort, Mapaso Wellness Resort and Togonan Falls.

Meanwhile, the Surigao City Tourism Council bagged the Most Outstanding Tourism Council award for being the most active council in the whole region in terms of tourism programs and projects.

Johann Jake Miranda of the Tavern Hotel in Surigao City, an advocator of Green Tourism and Halal certified, was awarded as the Most Outstanding Private Sector, while Hotel Tavern Surigao was awarded as the Most Outstanding Hotel in the region.

Rosario’s Seafood Restaurant and Grill House in Butuan City was awarded as the Most Outstanding Restaurant, while the Most Outstanding Resort was given to Almont Hotel and Inland Resort in Butuan City.

The Most Outstanding Cultural Artistic Group was awarded to Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Dance Company of Butuan City.

For the Most Outstanding Travel Agency, the award was given to One Corporate Grand Tours Incorporated, while the Most Outstanding Tour Operator was awarded to Surigao Travel Activity Recreation Shop. The Most Outstanding Tour Guide was awarded to Leah Modalo, a known designer and creator of souvenir items. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

More than 2,000 drug pushers, users surrender in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 5 (PIA) – A total of 2,267 illegal drug pushers and users in the province of Surigao del Sur voluntarily surrendered and signed an affidavit of undertaking in time with the simultaneous launching of “Oplan TokHang” (Toktok-Hangyo) on Monday, July 4 here.

In a press statement released by the Police Provincial Office (PPO) of Surigao del Sur, those who surrendered undergone the documentation process through interview, mugshot, fingerprinting, drug examination and lecture on ill effects of dangerous drugs with the presence of the Municipal and Barangay officials, Philippine Army counterpart, representatives from the religious sector and other stakeholders.

According to PCI Noel Naranjo of PPO-Police Community Relations, the implementation of “OPLAN TokHang” to the two cities and 17 municipalities of this province was ordered by PPO-Surigao del Sur provincial director PSSupt. Romaldo Bayting calling all chiefs of police to intensively implement to their respective area of responsibility especially to the identified drug-affected barangays the said program.

It was learned that the “Oplan TokHang” is the first approach of the Philippine National Police Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign Plan (Project Double Barrel) under the new administration.

It was done through constant coordination with the Municipal/Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (M/BADAC) and the conduct of the house to house visitation to the suspected drug users/pushers were pleading them to stop their illegal activities.

Meanwhile, the PPO here is still urging the public to cooperate and participate to sustain these significant achievements against illegal drugs. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PNP intensifies ‘Oplan TokHang’ in Surigao Norte

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte July 7 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) Surigao del Norte has intensified its ‘Oplan TokHang‘ campaign to fight illegal drugs in the province.

PNP Surigao del Norte deputy provincial director PSSupt. Reynaldo Acosta explained that tokhang, a combination of “toktok” and “hangyo,” means knock and then request or encourage the suspected drug users and peddlers in the barangays to voluntarily surrender and stop their illegal activities.

He further explained that the house-to-house to visitation of policemen in coordination with barangay officials led to surrender of suspected drug users and peddlers and eventually live a new drug-free life.

It was learned that TokHang is part of Double Barrel campaign, which euphemistically alludes to a double-barrel shotgun – aimed at drug pushers and users of illegal drugs alike to curb and stop their illicit activities. The barrel is pointed especially at so-called High Value Targets (HVT).

Acosta revealed that through its intensified efforts a total of 89 users and drug pushers voluntarily surrendered in two barangays of Claver town, 19 in Bacuag, 41 in Tubod, and 10 in barangay Washington, this city.

“We continue our house to house visitation to known drug-affected barangays and besought drug users and pushers to surrender voluntarily and would ask them undergo drug test, and have themselves documented,” said Acosta. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

SurSur to celebrate World Population Day

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 7 (PIA) – The provincial government of Surigao del Sur thru its Population Management Division will join in the commemoration of the World Population Day on July 11, 2016.

According to provincial population program officer Milagros Arreza, the annual celebration aims to increase awareness in relation to the issue on population.

Arreza noted that the provincial government continues its campaign and program implementation on Population Health and Development.

As part of the celebration, the province will hold a forum intended for elementary grade pupils where population issues and concerns will be tackled.

Also, a script-writing contest for grade 7 to grade 11 students will be conducted.

This year's celebration carries the theme, 'Investing in teenage girls.'(NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

HIV rate in Caraga on the rise

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) – As per latest National Epidemiology Centrex update, Caraga region now has 268 HIV cases in total based from the first diagnosed cases in 1995 up to May 2016 and still on its running count.

“The Philippines and Caraga Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Registry has reported an increase of such cases in the recent years. The strategy to address the epidemic is reflected in the 5th Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) to ensure that the health sector’s program is aligned with the Universal Health Care Framework and 5th AMTDP),” said officer-in-charge of Butuan City Health Office Joyce Hidalgo, MD.

According to her, the city is the top most contributor in the region with 100 cases. “The Department of Health, along with its partner stakeholders, should not lay passive on this matter,” said Hidalgo. With this, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga – HIV and AIDS Program will conduct an HIV AIDS Core Team (HACT) meeting on July 8, 2016 at the Luciana Cinvention Center, here. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

CHED Caraga invites HEI heads to avail leadership dev't programs

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in Caraga invites presidents and chancellors of the private higher education institutions (HEIs) to take part in the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Top Management Program.

According to Engr. Ramil A. Sanchez, chief education program specialist of CHED Caraga, the program will help uplift the competencies of HEIs top management/heads. The program also focuses on institution-building, resource mobilization and academic management specifically for Private HEIs, he said.

Those qualified can apply to the Leadership Development Programs under the Professional Advancement and Postdoctoral Study Grants for full tuition coverage.

“It is a program in line with the efforts of the Commission’s K to 12 Transition Program,” said Engr. Sanchez.

The Leadership Development Programs also support HEI faculty and staff in leadership positions pursuing development programs by reputable institutions in the country or abroad.

For more information, they may refer to CHED Memorandum Order 25, series of 2016 for application guidelines and download requirements at https://chedk12.wordpress.com/profaddownloads/. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RDRRMC, SMART telco to spearhead ICT Bayanihan Summit in Butuan

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) of Caraga thru the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in partnership with SMART Philippines will spearhead the conduct of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Bayanihan on July 14 to 15 in one of the convention centers here.

According to RDRRMC chairperson and OCD regional director Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena, the ICT Bayanihan is a two-day summit, which will be participated by regional key ICT players of the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster and its partners from the private sectors and volunteer groups.

Also, director Ochotorena said that the invited participants of the two-day summit are those with experience in Emergency Telecommunications at strategic level with delegated decision-making authority or recommendatory functions.

“This activity will give emphasis on the unity of efforts of all ICT key players using the existing domestic and international legal frameworks, guidelines, agreements and programs in the country,” Ochotorena said.

It will be established to address the concern on communications interoperability, commonality, and inter-compatibility and will be instituted to the national level and cascaded down to regional, provincial, city, municipal and barangay level, he added.

The participants are advised to bring a list of existing operational ICT equipment, Ochotorena said. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Crisis body formed for abducted police officer in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 7 (PIA) – The local government unit of Carmen has activated its crisis management committee (CMC) to find solution to the abduction of a rookie police officer in the province.

The committee is composed of the municipal mayor, vice mayor, police, Philippine Army, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and municipal/barangay council members. Carmen Mayor Jane Valeroso was named as the CMC chairperson.

PO1 Richard Yu was reportedly abducted Tuesday morning in Carmen town allegedly by the members of the New Peoples’ Army.

According to CMC spokesperson and municipal council member Michael Escuyos, they had kept all channels open for a discussion with the abductors.

Escuyos said that Yu is in good hands, as relayed by the family of the abducted police officer.

"The LGU is trying its best to resolve the said case and hoping for the safe release of the victim the soonest possible time," Escuyos explained. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Barangay, SK polls registration starts July 15 – Comelec Caraga chief

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Caraga region has announced the registration of voters for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.

Comelec Caraga regional election director Atty. Francisco G. Pobe said that a simultaneous registration is set starting July 15 up to 30, including weekends and holidays this year.

“The registration is open to first-time voters in both the regular and SK polls,” he said. Also, Pobe said that those who have been deactivated for failing to participate in at least two consecutive elections will also be accommodated on the schedule set by the commission.

Meanwhile, for the barangay elections registrants, they must be at least 18 years old by the time of the elections and they must also be a resident of the Philippines for at least one year, and living in the place where they intend to vote at least six months before the elections, Pobe said.

For the SK, the registration is open for those between ages 15 to 17 and must be living in the community for at lest six months and the membership is from ages 15 to 30 years old on the day of the polls, Pobe added.

Pursuant to Section 1 of Republic Act No. 9164 as amended by Republic Act No. 9340, the subsequent Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections shall be held on the last Monday of October and every three (3) years thereafter. Therefore, the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election will be held on October 31, 2016.

Caraga region comprises five provinces namely: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands; six cities: Butuan, Cabadbaran, Surigao, Tandag, Bislig and Bayugan; 67 municipalities and 1,311 barangays with Butuan City as the regional administrative center. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

POPCOM urges govt agencies to support World Population Day celebration

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) – The Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga region will spearhead the celebration of this year’s World Population Day on July 11.

In an effort to raise greater public awareness of the celebration, POPCOM Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano urges all heads of the government agencies of the region to support the celebration by including it in their regular meetings with staff.

This year’s theme is “Investing in Adolescent Girls.”

According to Makinano, the theme highlights that marginalized girls are vulnerable to poor reproductive health and more likely to become mothers while still children themselves.

“When teenage girls are empowered, when they know their rights and are given the tool to succeed, they become agents of positive change in their communities,” says Makinano. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Drug pushers, users surrender in Butuan City

By PSupt Michael Lozada

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) - A total of 145 drug personalities in the city surrendered to the police and the local government unit (LGU) on Wednesday as part of the relentless implementation of Project Tokhang (Toktok-Hangyo) here.

In a report submitted by Butuan City Police Station 2 to Police Regional Office (PRO) 13, some 130 drug users and 15 drug pushers in Brgy. Pagatpatan signed the affidavit and promised not to engage in illegal drug activities anymore.

PRO-13 regional director PCSupt Rolando Felix said these drug personalities will be turned over to the LGU and will be monitored.

Project Tokhang, a massive campaign to convince those involved in illegal drugs to reform, is the first phase under Project Double Barrel which was implemented nationwide last July 1, 2016.

The second phase of Project Double Barrel is the Project HVT/LVT which focuses on the conduct of police operations against the high value or low value targets. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Sur solon grants P10M to STEP

By Jemuel Bryan G. Libarios

BUTUAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) –“Some P10 million worth of scholarship slots will be allocated to the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) in Agusan del Sur.”

This was the statement of TESDA-Caraga’s former regional director Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. during the provincial launching of the STEP held recently at the Kim Lope Asis Memorial Gymnasium in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.

Sunico, who is now the regional director of TESDA Central Visayas, said the STEP program is the single biggest training program in Caraga region for which the grant was made possible through the support of Cong. Valentina G. Plaza of the first district of the province.

He explained the grant is for the assistance of the 685 Agusanons who are studying in 14 different educational institutions this year offering 16 courses with free training. The scholars will also be receiving allowance and tool kits.

According to Sunico, the program aims to enlighten the minds of TESDA scholars/trainees that they may strive and will be able to reach their dreams in life through the help of services offered by TESDA.

In attendance during the said the event are officials and personnel from five Local Government Units (LGUs) of Agusan del Sur namely: Bayugan City, Sibagat, San Luis, Talacogon and Esperanza. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Mga kadagkuan sa pulisya sa probinsya nagtigom

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Hulyo 7 (PIA) –Mga kadagkuan sa kapulisan ning probinsya nakigtigom uban kang Gobernador Sol F.Matugas bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa opisina sa gobernador.

Mitambong sa maong tigom ang bag-ong PNP deputy regional director PSSupt Ernesto Flores, bag-ong deputy provincial director PSupt Reynaldo Acosta, bag-ong OIC Chief of Police sa Surigao City PSupt Noel Silvosa, mga hepe sa 21 ka mga municipal police station sa probinsya ug lain pang uban nga mga hepe.

Gihisgutan sa maong tigom ang problema sa druga sa probinsya, diin gimando sa gobernador sa paghimo og hugot ug tukmang lakang aron masugpo ang maong problema.

Atol sa maong tigom gipasalig sa gobernador ang iyang suporta sa programa sa bag-ong presidente sa pagsugpo sa druga.

Gipasabot usab ni Gobernador Matugas nga dili niya mahimo pagsumpo sa maong problema nga mag-inusara ug kong wala ang kooperasyon ug tabang sa mga kapulisan.

Matud ni Matugas nga andam ang probinsya mohatag ug pundo alang sa maong programa ilabina sa pagpahigayon sa random drug testing sa tanang kapulisan kay matod pa sa gobernador ang pag kab- ot sa kabag ohan mag-una sa kaugalingon.

Hingpit nga gipakisayran sa gobernador ang mga hepe sa kapulisan sa kada munisipyo kong unsa nay sitwasyon sa ilang munisipyo mahitungod sa druga ug unsay ilang gipanghimo nga mga lakang aron kining maong problema masulbad.

Sa taho sa mga hepe, gisugdan na nila ang duble barrel project sa kapulisan nga gitawag og “Oplan Tukhang” (Tuktok Hangyo) sa ilang tagsa tagsa ka lugar ug ang paglista sa mga naila nga mga gumagamit ug tigpayuhot sa illegal nga droga sa ilang dapit uban sa tabang sa kapitan ug sa kumunidad.

Giplanuhan usab ang pagpahigayon sa pinaka-unang Drug Summit sa probinsya ug ang pag activate sa Provincial Anti-Drug Council (PADAC). (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DTI Surigao Norte releases SRP anew

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 8 (PIA) - A new suggested retail price (SRP) has been released by the Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) under the Consumer Protection Group of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as of June this year.

This is the third time this year that CPAB made such releases.

According to DTI Surigao del Norte Provincial Director Celestino L. Negapatan, the suggested retail price is the selling price suggested by the manufacturer of a product.

He said that the intention of the SRP is to help standardize prices among locations, so all major retail establishments are directed to set their selling prices within the SRP levels.

Negapatan added that the DTI price monitoring activity, which is conducted monthly to major retail establishments is one way of ensuring that retailers of products listed in SRPs will follow the guide in their pricing.

“We provided all major retail establishments with updated SRPs regularly, so there is no excuse for them to overprice their products," said Negapatan.

For more information about Suggested Retail Price (SRP) and other consumer related concerns just visit the DTI’s website at www.dti.gov.ph or the DTI Provincial Office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street, Surigao City with telephone number (086) 826-6129/826-2373. (SDR, PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DSWD Caraga encourages public participation for ‘One Million Lapis’ campaign project

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 8 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as the lead agency of the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) is encouraging the public to take involvement in the advocacy project of the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) entitled “One Million Lapis.”

The council is aiming to collect 1,000,000 pieces of pencils to be given to underprivileged pupils in elementary schools of 4th and 6th class municipalities and to set a Guinness Book of Record for the longest line of ‘lapis’.

“The campaign project was launched in November 2015 during the Zumbata kick-off of the 2015 National Children’s Month. The campaign runs from March until October of this year,” said DSWD-13 regional director Minda Brigoli.

She also encouraged the members of the RCWC Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Filipino Family (RIAC-FF) to participate in the said advocacy.

“Therefore, may we request the respective offices to install improvised drop boxes for the pencils. The ‘lapis’ drop boxes will be collected every two months by the DSWD and will closely coordinate with CWC,” bared Brigoli.

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

Drug courier surrenders to media

By Eugenio “Jun” Lira, Jr.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jul. 8 (PIA) - A drug courier who acted as middleman for the supply of “shabu” to an island town in Siargao Island surrendered on Thursday to members of the local media.

Edgar “Loloy” Dulpina, a licensed security guard and sari-sari store owner, called it quits and personally surrendered to anchorman Nestor Guballa of DxSJ-FM and anchorman Rey Suravasquez of JoyFM who then turned him over to Surigao City Chief of Police PSupt Noel Silvosa, thru PSI Tessiel Moleta, chief of Police and Community Relations, at about 1:30 p.m.

Guballa and Suravasquez, both members of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines-Surigao City Chapter, said Dulpina, a resident of Nueva Extension, this city, used to deliver an undetermined volume of “shabu” contained in packages to a certain “Luspe” in the town of San Isidro, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte.

They said the illegal substance was supplied to Edgar “Loloy” Dulpina by a drug lord identified as a certain Ebong Paular known as the drug source of Totong Dulpina, a big-time pusher and elder brother of Loloy. Paular and Totong Dulpina are currently detained at the BJMP City Jail on drug charges, it was learned.

PSupt. Silvosa lauded Guballa and Suravasquez for helping the PNP in its anti-illegal drugs campaign saying it was inspiring to know that members of the press were also concerned for “change” under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

PSI Moleta also thanked the two radiomen for serving as bridges to woo drug personalities into turning a new leaf in their lives to become law-abiding and productive citizens of the community. (FEA/PPA-Surigao/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Education caravan sa probinsya nagpadayon

By Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Hulyo 8 (PIA)– Education caravan sa probinsya nagpadayon nga gipahigayon sa nagkalain-laing tulunghaan sakop ning probinsya ug syudad.

Niadtong adlawng Martes, Hulyo 5, 2016 ang education caravan gipahigayon didto sa pito ka mga tulunghaan sakop sa syudad sa pagpangulo ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas kauban si Bise Gobernador Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, ug mga board members sa distrito uno ug distrito dos sa lalawigan.

Ang pito ka mga tulunghaan ang gibisitahan sa gobernador mao ang Canlanipa Central Elementary School (CCES), Mariano Espina Memorial Central Elementary School (MEMCES), Surigao City Pilot School (SCPS), Surigao City Central Elementary School (SUCCES), CV Diez Central Elementary School ug ang Surigao West Central Elementary School (SWECES).

Atol sa maong kalihukan gipahigayon ang pag pang-apod-apod sa mga backpacks nga adunay sulod nga mga health kits ug mga libro.

Ang maong programa gipahigayon pinaagi sa pakigtambayayong sa THPAL, Nickel Asia Corporation ug Taganito Mining Corporation nga maoy naghatag ug pundo alang sa maong mga backpacks.

Sa iyang mensahe gipaabot sa gobernador nga gusto gyud niya nga mahatagan og prioridad ang mga kabataan nga mahatagan sila ug sakto ug kalidad nga edukasyon kay sila man ang gitawag nga Bag ong Surigao ang ugma sa lalawigan. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Rebels seize 2 civilians in Tandag City

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 11 (PIA) – Some 60 fully armed New People's Army (NPA) rebels abducted two members of Bantay Banwa (Bantay Kalikasan) group on Friday in Barangay Pangi, this city, approximately six kilometers from the Police Provincial Office (PPO).

PPO PCR officer PCInsp. Noel Naranjo identified the victims as Ramil Aguirre, 35 years old and Jesus Matin-ao, 50 years old.

Initial investigation conducted by the authorities revealed that the victims were heading towards the coco lands when they were approached by 60 fully armed men and women with AK-47 and M16 firearms dressed in full combat “army” uniform and wearing boots led by alias “Nicko” of Guerilla Front 30 under the command of “Ka Juagpao.” Said victims were then brought towards the remote portion of the area.

After few hours, the captors reportedly released Jesus Matin-ao, but Ramil Aguirre is still in the hands of the abductors for the reason that he was an alleged informant of the government troops.

Pursuit operations are still underway to rescue the victim, as of posting. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Army, rebels clash in Tandag City; soldier wounded

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 11 (PIA) – An army soldier was wounded in a clash between government troops and the lawless armed group (LAG) in Sitio Hitaob, Brgy. Awasian, this city on Sunday.

Initial report from the Police Provincial Office revealed that the wounded soldier was identified as PFC Marjun Bayo who sustained wounds in his right arm and left leg due to the landmine. Bayo is now in a stable condition, it was learned.

After the firefight, the troops recovered some personal belongings, 20 meters electrical wire and assorted medical supplies at the encounter site.

In a press statement, 36IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer Captain Francisco Gallero Jr., said that they received a report from a concerned citizen of the armed rebels presence in the area extorting from the residents.

Gallero that they were the same group who was responsible to the recent abductions in the province.

It can be recalled that on July 6, PO1 Richard Yu of Carmen Municipal Police Station was abducted a distance from his residence in Carmen town. Another incident took place on July 8, in which a certain Ramil Aguirre, 35 years old and a member of “Bantay Banwa Group” (Bantay Kalikasan) was reportedly abducted by more or less 60 fully armed rebels. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Placer assumes post as Butuan police chief

By PSI Charity S Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 11 (PIA) - Senior Supt. Percival Augustus Placer took post as director of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) after he replaced the outgoing commander Senior Supt. Francisco Dungo during the ceremonial turn-over of command today at BCPO headquarters, this city.

Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Police Regional Office 13 director, spearheaded the turn-over ceremony around 10:00AM, Monday.

Placer was previously assigned at the regional headquarters of the National Capital Region Police Office as Regional Logistics Division chief.

Dungo is now the chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division.

SSupt Placer and SSupt Dungo are classmates from the Philippine National Police Academy “Tagapaglungsad” Class of 1993.

The new city’s top cop hails from this city and is an alumnus of Butuan Central Elementary School (1981) and Urios College (1985). (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte has new top cop

By PSupt. Michael B. Lozada

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 11 (PIA) – The Police Provincial Office (PPO) of Surigao del Norte has a new provincial director to replace the outgoing officer-in-charge during the ceremonial turn-over of command on Saturday here.

Senior Supt. Antony Maghari is designated as acting provincial director upon the termination of Senior Supt. Ernesto Flores’ designation as officer-in-charge effective July 8, 2016 based on General Orders Number 1110.

During the turn-over of command, Police Regional Office 13 regional director PCSupt. Rolando Felix eexpressed his optimism that SSupt. Maghari can continuously build the “good foundations his predecessor has laid” and thanked the selfless service of the outgoing SSupt. Flores.

Maghari, a member of Philippine National Police Academy “Tagapagtupad” Class of 1992, is the former chief of the Regional Logistics and Research Development Division prior to his new designation.

In his message, RD Felix directed all Surigao del Norte police to continue the intensified campaign against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality. (PIO-PNP Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PPA guards in 3 provinces, 2 cities in Caraga undergo drug tests

By Eugenio Lira, Jr.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jul. 11 (PIA)– Around 106 private security guards deployed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in three provinces and two cities in Caraga Region recently underwent individual drug tests conducted by the PNP Crime Laboratory.

In an interview, PP/Supt Froilan Caturla, station commander of Port Police Division, said guards are currently deployed at the different ports under the Port Management Office of PPA-Surigao City covering the provinces of Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands, as well as the cities of Surigao and Tandag.

“Our office had requested the PNP Crime Laboratory thru its provincial head, P/Supt Norman Jovita, to ensure that we have credible drug test results. It is because our PPA-hired guards are in the forefront who are in direct contact with the riding public and port clientele who use our ports, hence, the need for them to undergo drug tests considering that usage of prohibited drugs would likely result to mental health problems which may cause anti-social personality disorder that can affect their decision-making and/or public relations,” PP/Supt Caturla disclosed.

He said the drug testing activity is PPA-Surigao’s manifestation of support, under the leadership of Port Manager Mildred J. Padilla, to the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

Caturla was interviewed by the local media in connection with the 42nd anniversary of the Philippine Ports Authority, which is celebrated every July 11 by all port management offices nationwide.

The drug testing on PPA-hired security guards had started on July 6 and will end on July 12,2016, it was learned. (FEA/PPA-Surigao/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Pagtaas ng HIV rate sa Caraga ikinabahala ng DOH

Ni Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 11 (PIA) - Nababahala ngayon ang Department of Health dahil sa patuloy na pagtaas ng bilang ng kaso ng human immunodeficiency virus o HIV sa rehiyon ng Caraga na maaring humantong sa acquired immune deficiency syndrome o AIDS.

Base sa tala ng National Epidemiology Center o NEC, simula ng unang nasuri ang kaso noong 1995 hanggang buwan ng Mayo nitong taon ay umabot na sa 268 ang kasong HIV sa rehiyon Caraga, at ito’y posibleng tumaas pa.

Sa isinagawang HIV/AIDS Core Team Meeting ng Department of Health-Region 13 at City Health Office sa Butuan City, sinabi ni Dr. Christine Mandin, HIV/AIDS core team physician ng Butuan Medical Center, mula Enero hanggang Hulyo nitong taon ay mayroong 83 kaso ng HIV sa rehiyon at ang 45 nito ay sa lungsod ng Butuan, kabilang na dito ang isang limang buwang taon na sanggol.

Dagdag pa ni Dr. Mandin, ang 20 ng HIV mula Enero hanggang Marso 2016 sa Butuan City ay mahigit limang porsiyentong dagdag kumpara sa kaso noong nakaraang taon.

Batay naman sa taong 1995 hanggang Marso 2016 na tala ng NEC-Manila, tinatayang nangunguna sa rehiyon ng Caraga ang Butuan City sa kasong HIV na pumapalo ng 98, pumapangalawa ang probinsiya ng Surigao del Sur na may 50 kaso, at sinundan naman ito ng Agusan del Sur.

Ang naulat na kasong HIV ay nakuha umano lalung-lalo na sa pamamagitan ng pakikipagtalik kung saan ang sekswal na kontak sa kapwa kasarian ang siyang laganap na pamaraan ng transmisyon.

Samantala, pinaalahanan naman ni Dr. Mandin ang publiko na maging sensitibo, lawakan ang pang-unawa, at iwasang ikundina ang sinumang apektado ng HIV o AIDS.

Dahil dito mas pinaigting pa ng DOH at City Health Office ang kampanya upang mabigyan ng sapat na kaalaman ang publiko tungkol sa nakamamatay na sakit upang mapigilan ang pagkalat nito. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

PIA Caraga personnel undergo surprise drug test

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) - All personnel of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga were subjected to a surprise drug test on Tuesday during their Strategic Planning Session held at the regional office here.

PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga ordered the drug test to all employees, including the information center managers and coordinators. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga then responded to the request and administered the test.

“In response to the request of PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, we immediately responded and facilitated the conduct of the drug test to all the employees of said agency. It was a surprise drug-test and we were overwhelmed that all the employees have shown willingness and interest to undergo the drug-test,” underscored PDEA chemist Mark Roy Paguyod.

Daay also explained that a drug test is a technical analysis of a biological specimen, for example urine, hair, blood, breath, sweat, or oral fluid/saliva—to determine the presence or absence of specified parent drugs or their metabolites. PIA Caraga employees were tested through urine analysis.

“The test yielded negative results for 12 urine samples. We hope that more government employees from different agencies will also voluntarily undergo drug-testing,” Paguyod expressed.

Meanwhile, Dir. Caga underlined that his order to let all PIA Caraga employees undergo drug testing is in support to the call of President Rodrigo Duterte to cleanse all government agencies and be free from drug users and pushers.

“This is also in response to the new administration’s call for a mandatory drug testing for government employees to regain trust of the public. This agency recognizes that drug abuse is a significant health problem for employees, detrimentally affecting overall health, behavior, working habit, reflexes, and the total development of each individual,” stressed Caga. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Army, NPA rebels clash anew in Surigao Norte

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 12 (PIA) - A firefight between the Philippine Army and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels occurred on Saturday afternoon, July 9 in barangay Tinago, Malimono, this province.

After ten minutes of intense firefight, the soldiers conducting pursuit operation discovered an encampment with 27 molotov bombs, one gallon of betadine (antiseptic) and two pairs of rainboots.

The said encampment can accommodate 60 individuals and has 15 makeshift bunkers and based on the trackings the said encampment has been abandoned for one day.

Civil Military Operations officer Lt. Ryan D. Layug of the 30th Infantry Battalion, Phil. Army confirmed that no casualty on the government side but they believed that there were wounded on the lawless group as traces of blood were found on their withdrawal route.

In his statement, 30IB Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Rico Amaro thanked the locals for timely report of information and that another terroristic plan was prevented because of community participation.

Amaro further said that people are starting to understand that security is everyone's responsibility.

"We appeal to lawless group to turn their wounded comrades to barangay officials or bring them to the nearest hospital for proper medical treatment. We reiterated that the conduct of pursuit is to apprehend the perpetrators and aid the wounded," Amaro said. (SDR, PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Army reserve command set to celebrate 37th National Reservist Week Convention

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) – In support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP’s) operational thrusts and guidance 2016, the 15th Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG) will hold its 37th National Reservist Week Convention on July 23-24, 2016 at the Camp Bancasi, this city.

The two-day convention is anchored on the theme, “Laang kawal na naghahanda at nagsasanay tungo sa mapayapa, masagana at maunlad na bayan.”

“We will be hosting the said event and it will be attended by the different reservist coming from the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force region-wide. Other guests from the general headquarters of the AFP have also confirmed to grace the occasion,” said Col. Maning Tawantawan, group commander of the 15th RCDG.

It was learned that a press conference will be conducted in the afternoon on the 24th of July, with LtGen Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command to sit in the panel aside from his role as the guest of honor and speaker.

Said activity will highlight the significant roles and contributions of the trained and equipped reserve force as protector of the country and its people through maintaining internal security and stability, participation in disaster/emergency response, community development activities and humanitarian assistance. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

RDRRMC Caraga to hold DRRM-CCA awareness contest

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) – The Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Education (DepEd) will hold an awareness contest for students on July 21 here.

According to Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena, RDRRMC chairperson and OCD Caraga regional director, the contest will focus on DRRM-Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) awareness in the region.

The activity is in line with the observance of this year’s National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) with the theme “Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa.”

The contest will include Jingle, Poster Making and Essay Writing and Quiz Bee. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

AgNor guv commits to environmental protection

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA)– Agusan del Norte governor Ma. Angelica Amante-Matba promised to work to protect the environment and cope with Climate Change.

In her recent State of the Province Address here, Matba said the effects of Climate Change such as decreased in crop production, unreliable access to food and water and extreme weather patterns have already been felt in the province.

Thus, Matba said she has already mainstreamed the Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction Management (CCA-DRRM) plan to the Provincial Physical Framework Plan.

"The same is true in the corresponding plans of the component local government units (LGUs) of the province and this ushered the 100 percent successful implementation of several measures aimed at mitigating and preventing the drastic effects of calamities, such as, the 100 percent completion of the formulation of the Local Climate Change Adaptation Plans and a total of five disaster mitigating infrastructure projects costing to P18 million were also implemented in response to the phenomenon," she said.

In addition, gov. Matba said that in 2015, the DRRM program of the province has also provided assistance to affected families in the form of family food packs, emergency shelter assistance and burial assistance amounting to P8.266,949.92.

Gov. Matba also acknowledged that the participation of the community is instrumental in the effort to mitigate the effects of environmental hazards through their involvement in rehabilitating degraded areas that include the production of about 2.8 million seedlings for planting in the degraded areas of the province and Mangrove reforestation and rehabilitation were also carried out by planting propagules to about 215 hectares of degraded mangrove areas.

“Our efforts in this area earned for us a national recognition, placing 2nd in the 2015 National Gawad Kalasag Search for Disaster Resilient LGUs and Humanitarian Assistance in Provincial DRRMC Category,” gov. Matba said.

Also, gov. Matba said that another key point in the drive to promote environmental integrity is the approval of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Plans (ESWMP) of the five municipalities of the province. The plans of the remaining LGUs are already up for deliberation and hope to be completed by the end of this year. (NCLM, PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PAEF accepts Fulbright-Foreign Language Teaching Assistants applications

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) - The Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) announces its ongoing screening and acceptance of qualified applicants for the 2017-2018 Fulbright-Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTA) program.

The Fulbright-FLTA program is open to young teachers of English based outside of Metro Manila who have a sincere interest in teaching their native language and culture to American students. And those who have the leadership skills, the ability to motivate students, and the capacity to relate to foreign students can potentially avail of the program.

Accordingly, the following eligibility requirements must be met by the applicants: must be no younger than 23 and no older than 29 years of age at the time of application; must be Filipino citizens; must clearly demonstrate maturity, dependability, integrity and professionalism;

Ideally, FLTAs are outgoing and dynamic individuals with a great sense of humor. Candidates should possess the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree in the United States with a good academic record. Also, Master’s degrees are highly desirable by many institutions, and one who has the teaching experience is preferred.

The required documents include the completed online application; official or certified copy of transcript of records from all colleges/universities attended; certified true copy of diploma; three letters of reference (forms are found on the online application); supplemental forms; copy of passport; and TOEFL or IELTS score report, if available.

The competition for the Fulbright-FLTA program for 2017-2018 that started on March 1, 2016 will have its deadline on July 29, 2016. All interested applicants are required to complete the online application found on https://apply.embark.com/student/fulbright/flta/ page. Grantees are expected to begin their program in the United States in August of 2017.

Introduced in the Philippines in 2004, the FLTA Program has aimed to strengthen foreign language instruction at U.S. educational institutions since 1968 by establishing a native speaker presence. The FLTA Program provides an opportunity for young, international teachers of English to refine their teaching skills, increase their English language proficiency and extend their knowledge of the cultures and customs of the United States while engaging in non-degree studies. FLTAs add an energetic and up-to-date cultural component to foreign language classes as well as to student life on U.S. campuses. (PAEF/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOST Caraga set to hold NSTW in Butuan

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga will be celebrating the 2016 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) regional celebration on July 22-25 here.

DOST Caraga regional director Dominga D. Mallonga said the celebration will showcase science and technology programs and projects of the region through exhiits, for a/conferences, S&T contests and demonstrations.

Also, a press conference is set on July 22 right after the opening program which will be held at the Robinson’s Place.

Recognition of partners/adopters, kiddie magic show, poster and slogan contest will also be held on July 22 and on July 23, the S & T contests and DOST fellowship night.

On July 24, forum on food safety stakeholders’, cooking demo of chef Boy Logro, awarding of winners and scholars’ night will be held at the Dottie’s Place.

Forum on GeoInformatics and the closing program will be held on July 25.

A Travelling Science Centrum will also be held on July 22 to August 10 at Timberlines, director Mallonga said. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

DAR AgNor trains women farmers in coconut sugar production

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte initiated a one-day skills training on Coconut Sap Sugar production, an agribusiness development assistance to the women Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the province held recently at San Isidro, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

The training was participated by 40 women ARBs who are members of cluster of ARB organizations that include Malambuong Kahugpongan sa Kababaehan sa San Isidro (MAKAKASI), Jaliobong Masipag Farmers Organization (JAMAFO), and Jaliobong Irrigators Services Association (JISA).

The training allows the women to learn the technology to produce coco sugar as additional livelihood. It also empowers women ARBs by making them less dependent on the income of their husbands.

Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer Virginia Batosalem said, “Women ARB household members, who are looking for livelihood program to earn additional income for their family’s needs, were trained to produce coconut sugar in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)."

ARB member Flordela Galo, one of the participants, said that the inputs from the training are useful when it comes to raising more income for her family.

The activity is a continuing effort of the department to provide technical assistance to women ARBs of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Army files charges vs left-leaning activists

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA)– In a recent development of the legal action taken by Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion Commander and executive director of the 4th Infantry Division's Advance Command Post Lt. Col. Rey Pasco against the left-leaning activists who staged a picket in front of the Bancasi Camp in the city, the rallyists now confront a criminal case filed before the trial court.

It can be recalled that it was sometime in October 2015 when the militant group carrying placards aggressively assembled for protests regarding their allegations of involvement among the military forces in the unjust killings of the ‘lumads’ (natives) in Surigao del Sur.

According to Pasco, aside from the absence of permit for them to conduct a peaceful protest, they willfully and maliciously caused damages to the military’s property by deliberately vandalizing and marking out several loud and foul words at the concrete fence of the camp’s vicinity discrediting the uniformed men in the service.

“With the kind of intolerable actuations and nuisance demonstrated by these activists, we are compelled to treat their unjust behavior the proper way, and that is through the legal act of filing a case to address this concern,” said Pasco.

Pasco added that they are here to serve, to safeguard the people and nation, and to advance peace and order activities, and not to endanger their fellow Filipinos as alleged.

Hence, in supplement to the resolution made on November 2015 and upon careful perusal of the records of the case, a probable cause against the respondents was found for the crime of alarm and scandal and malicious mischief to the following individuals identified as Isaias Genorga, Proseso “Sesoy” Torralba, Elaiza Rose “Elay” Pangilinan, Rosalinda Cunsad, and Ateliana “Atel” Hijos, among others.

Also, Pasco is encouraging those who encountered the same situation of harassment to speak out and bring the case into the proper proceeding to keep the accused aware of their offense, and be given appropriate justice of their illegal and undesirable acts. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

1,000 drug personalities in Bayugan City surrender

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, July 13 (PIA)– In line with the implementation of the Project Double Barrel dubbed “Project Tokhang” of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bayugan City Police Station has recently recorded some 1,000 drug users and pushers-surrenderees of said city.

It was learned that the city has the highest number of drug users and pushers surrenderees so far among other municipalities and cities in Caraga region.

According to PSupt. Reynante Sibayton, chief of Bayugan City Police Station, with the recent number of surrenderees, it is an indication of its intensified campaign against illegal drugs.

Based on the said police station’s report, the 43 punong barangays of the city personally accompanied and assisted the surrenderees who also took their oath in front of Mayor Kim Lope Asis, that they (surenderees) will no longer use illegal drugs.

The mayor also encouraged the surrenderees to change their lifestyle for good and find another livelihood that is legal. He also expressed his support to the programs of the government that addresses the rehabilitation and livelihood of the drug users. (JPG/MGBO/PIA-Caraga)

Govt agencies, partner stakeholders celebrate World Day Against Trafficking

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA) – Government agencies and partner stakeholders will once again celebrate this year’s World Day Against Trafficking on July 30, 2016 with the theme “Ituloy ang Laban Kontra Human Trafficking” (Continue the fight against Human Trafficking).

The Regional Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking – Violence against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC), which is composed of government agencies and partner stakeholders from the different sectors have lined-up activities for the said celebration.

The members of the council agreed to conduct several activities on July 29, 2016, a day before the actual day of celebration. Said celebration will start with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral, this city.

Motorcade will then follow from the Guingona Park going to Luciana Convention Center, where the opening program will be held.

Also, there will be an Oratorical Contest and On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest, which will be facilitated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga. In the said contests, 1st prize winner will receive P4,000.00 with certificate; 2nd prize – P3,000.00 with certificate; 3rd prize – P2,000.00 with certificate; and total of 18 consolation prizes - gift certificates for both contests.

RIACAT-VAWC aims to establish functional structures and system at the local level, which will monitor and oversee implementation of the provisions of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Person Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act and other women or violence against women-related laws and policies. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

SK registration in Bislig City set on July 15

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 13 (PIA)– The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) here has announced that they will start receiving registration of applicants on July 15 for this year’s Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections set in October.

Young adults aged 15 to 17 and have been a resident of a barangay for six years can qualify to apply for said post.

The registration on July 15 will start at 8:00 in the morning and will end at 5:00 in the afternoon. Deadline of application will also end on July 30, 2016.

COMELEC further reminded interested new/first-timer applicants to bring with them their authenticated birth certificate and marriage license (if married). The commission will also accommodate transfer of registrations, corrections of registrations and reactivation of registrations for those who have not voted for successive elections in national and local.

It was also learned that the SK election will be held in the last Monday of October which also falls on October 31. Applicants are also encouraged to register as early as possible starting July 15, and should not wait until the last day of registration to avoid hassle and long queues.

Pursuant to Section 1 of Republic Act No. 9164 as amended by Republic Act No. 9340, subsequent Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections shall be held on the last Monday of October and every three (3) years thereafter. (JPG/BS/PIA-Caraga)

DTI launchers 3rd Negosyo Center in AgNor

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA)– Another Negosyo Center of the province of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City has been launched and inaugurated in the municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte recently.

According to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial director Gay A. Tidalgo, the Negosyo Center is the third in the province of Agusan del Norte and 9th in Caraga region.

During the launching, Nasipit mayor Enrico R. Corvera expressed gratitude on the setting up of the center. “I consider this establishment as among the answers of my dreams of spurring economic activity in the locality and fostering birth and growth of business enterprises in the municipality,” mayor Corvera said.

During the launching DTI Caraga assistant regional director Lolit P. Dorado commended the outstanding performance of the local government unit (LGU) of Nasipit it its revenue collection and for being the fourth most competitive municipality last 2015 for the 3rd to 6th category while at the same time securing the top spot under the economic dynamism pillar.

Also, DTI provincial director Gay A. Tidalgo thanked the LGU Nasipit for the free space provided for the Negosyo Center. Tidalgo also stressed on the different investment opportunities seen for the town and encouraged everyone to promote and make use of the center.

“Now that the DTI services have been brought to your doorstep, take advantage of the different services offered by it,” Tidalgo said.

Tidalgo assured that the center will be offering very fast and efficient processing of business registration and delivery of services to would-be and existing entrepreneurs. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

OCD holds 1st Resilience Mobile Photography contest

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA) – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) will hold the 1st Resilience Mobile Photography Contest this month of July.

The contest according to OCD regional director and RDRRMC chairperson Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena will help raise awareness on the programs, projects and activities on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in the country.

Ochotorena also said that the contest theme would focus on the resiliency of Filipinos to adapt to and recover from hazards and emergencies. This includes various programs, activities, and project that deal with disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, rehabilitation and recovery.

“The contest is open to all Filipino secondary and college students who are 16 years old and below during the duration of the contest period, except siblings, children or grandchildren of OCD employees," director Ochotorena said.

Each participant is allowed to submit a maximum of three entries only and must register online at the official website of the OCD at www.ocd.gov.ph. Participants will fill out the online registration form. OCD will only accept entries submitted online.

The OCD’s online registration will automatically limit the submission of entries per participant to three and they are not allowed to use multiple email addresses in sending their entries.

Entries submitted should be an image/photo with corresponding “photo title” and “photo caption.” The caption must indicate the place where the image was taken, and must have an accurate description of what the photo is about.

Photographs should be created and taken by the contest participants; in full color; in landscape orientation; in digital format; taken using the best settings of the mobile device from January 1 to July 20, 2016 only.

The winners will receive P60,000; P50,000; P40,000; P30,000; and P20,000 for the first, second, third, fourth and fifth prize, respectively. The five winners will also receive a plaque and P10,000 each for seven participants as consolation prizes. A plaque and P30,000 will also be given to the Most Popular Photo.

Deadline of submission is on July 20 at 5:00 p.m. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

DSWD Caraga launches Listahanan 2015

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA) – In time with the 2016 Regional Social Welfare and Development Forum held on Monday here, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga has launched the 2015 Listahanan Database of poor families in Caraga region.

The launching was aimed to present the second round assessment and the 2015 Listahanan database users. Through the Listahanan, different sectors can keep posted of the comprehensive information on the poor families. This will also help or guide lawmakers and organizations in establishing more appropriate programs and services that directly addresses to the needs of the poor.

Formerly known as National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction or NHTS-PR, Listahanan identifies who and where the poor are in the country. It is an information management system, not a social protection program or service.

It was also learned that representatives from government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society organizations, academe, media and some of the newly-elected provincial governor and mayors graced the said occasion.

The launching of the 2015 Listahanan Database of poor families in Caraga region is anchored on the theme “Listahanan Database: Essentials in Quality Service.” (JPG/MGBO/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan Public Safety Company plants trees at Taguibo Watershed

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 13 (PIA)– In line with this year’s Public Community Relations (PCR) Month celebration, the personnel of Butuan City Public Safety Company (BCPSC) recently conducted a tree-planting activity at the Taguibo Watershed Planting Site in Sitio Bunganman, Barangay Anticala, this city.

It was learned that said activity is primarily aimed to intensify its campaign to have a greener and healthier environment, and to sustain clean flow of water in the Taguibo Watershed area.

It also in support to the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Patrol Plan 2030 with its vision “Butuan, Premier Forest City.”

PSupt. Excelso Lazaga, officer-in-charge of BCPSC expressed that they are always guided with their mission to protect the safety and welfare of the localities and to help improve the environment.

During the tree planting activity, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Jerwin Paronda assisted the BCPSC, together with Punong Barangay Armando Boligol and “Datu Buhay” Ruben Dapeniagan, tribal chieftain in the said barangay. (JPG/MGBO/PIA-Caraga)

DAR Surigao Norte elects new sets of PARCCOM officers

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 13 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform provincial office in Surigao del Norte (DAR-SDN) has elected its new set of officers for its Provincial Agrarian Reform Coordinating Committee (PARCCOM) on July 8, 2016 at held at the RSY Pension House, this city.

The newly-elected seven private sector representatives were Robustiano Patayon, Jr. for non-government organizations; Antonio Garcia representing landowners with principal crops; Emmanuel Sendiong for landowners with other crops; Roberto Etac, Jr. of the farmers with principal crops; Fortunato Paje for farmers with other crops; Venancia Signar representing the agricultural cooperatives; and Nelson Ocon for farmer organizations.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer I Ma. Elizabeth L. De Guzman, in her message, stressed that the PARCCOM plays a vital role in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

PARCCOM officers will coordinate and monitor the implementation of CARP in the province. It is CARP’s field level, multi-sectoral, collegial, deliberative and coordinative but not implementing body.

Relative to the PARCCOM chairmanship, three nominees were already identified by DAR Surigao del Norte that will be endorsed to the DAR Caraga regional office. The regional office will subsequently endorse it to the DAR central office and it will be the one to appoint the PARCCOM Chairman. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Selebrasyon ng World Day Against Trafficking pinaghahandaan na

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 13 (PIA) – Pinaghahandaan na ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno ang selebrasyon ng World Day Against Trafficking sa darating na Hulyo 30, 2016 sa pamamagitan ng paglikha ng mga aktibidades na dadalohan ng ibat-ibang sector.

Napag-alaman na ang mga miyembro ng Regional Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking – Violence against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC) ay sumang-ayon na may ibat-ibang aktibidades na pangungunahan ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga sa Hulyo 29, 2016.

Ayon kay DSWD Caraga regional director Minda Brigoli, magsisimula sa isang Thanksgiving Mass ang nasabing selebrasyon sa St. Joseph Cathedral at susundan ito ng isang motorcade mula Guingona Park hanggang sa Luciana Convention Center dito sa lungsod ng Butuan kung saan gaganapin din ang opening program.

May gaganapin ring Oratorical Contest at On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest sa buong araw. Ang 1st prize winner ay makakatanggap ng P4,000.00 at certificate; 2nd prize – P3,000.00 at certificate; 3rd prize – P2,000.00 at certificate; at 18 consolation prizes - gift certificates para sa dalawang contests.

Ang nasabing selebrasyon ay nakabase sa temang “Ituloy ang Laban Kontra Human Trafficking.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Mga kawani ng PIA-Caraga sumailalim sa isang mandatory drug test

Ni Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Hulyo 13 (PIA) - Bilang pagtalima sa kontra drogang adbokasiya ng bagong adminitrasyong Duterte, isang mandatory drug test ang isinagawa nitong Martes sa lahat ng mga empleyado ng Philippine Information Agency o PIA-Caraga.

Ang drug test ay sorpresang isinagawa kasabay sa ginawang strategic planning session ng nasabing ahensiya. Kabilang sa sumalang sa drug test ay ang hepe ng PIA-Caraga na si regional director Abner Caga, information center managers at coordinators ng bawat probinsiya sa rehiyon Caraga, at iba pang staff nito.

Ito ay pinangasiwaan mismo ng mga personahe ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency o PDEA-Caraga.

Ayon kay director Caga, ang isinagawang drug test ay isa lamang sa mga hakbang upang mapatotohanan na malinis ang kanilang hanay mula sa ilegal na droga at malinis na nanenerbisyo sa publiko.

Samantala, ipinahayag naman ng PDEA chemist na si Mark Roy Paguyod na wala ni isa mang kawani ng PIA-Caraga ang nagpositibo sa paggamit ng ilegal na droga.

“Lahat ng empleyado ng PIA-Caraga ay nakakuha ng negatibong resulta at ito’y patunay lamang na negatibo sila sa paggamit ng shabu at marijuana,” sabi ni Paguyod.

Anya, nakabubuti ang ginawang drug test sapagkat ito’y naaayon sa nakasaad sa Section 36 ng Article 3 na lahat ng opisyal at empleyado sa pribado at pampublikong opisina ay pasasailalim sa drug test upang maiiwasan ang dulot na panganib sa workplace.

Ipinaabot naman ni director Caga sa PDEA-13 ang pasasalamat sa suporta nito. Ayon sa kanya, bilang communication arm ng pamahalaan, plano din ng ahensiya na hikayatin ang mga miyembro ng Kapisanan ng mga Broadcasters sa Pilipinas o KBP sa rehiyon na simulan ang drug test sampu ng iba pang media organizations, nang sa gayun ay magkaroon ng moral ascendancy na sila mismo bilang tagapagbalita ay hindi nasasangkot sa paggamit at pagbebenta ng ilegal na droga.

Naniniwala si Caga na sa paraang ito ay mabigyang linaw din ang mga haka-haka patungkol sa negatibong impresyon sa mga media practitioners lalung-lalol sa usapin ng droga. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Pulis nagpabiling bihag sa NPA

Ni Nida Grace P. Barcena

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Hulyo 13 (PIA) - Nagpabilin pa gihapon nga bihag sa New People’s Army (NPA) sa Surigao del Sur ang bagitong pulis nga si PO1 Richard Yu, human kini gibihag niadtong Hulyo 6, 2016 didto sa lungsod sa Carmen ning probinsya.

Matud pa ni SB member Michael Escuyos, ang tigpamaba sa Crisis Management Committee (CMC), ang impormasyon gihatag mismo sa usa ka nagpaila nga tigpamaba sa grupong NPA kinsa maoy miangkon nga nibihag sa biktima nga si “Ka Sandra.”

Kalabot sa maong taho, gikabutyag usab nga dunay kalabutan sa droga ang motibo sa pagbitbit sa NPA sa bagitong pulis, kini matud pa ni SB Escuyos, nga sumala pa anaa mipailalom sa igong imbistigasyon si Yu sa grupo nga nagunit niini.

Sumala pa sa taho nga gisaysay ni Escuyos, nga ang maong biktima, sumala pa sa taho nga gibutyag kanila, anaa sa maayong kahimtang og luwas sa katalagman samtang kini anaa pa sa mga kamot sa nagbihag niini.

Tungod sa pagpasumangil nga droga ang motibo sa NPA sa gihimong pagbihag kang PO1 Yu, gilayon midepensa ang hepe sa Municipal Police Station sa maong lungsod nga si Inspector Allan Joy Blasco. Matud pa sa opisyal nga wala pay bahid nga dautan ang pagkatao sa bagito nga pulis.

Gitin-aw usab sa maong opisyal nga walay bisyo si Yu, bisan pagpanigarilyo matud pa niya, balay, trabaho, og diha lamang sa iyahang babuyan ang lugar nga mga adtuanan niini.

Tungod sa maayong reputasyon, gilauman nga gilayon kini nga mabuhian ang among biktima. (NGBT/PIA Surigao del Sur)

DTI AgNor to destroy seized 'substandard' products

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 14 (PIA)– The Department of Trade of Industry (DTI) Butuan City/Agusan del Norte Provincial Office – Consumer Welfare Division will spearhead a destruction of confiscated non-conforming products forfeited in favor of DTI.

According to provincial director Gay A. Tidalgo, the products to be destructed violate the Product Standards Law or Republic Act No. 4109 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (DAO 2, Series of 2007) as contained in the decisions rendered by the Adjudication Officer.

The non-conforming products to be destroyed are plywood, Christmas lights, outlets, switches, DVD players, electric irons, extension wires, stand fans, desk fans, rice cookers, monobloc chairs, lighters, CFLs, helmets, receptacle, and others, said director Tidalgo.

The destruction will be held on July 20, 1:00 p.m. at Barangay Doongan here, she said. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Surigao Norte women micro entrepreneurs join entrep and customer service seminar

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 14 (PIA) - A total of 27 women entrepreneurs in the city joined the Entrepreneurship cum Customer Relationship Management Seminar (SMERA) on July 1, 2016 held at the Training Room of City Negosyo Center, DTI Surigao del Norte provincial office here.

DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan said that the one-day activity aims to capacitate the women participants with the basic knowledge in entrepreneurship as well as radically upgrade their current customer standards.

He explained that SMERA is a continuous learning program that equips micro, small and medium enterprise with knowledge, skills and capabilities to become more competitive in the domestic and global markets.

“This activity forms part of our continued support for existing and aspiring entrepreneurs and our efforts in addressing the call of the government for inclusive growth and poverty reduction by providing opportunities for learning to various sectors like women, youth, farmers, indigenous people,” Celestino said. (SDR, PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Over 10,000 drug personalities surrender to Caraga police

By PSI Charity S Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 14 (PIA) - More than 10,000 individuals involved in illegal drug activities have surrendered to the police since the implementation of Project Tokhang in Caraga last July 1, 2016.

In a monitoring of the Regional Tactical Operations Center, a total of 10,649 drug personalities comprised of 2,491 from Agusan del Norte; 2,340 from Agusan del Sur; 1,212 from Butuan City; 146 from Dinagat Islands; 1,811 from Surigao del Norte; and 2,649 from Surigao del Sur turned themselves in to authorities.

Police Regional Office 13 regional director PCSupt. Rolando Felix said the surrendered persons are turned over to the local government units and will be monitored by the police.

Project Tokhang, a massive campaign to convince those involved in illegal drugs to reform, is the first phase under Project Double Barrel which was implemented nationwide last July 1, 2016.

The second phase of Project Double Barrel is Project HVT/LVT which focuses on the conduct of police operations against the high value or low value targets.

From July 1 to July 13, a total of 76 suspects were arrested and three drug personalities were killed during the conduct of police operations.

“These accomplishments are attributed to the collective efforts and strengthened partnerships among the PNP, LGU, community, and other stakeholders,” PCSupt. Felix said. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Rebels torch container van's gen set in San Agustin town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

SAN AGUSTIN, Surigao del Sur, July 14 (PIA) – Around 15 fully armed men reportedly flagged down and burned the generator set of a container van owned by Rosendo Casino while traversing the national highway in Barangay Salvacion here on Wednesday, July 13.

Initial report from the Police Provincial Police (PPO) revealed that the said container van was loaded with bananas from the DOLE warehouse in Tabon-tabon, Tago town heading for Davao City. While traversing the said place, the said container van was flagged down by the fully armed men who introduced themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The rebels accordingly instructed the driver to separate the tractor head and park along the center of the national highway.

Few minutes after, the suspects reportedly fled to the mountainous area of Purok 6, Barangay Salvacion, while the San Agustin Fire Station personnel arrived and declared fire out around 1:00 p.m. on the same day.

The Police Provincial Saftey Company based in Tagmalinao, Cagwait and the Philippine Army immediately conducted hot pursuit operations to run after the lawless armed group. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DTI set to launch mariculture platforms in Surigao City

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 14 (PIA) - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte is set to launch its shared service facilities (SFF) dubbed “Mobile Mariculture Platforms” (MMP) here on August 3, 2016, 2015 at the city mariculture park in barangay Nabago.

DTI provincial director Celestino Negapatan bared that the project will provide five pilot mobile mariculture platforms of Norwegian type fish cages that can accommodate 20,000 bangus fingerlings to about 150 4Ps beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

He said MMP project is one of the promising convergence undertakings where DTI committed to provide the said cages, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for the technical support, DSWD for the feeds and fingerlings, and the city government on the cage nets and security in the area.

Negapatan, further said that the project is expected to harvest approximately 50 metric tons of milkfish (bangus) after six months. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Police burn P36 million worth of marijuana in Butuan

By PSI Charity S Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 14 (PIA) - The Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 recently burned uprooted marijuana plants and stalks worth about P36,193,500 at the quarry site in barangay Bonbon, this city on Thursday.

PRO 13 regional director PCSupt. Rolando Felix spearheaded the activity together with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 13, local government unit, and media personalities.

The marijuana stalks and plants were recovered from the towns of Loreto and La Paz, Agusan del Sur during the intensified campaign of Caraga police force.

In his message, PCSupt. Felix lauded the support of the local government units and the community which contributed to the success.

Police force in Caraga is making headway in its implementation of Project Double Barrel, an all-out anti-illegal drug campaign of the Philippine National Police. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte guv convenes mining stakeholders

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 15 (PIA)– The provincial government of Surigao del Norte on Thursday spearheaded a mining stakeholders meeting at the Governor’s Conference Room, Capitol Compound, here.

Provincial Information Officer Mary Jul Escalante bared that some lingering issues and concerns on mining activities like siltation in Claver town, fisk kill in Lake Mainit, non-payment of business tax, royalty income of the IP’s (Indigenous People), and other related matters are being discussed during the said meeting.

Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 13 regional director Alilo Ensomo presented the status report on large scale mining companies in the province.

Meanwhile, the representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) discussed the reforestation activities of the mining companies in the province as part of their social development and management program.

Also during the meeting, the officials from different mining companies presented their plans and programs in compliance with the national government's call for responsible mining.

The one-day meeting was attended by governor Sol Matugas and the officials and representatives of Hinatuan Mining Corporation, Taganito Mining Corp, Taganito HPAL, Platinum Group Metals Corporation, Adnama Mining, Greenstone Mining Corporation, Silangan Mining Corporation, and provincial board members of the second district. (SDR/PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Army supports KBP Oplan Broadcastreeing 2016

By 1Lt Karl Jan Devaras

BUTUAN CITY, July 17 (PIA) – The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army here supports this year’s Oplan Broadcastreeing activity of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter set on August 6, 2016, 6:00 a.m. at Camp Bancasi planting site.

LTC Rey Pasco, executive director of 4ID Advance Command Post, Philippine Army of this city, said they are very willing to assist the KBP, along with other stakeholders in the tree planting activity. "The 4th Civil Military Operations (Kasaligan) Battalion of 4ID, Philippine Army does not only seek to protect the lives and rights of the people, but also the environment where people lives. With this effort of the KBP, we strongly express our support and participation for this year's Broadcastreeing activity. We have already prepared the planting site within the vicinity of Camp Bancasi," he underscored.

In a meeting with KBP, the said organizers finalized their plans and preparations for the “Broadcastreeing 2016.”

Broadcasters (tv and radio) in Butuan City and Agusan del Norte have expressed their commitment to participate in the tree planting activity. Other partner stakeholders from the government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society organizations and academe are also expected to join.

This year's broadcastreeing in the city is in partnership with the 4th CMO Battalion, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga.

The broadcastreeing is an annual simultaneous and nationwide tree planting activity in support to the government’s National Greening Program (NGP). (4CMO, PA/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: ICT emergency responders sa Caraga region nagtipon-tipon at bumuo ng protocol upang maisaayos ang sistema sa komunikasyon tuwing may kalamidad

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 17 (PIA) - Nagtipon-tipon ang mga emergency responders na galing pa sa ibat-ibang probinsya ng Caraga region sa dalawang araw na ginanap na Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Bayanihan - Emergency Telecommunications Cluster Summit dito sa lungsod ng Butuan.

Ang nasabing ICT Bayanihan Summit ay pinanguhanan ng Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) ng Caraga kasama ang Smart Communications.

Isa sa mga nilalayon ng nasabing ICT Bayanihan Summit ang pagpapatatag ng epektibong sistema sa komunikasyon, at ng Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Team (RETT) na siyang nangangasiwa sa regional DRRMC operations center at magreresponde tuwing may disaster o kalamidad sa rehiyon.

Ayon kay RDRRMC chairperson at Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director Manuel Luis Ochotorena, mahalaga ang partisipasyon ng mga ICT emergency responders sa ginanap na summit. Isa umano itong whole-of-nation approach sa pamamagitan ng collaborative efforts ng ibat-ibang sektor.

Ipinahayag din niya na makakatulong ang ICT Bayanihan Summit sa pagtukoy ng mga communication equipment at protocols sa operation centers at magkaroon ng inventory ng communication resources na siyang gagamitin sa panahong may emergency o disaster.

Dagdag pa ni director Ochotorena, ang local DRRMCs ay magsasagawa rin ng ganitong summit sa kani-kanilang probinsya ng Caraga region nang mas lalo pang mapatibay ang mga stratehiyang nabuo upang maging maayos at naaayon ang kanilang response operations tuwing may kalamidad o emerhensya.

Samantala, ibinahagi rin ni Nova Concepcion, ang senior manager, community partnership department public relations group ng Smart Communications na lubos silang sumusuporta sa mga aktibidades ng RDRRMC lalung-lalo na sa pagpapalaganap ng epektibong komunikasyon sa pamamagitan ng Information and Communication Technology.

Ang Caraga region ay pang-pito umano sa mga rehiyong nag-initiate ng ICT Bayanihan Summit. Dagdag pa niya, mayroon silang wide range of communication solutions at pre-disaster platforms na nagbibigay ng tama at napapanahong impormasyon na magagamit rin ng mga responders. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI Caraga to hold 13th AEC regional conference

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA)– The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga is set to hold the 13th of a series of regional conference entitled “Industry Roadmaps and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Game Plan: Roadmap Localization for Competitiveness” on August 4, 2016 at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.

In her written statement, Industry Development Group assistant secretary Rafaelita Aldaba, bared that the Board of Investments under the DTI is conducting a series of multi-stakeholder conferences in various regions of the country to communicate to stakeholders the opportunities and challenges for the Philippines in the ASEAN Economic Community.

“We hoped to deepen the stakeholders’ awareness of the importance of industry roadmaps in the context of regional integration, and encourage them to formulate regional roadmaps that are aligned with the national industry maps,” added Aldaba.

Also, during the set regional conference, Dr. Cielito Habito, chief of party of United States Agency for International Development – Trade-Related Assistance for Development Project is expected to share about the Regional Integration and the National Development Agenda, while Dr. Roehlano Briones, senior research fellow from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies will discuss the Agribusiness in relation to the six National Industry Clusters.

Meanwhile, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Carino will also reveal the potentials and challenges in the region. Guest speakers from Philippine Rubber Industries Association Incorporated; DTI-Caraga; and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will brief the participants on Rubber, Palm Oil, Processed Fish, and Mining. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

National Sci-Tech celebration highlights science community’s achievements

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA)– Bannered by the theme, “Juan Science, One Nation”, this year’s weeklong celebration of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) slated on July 22-25, 2016 will highlight the science community’s achievements in the different fields of science, technology and research through various fora, and Science and Technology (S&T) fairs and exhibit, among others.

According to Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga regional director Dominga Mallonga, the NSTW celebration also aims to bring science and technology closer to the people by letting them experience the vital role of science, technology and innovation in improving the people’s quality of life, protecting the environment, and contributing to national development, particularly in poverty alleviation.

“The NSTW underlines the capability of local S&T experts and helps inspire the youth and all other sectors in believing that Filipinos can do it, and that local technology really works,” said Mallonga.

Its events and exhibits are the perfect venues for technology developers and investors, as well as S&T service providers and clients, to interact and pursue potential opportunities.

The kick-off activity at 8:00 a.m. on the 22nd of July includes a motorcade along the city thoroughfares with assembly area at the Guingona Park in this city. An opening program and a press conference will follow at the atrium of Robinsons Place.

“The presence of our stakeholders and the viewing public during the event will optimize opportunities and will add a great value to the success of the Science and Technology fair. We hope to see you there,” invited Mallonga. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Tandag to host media conference for Caraga International Solidarity Mission

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 18 (PIA)– Tandag will host the 22 delegates from the church, human rights, youth and public employees organizations from USA, Canada, Germany, Belgium and Kenya for the media conference for Caraga International Solidarity Mission on Tuesday, July 19, 2016, which will be held at the Surigao del Sur Sports Center, this city where displaced families were temporarily sheltered since September 1, 2015.

It was learned that the delegates are expected to visit the displaced families, as part of their continuing international campaign calling for an immediate return of the evacuees to their communities.

Other activities lined-up include an overnight stay of the participants at the oval-turned-evacuation center, observation and participation in community, school and farm activities of the Lumad evacuees. There will also be a cultural exchanges among the different international participants with the Lumad leaders and learners to forge stronger solidarity links, especially on the issues of the defense of ancestral lands against and upholding the indigenous people’s right to self-discrimination, education and genuine development. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Feature: Agusan Sur solon advocates orphans empowerment

By Venus L. Garcia

Beyond performance of duties while holding public office and ensuring appropriate actions to its regular responsibilities, Cong. Ma. Valentina Plaza, 1st district representative of the province of Agusan del Sur, has personally committed her moral obligation of empowering juveniles, especially those who are deprived from parental care and support.

This is just among the top priorities that draw her extraordinary interest aside from education, clean water and health advocacies.

“Proper growth and development, positive guidance and correct discipline are among the essentials in bringing up a child to make him the best person that he can be. I find great satisfaction of devoting part of my time for these children because they deserve particular regard and support to let them feel their self-worth, helping them build their self-confidence. They too are entitled to learn the valuable life skills – and that is empowerment,” expressed Cong. Plaza.

Accordingly, it is also her way of extending more of her services to the community. She usually spent valuable moments with the 17 children housed at the Bahay Silongan, a home for the abandoned children managed by the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady Fatima since 1995, situated in Sitio Dalingdingan, Brgy. Pinamanculan, Butuan City.

Just recently, she generously treated them for a free meal and snacks and proceeded to the cinema to let them enjoy and experience the simple pleasures of life by watching a movie. For her, a sincere gesture of kindness and benevolence is one manifestation of love and care especially to the deprived young individuals who needed more of the support.

“Nothing is more fulfilling than doling out something out of our own volition to share what we have for the less fortunate people,” expressed Cong. Plaza.

Plaza enunciated further that investing attention, nurturance and compassion on the children are keys to raising good citizens. “Thus, it is important to nurture well these kids for them to help build a better nation,” she added.

In his excitement and elation, Mark Felizanta, an 11-year old orphan, conveyed a quick display of gratitude by telling how grateful he is to have found his new family. “I used to stay at the streets without minding the scorching heat of the sun, fighting each day to survive. Now, I’m very thankful because I get to experience a normal child life being taken cared of by our house parents,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ester Abul, a social worker of the Bahay Silongan disclosed that aside from the home life training such as doing the assigned household tasks, the children are also sent to school for proper education.

“Thank you for the constant support from our benefactors who contributed much in the sustenance of the regular needs of the children and institution,” said Abul. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RDRRMC to hold NDCM culmination program, awarding of regional KALASAG winners

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA)– The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) of Caraga will hold the culmination program of this year’s observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) on July 29 at Almont Hotels Inland Resort here.

Regional director Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena of the Office of Civil Defense and RDRRMC chairperson bared that the culmination program will highlight the Regional Awarding of the 2016 Gawad KALASAG Search for Excellence in DRRM and Humanitarian Assistance.

Ochotorena also said the RDRRMC member-agencies and other stakeholders will be given recognition for their support and contribution to the recently conducted DRRM activities in the region in line with NDCM observance and Annual Gawad KALASAG Search.

Regional Heads and RDRRMC Focal Officers are expected to attend on the said occasion.

Gawad KALASAG Search for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance is an annual recognition scheme of National DRRM Council which started in 1998. Gawad is a Filipino term for “award”, while KALASAG is an acronym for “KALAmidad at SAkuna Labanan, SAriling Galingang Kaligtasan” and another Filipino term for “shield” used by early Filipinos as means of protection from attacks of enemies or harmful animals. (NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

402nd brigade now covers Surigao Norte, Dinagat Islands

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 18 (PIA) - Colonel Isidro Purisima, brigade commander of the 402nd Brigade confirmed during the press briefing conducted on Thursday here that their area of responsibility (AOR) has now expanded to include the two other provinces of the region, effective July 1.

"The area of responsibility of 402nd Infantry Brigade has been expanded to Surigao del Norte including the province of Dinagat Islands effective July 1. We took over the area of Task Force Diamond,” Col. Purisima said.

The brigade headquarters will still be based in the city, being the center of the elongated areas of responsibility covering three provinces of Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands, and the cities of Surigao, Tandag and Bislig, Purisima clarified.

Accordingly, two brigades are operating the region, the 401st Infantry Brigade, which covers the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte, including Butuan City and the 402nd brigade.

Purisima revealed that the New People's Army-initiated incidence recorded on the first and second quarters has been reduced compared to the previous year.

According to 402nd brigade civil military operations officer Capt. Reggie Go, the brigade arrived in Surigao del Sur last April 8, 2015 and assumed the responsibility over the province of Surigao del Sur on April 10 of the same year. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PRO 13 participates in cascading of Project Double Barrel

By PSI Charity S Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA) - Cops in Caraga on Friday attended the cascading of Project Double Barrel in Brgy. Imadejas here.

Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 director, together with the city/provincial directors, battalion commander of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 13, chiefs of police, and some non-uniformed personnel attended the activity.

Senior Supt. Herminio Tadeo, Jr., Public Safety Division chief of the Directorate for Operations, was the speaker of the cascading.

Project Double Barrel is the anti-illegal drug campaign of the Philippine National Police and has two approaches: Project Tokhang and Project HVT/LVT.

The massive campaign to convince those involved in illegal drugs to reform falls under Project Tokhang or Toktok-Hangyo while Project HVT/LVT focuses on the conduct of police operations against the high-value or low-value targets. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PPA-Surigao ‘negative’ in drug test, first GOCC to submit to dope check

By Eugenio “Jun” Lira, Jr.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 18 (PIA) - The employees of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), this city, posted a negative result during a surprise drug test conducted by the PNP Crime Laboratory, said P/Supt Norman Jovita on Saturday.

He said the drug-testing activity was conducted on July 14, 2016 at the port agency’s main office inside the Port of Surigao where 25 permanent employees voluntarily submitted themselves for the checkup.

“PPA employees were receptive during the drug tests led by Port Manager Mildred Padilla and PP/Supt. Froilan Caturla of the Port Police Division. Per records we have, for the entire Surigao del Norte, PPA-Surigao was the first agency belonging to the category of government owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to undergo the said examination. Probably, they are also the first GOCC to do so in Caraga Region,” P/Supt Jovita said.

Port Manager Mildred Padilla disclosed the drug testing activity was in compliance with the new administration’s directive for the mandatory drug testing of all government employees.

“We made the surprise drug tests for PPA-Surigao employees upon the recommendation of PP/Supt Froilan Caturla and everyone in the Senior Staff composed of division managers welcomed it. We’re happy to know the result that all of us were found negative,” Padilla said.

PP/Supt Caturla revealed he made the recommendation for the immediate drug tests of PPA officials and employees after three security guards detailed in the port tested positive for the use of illegal substance known as “shabu” during a series of surprise drug tests conducted by the PNP Crime Laboratory on PPA-hired security guards during the period July 5 – 12, 2016.

He said that aside from the three guards who tested positive, another three guards voluntarily confessed of being “shabu users” also.

“Those guards are not employees of PPA. They were supplied to our office by the security services contractor based on the security contract entered by and/or between PPA-Surigao and the said contractor. They were replaced already,” Caturla stressed.

During an interview conducted on July 8, 2016, Caturla said they requested the PNP Crime Laboratory “to ensure that we have credible drug test results. It is because our PPA-hired guards are in the forefront who are in direct contact with the riding public and port clientele who use our ports, hence, the need for them to undergo drug tests considering that usage of prohibited drugs would likely result to mental health problems which may cause anti-social personality disorder that can affect their decision-making and/or public relations.”

PPA-Surigao’s jurisdiction comprise the Ports of Surigao and Lipata in Surigao City; Port of San Jose in Dinagat Province; Ports of Dapa, Del Carmen and Santa Monica in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte; Ports of Cantilan, Tandag, Aras-asan, Lianga, Lawigan and Tabon in Surigao del Sur. About 106 guards are deployed in the said ports, it was learned. (PPA-Surigao/PIA-Caraga)

640 new police recruits take oath

By PSI Charity S Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA) - A total of 640 new police recruits took their oath of office at the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO13) parade grounds Saturday.

Chief Superintendent Rolando Felix, PRO 13 director, administered the oath of office of the recruits following their presentation by Senior Inspector Venus Nelmida, OIC Chief of the Regional Police Personnel and Human Resource Development Division (RPHRDD).

Felix said of the 640 new police recruits, 481 are males and 159 are females. All were given the rank of Police Officer 1 (PO1).

The new police personnel were chosen after a tough screening process conducted by the Regional Screening Committee on Recruitment.

After their oath-taking, the new police recruits, which will be divided into two, will further undergo one year training at the Regional Training School 13 in Lipata, Surigao del Sur and Silang, Cavite.

“You took the oath and finally joined in the ranks of police officers. Remember that an oath of office is the mortar that binds us to the foundations and provisions of our government. Since you entered the realm of law enforcement, you have opted to follow a higher standard of integrity and conduct. Let us therefore make this as our stance– what is right must be kept right; what is wrong must be set right,” the director said.

Felix further advises the young policemen and policewomen that “you will have an authority granted to you as an officer. Be careful that you always use it wisely and well."

The hiring of the 640 applicants completes the PRO 13’s first cycle regular recruitment program for the year. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Bit-os ES bags Brigada Eskwela 2016 award

By Jonas H. Jomonong

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA) - Bit-os Elementary School (BES), a 15-teacher school with 468 pupils of the city bagged a major award in the recently concluded 2016 Division Search for the Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing Schools.

BES garnered 4th place for the 2016 Division Search for Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing Schools small school category and top 20 schools elementary level for the 2016 Division Search for Most Prepared Schools.

Other elementary schools that received the awards for the Brigada Eskwela best implementing schools were: for the small schools, Villa Kananga ES (1st), Bugabus ES (2nd), Amparo CES (3rd), Doongan ES (5th), Banza ES (6th), West Central ES (7th), Alviola Village CES (8th), Silad-Mahogany ES (9th) and Taligaman ES (10th). On the other hand, Ong Yiu CES bagged 1st place for large schools followed by Obrero ES (2nd), Libertad CES (3rd), JT Domingo CES (4th) and Maon ES (5th) and Butuan CES for exceptional schools category.

For the secondary schools, Alviola National High School (NHS) ranked 1st in the small schools category followed by Lumbocan NHS (2nd), Agusan Pequeno NHS (3rd), Butuan City Comprehensive HS (4th), Pedro Duncano NHS (5th), Ampayon NHS (6th), La Soledad NHS (7th), Bilay NHS (8th), Anticala NHS (9th) and Cabcabon NHS (10th). Furthermore, Taligaman NHS ranked 1st in the large schools category followed by Banza NHS, Libertad NHs and BCSAT respectively while Agusn NHS for the exceptional schools.

The composite evaluation teams came up with the following observations during their rounds for the Search for Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing Schools such as non-observation of proper protocols, incomplete reporting, non-observance of correct format/template of reports, non-classification of diverse volunteers, delayed submission of school reports to name some and they recommended to use proper format/templates, on-time submission of reports, protocol observation, consistency of reports and all schools were required to submit the documents with no exception.

All the winning schools were awarded with plaque and certificates during the 7th Division Management Committee Conference held recently at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

International forum seeks to prepare EAGA workforce for global arena

DAVAO CITY, July 18 (PIA) – More than 100 participants from the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) convened here Monday for a forum aimed to develop a more globally competitive workforce for the sub-region.

Dubbed as the 1st BIMP-EAGA Technical, Vocational, Education, and Training (TVET) Forum, the international event gathered a pool of experts from the human resource industry and key government officials as they mapped out possible strategies designed to further strengthen technical knowledge and skills training among the sub-region’s workers.

Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority, said the event is crucial in elevating the level of human resource development currently existing in the BIMP-EAGA, especially with respect to the increasing demand for more skilled workers that can compete in a global scale.

“With the enabling policies in place within BIMP-EAGA and the ASEAN, such as the Mutual Recognition Arrangements for the services sector, this forum will provide us with the venue for the discussion of strategies in producing more internationally accredited workforce who will form part as the backbone of the sub-region’s skilled human resource,” Antonino said.

The conduct of the forum was finalized during the BIMP-EAGA Strategic Planning Meeting in February this year, through EAGA’s Socio-Cultural and Education (SCE) pillar.

Formally established in 2014, the SCE was pushed by the Philippines to specifically promote a “people-centered” regional cooperation within BIMP-EAGA through opportunities that can enhance the innate skills of the working force.

Aside from convening experts across BIMP-EAGA, the forum is also aimed to facilitate the adoption of “incubation centers of best practices” for specific industries that a member country espouses as “information hubs” that can be easily accessed by everyone. The Philippines has been identified as an incubation center for agri-based industries.

Antonino said the event is a great way to strengthen partnerships among BIMP-EAGA member countries, particularly in generating employment opportunities.

“This is also a good avenue for us to align our initiatives with the overall goals of BIMP-EAGA as a sub-economic cooperation. While accelerated trade among member countries is still the primary vision of BIMP-EAGA, partnerships in jobs creation can also flourish within the sub-region through this initiative,” she added.

The 1st BIMP-EAGA TVET Forum will run from July 18 to 19, 2016 at the Regional Training Center, Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-KPVTC), Tibungco here in this city.

Launched in 1994, the BIMP-EAGA sub-regional cooperation is designed as a key strategy to accelerate social and economic development of less developed areas in participating countries. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte tourist arrival improves

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 18 (PIA) - The province of Surigao del Norte is experiencing tourist arrival increase in the last three years. The increase, per record, averages 10 to 12 percent annually for the last three years.

According to Provincial Tourism Coordinator Arturo Cruje, this has been attributed to the increase in the number of accommodation facilities in the city and Siargao Island, and the strengthened tourism marketing and promotions campaign.

Based on the data released by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the province has the most number of foreign arrivals and foreign residents among the provinces and cities in Mindanao.

"So much pressure is placed on the host communities and the provincial government. Peace and order, and security of the foreigners are the utmost concern," Cruje said.

He lauded the governance of Governor Sol F. Matugas as she placed development as catalyst for revenue and employment generation which is one of her strategies for poverty alleviation. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga police spearheads run for a cause

By PSI Charity Galvez

BUTUAN CITY, July 18 (PIA) - The Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 13 in partnership with the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga and the city government here spearheaded a fun run dubbed as "Run for Peaceful and Safer Butuan" early morning Sunday.

Chief Supt Rolando Felix, Police Regional Office 13 director and Manuel Luis Ochotorena, regional director of OCD-Caraga led the activity.

Felix said the fun run is an advocacy highlighting the importance of peace and safety and calling for everyone’s participation in achieving more peaceful and safer communities.

More than 1,000 runners attended the fun run, which started around 4:30 a.m. at Guingona Park, this city.

Among the winners were: Elmer Bartolo (1st place for 21k Male Category) and Michelle Aclo (1st Place for 21k Female Category); Juneil Languido (1st place for 10k Male Category) and Melody Perez (1st Place for 10k Female Category); CJ Sandinao (1st place for 5k Male Category) and Geniecel Saballa (1st Place for 5k Female Category); and Ruel Algufera (1st Place for 3k Male Category) and Weyalyn Puro (1st Place for 3k Female Category).

Supt. Chito Bersaluna, commander of RPSB 13, said the proceeds of the activity will go to the scholarship of deserving but less fortunate students, conduct of more police community relations activities, and capability enhancement of RPSB 13 during disasters/calamities. (PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Mining stakeholders meeting gipahigayon sa Surigao Norte

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Hulyo 18 (PIA)– Ang probinsya sa Surigao del Norte mipahigayon og usa ka Mining Stakeholders Meeting bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa buhatan sa gobernador ning dakbayan.

Ang maong meeting gipangulohan kini ni Gobernador Sol Matugas uban ni Kongresista Fransico Matugas uban sa mga kadagkuan sa minahan dinhi sa probinsya sama sa Hinatuan Mining Corp, Taganito Mining Corp, Taganito HPAL, Platinum Group Metals Corporation, Adnama Mining, Greenstone Mining Corp. ug Silangan Mining Corp, mga board members sa lalawigan ug kadagkuan sa MGB ug DENR.

Atol sa maong panagtagbo gipresentar ni Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 13 regional director Alilo Ensomo ang status report sa Large Scale Mining Companies dinhi sa probinsya samtang si DENR-CENRO Roel Efren mipahayag mahitungod sa Reforestation Activities sa mga Minining Companies dinhi sa probinsya.

Ang matag representante sa mga kumpanya sa mina usa usa usab nga mihatag ug status report mahitungod sa ilang mga plano ug programa sa pagsunod sa pamaagi sa responsableng pagmina.

Ubay ubay ang mga issues and concerns ang napadayag sama na sa problema sa siltation sa lungsod sa Claver, non- payment of business tax, fish kill sa Lake Mainit, problemssa mga Lumad mahitungod sa ilang royalty income ug uban pa.

Gipadayag usab ni Board Member Constantino Navaro IV ang plano sa probinsya pagmugna og usa ka ordinansa sa pagdili na paghatag og permit sa bag- ong large scale mining o kining gitawag nga “No to New Large Scale Mining in the Province.” (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Gov’t agencies to participate in 38th NDPR Week activities

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) – In line with this year’s National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week celebration, the employees from government agencies led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development have set lined-up activities for the weeklong celebration from July 17-23, 2016.

Said celebration kicked-off on Monday, July 18 with a Thanksgiving Mass and short program held at the Robinsons Place Atrium here.

On July 29, 2016, member agencies of the Regional Council on Disability Affairs (RCDA) will hold the Regional Convention on the Rights of the Persons with Disability (PWDs) including the youth with disability in one of the local convention centers here. During this activity, Family Planning commodities will also be provided to the PWDs.

Also, on July 20-22, 2016, training on how to handle the behavior of children with special needs or learning disability will be conducted by the council.

The Agusan del Norte Provincial Abilympics Competition 2016 will also be held on July 21, 2016. PWDs will be participating in the Photography Contest, English Text Processing, Creating Webpages, Desktop Publishing, Painting, Cooking/Culinary, Water Reuse, and Cake Decoration.

Meanwhile, the Agusan del Norte PWD General Assembly is set on July 22, 2016, along with the conduct of the workshop on Philippine Registry System for PWDs. Culmination and awarding of prizes will then follow. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

NYC encourages youth to get involve in this year’s SK elections

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) – The National Youth Commission (NYC) is calling on the youth to participate and get involve in the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections this October 31, 2016.

NYC Northeastern Mindanao Cluster head Evanesa Pasamba, bared that said election is pursuant to Commission on Elections’ (COMELEC's) Resolution No. 10148 or the Rules and Regulations for the Registration of Members of Katipunan ng Kabataan and Registration of Voters for Barangay relative to the October 31, 2016 Sangguniang Kabataan and Barangay Elections.

“The SK Registration is free and open to all unregistered youths belonging to the 15 to 30 age groups. They shall personally file their applications in the COMELEC offices in their respective locality from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. starting July 15 until July 30, 2016,” disclosed Pasamba.

This will also be the first youth council elections since Republic Act 10742 or the SK Reform Act was signed into law in January 2016. The new law has an anti-political dynasty provision, the first of its kind to be approved in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan celebrates 66th charter day

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) – The city of Butuan will be celebrating its 66th Adlaw Hong Butuan on August 2, 2016.

The momentous event marks the anniversary of the birth of Butuan as a chartered city.

According to City Tourism Office officer in-charge Judith A. Calo, the celebration will be highlighted with the Abayan Festival on July 31 at 6:00 A.M.

On August 2, a mass to be celebrated at St. Joseph Cathedral will be held at 6:00 A.M. to be followed by a wreath laying at the Zamora Cemetery and a program at the Guingona park.

Abayan Festival is a riverside festivity in honor of Saint Anne, Patroness of Agusan River highlighted with baroto races and indigenous games for men, women and children capped by a fluvial procession.

As per Proclamation No. 1260, August 2 was declared a special non-working day to give people of Butuan full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor PDRRMC conducts DRR short film making contest

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of the province of Agusan del Norte in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Agusan del Norte and Cabadbaran City divisions will conduct a DRR short filmmaking contest on July 26 here.

PDRRMO officer Erma Suyo said, the contest is open to all secondary schools of the province and is aimed to measure the capacity of this young individuals in terms of DRR and Climate Change Adaptation.

According to Suyo, mainstreaming DRR into school curricula aims to raise awareness and provide a better understanding of disaster management for children, teachers and communities, thus this activity will also help increase their knowledge on DRR.

“There is an increasing evidence that students of all ages can actively study and participate in school safety measures, and also work with teachers and other adults in the community towards minimizing risk before, during and after disaster events,” Suyo said.

Government can effectively reach out to communities and protect them by focusing on schools in DRR initiatives to achieve greater resilience to disasters, Suyo added.

The activity is in line with the observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) this July with the theme “"Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa."(NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Awarding of 2016 Regional Gawad KALASAG winners highlights NDCM culmination

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga will award this year’s winners of the Regional Gawad KALASAG search.

The awarding ceremony will be held during the culmination of this year’s observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month celebration on July 29 at the Las Nieves Hall, Almont Inland Resort here.

Gawad is a Filipino term for “award,” while KALASAG is an acronym for “KALAmidad at SAkuna Labanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan” and another Filipino term for “shield” used by early Filipinos as means of protection from attacks of enemies or harmful animals.

“The search was designed to encourage the participation of various stakeholders in crafting and implementing DRRM-related policies, strategies and programs to protect or shield the hazard prone communities from the adverse impacts of natural and human-induced calamities,” said director Ochotorena.

Based on the official result from the Regional Selection Committee (RSC), 32 entries from 17 categories bagged the 1st to 3rd places as regional winners while five entries will be given Gawad KALASAG citations.

For the Provincial DRRM Council Category winners, the province of Dinagat Islands got the 1st place; 2nd Place - Agusan del Norte; 3rd Place – Agusan del Sur; 4th Place - Surigao del Sur; and 5th Place - Surigao del Norte.

Butuan City will also receive the award for being the 1st placer in the Highly Urbanized City DRRM Council Category.

The Component City Category winners are: 1st Place – Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; 2nd Place - Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; and 3rd Place - Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.

For the 1st to 3rd Class Municipal DRRM Council Category: 1st Place - Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur; 2nd Place - Cagdianao, Dinagat Islands; and 3rd Place - Trento, Agusan del Sur, while for the 4th to 6th Class Municipal DRRM Council Category, the winners are: 1st Place - Dinagat, Dinagat Islands; 2nd Place - Cagwait, Surigao del Sur; and 3rd Place – Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

The Brgy. Quezon in Mainit of Surigao del Norte got the 1st place for the Urban Barangay DRRM Committee Category.

The Rural Barangay DRRM Committee Category winners are: 1st Place – Brgy. Esperanza, Loreto, Dinagat Islands; 2nd Place – Brgy. Alegria, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur; and 3rd Place - Brgy. Aras-asan, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur.

Schools Category (Public Urban) 1st place is Bayugan National Comprehensive High School, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur; and Surigao City National High School, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte got the 2nd place.

For Public Rural Schools Category: 1st Place - Zamora Elementary School, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur; 2nd Place – Claver National High School, Claver, Surigao del Norte; 3rd Place - Santiago Elementary School, Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

St. Paul University Surigao (SPUS), Surigao City got the 1st place for the Schools Category (Private Urban), while Adela Sierra Ty Memorial Medical Center, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur got the Hospital Category (National) 1st Place.

For the Hospital Category (LGU), Hinatuan District Hospital, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur got the 1st place and Sibog Katawhan Alang sa Paglambo (SIKAP), Inc., San Francisco, Agusan del Sur got the 1st place for the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Category.

The Peoples Organizations (POs) Category 1st Place – Nagkahiusang Mangingisda sa Hinatuan (NAMAHIN), Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

For the Volunteer Organizations (VOs) Category, Rescue and Emergency Service Provider on Disaster (RESPOND), Inc., Nasipit, Agusan del Norte got the 1st Place.

The Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 13, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, PRO 13, Libertad, Butuan City also got the 1st place for the Government Emergency Response Management Services (GEMS) Category.

For the Heroic Act Group Category winner – Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 13, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, PRO 13, Libertad, Butuan City.

The following will also receive Gawad KALASAG Citations: Municipality of Tubod, Surigao del Norte for the 4th-6th Class Municipal DRRM Council Category; Barangay Cayawan, Malimono, Surigao del Norte for Rural Barangay DRRM Committee Category; Surigao Filipino-Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigade, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte for Volunteer Organizations (VOs) Category; Barangay Organization Security Service – Barangay Emergency Special Team (BOSS-BEST), Surigao City, Surigao del Norte for Government Emergency Response Management Services (GEMS) Category; and Rural Health Unit of LGU Cagwait, Surigao del Sur for Heroic Act on Humanitarian Assistance – Group Category.

According to director Ochotorena, the result of this year’s Gawad KALASAG is based on the desktop evaluation and field/actual validation of entries as a selection process conducted by the RSC. It can be remembered that RSC conducted tabletop or desktop evaluation of entries on May 31 – June 2, 2016 and the field or actual validations were simultaneously done by the RSC validating teams in the entire month of June 2016. (OCD/NCL/PIA-Caraga)

Over 500 drug peddlers, users surrender in Mainit

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 19 (PIA) – More than 500 self-confessed drug peddlers and drug users voluntarily surrendered during the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) meeting held recently at Kasili Convention Hall in Mainit town.

It was learned that the municipality of Mainit has the highest number of surrendered drug users and drug peddlers, so far in the province.

According to DILG Mainit Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Welivie C. Diola, the mass surrender of drug users and pushers is a joint effort of the local government unit of Mainit, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police and other stakeholders.

On her part, Mayor Crisanta Mondano encouraged all those who took their pledge for change to take the chance and opportunity to start a new life with their family.

“To the youth, we only have one life, a precious gift given to us, so please don’t waste your life on drugs, go back to school and build your future,” Mondano said. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

All set for 3rd Rescuers Summit & Rescue Group Exercise 2016 in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 19 (PIA) – In line with the celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM), the provincial government of Surigao del Sur through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) is all set for the 3rd Rescuers Summit and Rescue Group Exercise 2016 on July 25-28.

According to PDRRM officer Abel de Guzman, the event will be held at the Lanuza Surf Camp in Lanuza town, the host local government unit (LGU) for this year’s culmination activity.

De Guzman said, the annual activity was first conducted in the city hosted by the provincial government in 2014. In 2015, the event was hosted by the city government of Bislig in collaboration with the provincial government.

De Guzman also revealed that the trained responders from the 12 LGUs and mining firms will also join the rescue group exercise.

With this year’s theme, “Kahandaan sa Pagtugon ng Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa,” the annual activity aims to strengthen strong relationships among responders from the different LGUs and establish a direct collaboration/teamwork between the national line agencies and the private groups engaging on emergency/disaster response, De Guzman remarked. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

FSCAP officers to receive honorarium

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) - All officials of the Provincial Federation of Senior Citizens (FSCAP) Agusan del Norte Chapter will soon receive an honorarium in the amount of P1,000 every month starting next year 2017.

This was made through the efforts of Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo who authored and sponsored for the approval of Provincial Ordinance No. 425-2016 providing honorarium to said officials.

The provincial government shall appropriate the amount of P250,000 under the General Fund Budget for CY 2017 and every year thereafter for the said purpose.

The provincial officials made this possible to encourage and energize more the officials of FSCAP Agusan del Norte Chapter to plan and put in place the plans and programs for the betterment of all senior citizens in the province. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

News Feature: Is ‘texting’ behind students’ struggle in spelling?

By Ederlina R. Jampac

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) - A study conducted early this year showed that high school students need further improvement in spelling as most of them performed below proficiency level.

The study entitled “Spelling Proficiency Level of Grade 8 Students of Agusan National High School (ANHS), Butuan City, Agusan del Norte,” had 103 respondents from two selected heterogeneous sections of ANHS. It was an action research approved by the Graduate School of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT).

During the pre-test, the students only garnered an over-all average score of 21.80 out of the 50-item spelling test.

Though result could vary on various factors, however, several related studies conducted within the country or abroad revealed almost the same result.

The study mentioned several causes behind the decline in spelling ability among high school students. One of them was the dependency on digital technology such as text messaging and spelling checker features in computers. “Frequent ‘texters’ developed the habit of writing short hand that is unacceptable to school-related works,” it said.

Also identified as a culprit in poor spelling is the less emphasis of spelling lessons in teacher’s modules. It explained that spelling difficulties need explicit instructions in order to address the problem to its core.

The research recommended the use of Glencoe spelling technique that was proven in the study to increase student’s level of proficiency in spelling by 39 percent. (DepEd-Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga agri chief commits to deliver President Duterte's promise

By Emmylou T. Presilda

BUTUAN CITY, July 19 (PIA) - Following the mantra of the new administration “Change is Coming,” the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Caraga welcomes its new director Renato P. Manantan vice Edna Mabeza.

As per Special Order 629 signed by Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol, Manantan was appointed as Officer-In-Charge Regional Executive Director effective July 1, 2016.

Manantan have had a short stint in Caraga 11 years ago but was transferred after 6 weeks to Region 3. He was then assigned as Director of Region 4B. His most recent assignment before Caraga was the Regional Director of the newly created Negros Island Region.

During the turnover ceremony on July 15, Manantan vowed to continue the accomplishment of the region which now have a 54 percent utilization of its annual budget. He also emphasized he will prioritize the implementation of programs and projects in line with the vision of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte through the leadership of Secretary Piñol which focused on providing available and affordable food for all.

“We need to continue to be strong and harness together the good in agriculture. Our Secretary is going to operationalize what the President has promised, therefore we need to work doubly hard,” said Manantan.

Manantan’s priority includes harmonizing DA’s interventions to identified priorities of the local government units by revisiting provincial profiles. This, according to Manantan, would enable the DA to provide the needed and appropriate support for the development of the farming sector. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Dental Health Bus sa probinsya malampusong gibendisyunan

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Hulyo 19 (PIA) - Malampusong gibendisyunan ang Dental Health Bus sa probinsya niadtong Lunes, Hulyo 18, 2016 didto sa Provincial Convention Center Capitol Compound, ning dakbayan.

Ang maong dental health bus gibindisyunan pagkahuman sa gipahigayon nga Monday Morning Sharing.

Ang maong dental health bus nga kumpleto ang sulod niini sa mga dental equipment gikan sa programa sa Department of Health (DOH) pinaagi ni kanhi DOH Sec. Janet Garin.

Sumala pa sa gobernador nga aduna pay moabotay nga usa pa ka Dental Health Bus alang sa isla sa Siargao.

Ang maong aktibidad gitambungan usab nila Bise Gobernador Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, mga board members sa lalawigan, mga bisita sa Philippine Dental Association, ug mga empleyado sa kapitolyo. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PSA Caraga to present 2015 GRDP

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Regional Statistical Services Office (RSSO) Caraga will be presenting the 2015 Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) on July 28, 2016 at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.

According to PSA Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura, their office will be showing the comparison of year-to-year growth of the region’s economy. “This will be done simultaneously by the PSA-RSSO around the country,” she added.

Apura further revealed that the GRDP can be used generally in the formulation of annual regional development plans, in monitoring performance of the regional economy and its sectors/subsectors, identification of sectors/industries in terms of investment promotion and support service, and in analyzing trends/forecasting for planning purposes.

It was also learned that deputy director-general for central support office Nestor Mijares IV of National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) will deliver his message during this activity. For Caraga, regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Carino is also expected to give her message.

Gross Regional Domestic Product is the aggregate of gross value added (GVA) of all resident producer units in the region. The GRDP includes regional estimates on the three major sectors including their sub-sectors namely: Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry; Industry Sector; Mining and Quarrying Manufacturing ; Construction Electricity and Water; Service Sector; Transport, Communication and Storage Trade Finance Ownership of Dwellings and Real Estate Private Government Services. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: ICT Bayanihan: Creating communications strategic highway, building resiliency

By Venus L. Garcia

In giving emphasis on the unity of efforts of all Information and Communication Technology (ICT) key players using the existing domestic and international legal frameworks, guidelines, agreements and programs in the country, and to establish a common command and control mechanism for communication, electronics and information flow in times of disaster and calamities, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) of Caraga through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), in partnership with SMART Communications, spearheaded the conduct of the two-day Emergency Telecommunications Cluster Summit: ICT Bayanihan held in Butuan City recently.

The participants of the summit are those with experience in emergency telecommunications at strategic level with delegated decision-making authority or recommendatory functions.

According to OCD-13 and Caraga RDRRMC chairperson Manuel Luis Ochotorena, communication is the backbone of all operations. “Relaying of necessary information/data has always been a predicament during calamities/disasters, and so enhancement of emergency telecommunications system is much more needed to improve the response and delivery of services,” he said.

ICT Bayanihan will be established to address the concern on communications interoperability, commonality and inter-comparability with an objective to create a framework for strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of ICT during disaster response operations under the leadership of the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC).

Resiliency for zero casualty

Learning from the many lessons of the aftermath brought about typhoon Yolanda and other natural calamities experienced by Filipinos in the country, the endeavor to enhance ICT and emergency response capabilities to transform into more proactive policies and programs became integral for building resiliency.

As once mentioned by former Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, “an integrated communication flow between the national and local DRRMCs is considered as an important element in the achievement of our ultimate goal: to save lives.”

With this, the ICT Bayanihan will be replicated to the provinces, municipalities and barangays, and it will redound to timely response operations as well as efficient decision-making prior and in emergency situations in order to achieve nil casualty.

“The implementation is viable since it's already part of the Caraga RDRRMC’s financial plan,“ assured Ochotorena.

Operationalization of Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Team (RETT)

The OCD through the National DRRMC has mobilized the RETT. It takes the lead in the conduct of installation, operations, and maintenance of ICT systems and equipment to identified Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and the Incident Command Posts (ICPs) in disaster-affected areas.

At the regional levels down to the provinces, municipalities and barangays, the leadership in the conduct of RETT mission shall be determined by the local RDRRMCs as mandated in the Republic Act 10121 based on the Rule 11, Section 1 implementing rules and regulations. “The LDRRMCs shall take the lead in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from the impacts of disasters,” it said.

Also, as indicated in the key operational concepts for use of RETT, its operations will be conducted through coordinated operations with other support agencies, local and international volunteers in coordination with the Rapid Deployment Team (RDT) of the NDRRMC. This aims to establish an effective and efficient ICT systems and equipment connectivity from affected areas to national level and vice versa during disaster response operations.

In principle, RETT personnel deploying in disaster operations mission will be in uniforms. The overall responsibility for providing adequate security remains with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and/or the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Meanwhile, with a purpose to spread commitment and dedication and to strengthen the communication system capabilities, Ochotorena said that the conduct of ICT Bayanihan will help them identify compatibility of communication equipment and protocols applied by operation centers, and have an inventory of communication resources used for emergency/disaster response.

In his subject presentation on the Response Cluster Emergency Information System, Christopher Grajo, managing director of the Emergency Response Integration Center (ERIC) underscored that they push technology to its limits for disaster response, collecting data where there are no power, no connectivity, no hardware, no systems, and no experts.

It was also learned through the discussion of Lt. Col Edwin Sadang, GSC, Philippine Army that the ICT Bayanihan is the national collaborative information environment management program (NCIEMP). It is the active and core ICT program of the NDRRMC, anchored on the concepts of the "Whole-of-Nation" approach through combined efforts of people and agencies.

Private Stakeholders Cooperation

It can’t be denied that communication plays a very significant role in all relief and rehab operations, and this is where the synergy of private sectors comes into the picture in terms of pursuing their corporate responsibilities by getting involved in the nation’s undertakings on preparedness in facing the challenges during emergencies, disasters and calamities.

Nova Concepcion, senior manager, Community Partnership Department Public Relations Group of SMART Communications said that they fully support the ICT Bayanihan summit. She further expressed her strong belief that communications system in the locality will be more stable and stronger especially during disasters. She also assured that they have a wide range of communications sulutions, as well as pre-disaster platforms through its ‘infocasts.’

Conception revealed that the conduct of ICT Bayanihan in Caraga region is the 7th in a row summit that they held to several regions in the country. She added that they are also in support to the humanitarian connectivity charter.

Meanwhile, Rupert Ambil, Executive Director of MovePH, Rappler, discussed the "Project Agos and Role of Social Media during Disasters.".\

The participants who comprised the technical working group (TWG) presented their workshop outputs. Hand-over of deliverables to OCD-13 head and RDRRMC chairperson Ochotorena, delivery of impressions by the participants, and a pledge of commitment concluded the summit. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

National Academy of S&T set to conduct workshop on writing research proposals

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) – The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PH), in cooperation with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga, will be conducting a two-day Training-Workshop on Writing and Presenting Research Proposals Towards Building Science Culture held in the city on July 28-29, 2016 at 7:30 a.m.

“The NAST initiated the DOST funded project entitled Evaluation and Improvement of the Research Publication and IP Productivity of the DOST Research and Development (R &D) Institutes. One of the objectives of the project is to upgrade the status of research in the country,” said DOST-13 regional director Dominga Mallonga.

Participants will learn the steps in preparing proposals and be presenting their outputs for critiquing before the technical panel of experts.

The workshop will incorporate capability-building activities that will enable researchers to implement research projects and produce R & D outputs. It aims to cultivate interest and promote course of action for region-based research and development initiatives. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Del Carmen barangay groundbreaks health station

By April Mae N. Waban

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) - Despite the unpredictable weather, the barangay officials and volunteers of Barangay Quezon, Del Carmen in Surigao del Norte remained undeterred and successfully conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of their one unit health station community sub-project.

The ceremony officially marked the beginning of the construction of the sub-project that will be implemented under Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan –Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS).

For a far-flung barangay such as Quezon, access to basic healthcare services for residents remains a challenge. This was one of the reasons why the community was very eager to start their sub-project hoping that this would address their ordeal.

Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the flagship anti-poverty programs of the national government implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). It uses the Community Driven Development (CDD) strategy which helps empower people by enabling them to carry out their own development projects by collectively identifying and prioritizing needs of their community, providing proposed solutions, and actively participating in the implementation. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DSWD Caraga conducts SFP implementation review for SY 2015-2016

By Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga conducted recently the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) Program Review and Evaluation Workshop (PREW) cum Stakeholders Orientation for SY 2015-2016 held at Goat2Geder Hotel and Restaurant here.

Among the attendees are the Provincial/City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers (P/C/MSWDOs), Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Chairpersons, and local auditors of the local government units (LGUs) in the region.

According to Lea Radaza, focal person of SFP, the objectives of the orientation is to review the SY 2015-2016 SFP implementation of every LGU.

“Its purpose is to identify the accomplishment of the region when it comes to nutritional improvement of the day care children enrolled last year. Out of 6,926 children, a total of 6,010 children beneficiaries restored to their normal nutritional status. With this, we exceed the target of 80% set by the national, since the field office reached 87 percent,” added Radaza.

Also, the stakeholders were re-oriented on the guidelines pertaining the SFP implementation for this year. This will ensure that the program serves its purpose.

SFP is the provision of food, in addition to regular meals, to currently enrolled day care children as part of DSWD’s contribution to the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program of the government. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor SP urges DBM to include KALSADA program in 2017

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte urged the national government through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to include the KALSADA Program in the 2017 national expenditure program and allocate a portion of the national budget for the continuity of said project.

KALSADA, also known as Konkreto at Ayos na Lansangan at Daan tungo sa Pangkalahatang Kaunlaran Program was adopted and implemented by the national government to assist provinces in the rehabilitation of core provincial roads.

This year, P6.5 billion has been earmarked for the KALSADA Program to be implemented by 73 provinces.

The funds would be directly downloaded to the provinces that have met and complied with good governance standards, social development benchmarks and established monitoring and evaluation mechanism for road projects.

In its Sanggunian Resolution No. 148-2016, the SP urged for the inclusion of KALSADA Program in the national budget considering its significance and that it would upgrade, improve and rehabilitate core provincial roads in Agusan del Norte. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

AgNor officials, employees to get free annual check up

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA) - All officials and employees of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte will soon get a free annual medical, dental and ophthalmology check-up at the Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital once at anytime of the year.

This was sealed through Provincial Ordinance No. 422-2016 authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo.

The ordinance applies to all elective officials and employees, whether regular, co-terminus, casual or job order.

The medical services include urinalysis, stool, sputum and complete blood count (CBC) while dental services include extraction and cleaning of teeth and also eye check-up.

The said check-up, however, does not extend to the families of the officials and employees.

Provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba will ensure the appropriation of P1,000,000 for the implementation of the said ordinance effective January 1, 2017 and every year thereafter. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Feeding program for day care children in Caraga region kicks-off

By Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY, July 20 (PIA) - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga, through the local government units (LGUs) in the region, has already started its Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) for day care children enrolled in the SY 2016-2017.

It aims to improve and sustain the nutritional status of target children beneficiaries by providing hot meals.

The kick-off is timely with this year’s Nutrition Month Celebration with the theme “First 1000 Days ni Baby Pahalagahan Para sa Malusog na Kinabukasan.”

As to date, cheques were released to 14 LGUs for the implementation of the said program. The following municipalities are on the list: Jabonga, Santiago, Esperanza, Prosperidad, Trento, San Isidro, Bacuag, Surigao City, Taganaan, Basilisa, Bayabas, Madrid, San Miguel, and Barobo.

From the list, Jabonga, Santiago, Taganaan, Bayabas, and Barobo started their feeding program.

According to Lea Radaza, regional focal person of SFP, they are waiting for other LGUs to comply the requirements such as master list for the day care children, weight monitoring report, and other documents prior the release of the cheque intended for the feeding program.

“We set deadline for the LGU to submit all the requirements next week for the full blast implementation of the program. This will ensure that the day care children are well-nourished as they attend classes,’’ she added.

“Every child who is currently enrolled in day care center is given hot meal a day composed of rice and viand amounting to P15.00. This program is intended for 120 days,” explained Radaza.

For 2016, the DSWD targets 76,142 day care children to avail the program with a total allocated fund of P137,055,600.

Surigao Norte to host 25th Mindanao Business Conference

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 20 (PIA) - The province of Surigao del Norte is the venue of the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) on August 24 to 26, this year. The event carries the theme: “Mindanao: Asian’s Emerging Economic Hub.”

Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) president Concepcion Paqueo said that this year’s MinBizCon will be very important as it marks the silver anniversary of a great journey toward sustainable economic development of Mindanao as a global leader in business and innovation.

President Rodrigo Duterte will keynote the said event, it was learned. She also added that the event serves as a venue to explore business growth and expand international relations with Pres. Duterte.

Just recently, the members of the 2nd Steering Committee met recently at the Governor’s Conference Hall to revisit and fine-tune the program flow on top of the proposed measures and policy reforms, which will be endorsed to the president.

The MinBizcon is a forum for discussion of economic issues, policies, and opportunities concerning the socioeconomic welfare of the island region.

Recognized as the most relevant business gathering in Mindanao, Pacqueo said that it bridges the organization to local counterparts in the domain of trade and cooperation. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

NAST PHL to hold writing proposals, researches workshop in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA) – The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) will be conducting the Training Workshop on Writing and Presenting Proposals Towards Building a Science Culture in Caraga region on July 28-29, 2016 and Seminar-Workshop on Enhancing the Research/Thesis Writing Capabilities of Special Science School Teachers on July 29 at Balanghai Hotel, this city.

According to NAST PHL director Luningning Samarita-Domingo, they have initiated the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) funded project entitled “Evaluation and Improvement of the Research Publication and IP Productivity of the National R & D Systems.”

“One of the objectives of the project is to improve the productivity and the international visibility of the country’s science and technology community. Under this, NAST has been conducting capability building activities that will enable researchers to implement research projects and produce scientific paper that can be published in international referred journals,” underlined Domingo.

NAST PHL is guided with the following mandates: To recognize outstanding achievements in Science and Technology as well as provide meaningful incentives to those engaged in Scientific and Technological Researches (Presidential Decree 1003-A); to advise the President and the Cabinet on matters related to Science and Technology (Executive Order No. 818); to engage in projects and programs designed to recognize outstanding achievements in science and to promote scientific productivity (Executive Order No. 818); to embark on programs traditionally and internationally expected of an academy of science (Executive Order No. 818); and to manage, operate and maintain the Philippine Science Heritage Center (Republic Act 9107). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

FSUU-ULAP to conduct West PH Sea arbitration victory forum

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA) – The Urian Legal Assistance Program (ULAP) established by the College of Law of the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) is set to hold a talk on the Victory of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Arbitration on July 26, 2016 (Tuesday) at 4:00 p.m. at the Function Hall of the new FSUU-CBE Bldg., here.

Consul General Henry S. Bersunto, Jr., one of the members of the Philippine team that filed the arbitration case against China on the WPS dispute at the Arbitral Tribunal in the Hague, will be the guest speaker on the said event.

“ULAP sees the Philippine victory as a model of conflict transformation. We believe that this activity will help us build capacities on how to approach conflict in a transformative way. We hope to see you and share with us the nation’s victory,” said Atty. Josefe Sorrera-Ty, Dean FSUU-College of Law.

It can be recalled that more than 200 students and campus youth leaders from different colleges and universities had also attended the Campus Forum on WPS issue on January of this year at the FSUU with an aim to raise awareness among the youth regarding the WPS issues and concerns and elicit the desired attitude toward and support for the Philippine position and initiatives in resolving the dispute.

This time, the Philippines won the arbitration case versus China over South China Sea. It has finally been decided that the Philippines has exclusive sovereign rights over the WPS and that China’s “nine-dash line” is invalid, according to the United Nations (UN) Arbitral Tribunal. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Volunteer youth leaders for health launches 1st social media day for folic acid awareness

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA) - In observance of this year’s Nutrition Month and National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health in the Philippines (VYLHP) launched on Monday the first National Social Media Day for Folic Acid Awareness.

Its main objective is to increase public awareness on folic acid and its important role in the prevention of neural tube defects through a social media campaign. Neural tube defects are problems in the development of the baby's brain and spine which can lead to death and disability.

Accordingly, everyone needs folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin, specifically Vitamin B9. Human bodies use it to make new cells. Folic acid is also very important because it can help prevent some major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine, also known as neural tube defects. Neural tube defects (NTDs) may result to infant death, dysmorphology (deformity) or disability. In some kinds of NTDs, corrective surgical procedures are needed in order to improve the quality of life of patients.

Studies have shown that the intake of folic acid or vitamin B9 through supplementation and food fortification can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs). In case of supplementation, proper dosage and intake schedule can lessen the risk of NTDs by up to 70 percent.

Moreover, VYLH campaigned for a daily intake of 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid since folic acid is a water soluble vitamin. It can prevent the occurrence of neural tube defects by up to 70 percent and the regular consumption will ensure that its amount in the body will be replenished. On the other hand, for folic acid to help in preventing NTDs, a woman needs to start taking the vitamin at least one month before she becomes pregnant and while she is pregnant. Every woman in the reproductive age needs folic acid every day, whether she’s planning to get pregnant or not.

In the Philippines, awareness on the significance of folic acid supplementation among Filipino women in reproductive age is presumed to be low. Furthermore, folate deficiency has been determined to exist. According to the 7th National Nutrition Survey by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, 1 in every 5 ‘pinays’ of childbearing age is folate deficient. Hence, there is a need for increasing public awareness on this matter.

VYLH-Philippines is a network of pro-active, service-oriented, empowering and visionary leaders equipped with knowledge and skills in mobilizing the youth for health. It is composed of youth leaders from different community- and university-based youth organizations throughout the Philippines.

It was on the night of July 18, 2009 when 78 volunteer youth leaders representing 43 youth organizations accepted the challenge of promoting folic acid awareness as one of the health advocacies of the network. (VYLH/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

NYC expresses high hopes for a genuine change in SK organization

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA)– As the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is getting ready for this year’s Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections, the National Youth Commission (NYC) expressed high hopes and confidence that the elctions will also bring genuine change in the SK organization and makes a sustainable impact on the style of strong leadership and good governance geared towards a better and more responsive Sangguniang Kabataan for a vibrant and sustainable community.

Asec. Earl Saavedra, the concurrent NYC OIC chairperson said that the youth are the hope of the nation. It is then right and appropriate to equip them with knowledge, skills, and trainings that enhance their learning capabilities especially in their involvment in the political arena.

Saavedra also relayed that “with the signing of the SK Reform Act Impleenting Rules and Regulations (IRR), the country has gained more confidence in pushing for the plans and strategic partnerships in encouraging the youth to get involved in the new and reformed Sangguniang Kabataan.”

He added that with the remaining 116 days before the 2016 SK and Barangay Elections, all concerned youths between the ages of 15 to 17 who have not yet cast their registration are highly encourage to exercise their constitutionally mandated rights to suffrage and personally file their applications in their respective areas on those dates specified beginning July 15 to July 30, 2016 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The SK Reform Law will take off its full implementation after fifteen (15) days of publication of the IRR of the SK Reform Act in the Official Gazette of the Philippines in time for the preparation for the SK Registration and Election this October 2016. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DSWD turns over P5M PAMANA livelihood projects in SurSur town

By Nida Grace Barcena-Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 21 (PIA)– The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga turned-over recently a livelihood project worth P5 million thru the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) under PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) scheme in Hinatuan town.

In a press statement released by the DSWD field office, seven associations from the different barangays in Hinatuan received P300,000 from the PAMANA Project.

It was learned that 40 traysikad/pedicabs, four tractors and one corn mill were procured and a water refilling station was put up from the said fund.

Accordingly, 40 members of Pantawid Pamilya Hinatuan SLP Association availed the “traysikad” or pedicab as their source of livelihood. These members have also underwent a training on welding pedicab fabrication. For the sustainability of the project, the members decided to contribute a monthly due worth P40.00 each for the maintenance needed for their pedicabs.

Four associations coming from Barangay Tiwi, Roxas, Bitoon, and Sasa also received one tractor each. They also agreed to contribute a monthly due worth P10 each for the maintenance and repair of their tractors.

Also, the Talisay Fisherfolks Association composed of more than 100 members received the newly-built corn mill. The facility is open to non-members in order to generate more income. A monthly due amounting to P5.00 each was agreed by the members for the sustainability of the equipment.

While the Del Carmen Farmers Association of Barangay Dugmanon composed of 60 members availed the Water Refilling Station.

The PAMANA is a national government’s convergence program that extends development interventions to isolated, hard-to-reach and conflict-affected communities, ensuring that they are not left behind. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Surigao Norte town strengthens support to Army’s peace, development outreach program

By 1Lt. Ryan D. Layug

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) – The municipality of Malimono in Surigao del Norte through its Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) has intensified the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP’s) Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) to end conflicts and pursue peace, order and security in its locality.

It can be recalled that residents from Brgy. Tinago had evacuated to Malimono Municipal Gymnasium upon order by the NPA commander who also threatened them to suffer from the planned attack if they will refuse. However, the circulated reports deceptively appeared to be that residents were afraid of soldiers and that they wanted the military men to withdraw their presence in the barangay.

To verify the veracity of the situation, 1Lt Ryan Layug, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of 30IB led a Quick Reaction Team to engage the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) on July 12-13, 2016. "When I asked Tinago residents if it is true that they wanted the soldiers out of their barangay, majority vehemently denied the allegations," Layug said.

Meanwhile, reports were tipped to the soldiers, policemen and local government unit (LGU) that a rally was being organized secretly on July 13 to support the demanded pull-out of soldiers in Malimono by the IDPs. Media outlets were invited by Naghiusang Mag-uuma sa Surigao del Norte (NAMASUN) to cover the rally that was simultaneously conducted with the scheduled MPOC meeting.

"Some barangay chairpersons are now being manipulated by the NPAs. I will commit one company of soldiers here in Malimono to remove your fear and maintain security,” addressed Lt Col Rico Amaro, 30IB commander before the members of the MPOC.

"It's time to put an end to the presence of NPAs in Malimono. This is a 5th class municipality, we will not move forward with their presence because we don't want to be referred as red flagged municipality. Investors already denied us and we must not allow for the next generations of our kin to face difficulty in finding a job just because they came from an NPA-influenced town. We will implement and support PDOP," Mayor Wallace Sinaca said after soliciting the views of barangay chairpersons and the MPOC.

According to reports from concerned residents, the NPA is desperate to maintain its hold in Malimono because of the small-scale illegal mining where they usually got a share. Also, the farmers, fisherfolks, store owners, jeepney operators, government employees and other businesses in Malimono are being collected with revolutionary tax. (VLG/30IB Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)

DTI-Surigao Norte to conduct business matching activity during MinBizCon

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 21 (PIA) – The provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will conduct a business matching activity during the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) on August 24-26, 2016 to be held at Gateway Hotel, this city.

DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan said the business matching being one of the activities of the conference is intended to give opportunities to participants having business projects needing investors, equipment, technologies and marketing linkages to meet and discuss potential partners, suppliers, distributors or service providers.

He encouraged existing and potential entrepreneurs to join the conference and explore possible business matching opportunities.

Negapatan further said that the local government units can promote their priority economic development projects needing private sector investment as well as their tourist attractions by distributing promotional materials that will provide vital information about their locality.

Meanwhile, Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) president Concepcion R. Paqueo said businessmen, officers and members of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) coming from various areas in Mindanao will be joining the conference having various business interests.

The DTI Caraga Regional Office was tapped by the MinBizCon organizers to facilitate the business matching activity.

For more details and clarification on the said conference and the business matching activity, just visit the DTI provincial office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street or contact at telephone number (086) 826-2373 and the SCCI at telephone number (086) 826-7716. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

31 OFWs undergo financial literacy, entrep dev’t training

By Jean Mary Ronquillo

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA)– On top of a potential availment for livelihood assistance, some 31 displaced and distressed OFWs in the region recently underwent an Entrepreneurship Development Training and Financial Literacy seminar under the Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) Program scheme of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

The BPBH Livelihood Assistance Program of OWWA is part of the agency’s reintegration services that aims to provide immediate relief through granting livelihood starter kits amounting to P10, 000.00 to displaced and distressed OFWs who were not able to finish their employment contract overseas due to economic crisis or hostilities in the host countries and some other distressful situations.

Overseas Workers Welfare Officer II Jean Mary Ronquillo facilitated the conduct of the training including the orientation of the livelihood grant availment which primarily hopes to inculcate entrepreneurial mindset among OFW participants and equip them with skills which can be useful in starting their livelihood venture.

Also encompassing the training program included the crafting of business plan which will serve as the beneficiaries’ guide during the implementation of their chosen livelihood endeavor.

One of the participants, OFW Lailani Gonzaga, showed enthusiasm to avail of the livelihood program that will somehow yield additional income to their household. As a mother of six chidren and being the lone provider in the family, Gonzaga sees the program as an opportunity to establish a new beginning following her unsuccessful employment abroad.

For the first semester of 2016, OWWA Caraga has already granted a sum of P1,190,000.00 for livelihood starter kits benefiting 119 OFWs under the BPBH Livelihood Assistance Program. Most of these recipients ventured into trading and agricultural related projects.

In order to avail of the program, a returning OFW must present a proof of repatriation such as photocopy of passport, cancelled visa, referral from Philippine Embassy (if available), termination from employer (if job related), medical certificate (if sickness related), and trip ticket from country jobsite to Philippines. Availment of the program must be within one (1) year upon return to the country.

For further information and/or queries regarding the program, kindly visit OWWA Regional Welfare Office Caraga located at Nimfa Tiu Bldg.2, J. Rosales Ave., Butuan City or contact us at (085) 342-6178/815-1894. (OWWA-13/PIA-Caraga)

DA Caraga recognizes GPP partner schools

BUTUAN CITY, July 21 (PIA) - To recognize the schools that exerted extra effort in implementing the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program (GPP) and pursue its advocacy, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga conducted the 2015 GPP Best Schools Implementers Awarding Ceremony last July 13 in the city.

GPP is a school vegetable gardening project that aims to address hunger and malnutrition problem. It is a partnership program of DA and the Department of Education (DepEd).

The program also aims to encourage school children to engage in simple food production activities as well as to promote vegetable consumption.

DA Caraga regional technical director Nicandro Navia said that the GPP should be sustained because through this program good values are instilled to the students.

DepEd Caraga assistant regional director Ramir Uytico expressed gratitude to the Department of Agriculture for partnering with DepEd in implementing this program and posed a challenge to the GPP stakeholders.

“The challenge is for us to heighten the implementation of the program so that it does not end with the awarding ceremony only, but we have to go deeper for the success and sustainability of the program,” Uytico said.

The GPP Best Schools Implementers has five categories namely the Central Schools, Non-Central, Urban, Rural, and Multi-Grade. The top three winners were chosen from among the entries of the twelve Schools Division of the region. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners each received a cash prize of P50,000, P30,000, and P10,000, respectively.

Special awards were also given to top three schools whose school gardens showcased innovations and were well established and cared for.

School Head Gideon Badic of Mt. Olive Elementary School, the three-time consecutive first-place winner for the Non-Central School category, shared that GPP has really made a huge impact in their school.

“Our school’s performance indicators increased. In 2012, we had 12 severely malnourished students, this gradually decreased until in 2015 we were down to zero. Our number of enrollees, on the other hand, increased and our National Achievement Test Rating improved from 82 in 2012 to 89 in 2015,” Badic said.

He also credits the support of the community in their successful implementation of the GPP. “The parents and local officials saw the good that the program brought especially in the health and values of not just the children but everyone in the community so they eventually gave their all-out support,” he added.

Meanwhile, DA officials also congratulated the following winners for the five categories:

Central category

1st place – Alegria Central Elementary School - Alegria, Surigao del Norte

2nd place – Bislig Central Elementary School – Bislig City

3rd place – Mat-I Central Elementary School – Surigao City

Non-Central

1st place – Mt. Olive Elementary School – Bayugan City

2nd place – Bagnan Elementary School – Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

3rd place – Cahayagan Elementary School – Carmen, Agusan del Norte

Urban category

1st place – Bayugan Comprehensive High School – Bayugan City

2nd place – Dapa National High School – Dapa, Surigao del Norte

3rd place – Veruela National High School – Veruela, Agusan del Sur

Rural category

1st place – RE Ecleo National High School – Cagdianao, Province of Dinagat Island

2nd place – Carpenito Integrated School – Tagbina, Surigao del Sur

3rd place – Sta. Irene National High School – Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

Multi-Grade

1st place – Ima Elementary School – Sison, Surigao del Norte

2nd place – Puting Buhangin Elementary School – Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

3rd place – New Demar Elementary School – Bayugan City

Special Awards

1st place - Bayugan Comprehensive High School – Bayugan City

2nd place - Carmen National High School – Carmen, Surigao del Sur

3rd place - Sayak Central Elementary School – Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor officials, employees to get free annual check up

By Aimee B. Sienes

This was sealed through Provincial Ordinance No. 422-2016 authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo.

The ordinance applies to all elective officials and employees, whether regular, co-terminus, casual or job order.

The medical services include urinalysis, stool, sputum and complete blood count (CBC) while dental services include extraction and cleaning of teeth and also eye check-up.

The said check-up, however, does not extend to the families of the officials and employees.

Crime rate in Butuan decreases

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA)– “The crime rate here has a significant decrease due to the effective implementation of the ‘Oplan Tokhang’ in the different barangays of the city.”

This was the statement of Police Superintendent Lorenzo Trajano, deputy city director for administration of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO), during his interview over 107.8 Power FM/ Advance Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS) Network of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga.

Trajano disclosed that the successful conduct of Oplan Tokhang has resulted to the decreasing rate of crimes in the city that is mainly caused by the use of illegal drugs.

“There were 61 illegal drug users/pushers who surrendered on Wednesday in the different police stations of the city. From the start of our implementation of the Oplan Tokhang on July 1, we have already recorded some 3,000 illegal drug users and 400 pushers surrenderees here in the city,” he said.

Also, Police Superintendent Jun Lazaga, deputy city director for operation added that the said campaign will continue in the coming months until all the drug users/pushers will surrender to the local authorities.

“We are very serious in fulfilling our mandate to ensure the safety and welfare of the people and we will see to it that our mission will be realized,” stressed Lazaga.

Lazaga further disclosed that the city police office is intensifying its campaign against crimes. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

204 SurSur barangays cleared from rebel influence

By Nida Grace Barcena-Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, July 22 (PIA)– A total of 204 barangays of this province have been cleared of rebel influence by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Colonel Isidro Purisima, commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army bared that through the collaborative efforts of the different stakeholders thru “Bayanihan” conducted to the different communities and by bringing the government services closer to the people,"we have awaken most of the masses to withdraw their support with the New People’s Army (NPA)."

"Also, with the conduct of the series of Youth Leadership Summit to the young adults. We have empowered them and created awareness on their role in nation building," he added.

Col. Purisima also confirmed that the NPA has failed to hold the 47th founding anniversary celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) here.

It can be recalled that Surigao del Sur was the favorite hub of the NPA in their celebration for 15 consecutive years.

Further, Col. Purisima said that numerous NPA camps were already seized by the troops under his area of responsibiltiy with 63 firearms gained and 115 CPP-NPA rebels neutralized or surrendered. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PNP Caraga announces 2nd cycle of PO1 recruitment

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) – The regional office of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga is in need of another 300 applicants for the public safety forces of the 2nd cycle of PO1 recruitment program of the agency.

PNP Caraga regional director chief superintendent Rolando Felix urges interested qualified individuals to submit their requirements in folder at the Regional Personnel Human Resource Development Division (RPHRDD) for assessment.

The initial requirements of PO1 include being a Filipino citizens with good moral character; 21 years old and above but not over 30; at least one meter and 62 centimeters (cm) tall for males and one meter and 57 cm for females; holder of a bachelor’s degree from any recognized learning institution; must have eligibility, and have no pending case, CSupt Felix said.

On July 16, 2016, a total of 640 new cops under the 1st cycle PO1 recruitment program took their oath at the headquarters of the Police Regional Office.

For more information, please contact the Regional Public Information Office through hotline number at 09399354084 or the office of RPHRDD through landline at 815-1668. (PNP/NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

DTI destroys confiscated uncertified products

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte destroyed seized non-conforming products worth about P481,483 to raise consumers' awareness on safe and quality products on Wednesday at barangay Doongan covered court here.

Said activity was witnessed by Barangay Doongan Barangay Captain Gilberto Enriquez, resident auditors, Konsumador Hong Butuan officers and members, media practitioners, and store owners/representatives of the confiscated products.

The seized products destroyed include 434 pieces (pcs.) plywoods; 1,048 pcs. assorted Christmas lights; 63 pcs. assorted monobloc chairs; 74 pcs. assorted extension wires; 8 pcs. DVD players; 2 pcs. steam iron; 116 pcs. starters; 79 pcs. lamp holder; 73 pcs. lighters; 10 pcs. electric fans; 168 pcs. assorted CFL; 1 pc. helmet; 426 pcs. assorted plugs/outlets; 22 pcs. receptacle; 5 pcs. switch and 38 pcs. assorted rice cookers.

The products were confiscated in year 2015 and early part of 2016 from seven establishments in the city and Agusan del Norte, said DTI Agusan del Norte Consumer Welfare Division chief Wyn Palma. The establishments were handed administrative fines amounting to P236,280, Palma added.

“For our safety, we must use products that passed the requirements of the Philippine National Standards (PNS)," Plama added.

Safety of the consumers is the primary concern of DTI, mandatory products must pass the requirements of the PNS. Such as the required markings and labels on the product or product package to assure consumers that these products meet standards and are safe to use.

“The DTI urged the consumers to check on the Product Standards (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) marks prior to purchase of these products because a well-informed and vigilant consumer is the best protected consumer,” said Gay A. Tidalgo, provincial director of DTI Agusan del Norte. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

RDC-Caraga urges stakeholders to support CARAT Expo 2016

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) – The Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) is enjoining the regional line agencies and local government units to give full support to the Caraga Agri-Trade and Marketing Expo 2016 (CARAT Expo 2016) in view of the resolution passed by the Economic Development Committee and approved by the council through RDC chairperson and Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas.

The CARAT Expo 2016, which is scheduled on November 7-13, 2016, is envisioned to be an annual gathering of producers, suppliers, marketers, investors and buyers and is a step towards advancing the agriculture sector of the region.

“The Caraga Region’s steady growth in terms of productivity and number of households engaged in agriculture in 2014 is attributed to increased investments in agriculture and implementation of innovative strategies. Thus, the Carat Expo 2016, as a strategic venue for marketing-matching and agri-investment linkages, will showcase the best products of the region with the aim of creating interest among marketers and investors in the agriculture sector, and opening new opportunities from production to marketing domains,” remarked Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño, RDC vice-chairperson.

Meanwhile, Matugas also said that CARAT Expo 2016 was conceptualized to supplement the Philippine Cold Chain Project’s (PCCP) thrust of providing more focused marketing and trading initiatives to help increase productivity and create trade opportunities for small producers in Caraga.

With the Caraga agri, trade and marketing underway, it is poised to be the advantageous gateway for economic growth. This year, it will provide a great opportunity for small producers in Caraga to showcase their products, spur brilliant trading initiatives to help increase productivity, and gain other business instruments for enhanced marketing strategies. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

CSC promotes state workers’ participation to 116th PHL Civil Service anniversary

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA)– As the lead organizer of this year’s 116th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA), the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Caraga enjoined all civil servants from government agencies, bureaus, local government units (LGUs), government owned and/or controlled corporations and state universities and colleges to actively participate in the month-long activities come September 2016.

The celebration is anchored on the theme, “Sigaw ng Lingkod Bayani:

Malasakit Para Sa Taumbayan, Kapwa Kawani, at Kalikasan." The activities are meant to instill “malasakit” or compassion with action for our health, the environment, deserving public servants, and the Filipino public who are the clients of government service offices.

“We encourage all government institutions to support the lined-up activities. You may post the official anniversary tarpaulin on conspicuous areas at your respective offices. The design template and specifications is uploaded in the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph,” said CSC Caraga regional director Resureccion Pueyo.

To officially jumpstart the observance of PCSA on the 3rd of September, a R.A.C.E. to Serve Fun Run will be conducted and is open to all government employees, family members and other interested individuals. The objectives of the activity are promotion of good governance, healthy lifestyle, social consciousness as well as to provide financial assistance to the families of civil servants who died in line of duty, reiterated Pueyo.

Participating employees can avail of the half-day compensatory time-off who will be joining in the fun run.

As announced also, the grand finals of the Government Choral Competition will be held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Pasay City, on September 13, 2016. The grand prize winner will receive a plaque and P200,000 cash award while the first, second, and third runners up will receive a plaque and P150,000, P100,000, and P75,000 cash, respectively. Special awards for Best Conductor and Best Arrangement of the Competition Song are also at stake.

The competition aims to showcase musical creativity of government employees from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao; promote Filipino culture and arts through choral singing; and inculcate a culture of excellence in public service.

Other lined-up activities include coastal clean-up and mangrove planting to show care for the environment.

“We encourage the use of hashtag (#malasakitism) in all PCSA-related posts on social media to hype the cause to spread malasakit or compassion as one of the keys in achieving excellent service, benefitting the civil servants and the internal and external clients,” emphasized Pueyo. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Basilisa police station holds earthquake drill

By Susil D. Ragas

BASILISA, Dinagat Islands, July 22 (PIA)– In line with the observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM), the whole month of July, the municipal police station (MPS) of Basilisa in Dinagat Islands recently spearheaded an earthquake drill at the municipal hall of Basilisa and Tag-abaca National High School.

Inspector Roberto Angob, officer-in-charge of Basilisa MPS, said that the primary goal of the activity is to increase awareness of every Dinagatnon.

“This will help them prepare for natural disasters and calamities such as earthquakes, typhoons and landslides,” Angob said.

This year’s NDCM celebration is anchored on the theme "Kahandaan at Pagtugon sa Sakuna, Tungkulin ng Bawat Isa."(SDR/Basilisa MPS/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao Norte town strengthens support to Army’s peace, development outreach program

By 1Lt. Ryan D. Layug

DAR Agusan del Norte holds seminar on microfinance program

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte carried out a series of Mentoring and Technical Guidance on Microfinance Technology to five Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) from the different municipalities in the province in a period of one month, June 2016.

Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Virginia Batosalem, one of the facilitators, said the seminars aimed to strengthen the ARB organizations to become effective and efficient microfinance provider to its members.

“The ARBOs are equipped with the basic information on microfinance mentoring to improve its services to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiary members as they are the frontline partners of the Department in the delivery of support services,” MARPO Batosalem added.

Discussed during the seminar were the necessary steps toward microfinance best practices, evaluation of the systems adopted, and identify the ARBOs common needs and weaknesses in ARB-members financing.

The selected ARBOs are guided properly in handling micro-credit services with the use of the system that could bring financial intelligence to its members.

The selected five ARBOs comprised Duque ARB Cooperative (DAREBCO); Avanceña Beneficiaries and Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative (ABFMPC); San Antonio Integrated Farmers MPC (SAIFMULCO); Palmavera Small Coconut Farmer Beneficiaries Cooperative (PASCOFBEC), and Malicato ARB MPC (MARBMPC). (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

International forum features Mindanao envi payback scheme

DAVAO CITY, July 22 (PIA) - An incentive-based environmental program in Mindanao was featured as having one of the best practices for reducing emissions at a recently concluded international forum in Hanoi, Vietnam.

At the ASIA LEDS Forum 2016, a premier gathering of policymakers, donors, practitioners, and other experts involved in promoting Low Emission Development Strategies (LEDS) and climate-resilient development in Asia, the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) in Mindanao was featured as a mechanism designed to maintain environmental integrity in the island-region.

Speaking at the international forum, Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) introduced PES as one of the government initiatives being implemented to allow Mindanao’s environment keep up with the region’s rapidly growing economy.

“As the island-region pursues inclusive socioeconomic growth and development, we believe that it must also sensibly manage its environment and natural resources to sustain them into the future,” said Antonino while adding “we are currently working on the adoption of the PES among our local government units.”

In the implementation of PES, farmers or landowners who have agreed to manage natural resources such as forests, watersheds, rivers, and streams are given incentive payments for rendering ecological services such as replanting of trees and ensuring the survival of the trees planted.

The Mindanao PES initiative will form part of the activities under the LEDS Mindanao program, which MinDA will undertake in partnership with the Building Low Emission Alternatives to Develop Economic Resilience and Sustainability Project of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) – Philippines.

In one of the forum’s deep-dive sessions, MinDA’s executive director, Undersecretary Janet Lopoz highlighted the gains of the PES program, particularly in the municipality of Naawan in the province of Misamis Oriental.

“Through an ordinance issued by the local government of Naawan to adopt PES, households were required to pay certain fees for every cubic meter of water that they consume. As a result, the local government was able to raise a sizeable fund that was utilized for the municipality’s reforestation program,” Lopoz explained.

The PES mechanism is also seen to enhance the protection of ecosystems that provide environmental goods such as food, freshwater, fuel, and other natural resources that are used as inputs to the production process that help move the economy.

In addition to the PES initiative, the delegation from Mindanao also presented the One Stop Facilitation and Monitoring Center (OSFMC), a project designed to encourage the development of renewable energy (RE) sources in the region. The center aims to accelerate the application process of permits needed for the establishment of RE projects in the region.

Antonino underscored the role of the OSFMC in revitalizing socioeconomic growth in Mindanao as well as in fulfilling the long-term vision of a diversified energy mix for the region, which were hampered back then when power deficiency issues hit the region a year years back.

“While Mindanao’s economic performance steadily increased, its power generation industry was not moving at a parallel pace. Intermittent supply of energy led to losses in income and brought a lukewarm reception for other investments,” she said.

In achieving the OSFMC target, Antonino added that MinDA is proactively working with partners to ensure that Mindanao meets its energy needs with the end-view of securing ecological balance. MinDA created the center in partnership with the Department of Energy and USAID through the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee.

The PES and OSFMC are among the mechanisms implemented through MinDA’s flagship programs to fulfill its mandate to promote, coordinate and facilitate the active and extensive participation of all sectors to effect socioeconomic development of Mindanao.

Asia LEDS Forum 2016 is supported by USAID, United Nations Development Programme, Climate and Development Knowledge Network, LEDS Global Partnership and its Working Groups, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the German Society for International Cooperation. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte guv bares policy direction

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, July 22 (PIA) - Governor Sol Matugas elaborated the policy direction of her administration before the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) and provincial employees at the SP Conference Room here on July 18, this year.

Gov. Matugas revealed that she will expand and amplify the programs and activities under her HEALS Agenda for the calendar year 2016-2019.

She said that on health, she wants the establishment of child friendly centers in all barangays; increase Senior Citizens’ medical allowance; institutionalization of the ‘Panambay sa Barangay’ program; and the creation of a Mobile Health Team complete with dental, eye care services, vans, and other mobile health services.

In education, she will strengthen programs in: Indigenous Peoples' (IPs) Education System; Badjaos/PWDs education; continue the campaign towards zero drop-out; sustain capacity development and support to the welfare of the teachers; promote special sports competitions and scouting for all; and intensify efforts to preserve local history, culture and arts.

To safeguard the environment, she will implement the following: establishment of marine sanctuaries in all municipalities; convergence of agencies in the campaign against illegal fishing; establishment of tree parks in all barangays and municipalities; and strict monitoring of large-scale mining companies’ operations and lobby for the non-issuance of new exploration permits.

For the agriculture and aquaculture development, she will enforce the promotion of organic farms; operationalize the Agri-Pinoy Trading Center; provide irrigation facilities; promote farm tourism; adopt cluster farming; engage women and youth in farm schools; expand the ‘Baroto sa Kalambuan’ program; intensify the production of high value marine products; and intensify the livestock program thru the expansion of forage and pasture as well as expansion of veterinary services.

She will also enhance livelihood opportunities through: TESDA skills training in the Provincial Manpower and Training Center with employment program in partnership with the mining industry; promote household business thru the Go Negosyo and ‘Puhunan sa Barangay’ Program; and promote micro enterprise.

Further, she will advance the tourism sector with the expansion of homestay program; opening of more roads leading to tourism destinations; revival of Surigaonon rich culture and heritage thru songs, dances, festival and cultural celebration; and the conduct of Sports and Cultural events.

On social services, she will allocate resources for special groups (Muslims, IPs, and Badjaos); intensify campaign against illegal drugs/ criminality (illegal gambling, illegal fishing, etc.) through the integrated approach involving family, church, and national line agencies; focus on children/youth needs and interests thru sports, culture, and the arts; empower more communities to become more resilient and protected from risks arising from natural hazards and climate change; and strengthen spirituality thru the conduct of Values Education Program in public offices; and the preservation of Surigaonons’ spiritual best practices/traditions. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

AgNor to increase financial help to family of deceased SC

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, July 22 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte has increased the burial assistance to the families of the deceased senior citizens in the province of Agusan del Norte.

The said assistance to the family was increased from P1,800 to P2,500.

It can be recalled that the said burial assistance started in the year 2001 through Provincial Ordinance No. 107-2001, which amounted to P1,500.

Considering the current cost of decent burial, the Provincial Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP) Agusan del Norte Chapter requested the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte to increase the said assistance to P2,500.

The provincial government addressed the said request positively recognizing the vital role of senior citizens who are the pillars in the development of the society, as well as promoting the welfare of the senior citizens and continuously adopt measures to provide benefits or assistance to families of deceased senior citizens in the province.

To avail of the said assistance, the family shall comply and meet the requirements and submit to the Provincial Social Welfare, Population and Nutrition Services Office (PSWPNSO).

Funds for the said purpose under the General Fund shall be appropriated in the year 2017 in the amount of P2,000,000 and every year thereafter. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Fulbright-PHL Agriculture Scholarship Program opens for 2017 educational exchange grant

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, July 23 (PIA)– With a goal to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors of the Philippines by developing their human resources base through bilateral educational exchanges between the Philippines and the United States, the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) now accepts application for the Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture Scholarship Program (FPASP) for Advanced Research.

The objective of the grant is not only to enable the recipient to pursue a particular field of study but to develop leaders in agriculture and fisheries who can contribute to promoting better understanding between the Philippines and the United States.

Proposals for research will be accepted from the following fields: Agriculture and all its subfields including Fruit and Vegetable Production, Horticulture, Plant Breeding/Genetics, Dairy Science, Pest Control/Entomology, and Animal Nutrition; Agricultural Engineering and its subfields including Forest Engineering, Handling/Processing/Storage of Agricultural Products, Irrigation and Drainage Systems Engineering, Post-Harvest Technology, Soil and Water Engineering, Agricultural Waste Management, and Food Engineering/Process Control; Agricultural Economics and its subfields including Agribusiness, Agricultural Policy, Farm Management, Natural Resource Economics, and Production Economics; Natural Resources and Forestry and their subfields including Forestry, Wood Science, Natural Resource Management, Range Management, Fish/Game/Wildlife Management, Marine Resource Management, Coastal Zone Management, and Environmental Science; Veterinary Medicine and its subfields including Small-Animal Medicine and Large-Animal Medicine; Agricultural Extension; and Fisheries and its subfields including Inland Water Fisheries, Marine Water Fisheries, and Brackish Water Fisheries.

Applicants must be citizens of the Philippines. Filipinos holding dual citizenship (Philippine-American) or permanent U.S. residency are ineligible for grant to the U.S. English proficiency is also required to pursue proposed program in the U.S. Likewise, individuals who are currently studying, working, residing or researching in the United States are not eligible.

While no medical certification is required at the time of application, applicants must be in good health to pursue graduate work in the U.S. Finalists are required to pass a medical examination.

As to grant benefits, the fully funded awards cover international travel, monthly maintenance allowance, dissertation research/professional development allowance, settling-in and in-transit allowances, and accident and sickness insurance. Other requirements can be accessed at www.fulbright.org.ph.

Applicants must return to the Philippines immediately upon completion of their study or research.

New application deadline for the 2017-2018 Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture Scholarship Program (FPASP) for Advanced Research is on August 15, 2016. Printed copy of completed applications must be received at the PAEF on the said date. Grantees are expected to begin their program in the U.S. by September of 2017. (PAEF/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

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