AGUSAN DEL SUR STATE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY
Bunawan, Agusan del Sur
NOTICE OF SEARCH FOR PRESIDENT
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019
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Thursday, November 21, 2019
Mga Agusanons positibo ang pagtanggap sa isinusulong na Constitutional Reform sa bansa
By Nora L. Molde
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Nobyembre 21 (PIA) -- Naging positibo ang pagtanggap ng mga Agusanons sa isinusulong na Constitutional Reform sa bansa, sa ginawang Constitutional Reform provincial roadshow dito sa Agusan del Norte at lungsod ng Butuan na dinaluhan ng mga local chief executives, mga miyembro ng civil society organizations at media, buo ang suporta nila sa mga gagawing reporma sa konstitusyon.
Ayon kay Heraldeco Asares, ang presidente ng Mamanwa-Manobo Indigenous Peoples Organization ng Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, may mga probisyon na sa konstitusyon na kailangan ng baguhin upang mas mabibigyan ng pansin ang mga lalawigan basi sa kanilang mga pangangailan at upang mas maingat pa ang ekonomiya ng bansa.Sinang-ayon naman ito ni Elenita Cadeniag ng barangay Simbalan ng Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. Ayon kay Cadeniag, kung ano ang galing sa atin ay dapat sa atin din mapunta upang mas mapalago pa ang sariling lugar.
Bilang isang pribadong media practioner, nagpahayag din ng kanyang suporta sa Constitutional Reform si Mike Crismundo, isang media practitioner na nakabase sa Butuan City. Economic growth ang nakikita niyang benepisyo nito sa rehiyon.Paliwanag naman ni Department of the Interior and Local Government Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion na layon ng provincial roadshow na mas mapaliwanag pa ang mga pagbabago upang maisulong ang bagong konstitusyon. Kabilang nito ay ang apat na pillars ng pagbabago: pagyamanin ang probinsya, paluwagin ang metro manila; gobyerno para sa tao, hindi para sa trapo; bukas na ekonomiya nang lahat ay may pag-asa; at bagong konstitusyon para sa bagong henerasyon. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Monday, November 25, 2019
Agusanons support proposed PH constitutional reform
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) -- With the proposed constitutional reform in the country, the Agusanons are supportive and have vowed to participate in the activities for the fulfillment of the campaign gearing towards the reform in government system.During the Constitutional Reform Provincial Roadshow in the province of Agusan del Norte, the local chief executives, representatives from civil society organizations, and media practitioners learned about the salient features of the proposed political and electoral reform provisions to the 1987 constitution being pushed by the Center For Federalism And Constitutional Reform (CFCR).
According to Heraldeco Asares, president of Mamanwa-Manobo Indigenous Peoples Organization in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, there are provisions in the Philippine constitution which are necessary to be changed, to make it more suitable to the current needs of the Filipino people.
“We should be able to exercise our right to experience a better government through this effort towards constitutional reform,” said Asares.
Elenita Cadeniag of Barangay Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte expressed her hopes that with the constitutional reform, taxes would be utilized within the local government unit.
“I’m optimistic that once the constitutional reform would be realized, the taxes from respective local government units would be utilized well and could help in establishing more developmental projects,” Cadeniag said.
As a private media practitioner, Mike Crismundo said the change in the charter would enhance the economic growth of the regions and the country in general. “I think it’s about time that we experience a better life with better livelihood,” he cited.
Regional director Lilibeth Famacion of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga explained that the conduct of provincial roadshows would give the Filipino people a better understanding on the constitutional reform and its benefits.
In this campaign, these four pillars are highlighted: decongestion of Metro Manila and enriching the provinces; a government for the people, not for the traditional politicians; an open economy that will bring hope for the people; and a new constitution for the new generation. (JPG/VLG/NLM/PIA-Caraga)
Provincial Health chief urges partners to support 'Patak Kontra Polio' in SurSur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 25 (PIA) -- Provincial Health Office chief Dr. Eric Montesclaros on Wednesday urged the local chief executives and representatives, civic organizations, media and the parents to take their part, and support the polio outbreak response immunization round one activities scheduled on November 25-December 7, 2019.
Dr. Montesclaros said during the orientation conducted held in Tandag City recently that all children aged 0-59 months regardless of immunization status will be vaccinated with monovalent Oral Polio Vaccine (mOPV2).
“The 'Sabayang Patak Kontra Polio' will be synchronized across all targeted areas and should be completed within two weeks time,” Montesclaros added.
Each round of the polio outbreak response immunization (Nov 25-Dec 7, 2019, and Jan 6-18, 2020) shall be conducted over a period of two weeks (14 continuous days), including weekends and holidays. This is to ensure that children can be caught up at home during Saturdays or Sundays for immunization.
According to Montesclaros, Polio is a contagious disease transmitted through the fecal-oral route caused by the poliovirus and may result in life-long paralysis and even death, but a vaccine-preventable.
“The vaccine is exclusively distributed by the WHO through the Department of Health (DOH) and not commercially available,” Dr. Montescalros noted. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Rotary Club AgSur supports PH's counter-insurgency efforts
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 25 -- The Rotary Club Chapter in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur under its president, Jonathan Baňas, represented by Norma Salon has joined the nation’s quest towards ending insurgency by pledging the support for the upcoming gift-giving activities of the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) to the communist conflict-affected Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) communities in Agusan and Surigao Sur held on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019 in Barangay 5, San Francisco, this province.“The Rotary’s purpose to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian service and to advance goodwill and peace around the world fits our whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict to attain sustainable peace. It is the reason why we chose to seek their support. We know they will never say “No” if we talk about goodwill and peace,” said Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of 3SFBn.
“We express our sincerest gratitude to the Rotarians for their commitment to Peace. Your purpose and deeds are worth emulating,” LTC Baybayan added.
The Rotary Club donated two boxes of ballpens, 10 dozens of notebooks, one box of crayons, and six dozens of pencils to aid the IP beneficiaries in their educational needs as they put premium to education as a way to equip them to become resilient enough to protect themselves against the deceptive propaganda and recruitment strategies of the Communist New People's Army (NPA) Terrorists.
Just last October, the 3SFBn cited that public-private partnership can greatly impact the whole-of-nation approach to end local conflicts by addressing the basic issues through convergence in corporate social responsibility during their partnership with Solaire Resorts to aid Caraga hospitals. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
DSWD-13 provides augmentation support to Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has extended augmentation support to DSWD Field offices XI and XII to provide assistance to the Disaster Response Operation for the 6.6 Magnitude Earthquake that hit Southern Mindanao.
It can be recalled that at 9:04 a.m. of October 29, 2019, a 6.6 Magnitude earthquake struck the region, with the epicenter in the municipality of Tulunan, North Cotabato with a tectonic origin and depth of focus of 7km (DSWD DROMIC Report #12). This was also felt in the neighboring municipalities all over the island region.
According to DSWD Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center (DROMIC), as of November 4, 2019, a total of 37,706 families or 188,533 individuals were affected by the earthquake incident from 238 Barangays in Region XI and XII.
A total of 4,800 families or 24,000 persons who are displaced and are taking temporary shelter in 34 evacuation centers in Region XI and XII. And there are 1,493 families or 7,465 persons currently staying with their relatives and/or friends.In response of the Disaster Relief Operations, DSWD Caraga sent a total of 3,000 family food packs amounting to P1,223,460, as well as non-food items amounting to P1,902,160.75 to FO XI. This consists of Hygiene kits, Mosquito nets, Blankets, Malong, Plastic mats, and rolls of Laminated sacks.
For Region XII, a total of 2,000 family food packs amounting to P745,240.00 were delivered. Along with it was non-food items such as family kits and kitchen kits worth P1,842,685.50.
One family food pack (FFP) costs P372.62, which contains 6-kilo rice, four canned sardines, four cans of either beefloaf/ corned beef, and eight sachets of powdered cereal milk or coffee which is expected to feed a family of five for 2-3 days.
DSWD has advised Internally Displaced Families who needs assistance to take temporary shelter in designated evacuation centers, to be safe and have easy access to food and non-food items.
There are occurrences where remote barangays are not yet reached by the department’s relief operation due to landslides or inaccessible roads.
Although there may be delays on the arrival of the assistance, DSWD assures everyone that the agency is doing its best to serve those Mindanaoans that are affected. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)
Opisyales sa embahada sa Amerika mibisita sa Dinagat
By Susil D. Ragas
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Nobyembre 25 (PIA)–- Mga opisyales sa embahada sa Amerika mibisita niadtong Nobyembre 19, 2019 sa Don Ruben Edera Ecleo, Sr. Memorial National High School (DREESMNHS) ug sa Provincial Police Office (PPO) ning probinsya.
Ang duha ka opisyales nga gikan sa embahada sa Amerika nga nakabase sa Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines mao sila Political Officer Christopher R. Farlow ug Environment, Science and Technology Specialist Maria Theresa N. Villa.
Ang katuyuan sa pagbisita sa duha ka opisyales mao ang pagsuta sa kahimtang sa mga mulupyo sa probinsya sa Dinagat Islands diin ilang gipadayag nga andam ang Embahada sa Amerika sa paghatag ug tabang sa nagkadaiyang mga aspeto sama sa pagpalambo sa relasyon sa panggobyerno sa nasud sa Amerika ug Pilipinas.
Lakip na niini ang paghatag ug mga oportunidad ngadto sa kabataan nga gusto mu-eskwela sa abroad ug sa laing unibersidad.
Sumala sa duha ka opisyales ilang nakita sa probinsya ang kahapsay ug kalinaw sa komunidad nga diin ilang nasinati sulod sa tulo ka adlaw nga pagbisita sa lain-laing parti sa probinsya.
Dugang pa nila nga sila andam mu suporta sa mga programa ug plano sa lokal nga pangagamhanan sama sa pagtukod ug mga negosyo ug kumpanya nga makatabang sa pagpalambo sa ekonomiya sa Dinagat Islands. (Dinagat Islands-PIO/PIA-Dinagat Islands)
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Tuesday, November 26, 2019
Army, Red Cross with partners aid quake-hit Cotabato
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 26 -- The Youth for Peace movement’s Propelling Our Inherited Nation through our Youth (POINTY) organization, Sangguniang Kabataan Federations in Agusan and Surigao del Sur, and the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) have recently provided assistance to the Cotabato earthquake victims by donating relief goods, which were delivered by the Philippine National Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del Sur Chapter in Makilala and Kidapawan City.
“The greater role of the youth in nation-building involves positive activism and peace-building and answering the call to help those in need through genuine and relevant social responsibility. This is a far better way than militancy, vandalism, street demonstrations and fault finding,” said Roberto Laurente, Jr., Division-wide POINTY President.
The youth volunteers were graduates of the Youth Leadership Summit (YLS), a youth training program sanctioned by the government aimed at enhancing their leadership skills, good citizenship and patriotism, cooperation, and participation in peace-building activities. YLS also provides the youth a balanced perspective towards approaching social issues affecting the society and equips them to think critically to get rid of radicalized youth groups which could poison their minds.
Involved were POINTY and SK Federation organizations from Carrascal, Tandag, Tago, Bayabas, Marihatag San Agustin, in Surigao and Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur along with other volunteers from the local government units (LGUs) and residents from the said provinces.
Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn commanding officer, expressed his great admiration to the youth volunteers, sponsors and to PRC-Agusan Chapter administrator, Darwina Ligan.
“This is the kind of youth we need today, those who are in towards peace and nation-building and those who can be part of the country’s solution towards the many issues we face, rather than those who cause rebellion, divisiveness, and destruction,” LTC Baybayan said.
“We also thank the LGUs, the Philippine Red Cross, benefactors and other volunteers for providing the goods and taking care of the delivery to our affected brothers and sisters in Cotabato. May the Good Lord bless you all,” added Baybayan. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Higaonon tribe denounces CPP-NPA, allied orgs
By 1Lt. Percival Carido
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 26-- A total of 349 Indigenous People (IP) leaders and members of Higaonon tribe from different provinces of Mindanao expressed their support to the Executive Order No. 70 and subsequently declared the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and its allied organizations as persona non-grata during the conduct of Dumalungdong Festival held recently in Sitio Mahayonhayon, Barangay Guibonon, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.
The declaration was empowered through Resolution No. 1 initiated and unanimously approved by the tribal leaders during the conduct of the said activity. This was spearheaded by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan member and at the same time the Municipal Tribal Chieftain of Higaonon Tribe, Nilo Manpatilan alias “Datu Saulogan” and witnessed by 1Lt. Don Johnet Dominguez, the company commander of Charlie Company stationed in Poblacion, Esperanza.
Likewise, the said event was initiated by the barangay Tribal Chieftain Edu Casugudan alias “Datu Pukawan” which was attended by the different Higaonon tribal groups coming from the provinces of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.
The resolution stated that the Higaonon Tribe has intensified its support and commitment to the current campaign of the government to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) for a just and lasting peace. It further stated that due to the presence of CPP-NPA, the Higaonon populace abandoned their homes because of fear which affected their normal daily lives and earnings.
Meanwhile, 1Lt. Dominguez applauded the action of the leaders of the Higaonon tribe in denouncing the CPP-NPA. “The troops of the 26IB are thankful for your cooperation and participation in the government’s move in attaining lasting peace, in support also to the directive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to ensure safety and security of the IPs from the harmful NPAs. We assure you that the Philippine Army will continue to protect the welfare of the sector,” he highlighted.
Also, Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion, commended the said action of the Higaonon tribe. “This action only proves that our fellow IPs are already tired of all the atrocities of this leftist armed group. For this, I am calling the attention of the different tribal groups here in Mindanao that it is now the time for us to unite and end the insurgency," he said.
"As mandated to us by our duty, we will assure you that we will truly stand and do whatever we can for the welfare and development of our fellow IPs. With the support of the tribal leaders and all stakeholders, through the implementation of Executive Order No. 70, it is possible for all of us to attain just and lasting peace for sustainable development,” Jimenea added. (CMO officer, 26IB/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
IP clans in feud resolve conflict for lasting peace and development
By 1Lt. Percival Carido
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 26-- In order to promote and commit a just and lasting peace towards sustainable development in the community, two opposing clans had formally settled down and decided to end their strife through a peaceful resolution and unite to guarantee their support to Executive Order 70 in Barangay San Pedro, San Luis, Agusan del Sur on November 19, 2019.Accordingly, said conflict between the Banwaon and Manobo Tribes had caused fatality from both sides that brought anxiety to the people, putting the whole community in a volatile peace and order situation in the past years hindering the development within the area.
For this reason, the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Municipal Tribal Council of San Luis, Agusan del Sur, facilitated and organized the conduct of settlement for the two clans in conflict through a peaceful resolution in accordance with the tribe’s customary laws.
“Sisim Ha Lido,” native term for “peace concord,” which legally based on Indigenous People’s Right Act (IPRA) of 1997, Chapter IV, Sec. 15 states that: “The IPs shall have the rights to use their own commonly accepted justice system in conflict resolution institutions, peacebuilding processes or mechanism and other customary laws and practices within their respective communities and as may be compatible with the National Legal System and with internationally recognized human rights.”
Wilfredo Napungahan alias “Datu Makabanhaw,” the Municipal Tribal Chieftain of Banwaon Tribe of San Luis, served as the mediator for the two tribes. The said settlement was also witnessed by the municipal Vice-Mayor Ronaldo Corvera; Municipal Tribal Chieftain, Raul Minglana alias “Datu Tumawan”; commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion, Lt.Col. Romeo Jimenea; and representatives from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Barangay Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) from adjacent barangays, and the local populace of Barangay San Pedro.
In his message, the municipal tribal chieftain of Manobo Tribe in San Luis, Raul Minglana commended on how the justice system of the IPs, in accordance with the IPRA Law is being implemented. “For me, this action only proves that the Trial Court of the tribe is the best Trial Court of the whole nation in dealing with this kind of situation among the IPs in conflict. Less hassle, less time and money spent, and with immediate result,” he bared.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Corvera expressed his full support and gave blessing to the said activity especially to the involved clans. He further said that putting an end to the conflict will pave a way for the development outcomes in the barangay. “We have to forgive and forget the past in order to move on. Because if hatred in our hearts will reign, this will affect our daily lives and our tranquil way of living,” he said.Likewise, LTC Jimenea also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the facilitators who initiated the said settlement. He also said that the Philippine Army will always give its full support in the promotion of peaceful and binding settlement of conflict. He also gave a piece of advice for the involved clans. “As the newly settled clans, it is now your responsibility to maintain the peace within yourselves, however for those who are not serious of this settlement, may I remind you that this is not for us, but rather, for the future of our next generations,” he added.
“Because of this clan conflict, the communist terrorist New People’s Army took advantage in making the situation worse. But now that the two parties had settled, the lasting peace in this community will start and for sure, sustainable development will follow through EO 70 with the cooperation of the local populace,” ended Jimenea.
The activity culminated with the signing of peace resolutions from both parties and sealed their actions through the exchange of pot and bolo knife as a symbol of moving on and to continue to live in a normal way as part of their tribal customs and traditions. (CMO officer, 26IB/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Army, PNP initiate refresher training to AgSur BPAT
By 1Lt. Percival Carido
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 26- The 26th Infantry “Ever Onward” Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army has joined forces with the local government unit of La Paz and Municipal Police Station (MPS) of this province, as they initiated the one-day refresher training to the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) members held on November 20, 2019, at the Municipal Building Compound.
Punong Barangay Jonathan Sergio of Barangay Langasian and Punong Barangay Ramil Castro of Barangay Comota, together with the 24 BPAT members of the two barangays of La Paz, Agusan del Sur participated in the said event.
Spearheaded by 1Lt. Alejandro Paz, Community Support Program (CSP) officer-in-charge and PCpt. Michael John Arandia, chief of police of La Paz MPS, the activity was aimed to refresh and activate the knowledge of the BPAT members as to their responsibilities and functions as peacekeeping personnel in their respective barangays.
Topics such as the do’s and don’ts during Emergency Response, Basic Hand Cuffing Techniques, Awareness and Respect to Human Rights under the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004, were discussed during the training.
The training was made possible through the effort of the CSP team deployed in the said barangays, aiming to activate and intensify the enforcement of peace and order situation and paving its way for the smooth implementation of government projects for the sustainable development of every community.
“The core concept of this refresher training is in the word itself - to refresh all the knowledge that you’ve already learned during the regular training program of becoming a BPAT member. As a member, it is your duty to actively participate in the AFP and PNP’s fight against insurgency and criminality. This is also part of the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development (PLED) Cluster’s effort of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC),” 1Lt. Paz said as he emphasized the background of the activity.
Also present during the activity was the executive assistant of the mayor, Freddie Pendon. In his message, Pendon commended all the personalities involved in making the training possible. “On behalf of our Mayor, I am paying my utmost respect to the Philippine Army and the PNP in their efforts of maintaining a harmonious environment for our constituents,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26IB, applauded the immediate cooperation of the LGU-La Paz in making the activity possible. “I am very pleased to witness the active participation of our local government especially in the programs and activities initiated by the AFP and PNP. This only manifests that the EO 70 is really working. Hopefully, this action will be the start of the continuous collaboration and hand in hand efforts of the LGU and law enforcement agencies in pursuing lasting peace and sustainable development,” added Jimenea. (CMO officer, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Listahanan ensures inclusion of hard-to-reach communities in AgNor
CABADBARAN, Agusan del Norte, Nov. 26 -- To ensure that all communities will have an equal opportunity with the ongoing 3rd round household assessment, with no households left unassessed, the Listahanan enumerators of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga reached out to the Mamanwa tribal communities in Sitio Lusong, Barangay Puting Bato in Cabadbaran, this province.It took four hours for the Listahanan field workers to reach the far-flung community known as ‘Gintong Araw.’ They rode on a habal-habal and walked miles from the drop-off point, since motorcycles could no longer continue traversing the very difficult path, until they reached the mountainous parts of Sitio Lusong.
A total of 664 households were assessed by the enumerators, of which, 411 families are Non-Pantawid, and 411 are Pantawid beneficiaries (note that there are households composed of more than 1 family).
Based on the 2015 Listahanan result of 2nd round household assessment, a total of 1,602 poor Indigenous Peoples (IPs) households were recorded in Agusan del Norte.
Listahanan, or the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR), is an information management system that employs geographic targeting, household assessment, and validation in order to provide national government agencies, development partners, and other social protection actors with information on who and where the poor are in the Philippines. This information is then used for the identification and selection of potential beneficiaries for various poverty alleviation and social protection programs. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)
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Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Farmers point location of anti-personnel mine in AgSur
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 27 -- Concerned civilians, mostly farmers have reported recently to the 8th Special Forces “Dragoons” Company (8SFC) and 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn), a claymore-type improvised explosive device (IED) emplaced by the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTs) in their farmlands in Purok-7, barangay Mabuhay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.The Mabuhay Citizen Armed Force Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Patrol Base under the 8SFC immediately composed a team to disable, recover and dispose the IED to prevent any damages from both the civilians and government troops.
The Municipality of Prosperidad, Mabuhay Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the farmers strongly condemned the terroristic act of the CNTs citing that they (NPAs) are the reason why there is a decrease of farm production in some of their areas.
“The NPAs are the reason why most of the farmers don’t attend to their farmlands anymore. We are worried because we might become victims if the IEDs explode anytime. The NPA terrorists severely disturb our farming activities because aside from planting IEDs they always ask for their share during harvests even if they did not work hard for it. The farmers get less than what they deserve,” said alias “Jun.” (true name undisclosed)
The NPA terrorists and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) are declared by the Philippine government as terrorist organizations in 2017 and declared by the U.S. State Department, European Union Common Foreign and Security Policy as a foreign terrorist group.
Meanwhile, the 3SFBn under the 401st Infantry “Unite and Fight” Brigade (401BDE) lauded the efforts of the citizens who acted promptly to prevent further damage to any potential targets of opportunities of the CNTs.
Col. Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Brigade said that this is the positive effect of the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict.“The peoples’ support greatly hurts these terrorists because they have nowhere to run. This is the reason why they try so hard to discredit the Executive Order 70, military’s presence and the construction of Patrol Bases in the conflict-affected communities. The masses, whom they can terrorize before, already found their genuine ally towards ending the NPAs’ atrocities through the Task Forces to end communist insurgency,” he said. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
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Thursday, November 28, 2019
595 police personnel got promoted
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 28 -- Police Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel Jr, Regional Director of Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 led the oath-taking ceremony and donning of ranks of 595 police personnel held at the PRO13 Grandstand, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Butuan City on Monday, November 25.
Of the 595 promoted personnel, 21 were Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs) and 574 were Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs) assigned to different police units of Caraga.
PBGen. Esquivel congratulated the promotees and emphasized that their promotion does not only imply more authority; but greater responsibility that needs more responsive career development to adequately meet the demands of higher positions appropriate to their new ranks.
The promotion was a result of the merit system to give recognition to the PNP uniformed personnel and uplift the morale of the police force.
“Our promotion comes from God and we are answerable to Him for the services we give to the public. I am looking forward also that you will become good role models of competence, discipline, excellence, and professionalism in the police force,” RD Esquivel added. (PRO13/PIA-Caraga)
Army’s CSP team shares school supplies to young learners
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 28 -- The Community Support Program (CSP) team of the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army took part in the celebration of the 27th National Children's Month as they distributed school and office supplies and conducted supplemental feeding to the daycare learners of Barangay Mahayahay, San Luis, Agusan del Sur on November 22, 2019.A total of 40 preschoolers benefitted from the supplemental feeding and received school supplies donated by the Provincial Social Welfare Development (PSWD)-Agusan del Sur.
The soldiers distributed 80 pad papers, 40 pieces notebooks, 30 boxes of crayons, 10 pieces scissors, seven boxes of pencils, five boxes of play dough, two boxes sharpeners and other office and teaching materials.
Said activity was made possible through the help of Rachel Montemor, PSWD officer, in collaboration with 1Lt. Percival Carido, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 26th IB as part of the lined-up activities for the said celebration with the theme "Karapatan Pambata: Patuloy na Pahalagahan at Gampanan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan."
“As we celebrate the special month for our young generation, this activity forms part of our commitment to impart community service and other efforts to win the people’s trust and support. We have to instill in the minds of the children that our personnel is here to help,” 1Lt. Carido said.
Touched by the said distribution, Arcita Cervantes, one of the daycare teachers, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the CSP team. She expressed that she did not expect that her request to the troops regarding the school materials will be granted. “Thank you very much Philippine Army and other involved personalities for making this activity possible. This only proves that our soldiers are not only trained for war, but also for social and charity works,” she said.
Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, commanding officer of 26IB also emphasized that this effort forms part of the government’s implementation of Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict. “This simple gift-giving activity initiated by our CSP with the help of PSWD-Agusan del Sur is a proof that EO 70 is very effective contrary to allegations of the leftist groups that EO 70 is a junk and that our troops are abusive and troublemakers,” he said.
“We are glad to see smiles painted on the faces of these young children. As part of the government, it is our joy that we bring a glimpse of hope and happiness to them. We will continue to collaborate with other agencies and other stakeholders to support EO 70 most especially in providing these young individuals a safe and comfortable place for learning,” added Jimenea. (26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
'Intense battle' erupts between Army, Surigao tribes
By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
LIANGA, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 28-- A fierce battle on the basketball court commenced on Monday between the Indigenous Peoples (IP) Community and the Community Support Teams (CSTs) in Sitio Simuwao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. This is the first inter-sitio basketball league in the conflict-affected area in Andap Valley Complex organized by the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Diatagon, Diatagon Barangay Local Government Unit, the IP residents and the CSTs composed of the troops from the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn), 401st Civil Military Operations (CMO) Company and the Philippine National Police (PNP).The basketball court was constructed through the efforts of both Kilometer 9 IP residents and the composite Army and PNP personnel being falsely accused by the militant group, Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang a Sumusunod (MAPASU), a local affiliate of Bayan Muna Partylist represented by Eufemia Campos Cullamat, the sister of Pablito Sinzo Campos, alias Batik, a Communist NPA Terrorist nabbed by the 3SFBn and currently detained in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
“May labanan na nagaganap ngayon sa pagitan ng Army at mga tribo ditto sa KM 9, pero sa basketbolan. Okay kaayo,“ laughingly said by a resident of the sitio.
“The IP Community is happy with the latest development in their area. Before they are a bit skeptical about the military’s presence but the sincerity of the government to attain sustainable and genuine peace made this possible,” Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan said.
Ten teams from neighboring sitios in Andap Valley participated in the league to include residents from Kilometer 16, (Sitio Han-Ayan) in Diatagon where Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV), an alleged hub of the CNTs exists.
“Our main advantage and weapon in our quest to end local communist armed conflict is the truth. No matter how many lies and propaganda the CNTs and their allied groups throw at us, the truth will always prevail," Col. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander said. (3rd SFBn-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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Friday, November 29, 2019
Caraga IPs convene for 2019 IP Summit
By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 -- Tribal groups from different parts of Caraga gathered recently for this year’s Indigenous Peoples Summit in this city to celebrate their participation and contribution in nation-building and at the same time raise concerns that their communities are facing.The one-day summit, which was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, was held recently at Balanghai Hotel and was attended by Manobo, Mamanwa, Higaonon, Banwaon, and Mandaya tribal groups.
These tribal groups are from six ancestral domains granted with the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT), namely: CADT 089 – Veruela and Sta. Josefa; CADT 117 – La Paz and Loreto; CADT 078 – Rosario and Tagbina; CADT 134 – Kitcharao, Jabonga, and Santiago; and CADT 048 – Kitcharao, Alegria, Tubod, Claver, Bacuag, and Gigaquit.
Consequently, these ancestral domains are also part of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) PAMANA–IP CDD implementation.
The summit also served as a venue for the Kalahi-CIDSS program to provide updates as well as for the IP communities to highlight their contributions to the program implementation of the PAMANA–IP CDD or the Payapa at Masagang Pamayanan – Indigenous Peoples Community-Driven Development Project.
DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim said that the activity was very significant as it allows the IP communities to voice out their concerns and opinion. Further, RD Lim said that through the said activity, the impact and contributions of the indigenous communities’ in the project are highlighted.
“To our IP leaders, we need your opinion. We want to hear your voice so we may know of your needs in your respective communities. We believe that through this summit, the DSWD and the other concerned agencies will be able to address your concerns especially in the implementation of the PAMANA-IP CDD and other IP programs in your localities,” Gupana-Lim said.
Datu Mario Labao, a Mamanwa tribal leader from Alegria, Surigao del Norte province, expressed his gratitude towards the DSWD for initiating the event because they were able to articulate their pressing concern on education.
“Through this summit, we were given the chance to tackle our request for scholarship funds for our children. We fervently hope this will be granted the soonest because many of our children desire to go to college and study medicine or law”, he said.
The IP Summit was graced by stakeholders from the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
This year’s summit is anchored on the theme, “IP in Action: Strengthening Culture and Tradition by Building a Culture of Peace for Sustainable Development in Ancestral Domain Areas.” (Social Marketing Section/DSWD-Caraga)
CDD institutionalization pushed in Kalahi-CIDSS stakeholders forum
By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga have intensified its campaign for the institutionalization of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) by gathering stakeholders from different parts of the region and explaining to them the impact of CDD to poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged sectors and communities, on November 15, 2019, at Watergate Hotel, this city.The Stakeholders’ Forum was conducted through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Program, the agency’s lead in the advocacy of the CDD institutionalization bid.
The forum was attended by municipal and provincial information officers, and planning and development coordinators and line government agencies’ representatives.
The forum intends to define CDD particularly in the context of Kalahi-CIDSS, to strengthen the advocacy campaign of CDD, to promote the use of this approach in the implementation of other government programs and projects, and to strengthen the ties with the stakeholders in order to gain their support and commitment in the passage of the CDD Institutionalization Bill.
Jean Paul S. Parajes, DSWD Caraga Promotive Services Division OIC chief, said that as the Kalahi-CIDSS program comes to a close this year, the Department is on the move to call for the passage of the CDD Institutionalization Bill, adding that since 2003, CDD has already demonstrated success in poverty alleviation, community empowerment, and participatory local governance.
“With the success of the program, the agency sees the opportunity to ride on the momentum gained through the implementation of the program, through the institutionalization of CDD by making it a regular strategy for programs and services of the government. This way, with the passing of the bill, CDD will be operationalized in government programs, activities, and projects,” Parajes said.
For 16 years, the Kalahi-CIDSS program has been using the CDD approach in empowering communities in targeted poor and disadvantaged municipalities by giving the people the opportunity to make informed decisions on locally-identified options for development and manage resources to implement sub-projects that address their needs.
During the forum, regional specialists from the program discussed the gains and successes of Kalahi-CIDSS in the context of CDD. They also disclosed the future steps of the program towards CDD institutionalization.
Kalahi-CIDSS also shared the different technologies used by the monitoring and evaluation unit in the implementation of the program. The management seeks to transfer these technologies to help the local government units and government offices in providing a more efficient and effective delivery of services.
Participants expressed their support and commitment to the program, saying that they believe in what CDD can do to help their people.
Trento Municipal Information Officer Allen Joe Lumanta shared that Trento town is now on the move to create a CDD ordinance, after the Kalahi-CIDSS program improved the lives of the communities in the municipality.
“The municipality of Trento has always been supportive of the Kalahi-CIDSS program. We assure the management that our municipality will promote the institutionalization of CDD because we believe that this is an effective strategy in poverty alleviation and fosters inclusivity. This is what our people need,” Lumanta said. (Social Marketing Section/DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Police Caraga launch 8-bullet challenge
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 -- The Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 officially launched the “8-Bullet Challenge” in an opening ceremony held Friday at the Butuan Primer Gun Club and Shooting Range Inc., Brgy. Bonbon, this city.
Police Brigadier General Joselito Esquivel, Jr, PRO13 Director, signed Command Memorandum Circular Number 32-2019 with subject “PRO13 8-Bullet Challenge” which set the guidelines and procedures to be undertaken by PRO13 to enhance the weapon and shooting skills of all PNP personnel in Caraga.
The challenge requires all participants to go through four stages. In stage 1, the target is 5 meters in distance which must be hit by the participant using two bullets in 3 seconds. Stages 2, 3 and 4 will be 7 meters, 10 meters and 15 meters in distance, respectively. No participant will proceed on the next stage unless he/she passed the prior stage.
In his message, Police Colonel Jimili Macaraeg, Deputy Regional Director for Operation, challenged all personnel to continue practicing even after passing the 8-Bullet Challenge to become proficient in handling firearms.
“I encourage all Police Officers to go to the range, once a month to certify ourselves that we can hit the target and basically to defend ourselves and to defend others,” said PBGEN Esquivel, Jr.
The challenge is mandatory in nature which requires all Caraga Police to participate on the activity on their scheduled date and venue. (PRO13/PIA-Caraga)
LGU support assured in ongoing DSWD Listahanan 3 assessment, DILG says
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 -- With the on-going Listahanan 3 implementation of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Caraga ensures the participation of all Local Government Units (LGUs) in the 3rd round household assessment activities.This assurance was delivered by DILG Local Government Operations Officer Ednon John Aparicio during the Listahanan 3 Stakeholders Media Forum which was attended by the National Household Targeting Office and DSWD Field Office Caraga personnel together with the media practitioners of the region held recently at Almont City Hotel, this city.
“With the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DSWD and DILG in relation to Listahanan 3, we ensure that the conduct of Listahanan 3 will be completed together with the participation and cooperation of the local officials,'' said Aparicio.
“If you have difficulties or concerns regarding the implementation of Listahanan 3, you can also report it to the Municipal/Local Government Operations Office for us to take actions,'' Aparicio added.
Based on the MOU, the DILG shall enjoin City/Municipal/Barangay Officials to assist the DSWD in the implementation of Listahanan nationwide household assessment in all phases from the preparatory, data collection, validation, and finalization until report generation phase. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Feature: Story of volunteerism: A peek in the life of a youth
By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao![]()
When he was still young, Vicente L. Gausin, Jr., or “Vic”, used to tag along with his parents in their community meetings because he had nothing to do at home and he wanted to avail of the snacks during these meetings. Later on, when he was a little older, he began assisting them in facilitating these meetings. This sparked his interest in community volunteerism.
Vic is a 20-year old youth volunteer from Barangay Pinana-an, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. His parents, Vicente D. Gausin, Sr., and Ofelia Gausin, used to be Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) community volunteers and members of the Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee Community Volunteers of Pinana-an.
While assisting his parents in their volunteer works in Kalahi-CIDSS, Vic realized that he also wanted to do what his parents were doing. He wanted to help the community. He also fathomed that even at a young age, he can contribute to the improvement of his community.
With this realization, he became more active and involved in the community.
As a community volunteer, Vic learned and experienced a lot. It was with Kalahi-CIDSS, where he first learned the significance of community effort. He said that it really motivated him when he saw how each member of the community would walk an extra mile just to accomplish their goals.
“I have seen that the people in my community were united and worked hand-in-hand just to achieve the development we aspire for. This inspires me even more to take part and contribute even in my own little ways,” Vic said.
During the community planning, Vic developed a deeper understanding of the problems in his community and how critical it is to work as a team in resolving these issues. Before, he did not pay much attention to these problems as he thought that it was not his concern at all. But after becoming a community volunteer, he saw that the youth plays a huge role in the improvement of the community as they can offer fresh perspectives and offer new ways on how to address problems.
He said that the youth should be more involved in the planning, budgeting, and implementation of community projects.
But his journey as community volunteer was not smooth sailing at all times. Vic also struggled.
“While volunteering, I also had to go to school. Sometimes, I struggled juggling between volunteer works and my studies. I had to make sure that I do my responsibilities in both aspects,” Vic shared.
He also received discouragement from others, saying that volunteering was a waste of time. He was not compensated for his services and it would not bring him opportunities.
But he did not let this get in his way. He brushed off the negative remarks of other people and continued to serve as a community volunteer. He says that his experiences as a Kalahi-CIDSS community volunteer have helped him boost his self-esteem and honed his leadership skills.Through volunteerism, Vic was given the opportunity to experience real challenges and make meaningful contribution to the society. He was also able to widen his social capital – meeting new people, sharing experiences with them, and learning from them. As a matter of fact, he represented the Caraga Region in the recently concluded Kalahi-CIDSS National Community Volunteers’ Congress in Butuan City last August 2019.
During this event, Vic was able to exchange ideas with other community volunteers from across the country and pitched in suggestions on how to promote the passage of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) Institutionalization Bill.
“I believe that the youth sector plays an important role in nation-building. We may only offer tiny efforts but I know these small contributions can lead to a significant result,” Vic shared.
Since his volunteering experience with Kalahi-CIDSS, Vic has been involved in other volunteering works in school. It has become both his learning venue and comfort zone. He said that he still sees himself in the future doing volunteer works because he had always the heart to serve.
Currently, Vic is in his second year in college at Caraga State University, taking Social Work as he wishes to continue working with the community and serving the people especially those who are in poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged areas.
“My volunteering experience in Kalahi-CIDSS has helped me develop a sense of citizenship. Being a community volunteer was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life,” Vic concluded. (Social Marketing Section/DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
DSWD conducts stakeholders media forum to strengthen partnership
BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 -- As the agency recognizes the important role of media in disseminating correct information to the general public, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga recently concluded the conduct of Stakeholders’ Media Forum on November 14, 2019 at Almont City Hotel, this city.The forum which aims to update the media on the status of the on-going 3rd round household assessment and to answer queries related to Listahanan, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Unconditional Cash Transfer, Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens, and Disaster Response, was attended by media outfits from Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.
Assistant Regional Director for Operation Nerisa Murih, together with the different Division Chiefs, and Program Focal Persons comprised the panel. Also present were DSWD National Household Targeting Office (NHTO) Director Andrew Ambubuyog and Operations Division Chief Aljo Quintans who were more than eager to answer queries from the media.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) also attended the forum, and was represented by Local Government Operations Officer Ednon John Aparicio. DILG reiterated its support, together with the LGU’s commitments to the Listahanan 3 implementation during the forum.
DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Administration (ARDA) Ramel Jamen, welcomed all the participants by delivering the message on behalf of Regional Director Mita Chuchi Lim, who was able to visit the event during the open forum after attending prior commitments.
“Media plays an important role in informing the public of what is happening in the region, and even outside of the region. Media could easily bridge the communication gap that we have with the rest of the region. This way, we can assure every Caraganon that they have equal opportunities to the programs and services of the Department,’’ Jamen said.
DSWD sees the impact of the programs being aired and published news from media in the region. This is why the field office has been partnering with national and regional tri-media to be able to disseminate pertinent information to the public.
“We want to strengthen our engagement with our local tri-media that is why we are conducting the Stakeholders Media Forum as we want you to update on the implementation of our programs, specifically, regarding on the on-going Listahanan 3rd round household assessment, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, Unconditional Cash Transfer as well as our augmentation support to the Disaster Relief Operations in Southern Mindanao,’’ he added.
During the forum, Quintans discussed the Listahanan overview, while Regional Field Coordinator Aldie Mae Andoy reported the updates on the implementation of Listahanan 3 in the region.
Based on the report as of November 5, 2019, a total of 160,261 households were already assessed by the enumerators – 426 barangays have already been assessed. There are 115 barangays with on-going household assessment, while 770 barangays are scheduled for assessment in the following days.
“The barangays that are not yet covered will have its schedule based on the deployment plan of the Listahanan Area Supervisors that is why our households need not to worry as we will ensure that all will be assessed," Andoy said.
During the forum, some of the questions raised from the media are concerns on the conduct of the assessment, especially on the safety concerns in the assessment of households in GIDA and critical areas. The media also raised the issue of the timeline for the household assessment, which is supposed to run for 45 days, covering all possible households in the region.
There were also questions raised regarding the Social Pension Program implementation. Participants wanted clarification of the reassessment done to cleanse the list of beneficiaries. Pantawid Pamilya was also a hot commodity among media partners. The pending issue of the conversion of the cash grant allocation for rice subsidy to actual rice rations was asked, and the MCCT implementation was also tackled.
Augmentation support for the quake incidents in Southern Mindanao was also tackled during the open forum. The DSWD staff present provided appropriate answers to the questions raised, leaving a good impression among the media practitioners.
Assistant Regional Director for Operations Nerisa T. Murih closed the activity, conveying the agency’s appreciation to the participating media outfits.
“We thank everyone for being with us today so that you can help the Department in disseminating accurate and fresh data and information on what DSWD is doing for the benefit of the poor people in Caraga. We are looking forward for another discussion like this in the near future,’’ Murih said. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
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Monday, December 2, 2019
Government agencies boost campaign efforts on ending VAW
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BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Various government agencies in Caraga region are stepping up its campaign and public awareness on ending violence against women and children (VAWC) in the communities.
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BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- This year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration joined by members of various local communities in Caraga region such as the indigenous Peoples (IPs), Muslims, and Christians was highlighted with the historic blessing and installation of one of the Balangiga bell replicas on November 28, 2019 at St. James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
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A loud chant of “Mindanao, Kalinaw (Peace)!” was heard from the people who witnessed the ringing and hoisting of the church bell that marked another milestone in the history not only of the municipality of Buenavista, but also of the whole peace process being campaigned nationwide by the government and various stakeholders.
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BUTUAN CITY, DEc. 2 (PIA) -- As the government takes another step in the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 or the whole-of-nation approach, which aims to curb the insurgency in the country, the media practitioners and information officers from various government agencies have offered peace candles.
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“The government has the power or authority to provide the basic and social services to the people, and I know that the government only wants its people to experience living in a peaceful life away from any danger or violence,” said Supas.
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BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Inside the Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, parishioners and guests from different sectors convened and showed unity as they prayed towards achieving lasting peace and development in Caraga region.
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“I’m happy because we already have a new bell in our church. I have faith that more people would go to church and attend mass,” said Perez.
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BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) - Butuanons were amused as they witnessed the photo exhibit featuring women Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from different ethnolinguistic groups in the country, which are displayed inside the Eastern-Northern Mindanao Regional Museum in this city.
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“Women play a vital role in our communities and as local artists here, we support this kind of portraits, where people could have a deep appreciation to all the women,” Rudinas said.
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LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Sa harap ng pagpapatupad ng Executive Order 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa bansa, puspusan ang pagtugon ng ibat-ibang ahensiya sa mga pangangailangan ng mamamayan sa mga komunidad partikular na sa mga kabataan sa Caraga region.
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“Mahalaga sa mga kabataan na maging alerto lalu na sa mga nakikita at nababasa nila sa social media dahil karamihan nito ay fake news. Ayaw nating silang malinlang at magamit ng mga makakaliwang grupo,” sabi ni Laurente.
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LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) -- Lubos ang pasasalamat ng mga taga-Agusan sa inilunsad na 8-point development agenda ng probinsya – ang Agusan Up na layong magbigay ng mga ayudang makakatulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang pamumuhay.
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LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Isinusulong ng mga kawani ng gobyerno sa rehiyon sa Caraga ang pinaigting na proteksyon sa mga kababaihan at pagpapalawak ng kamalayan ng publiko laban sa iba't ibang uri ng pang-aabuso sa naturang sektor.
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LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Nasaksihan sa loob ng Saint James the Great Parish sa bayan ng Buenavista, Agusan del Norte ang pagkakaisa at matinding pagnanais ng mga Caraganon na magkaroon ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan.
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LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Mga larawang nagpapakita ng ganda at galing ng mga kababaihang Indigenous Peoples (IPs) mula sa ibat-ibang ethnolinguistic groups ng bansa ang ibinida sa photo exhibit sa loob ng Eastern-Northern Mindanao Regional Museum dito sa lungsod kamakailan.
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“Sumusuporta kami sa ganitong photo exhibit lalo na’t makabuluhan ito para sa ating lahat. Malaki talaga ang naiaambag ng mga kababaihan sa ibat-ibang larangan at naaayon lamang na sila’y ating kilalanin,” pahayag ni Rudinas.
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Various government agencies in Caraga region are stepping up its campaign and public awareness on ending violence against women and children (VAWC) in the communities.This was in time with the kick-off celebration of this year’s 18-day campaign to end violence against women, wherein Caraga stakeholders convened for an advocacy walk from the Agusan del Norte Provincial Capitol grounds going to Guingona Park of Butuan City.
According to OIC-assistant regional director Elizabeth Villaver of Parole And Probation Administration (PPA) Caraga, their personnel regularly conduct counseling to criminal offenders and encourage them to live a new life, and to ensure that they would no longer be committing any form of violence or abuse against any member of their family.
“We strongly advocate for a VAW-free community, hence, we communicate it with our clients to prevent any form of abuse or violence within their family,” Villaver added.
For OIC-regional director Rotelo Cabugsa of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Caraga, the campaign against violence should start from one’s self and should be practiced at home.
“We should practice a VAW-free in our respective homes and apply it also in our workplaces,” said Cabugsa.
As the guest speaker of said occasion, Atty. Ingrid Trixia Rullon-Nastor of the Public Attorney’s Office Caraga, emphasized that parents should take responsibility in inculcating in the minds of the children that at their young age, they should be able to realize that women and their children’s rights should always be respected and upheld.
“Parents should always teach their children good character and to always respect humanity especially the women,” bared Nastor.
Meanwhile, CHR-Caraga regional director Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang, chair of the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC), highlighted that wearing of the bright color of orange signifies the hope of the Caraganons to attain a VAW-free region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Caraganons celebrate MWOP, antique bell installed
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- This year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration joined by members of various local communities in Caraga region such as the indigenous Peoples (IPs), Muslims, and Christians was highlighted with the historic blessing and installation of one of the Balangiga bell replicas on November 28, 2019 at St. James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.The bell is one of the two church bells that were made in 1863 in the United States which was purchased by Dr. Henry Boland Howard, director of the United States-Philippines Society.
Most Reverend Cosme Damian Almedilla, Bishop of Butuan City, led the blessing of the antique bell that symbolizes unity and peace.
A loud chant of “Mindanao, Kalinaw (Peace)!” was heard from the people who witnessed the ringing and hoisting of the church bell that marked another milestone in the history not only of the municipality of Buenavista, but also of the whole peace process being campaigned nationwide by the government and various stakeholders.Meanwhile, Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) Coordinator Mauricio Abrao greeted everyone with warm welcome during the opening program held right after the Eaucharistic mass. He also acknowledged the support of Caraganons towards inclusive peace and development, not only in the province but in the entire region.
Meanwhile, Mayor Norbert Pagaspas of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte expressed his gratitude to Howard for choosing Saint James Parish as one of the beneficiaries of the bell. He emphasized that it would help promote peace in the communities for a well-lived life.
“Everyone deserves peace. We are happy to see people being united and working peacefully regardless of cultural differences," said Howard.
In his message delivered by Atty. Ramie Duropan, Agusan del Norte governor Dale Corvera said that despite the different cultures, customs, beliefs, principles, and even clashing personal viewpoints, "we stand in great hope to fortify the alliance of civilizations so that we can advance the most clamored status of peace in Mindanao."
Atty. Ramie Duropan added that there is no alternative for peace. ”With the help of all stakeholders, we can establish a true haven in this Promise Land- Mindanao.”
Representing Brigade Commander BGen. Maurito Licudine of the 402nd Brigade is Major Fransisco Garello, Jr., who was quick to remind everyone that attaining peace requires a collective effort and is therefore the responsibility of everyone.
A press conference facilitated by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) was held shortly after, where coordinators of MWOP discussed their agenda for this year’s celebration with present media partners. (DMNR/VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Media practitioners, PIOs in Caraga lit peace candles
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, DEc. 2 (PIA) -- As the government takes another step in the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 or the whole-of-nation approach, which aims to curb the insurgency in the country, the media practitioners and information officers from various government agencies have offered peace candles.This was in time with the briefing on EO 70 spearheaded by the Strategic Communications Cluster under the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC).
Prayers were also offered for the journalists and law enforcers who have risked their lives in the conflict-affected areas and fought against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
According to Richard Grande, president of Agusan del Sur Media Club, it is important for the media practitioners to have in-depth knowledge of EO 70 as they relay significant messages to the public, as well as understanding better their roles and responsibilities being the 4th state of the government.
“The media should know and understand well the objective of EO 70 for the Filipino people. The media plays a vital role and we must be helping people by increasing their awareness and making them well-informed so they won’t be fed and deceived with wrong information,” said Grande.
Grande added that many were killed and have sacrificed their lives fighting against the NPAs just to protect the locals. Hence, they would intensify their advocacy to reach more Filipinos and make them more aware of the atrocities and chaos brought about by the communist terrorist group.
Aisa Supas, a reporter from one of the local radio stations in Butuan City also expressed that this initiative of the government is of great help to the communities, so people become well-informed, and for them to feel the government’s concern, particularly to the youth.
Regional Director Manuel Orduña of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), emphasized that each cluster of the RTF-ELCAC has been performing their tasks and addressing the issues and concerns of the target sectors.
Their respective action plans towards attaining sustainable peace and development are also being enacted, per directive of President Rodrigo Duterte. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Antique bell installed at AgNor parish
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Inside the Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, parishioners and guests from different sectors convened and showed unity as they prayed towards achieving lasting peace and development in Caraga region.This was in time with the blessing and installation of the antique bell of said church, wherein the Muslim community, Christians, Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and local residents altogether participated in the symbolic ringing of the bell led by Butuan Bishop Most Reverend Cosme Damian Almedilla.
This was also an opportune time for the opening celebration of this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace.
Parishioners were delighted as they heard the bell ringing, recalling the years when they have last heard the sound of the church’ bell after it was stolen. This newly-installed antique bell was donated by Dr. Henry Boland Howard of the United States – Philippine Society organization.
According to Rev. Fr. Stephen Broncano, parish priest of Saint James the Great, this also gives inspiration to the local residents in the area, and an instrument of instilling in them the value of unity and strong faith.
“The locals have been looking for the stolen bell, and God-given, our parish was given a new one. Through this, people could easily gather in the church to celebrate and pray,” cited Fr. Broncano.
Yanie Perez, a grade-7 student was also blissful seeing that their church now has a new bell, which will resonate a sound of peace and friendship and will signal a start of a sacred liturgical mass.
Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Carlito Clase, executive director of the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD), stressed the significant contribution of Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local insurgency to the peace and order of the communities.
“With the implementation of Executive Order 70, people from different sectors are united in promoting a whole-of-nation approach in addressing the insurgency in the country, leading towards sustainable peace,” Fr. Clase said.
Bishop Almedilla hopes that the locals would continue to actively participate in the government’s efforts and initiatives towards achieving inclusive and sustainable peace and development in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Women IPs featured in Butuan's photo exhibit
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
These were taken by George Tapan, a world-renowned Filipino photographer, who specializes in images of people and landscapes.
The exhibit aims to highlight the invaluable contributions of the women at home and in their respective fields as they perform vital roles in the arts, education, and social economy through photographs.
According to Tapan, he took these photos during the course of 50 years as a travel photographer. He has collected several portraits from different parts of the country – from the island of Batanes in Luzon to the island of Basilan in Mindanao.
“I want to highlight the women’s role in society and their contributions to nation-building. They have been doing their best and have great involvement in the field of education, arts and culture, and economy, among others,” said Tapan.
These photos were donated by Tapan to the National Museum of the Philippines in 2018 and are now part of the National Fine Arts Collection.
Ronnie Rudinas, a local artist was one of those who were impressed by the photo exhibit. He said it shows the significant role of the women in ensuring a resilient and strong family life.
“Women play a vital role in our communities and as local artists here, we support this kind of portraits, where people could have a deep appreciation to all the women,” Rudinas said.Meanwhile, Lilita Mission-Concon, supervising administrative officer of Butuan National Museum called on the public particularly the youths to visit the exhibit which will run until November 15, 2020.
“I’m inviting our students and tourists to visit our Museum and learn many things, especially the different cultures and ethnolinguistic groups portrayed by women of different walks of life in the society,” said Concon.
This also forms part of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW) celebration from November 25-December 12, 2019. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
355 individuals graduate from skills dev't program in AgNor
By 1Lt. Nonette B. Banggad
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Dec. 2 -- A total of 355 individuals successfully graduated from the skills development program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted in partnership with the 29th Infantry "Matatag" Battalion and local government unit (LGU) of Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR) on November 22, 2019.
Of the 355 graduates, 130 were students of the Mobile Computer Literacy Training, 25 were students of the Electrical Installation NCII, 50 were students of the Wellness Hilot massage NCII, 25 were students of Cookery NCII, 50 were students of Driving NCII, 25 were students of Rice Machinery Operation NCII, and 50 were students of Shielded Metal Arc Welding NCI.
Mayor Richard P. Daquipil of the Municipality of RTR thanked the 29IB troopers for bringing the Army’s Mobile Computer Literacy program to the Agusanons. He emphasized the importance of computer literacy - that this would open the doors to better opportunities for the Indigenous people and out of school youth in particular. He also thanked the TESDA for their tireless support in providing livelihood skills development training to the Agusanons.
In his message, Gov. Dale B. Corvera of Agusan del Norte lauded the organizers and other stakeholders who have supported the said training. "Your efforts to support this kind of endeavor proved that you value the future of the Agusanons. To the graduates, this effort of the government will enable you to acquire better job opportunities for your future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte Rep. Maria Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba said that the main objective of the government is to uplift the lives of every Agusanon through the skills acquired from the training, "and for them not to be deceptively recruited by the NPA terrorists just like what happened to alias Kent, a young NPA combatant who was saved by the 29IB troopers last November 4, 2019.”
In his statement, Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB applauded the graduates for investing time and effort in the skills training. "The skill and lessons that they've gained in this training will open their minds to the possibilities and opportunities that are there waiting for them," he said.
"However, their success will depend not just on having the skill but their determination and perseverance to continue on the path of success despite challenges that may come their way as they seek for better opportunities in their life," Criste added. (CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Mahigit 200 kabataan aktibong nakilahok sa 1st Agusan del Norte YLS
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Ang mas pinaigting na pagsagawa ng Youth Leadership Summit ang isa sa mga tinututukan ngayon ng Philippine Army upang mas mahasa ang kanilang galing bilang youth leaders at makatulong din sa kani-kanilang bayan.
Isa si Jerwen Escalania sa mga aktibong nagbahagi ng kaniyang natutunan sa loob ng tatlong araw na 1st Youth Leadership Summit sa nasabing probinsya.
Lubos ang kanyang pasasalamat sa mga ahensiya ng gobyerno, kasama ng 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army dahil sa patuloy nitong pagbigay-tugon sa kanilang pangangailangan.
“Marami po talaga akong natutunan sa summit na ito. Umaasa rin ako na kung ano man yung natutunan namin, maisagawa rin namin sa aming mga komunidad,” sabi ni Escalania.
“Sa summit na ito, mariing ipinaalala sa amin ang pagkakaroon ng magandang asal at may respeto sa magulang. Tinuruan din kami kung papaano mas maging kapakipakinabang sa aming mga komunidad,” pahayag naman ni Roniel Yongco.
Ayon kay Roberto Laurente, president ng Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Our Youth (POINTY), layon din nilang makatulong ang mga kabataan sa kampanya laban fake news. marami na aniya ang nabibiktima ng maling impormasyon na kumakalat sa social media.
“Mahalaga sa mga kabataan na maging alerto lalu na sa mga nakikita at nababasa nila sa social media dahil karamihan nito ay fake news. Ayaw nating silang malinlang at magamit ng mga makakaliwang grupo,” sabi ni Laurente.Nangako naman si Ma. Leaneth Penarejo, isa sa mga partisipante na magiging aktibo sa pagbahagi ng tama at magagandang balita sa pamamagitan ng social media.
Bilang panauhing pandangal, hinimok ni 2Lt. Gianmatteo Vittorio Guidicelli, reservist ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang mga kabataan na maging responsable at tumulong sa mga hakbang ng gobyerno tungo sa pagkamit ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa bansa.
“Makiisa po tayo sa gobyerno at sa ating AFP sa pagpapanatili nang maayos at mapayapang pamumuhay,” sabi ni Guidicelli.
Samantala, binigyang-diin naman ni LTC Francisco Molina Jr., ang malaking papel ng mga magulang sa bawat tahanan na magabayang mabuti ang kanilang mga anak upang malayo ito sa bisyo at pangrerecruit ng New People’s Army (NPA). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Agusanons inaasahang makikinabang sa programang Agusan Up
By Nora L. Molde
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) -- Lubos ang pasasalamat ng mga taga-Agusan sa inilunsad na 8-point development agenda ng probinsya – ang Agusan Up na layong magbigay ng mga ayudang makakatulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang pamumuhay.Ayon kau Jorge Vincent Pagaran, residente ng Agusan del Norte, ang mga kabataan ngayon ang direktang makakatamasa sa benepisyong hatid ng programang Agusan Up.
Kabilang sa flagship programs ng Agusan Up ay ang Agus 3Ps o ang plant and process for prosperity program na layong iangat ang ekonomiya, pagprotekta sa kalikasan at pagbibigay ng maayos na serbisyo ng gobyerno sa probinsya.
Layon din ng Agusan Up na makilala ang probinsya ng Agusan del Norte pagdating sa sektor ng agrikultura.
Dahil dito, malaki din ang pasalamat ni Rodolfo Nalla, ang provincial rice focal person at isa ding magsasaka dahil sa progmanang ito ay nanininwala siyang mas maiangat pa ang kalagayan nilang mga magsasaka.
Nangako din ang mga lokal na opisyales ng probinsya na magtutulong-tulong para maisakatuparan ang mga nakalatag na proyekto na walang halong pulitika. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Kampanya laban karahasan sa mga kababaihan, pinaigting ng gobyerno sa Caraga
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Isinusulong ng mga kawani ng gobyerno sa rehiyon sa Caraga ang pinaigting na proteksyon sa mga kababaihan at pagpapalawak ng kamalayan ng publiko laban sa iba't ibang uri ng pang-aabuso sa naturang sektor.Ito ay kasabay ng pagsisimula ng taunang selebrasyon ng 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), kung saan isang advocacy walk ang isinagawa mula sa provincial capitol grounds ng Agusan del Norte hanggang sa Guingona Park sa Butuan City.
Ayon kay OIC-assistant regional director Elizabeth Villaver ng Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) Caraga, para maprotektahan ang mga kababaihan puspusan ang kanilang counseling sa criminal offenders, at sa kanilang pagbabagong-buhay ay hinihikayat silang maging responsable at iwasan ang pang-aabuso sa miyembro ng pamilya.
“Patuloy ang Parole and Probation sa pagsagawa ng counseling sa mga criminal offenders at sila’y pinaaalalahanan na maging responsable sa pamilya at iwasang makasakit ng kapwa,” sabi ni Villaver.
Para naman kay OIC-regional director Rotelo Cabugsa ng Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Caraga, ang kampanya laban karahasan ay dapat na magsimula sa sarili at sa tahanan.
“Ang kampanyang ito ay dapat na magsimula sa ating mga sarili at isapuso at isagawa natin sa tahanan at sa ahensiyang pinapasukan natin,” sabi ni Cabugsa.
Binigyang-diin naman ng panauhing-pandangal sa nasabing okasyon na si Atty. Ingrid Trixia Rullon-Nastor ng Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Caraga, na sa murang-edad palang ay dapat na tinuturuan na ito ng mga magulang na magbigay-galang at kilalanin ang karapatan ng mga kababaihan.
“Malaki ang ginagampanang tungkulin ng mga magulang sa kanilang mga anak. Dapat sa murang edad pa lamang ay tinututuan na sila na remespeto sa kapwa lalu na sa dignidad at karapatan ng mga kababaihan. Dapat ring ipaalala sa mga bata na masama ang manakit ng kapwa,” pahayag ni Nastor.
Paliwanag naman ni Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga regional director Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang, ang chair ng Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) ang pagsusuot ng kulay na Orange ay simisimbolo ng pag-asa ng mga Caraganon tungo sa pagkakaroon ng isang VAW-free region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Aktibong partisipasyon ng ibat-bang sektor, nasaksihan sa selebrasyon ng MWOP 2019
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 (PIA) - Nasaksihan sa loob ng Saint James the Great Parish sa bayan ng Buenavista, Agusan del Norte ang pagkakaisa at matinding pagnanais ng mga Caraganon na magkaroon ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan.Ito ay kasabay sa blessing at installation ng antigong kampana sa nasabing simbahan, kung saan nagtipon-tipon ang ibat-ibang sektor, kabilang na ang Muslim community, kristiyano, Indigenous Peoples at mga lokal na residente ng Buenavista.
Nataon din ito sa taunang selebrasyon ng Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP).
Lubos ang kasiyahan ng mga parishioners dahil matapos ang ilang taon mula nang manakaw ang kampana ng kanilang simbahan ay natanggap nila ang replika ng Balangiga bell na donasyon ni Dr. Henry Boland Howard ng United States – Philippine Society organization.
Ayon kay Rev. Fr. Stephen Broncano, parish priest ng Saint James the Great, nagbigay inspirasyon sa mga residente dito ang tunog ng kampana na sumisimbolo ng pagkakaisa at katatagan ng mga parokyano.
“Maraming naghahanap sa kampana, at ngayon ay dininig na ng Diyos ang hiling ng mga tao. Umaasa akong mas marami pang dadagsa dito sa simbahan para magdasal,” pahayag ni Fr. Broncano.
Masaya din ang estudyanteng si Yanie Perez, dahil mayroon ng kampanang tutunog sa simbahan bilang hudyat ng pagsisimula ng misa.
“Masaya ako at mayroon na kaming bagong kampana sa simbahan at alam kong marami nang magsisimba,” sabi ni Perez.
Binigyang-diin din ni Rev. Fr. Carlito Clase, executive director ng Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD), na malaking kontribusyon sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan sa rehiyon ng Caraga ang patuloy na implementasyon ng Executive Order 70 o ang whole-of-nation approach sa pagsugpo ng insurgency.
“Nagkakaisa ang lahat ng sektor tungo sa pagkamit ng mapayapa at maunlad na rehiyon. Malaking tulong ang naibibigay ng pagpapatupad ng EO 70 at marami ang sumusuporta dito,” sabi ni Fr. Clase.
Umaasa naman si Butuan Bishop, Most Reverend Cosme Damian Almedilla na patuloy na maipakita ng mga mamamayan ang kanilang sinsero at aktibong partisipasyon sa hakbang ng gobyerno tungo sa pagkamit ng mapayapa at maunlad na rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Butuanons namangha sa kababaihang IPs na ibinida sa isang photo exhibit
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Kuha ang mga ito ng batikang photographer na si George Tapan, na kilala hindi lamang dito sa bansa kundi pati abroad.
Ayon kay Tapan, layon ng nasabing exhibit na maipakita sa mga pilipino ang kahalagahan ng mga kababaihan at kontribusyon nito sa pagpapa-unlad ng bawat komunidad.
“Malaki ang ginagampanang papel ng mga kababaihan sa komunidad kaya nararapat lang din na sila’y ating kilalanin at bigyang pugay, lalu na sa kanilang pagsisikap na mapanatiling matatag ang bawat pamilya,” sabi ni Tapan.
Ang mga larawang ito ay donasyon ni Tapan sa National Museum of the Philippines noong taong 2018, na ngayon ay parte na rin ng National Fine Arts Collection.
Kabilang si Ronnie Rudinas, isang local artist sa mga namangha sa exhibit. Ayon sa kanya, ipinapakita nito ang papel ng mga kababaihan pagdating sa pagkakaroon ng isang matatag na pamilya.
“Sumusuporta kami sa ganitong photo exhibit lalo na’t makabuluhan ito para sa ating lahat. Malaki talaga ang naiaambag ng mga kababaihan sa ibat-ibang larangan at naaayon lamang na sila’y ating kilalanin,” pahayag ni Rudinas.Samantala, hinimok naman ni Lilita Mission-Concon, supervising administrative officer ng Butuan National Museum ang publiko partikular ang mga kabataan na bisitahin ang exhibit na magtatagal hanggang sa november 15 ng susunod na taon.
“Iniimbitahan namin ang lahat, lalu na ang mga kabataan na tuklasin ito dito sa Museum at magkaroon ng dagdag kaalaman lalu na sa ibat-ibang kultura at tradisyon ng mga Pilipino partikular na ang mga kababaihan,” sabi ni Concon.
Parte pa rin ito ng selebrasyon ng 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Adlaw sa mga lumad sa Nasipit gideklara
By Jessica O. Mellejor
DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Disyembre 2 -- Aprubado na sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ug deklarado na nga balido ang Municipal Ordinance No. 004, gikan sa lungsod sa Nasipit, Agusan del Norte ang ordinansa, “Institutionalizing the Indigenous People’s Day on the 25th Day of October of every year in time of the celebration of the National Indigenous People’s Month in the Municipality of Nasipit and Appropriating Funds Therefore.”
Pinaagi sa maong ordinansa, sa pagpangamahanan ni Sangguniang Bayan Member Revise D. Mandalinog, gipalig-on niini ang adlaw alang sa mga lumad gitunong sa bulan sa Oktubre.
Usa kini ka mahinungdanon nga adlaw alang sa tanan nga mga IP sa tibook nga nasud. Ingon man subay kini sa implementasyon sa IPRA law of 1997, ug pag-ila sa kamahinungdanon sa Indegenous Cultural Community.
Adlaw kini sa mga lumad aron ipakita ang ilang kultura ug tradisyon nga adunay dakong pagtahod sa pag-apil sa komunidad sa IP ngadto sa pagsulong sa mga kinabuhi, ug socio-culture development sa usa ka komunidad.
Ang katuyoan sa municipal ordinance aron mapalig-on ang pagpatuman sa balaod sa IPRA ug pag-ila sa kahinungdanon sa mga komunidad nga kulturanhon sa mga Katawhan.
Ang munisipalidad sa Nasipit kinahanglan nga magsaulog sa bulan sa nasyonal nga mga lumad sa lungsod ug itudlo sa matag ika-25 nga adlaw sa Oktubre matag tuig ang Indigenous People’s Day.
Gi-aprobahan ang maong ordinansa pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 185-2019, sa pagpangamahan ni Provincial Board Member Eddie A. Ampiyawan, tsirman sa Committee on Indigenous People’s Concern. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Wednesday, November 4, 2019
PRRD signs landmark law establishing Malasakit Centers nationwide; also approves postponement of barangay and SK elections
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President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law two bills that institutionalize the Malasakit Centers and postpone the May 2020 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to December 2022. A ceremonial signing was held in Malacañang on Tuesday, December 3.
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Go expressed his gratitude hours before the ceremonial signing of the laws, when he attended the opening of the 52nd Malasakit Center in the country at the Ospital ng Malabon in Malabon City.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law two bills that institutionalize the Malasakit Centers and postpone the May 2020 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to December 2022. A ceremonial signing was held in Malacañang on Tuesday, December 3.In his speech, the President said he is “elated and grateful” with the two laws, which he called “vital in realizing meaningful and lasting reform for the good of our nation.”
The two laws, which are the first to be passed in the 18th Congress, were both major items in the legislative agenda of Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go during the campaign period. The bills that the Senator filed in July, right after assuming office, served as bases for the two laws.
Considered as a landmark piece of legislation, Republic Act No. 11463, otherwise known as the Malasakit Center Act of 2019, mandates the establishment of Malasakit Centers in 73 hospitals that are run by the Department of Health (DOH) all over the country and in the Philippine General Hospital in Manila.
“The Malasakit Center is one of the solutions the Duterte government has developed to provide quick and quality access to healthcare to all Filipinos, regardless of their age, sex, ethnic background, religion and political affiliation,” Go said in his past statements.
The Malasakit Center, intended to be a one-stop shop, consolidates the financial assistance that patients may apply for from four government agencies, namely, the DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
“With the Malasakit Center Act in place to complement the Universal Health Care Law, we are a step closer towards making quality health care more accessible and affordable for all Filipinos, especially the indigent and poor patients in need of medical assistance from the government,” Go said.
“Pera niyo po ito. Ibinabalik lang sa inyo sa pamamagitan ng mabilis, maayos at maaasahang serbisyong medikal para sa lahat ng Pilipino,” he said.Wednesday
President Duterte himself credited Go on several occasions for giving him the idea of opening Malasakit Centers, when Go was still the Special Assistant to the President.
Go sponsored the Malasakit Center Bill in the Senate, while his bill on the postponement of the village elections were consolidated with the bills of other senators.
Republic Act No. 11462, meanwhile, sets the next barangay and SK elections from the second Monday of May 2020 to December 5, 2022, and then on the first Monday of December 2025 and every three years thereafter. The law extends the term of the current barangay and SK officials from two years to four years and a half.
“Mga barangays natin ang pinaka-frontline ng ating gobyerno sa paghahatid ng serbisyo at sa kampanya natin laban sa iligal na droga at kriminalidad. Kaya dapat lang na mabigyan natin sila ng oportunidad at sapat na oras upang makapagpatupad ng kani-kanilang mga programa at proyekto,” Go explained.
The President asked Congress to prioritize both bills when he delivered his fourth State of the Nation Address last July 22, 2019.
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Friday, December 6, 2019
AgNor town declares IPs day
By Jessica O. Mellejor
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 6 -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved and declared valid the Municipal Ordinance No. 004, from the town of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, "An Ordinance Institutionalizing the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) Day on the 25th Day of October of every year in time of the celebration of the National Indigenous People's Month in the Municipality of Nasipit and Appropriating Funds Therefore."
Through the ordinance, authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Revise D. Mandalinog, it strengthened the day for indigenous peoples in October.
This is an important day for all IPs across the country. It is also in line with the implementation of the IPRA law of 1997, and recognizing the importance of the Indigenous Cultural Community.
It is a day for the indigenous people to show their culture and traditions with great respect for the IP community's involvement in the advancement of lives, and socio-cultural development of a community.
The purpose of the municipal ordinance is to strengthen the enforcement of IPRA law and to recognize the importance of the cultural communities in the municipality.
The municipality of Nasipit will be celebrating the national indigenous peoples and hold Indigenous People's Day every 25th of October each year.
The ordinance was approved through Sanggunian Resolution No. 185-2019, through the efforts of Provincial Board Member Eddie A. Ampiyawan, chairman of the Committee on Indigenous People's Concern. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
DTI launches IPSO in Butuan
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 6 (PIA) -- The local artists and entrepreneurs were delighted with the launching of the Intellectual Property Satellite Office (IPSO) at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga regional office, this city.Fritz Villahermosa, game developer from Caraga region thanked the government particularly the DTI for this initiative to address their concerns and for granting easier means for intellectual property filings.
“We’re glad to finally have this office here in Butuan because it would really help us local artists. It would be easier also when we have concerns that need their assistance, like in IP filing. Our works are being protected with the help of IPSO,” said Villahermosa.
According to Evangeline Linog, an entrepreneur from Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, the establishment of the said office in Butuan City is a great help for a Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME)-entrepreneur like her so they would not need to travel far from the region to ask for assistance from IPSO.
“The DTI has always been there for us (entrepreneurs) to guide us and ensure that we are able to market properly the products that we sell to different places. And having the IP satellite office here in Butuan gives us convenience in filing our IP concerns,” Linog bared.
Director-general Josephine Santiago of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPH), stressed to all Caraga entrepreneurs the importance of having a trademark in their products which are sold in the market. She said this would also make their products be well-known even in other countries, and be spared from imitation or reproduction of fake products.
“Having a name or trademark on your products really help other people get to know your product well, and they could easily refer it to other people once they see that your product is well packaged,” cited Santiago.
The official added, interested individuals or parties could already apply online and even pay online.
Meanwhile, Ramil Leongas, officer-in-charge of industry development division of DTI-Caraga calls on the local artists and business sector to avail of the services offered by the intellectual property satellite office. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Agusan Norte PRLEC members converge in Pulong-pulong sa barangay
By Robert E. Roperos
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Dec. 6 -- Member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the province of Agusan del Norte have converged on Wednesday in the covered court of Brgy. San Antonio, Municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte.According to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan, the activity was conducted to assess the needs of the residents in as far as poverty reduction, livelihood and employment are concerned.
“TESDA, being the lead agency of the PRLEC will see to it that the cluster members can hear the issues and concerns of the local residents so that through the mandates of their respective agencies can be able to address it,” Budtan said.
Dir. Budtan also emphasized that the pulong-pulong sa barangay is a venue that brings the government closer to the public especially in places where local communist armed conflict in infiltrating.
Meanwhile, RTR Mayor Richard P. Daquipil expressed his gratitude to PRLEC members for choosing the town as a pilot place for the implementation of the program. He said with all the government agencies’ convergence, this shows how serious is the Duterte administration in its effort to alleviate poverty in the country, thus ending the local communist armed conflict.
For his part, San Antonio Brgy. Capt. Helario S. Sajolan enjoined his constituents to take care of the projects that have been given to them by the government and use it to improve their lives through these livelihood opportunities.
Among the PRLEC member-agencies who were in attendance and presented their programs and services are: TESDA, Agusan del Norte Provincial Agriculturist Office, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA).
More than 300 residents of the barangay attended the activity composed of members of the cooperative, farmers’ associations, youth organizations, and women’s organizations.
Signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on December 4, 2018, Executive Order No. 70 institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, and directing the adoption of a national peace framework. (TESDA-Agusan del Norte)
Surigao tribes light first ever Christmas tree
By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 6 -- With the free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) from the legitimate Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders, the first-ever Christmas tree was lighted by the Conflict-Affected IP Community in Sitio Simuwao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur in their tribal hall recently.
With the influence of the Christian religious sector, particularly the Dominican sisters, Aglipayan and Catholic Churches and various religious missionaries, many of the IP communities were converted and have accepted the tradition of Christmas.
The Community Support Team composed of the 9th Special Forces “Hounds” Company of the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion, 41st CMO Company and the Philippine National Police Community Relations with the Barangay Local Government of Diatagon, the Sangguniang Kabataan and the Diatagon Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representative (IPMR) worked together with the IP Community to make a Christmas Tree out of recycled materials and lighted it up with colorful Christmas lights. This Christmas tree symbolizes Peace, Hope, Love and Reconciliation which are the virtues obtained from the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The IP Community is hopeful that through the Community Support Program and the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the Communist NPA Terrorists’ and their front organizations would choose the path to peace and stop their exploitation on the IP Community in Andap Valley Complex.
Felix Tayon, Vice Chairman and a member of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa mga Sumusunod (MAPASU), said that gradually, he can now see the positive developmental changes in their community.
“Hindi lang talaga mabigla sa una dahil dati takot talaga kami sa mga sundalo, pero ngayon, unti-unti na kaming nasasanay na kasama sila at nakikita naming ang kaibahan ngayon,” Tayon said. (3SFBn-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Intellectual Property Satellite Office nagbukas na sa Butuan
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 6 (PIA) -- Ikinatuwa ng local artists at business sector ang pagtatatag ng Intellectual Property Satellite Office (IPSO) dito sa lungsod na makatutulong para bigyang proteksyon ang kanilang mga likha, orihinal na desinyo at trademark.
Kabilang na rito si Fritz Villahermosa, isang game developer na nagpasalamat sa gobyerno partikular sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga sa hakbang na ito.
“Malaking tulong ang pagbubukas ng IP satellite office dito sa Butuan dahil mas madali nalang sa aming mga artists na humingi ng assistance sakaling mayroon kaming concerns sa aming mga nalilikhang obra," sabi ni Villahermosa.
Ayon naman kay Evangeline Linog, isang entreprenuer na mula pa sa bayan ng Tagbina sa probinsiya ng Surigao del Sur, malaking tulong ang naturang tanggapan para sa mga katulad niyang Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME)-entreprenuer para hindi na bumiyahe ng malayo para makakuha ng tulong sa nasabing opisina.
“Hindi na kami mahihirapan pa dahil andito na mismo sa DTI ang IP satellite office, at mas madali nalang ang aming koordinasyon sa nasabing tanggapan,” sabi ni Linog.
Binigyang-diin naman ni Director-General Josephine Santiago ng Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), na mahalagang magkaroon ng trademark ang mga produkto ng bawat negosyante upang mas makilala ito hanggang sa ibang bansa at mailayo mula sa pamemeke.
“Mas nakikilala ang mga produkto natin kung may pangalan ito lalu na’t ini-export ito sa ibang bansa. Maiiwasan din ang pamemeke ng iba sa mga produkto kung protektado ang mga ito,” ayon kay Santiago.
Dagdag pa ng opisyal, maaaring mag-apply online at kahit sa pagbabayad rin nito.
Samantala, hinikayat naman ni Ramil Leongas, Officer-In-Charge ng Industry Development Division ng DTI-Caraga ang mga artists at negosyante na i-avail ang naturang serbisyo ng Intellectual Property Satellite Office. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Mga media practitioners sa Caraga nag-alay ng peace candles at dasal
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 6 (PIA) -- Kasabay sa briefing sa Executive Order 70 o ang whole-of nation approach na layong tapusin ang insurhensya sa bansa, nag-alay ng “peace candles” at dasal ang media practitioners at information officers ng ibat-ibang ahensiya ng pamahalaan para sa mga nagbuwis ng buhay upang maprotektahan ang publiko mula sa banta ng Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).Ito ay sa pangunguna ng Strategic Communications Cluster sa ilalim ng Regional Task Force To End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC).
Ayon kay Richard Grande, presidente ng Agusan del Sur Media Club, mahalaga para sa media na maintindihan ang layunin ng EO 70 para sa mga pilipino, maging ang kanilang tungkulin at responsibilidad bilang 4th state ng gobyerno.
“Malaki ang ginagampanang tungkulin at responsibilidad ng mga media pagdating sa pagbabahagi ng tama at mahahalagang impormasyong dapat nilang malaman. Sa aming mga media practitioners, dapat ay may paninindigan at ginagawa ang tama at naaayon,” pahayag ni Grande.
Dagdag pa ni Grande, marami na ring nagbuwis ng buhay sa pakikipaglaban sa NPA kaya ay mas paiigtingin nila ang kanilang adbokasiya para mamulat ang publiko laban sa banta ng naturang rebeldeng grupo.
Para naman kay Aisa Supas, isang reporter ng local radio station sa Butuan City, malaking bagay ang hakbang na ito ng gobyerno para patuloy na maramdaman ng mga komunidad ang tulong ng gobyerno lalu na sa mga kabataan.
“Ang gobyerno naman talaga ang nasa posisyon at may kapangyarihan na maibigay ang pangangailangan ng mamamayan lalu na ng mga kabataan kaya nararapat lang din na suportahan natin ang gobyerno sa kanilang pagsisikap na matulungan ang mga Pilipino,” sabi ni Supas.
Binigyang-diin naman ni Direktor Manuel Orduña ng National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) 10, na natutugunan ng bawat cluster ng RTF-ELCAC ang bawat isyu at concern at naisasakatuparan ang kani-kanilang action plans, at ito ay naaayon sa nais ni President Rodrigo Duterte na makamit ang pangmatagalang kapayapaan sa bansa. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Aplikasyon para sa Kampong Balagtas 2020, hanggang Disyembre 13
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 6 -- Upang mahikayat ang mas malawak na pakikilahok, maaari pang magpása ng mga aplikasyon para sa Pambansang Kampong Balagtas 2020 ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) hanggang Disyembre 13.
Ang Pambansang Kampong Balagtas ay taunang seminar-palihan ng KWF tuwing Buwan ng Panitikan ng Filipinas sa Abril. Tinitipon nito ang mga kabataang manunulat mula sa iba’t ibang pook sa Filipinas upang sumailalim sa pagsasanay sa malikhaing pagsulat sa gabay ng mga nangungunang manunulat at guro ng bansa.
Mangyayari ang kampo mula ikalawa hanggang ikaapat ng Abril 2020 sa Orion Elementary School, Orion, Bataan. Sasagutin ng KWF ang transportasyon, akomodasyon, at pagkain ng mga mapipiling kalahok.
Ipinangalan ito kay Francisco “Balagtas” na nagdiriwang ng kaarawan tuwing ikalawa ng Abril at isa sa mga dahilan sa proklamasyon ng Buwan ng Panitikan ng Filipinas.
Batay sa Proklamasyon Blg. 968, series 2015, ang Buwan ng Panitikan ay ipagdiriwang tuwing Abril upang himukin ang mga Filipino na patuloy na tuklasin at ipalaganap ang mayamang lawas ng panitikan ng Filipinas. “Budyong Panitikan” ang tema ng pagdiriwang sa Abril 2020.
Kinakailangan lamang magpása ng aplikasyon ng mga kabataang manunulat na nása ikapitong baitang hanggang 11 sa pamamagitan ng koreo o digital na paraan. Makikita ang buong tuntunin sa paglahok at maaaring mag-aplay onlayn sa kwf.gov.ph. (KWP/PIA-Caraga)
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Tuesday, December 10, 2019
Army celebrates human rights day with children
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Dec. 10 -- While militant groups conduct mass rallies and protests in the streets exploiting minority groups as propaganda fronts, the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) celebrates the Human Rights Day with the Agusanon children from all walks of life in a Christmas party held on Tuesday (Dec. 10) at the 3SFBn headquarters in Barangay Noli, this city.“We stand to uphold human rights as we put premium to the welfare of our youth because they are the most vulnerable sector in any conflict. Last December 2, Litboy Talja Binongcasan, a grade 6 student from Gingoog City, was killed in an encounter in Agusan del Norte," said Lieutenant Colonel Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn commanding officer.
"A clear proof that the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists violate the international humanitarian law (IHL). We cannot afford to let this happen again to any of our children,” he added.
It can be recalled that the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) condemns the use of NPA child warriors saying that it constitutes a war crime. "The boy (Litboy) was still in his development years and should be focusing on honing his potentials so he can pursue his goals and dreams but his life was snuffed out and can no longer be taken back,” bared Jacqueline de Guia, spokesperson of CHR.
“Putting children in the battlefield imperils and endangers them. Even if they survive armed encounters, the psychological and mental impact can be lifelong," De Guia added.
“The NPA terrorists’ horrible and deceptive youth recruitment is one of the issues being addressed by the local task forces to end local communist armed conflict. We urge the nation, and even militant groups, to open their eyes and see the brutal effect of the 50 years existence of communist insurgency. If we love our country, let us support the whole-of-nation approach to end the useless communist armed and political struggle caused by NPA terrorists and their front groups,” said Colonel Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Infantry Brigade.
Meanwhile, militant and anti-government groups are again set to conduct their usual rallies to falsely accuse the government and the military of any human rights violations even, in fact, the military is currently busy spending their time bringing smiles to a hundred children through fun games and gift-giving to celebrate the Human Rights Day and stand against to those who violate it. (CMO officer, 3SFB/ PIA-Agsusan del Sur)
CDA-Caraga binigyang-diin ang kahalagahan ng kooperatiba sa mga magsasaka
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 10 (PIA) -- Patuloy ang panawagan ng Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Caraga sa mga magsasaka, maging sa mga mangingisda na bumuo ng kooperatiba para mapaunlad pa ang kanilang kabuhayan.
Ayon kay CDA-Caraga regional director Genaro Pogata, Jr., maraming benepisyong hatid ang pagkakaroon ng kooperatiba alinsunod na rin sa Republic Act 9520 o ang Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
“Meron silang makukuhang pribelihiyo sa ilalim ng Republic Act 9520. Isa na diyan yung tax exemption privileges. Ang ating gobyerno rin ay nakatuon sa pagbibigay serbisyo sa mga marginalized sectors tulad ng farmers, fisherfolks at maliit na entreprenuers upang mapaunlad pa ang kanilang sektor,” saad ni Pogata.
Malaki ang aming pasalamat dahil sa malasakit ng gobyerno sa aming mga magsasaka at sa aming kooperatiba. Sa ngayon ay napapakinabangan namin ang makinaryang hatid ng gobyerno tulad ng combine harvester, four-wheel tractor at kuliglig,” pahayag ni Edwin Aluag, presidente ng Baan Integrated Farmers Association sa Butuan City.
Nanawagan din si Bertoldo Besere sa kanyang mga kasamahang magsasaka na maging aktibo sa kooperatiba upang mas lumago pa ito at makabenepisyo sa mga programa ng gobyerno.
Giit din ni director Pogata, nagkakaisa ang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan para tugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng nasabing sektor. May mga programa din aniya ang gobyerno para sa tulong pinansyal at teknikal ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda.
Dagdag pa ng opisyal, sa ilalim ng programang mindanao peace and normalization, ang mga kooperatibang nakatutok sa rice production ay tinutulungan ng gobyerno upang mas mapadali ang "milling" process ng kanilang mga ani sa pamamagitan ng pagbigay makinarya at nang mas lumago pa ito.
Ito ay bahagi rin sa ginagawang hakbang ng gobyerno sa implementasyon ng Executive Order 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na layong wakasan ang insurhensiya sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng mabilis na pagbibigay ng naayon na tulong sa bawat komunidad. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
House Committee approves creation of Forest Studies Center in Butuan
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 -- In support of the government's efforts to conserve and sustainably use our valuable forest resources, the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education approved on December 2, House Bill No. 4490 which pushes for the creation of the Forest Studies and Development Center (FSDC) at Caraga State University, this city.According to Agusan del Norte and Butuan City Rep. Lawrence "Law" Fortun, the main proponent of the bill, the FSDC will serve as a very important complement to the Sustainable Forest Management Bill, which he too authored and was recently approved by the Committee on Natural Resources.
The FSDC will also aide the government in its ongoing National Greening Program, which Rep. Fortun thinks has failed to meet its supposed targets due to the lack of study and research.
The CSU is being pushed to host the FSDC because Caraga Region is considered the "Timber Corridor" of the Philippines. It produces about 70% of the country’s log output and is home to most forest species endemic to the country. Rep. Fortun stressed that the FSDC should be right where the forests are, that is, in Caraga Region, hence CSU is most strategic.
Rep. Fortun added: “It is safe and logical to assume that aside from its effective program and very competent faculty, one of the reasons why CSU graduates have been topping, even dominating, forestry board exams, is their wider and actual exposure to the forests in which, although already affected by decades of abuse, are still more abundant that any part of the of country.” (Lawig Katawhan/PIA Agusan del Norte)
SurSur PRLEC prepares communities for EO 70 implementation
By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 10 -- The Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Surigao del Sur Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) led by the Provincial Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted a dialogue recently aimed to prepare the residents and indigenous peoples (IP) community of Barangay Mahaba in Marihatag town for the all-out implementation of Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) next year in Andap Valley Complex.
With this activity, the residents of the conflict-affected communities would become aware of the government’s peace and development efforts towards ending the insurgency. Barangay Mahaba is one of the gateways of the Andap Valley Complex, a traditional route of the CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs) along with the sitios of Barangay Diatagon.
The dialogue included the presentation of the community’s poverty, livelihood and employment-related issues raised by the community through the Community Support Program (CSP) conducted by the 7th Special Forces ”Spartans” Company of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn). CSP is a mechanism of the EO 70 to identify basic and social services delivery issues used by the CNTs to agitate, organize and mobilize the tribes to advance their terroristic activities in the hinterlands.
Present in the dialogue were support agencies from Department of Agriculture, Provincial Tourism Office, 3SFBn, Surigao Provincial Police Office, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PHILFIDA), Philippine Coconut Authority, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Food Authority, Marihatag local government unit (LGU) led by Mayor Justine Marc L. Pelenio and the chief of staff of the Office of Congressman Prospero “Butch” A. Pichay, Jr., Surigao’s 1st district representative.
Following dialogues to other identified peace and development zones (PDZs) will also be scheduled within this month.
Initial livelihood support to the community will be the provision of abaca seedlings to help increase their farm production and output. Falcata and coffee farming will also be provided by the concerned agencies. Aside from farming, TESDA and PHILFIDA will provide livelihood skills training to further increase their productivity and to make them more resilient.
On other concerns, the community requested the DepEd to speed-up the process for the construction of IP government schools so that they can transfer and abandon the alleged CNT-affiliated schools of Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV).
DepEd representative Danilo Alcantara said that the IP communities in Andap Valley Complex were included in their Last Mile School Program which will facilitate the construction of complete school facilities which will provide a better quality education for the IPs.
According to a rebel surrenderee, the MAPASU group, a left-leaning organization and an alleged front organization of CNTs with their underground contacts in some LGUs, continuously hampers the implementation of EO 70 because the CNTs will lose their mass base making it difficult to sustain their food supplies and makes them more easily detected by the government forces.
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) continuously reminds elected and appointed government officials on Republic Act 10168 known as the “Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012" prohibiting any political, moral and financial support to the communist rebels. If elected officials are found guilty, penalties and sanctions will be imposed as prescribed by law. (3SFBn., CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Free quality seeds to Butuan rice farmers
By Rhea C. Abao
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 -- Quality rice production starts with quality seeds.
The use of high-quality seeds is what the Department of Agriculture (DA), its bureaus and agencies see as a key factor for sufficiency, profitability, and competitiveness of rice production.The DA – Philippine Rice Research Institute – Agusan distributed the 8,590 bags (20kg/bag) certified rice seeds for free to rice farmers in Butuan City in cooperation with the City Agriculture Office.
The distribution is headed by Dr. Genevieve A. Nemeño, DA-PhilRice RCEF Focal Person and Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven, Butuan City Agriculturist.
A total of 4,295 hectares of rice land in the city is expected to be planted with quality seeds.Having a disability did not stop Jerry M. Libago, 47, from being present during the second batch of the seed's distribution.
Four years ago, Jerry, had an accident while he is on the farm which affects his ability to walk.
According to him, he spent around ₱1,500 to buy 40 kg rice seeds for a hectare.
"The low buying price of palay, which is ₱15 –₱16 and the high cost of farm inputs affected our income. But through the free certified seeds we availed, this is a big help for us, rice farmers," he shared.
In time, for this cropping season, farmers like Jerry will breathe a sigh of relief as they receive free certified seeds under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) – a support mechanism for our rice farmers affected by Rice Tarrification Law.
In Caraga, 27 cities and municipalities from the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Surigao del Sur will receive a total of 79,818 bags of certified seeds. The three provinces are among the top 57 provinces with high potential for improving competitiveness.
Rice farmers registered in Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) will be given the top five high performing varieties accepted in the region such as NSIC Rc 222, 216, 160, 18 and 286.
According to Dr. Nemeño same activity has been conducted in the three provinces which started in November until January 2020. (DA Caraga RAFIS/PIA Caraga)
Another rebel killed, firearms recovered in AgNor clash
By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 -- A New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed in a clash in the hinter area of Sitio San Jose, Barangay Durian, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte at 8:05 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4.At the same time, several high-powered firearms, food supplies, medicines, and subversive documents were recovered by troops of the 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army.
The 23IB troopers under the supervision of Lt. Col. Francisco Molina Jr., commanding officer, encountered more or less 40 NPA terrorists believed to be members of Guerilla Front 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC) under Eddie Mangubat alias "Weds."
The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes, after which the enemies scampered towards Northeast direction. The said encounter resulted in the recovery of one NPA dead, one AK-47 Rifle, two M16 Rifle, four Laptops, one Generator, 21 backpacks, two sacks of rice, food supplies, medicines, subversive documents and other personal belongings. Traces of heavy bloodstains are also visible in the withdrawal route which indicates that there were members of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who suffered severe wounds.
The recovered cadaver of the dead CNT was turned over to the Barangay Council of Brgy. Durian, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte for identification and proper disposition.
Meanwhile, LTC Molina extended his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of the dead CNT. “This is the result of the deception and manipulation of CNT leaders to their members. The members risk their lives fighting for the false ideologies and propaganda, but their comrades just left them when they needed them the most," he said.
"Once again, we urge the remaining members of the CNTs to go back to the mainstream society while you still have a chance. We are always willing to help you to live a normal life and we will never hesitate to assist you in availing the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for you to start a new life. But if you will just neglect our call, your 23IB soldiers will never stop pursuing you as we want peace to prevail in the communities who wish to live peacefully," he added. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Minor NPA killed, high-powered firearms recovered in Army clash in AgNor
By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 - The army troopers of 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army under the operational control of 402nd Infantry Brigade encountered recently a group of CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNTs) in the hinter area of So. Salvacion, Brgy Manila de Bugabos, this city.
The army troopers received reports coming from the concerned civilian residents about the presence of armed men in their barangay. The responding troops immediately proceeded to the area and conducted focus military operation and encountered more or less 20 CNTs believed to be members of Guerilla Front 4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Command. The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes after which the enemies scampered towards Southwest direction.
The said encounter resulted in the recovery of one dead body, two AK-47 rifles, one M16A1 rifle, one M16A1-RMC rifle, five civilian backpacks, two bandoleers, six magazines of AK-47 rifle, five magazines of M653 rifle subversive documents and other personal belongings. Heavy bloodstains were also visible in the withdrawal route which indicates that there are still members of CNTs who suffered severe wounds while there is no casualty in the government side.
Moreover, the recovered cadaver of the slain NPA was turned-over to the Barangay Council of Barangay Manila de Bugabos, Butuan City headed by Punong Barangay Jhonryl B. Denuro for proper disposition and burial. Unfortunately, the slain rebel identified as Litboy Binungcasan, 16 years old, and a resident of Sitio Siohan, Barangay Malinao, Gingoog City.
Emalyn Binungcasan, sister of late Litboy, expresses her resentment to the CNTs for recruiting her brother. “I was saddened because he said he will just apply for a job but he did not come back for a couple of months. We didn’t know that he was already recruited by the CNTs. I hope that the leaders of CNTs will stop recruiting and deceiving innocent civilians for their personal interest," she said.Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Francisco Molina, Commanding Officer, 23IB, extends his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of the slain CNT. “Another young innocent life was lost because of the deception done by the heartless NPAs. If only the members of the CNTs heed to our call for them to go back to the mainstream society, this incident should not have happened," he said.
He also extends his gratitude to the concerned residents who provide information regarding the whereabouts of the CNTs. “I am so glad that many of the civilians support us in ending insurgency. Your 23IB soldiers will never get tired in pursuing the remaining members of the CNTs and we will assure you that we will do our best to dismantle the said group so that the civilian populace will have the chance to live peacefully especially this yuletide season," he said.
"The CNT group must be dismantled so that they can no longer celebrate another anniversary of implicating and deceiving innocent civilians. These CNTs who claims to be an 'Army for the poor' did no good to our nation, instead, they impoverish the people and leads them to suffer real poverty,” Molina added. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Former rebels regret joining the Reds
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 (PIA) -- In the implementation of the Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), there is an increasing number of former rebels who chose to return to the folds of the law, and decided to live a peaceful life with their families.
During the site visit and assessment of government agencies in Zapanta Valley, Barangay Bangonay in the municipality of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, several former rebels have revealed their worst experiences, and regretted the time they joined and supported the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorist group.
According to Lando Adlangan, former courier and supporter of the NPA he felt sorry for his own family because instead of spending quality time with them, he wasted his life serving the CPP-NPA. He said, joining in the terrorist organization has not brought any good for him, but only sufferings and hardships.
He also called on the other members of the tribe who were deceived by the NPAs and are still involved in the communist-terrorist movement to surrender to the government and live a normal life with their respective families.
“Living in a simple life with my wife and kids is more fulfilling than what I used to do before when I was still part of the NPA. A peaceful life is what I longed for my family to experience in our community,” said Adlangan.
A certain Ging-Ging Adlangan, former secretary of the Kasalo group, also conveyed her regrets upon realizing that she was only manipulated and exploited especially during rallies and ‘operation bakwit’ of the NPA.
“We’ve seen a lot of changes in our community that truly help us cope with life, especially with all the programs and livelihood provided to former rebels like us from the government,” Adlangan shared.
Many of the former rebels and local residents in Zapanta Valley have also expressed their gratitude to the government for implementing projects and programs that they can benefit from.
“We are now benefitting from the farm-to-market road and other projects that were established in our community for us to have better way of living and enjoy the programs and services from the government,” said Brando Fernandez, chairperson of Zapanta Bisaya Organization.
Meanwhile, regional director Manuel Orduña of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) gave emphasis that the government continuous to provide the basic needs of the communities particularly in the rebel-infested areas. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
More than 200 youths participate in 1st AgNor YLS
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 (PIA) -- Government agencies have stepped up its effort in addressing the needs of the locals in different communities, particularly the youths of Caraga region.This is still part of the ongoing implementation of the Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end the insurgency of President Rodrigo Duterte.
The extensive conduct of the Youth Leadership Summit is one of the priority activities of the Philippine Army to help the youths in enhancing their skills as they are potential leaders in their respective municipalities.
Jerwen Escalania was one of the grateful participants who shared the values and experiences that he gained during the 3-Day Youth Leadership Summit.
He was thankful to the concerned government agencies, together with the 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army for generously and seriously providing them the needed assistance and guidance.
“We’ve learned a lot of new ideas from our resource persons and our leadership skills were enhanced and we will apply all of these in our life and our community,” said Escalania.
“We were taught to be more responsible while the organizers and facilitators emphasized to us that we should always respect our parents and elders, as well as contribute to nation-building,” shared Roniel Yongco.
According to Roberto Laurente, president of the Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Our Youth (POINTY) organization, they also aim to help the youths to become more responsible and wiser in using the social media. he cited that there have already been many people who became victims of fake news.
“The youth should be able to determine whether an information they read or hear is factual or not, so they would not be deceived and become victims of fake news,” cited Laurente.
“When using the social media, the aim should be helping other people become well-aware of what is happening in the country and being able to contribute to its development,” said Ma. Leaneth Penarejo.As the honored guest speaker, 2Lt. Gianmatteo Vittorio Guidicelli, Reservist – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), called on the Caraganon youths to get involved in the government’s activities leading towards lasting peace and development.
“Let us unite and pool our resources and help the government towards attaining lasting peace. We could use the social media to promote a peaceful environment and inspiring other people to contribute to peace-building efforts of the government,” highlighted Guidicelli.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., stressed the vital role of parents in rearing their children well; ensuring them to grow without vices; and preventing them from the recruitment of the New People’s Army (NPAs). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Muslim community welcomes various stakeholders to MWOP
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 (PIA) -- In celebration of this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP), the Muslim Community welcomed the Christian and indigenous people (IP) participants to their community in Narra Road, Brgy. 26 New Society Village, this city on November 29, 2019.The non-Muslim guests were made to witness the tradition and customs commonly followed by the Muslims.
Sultan Gamal Amerol, Sultan of Caraga Administrative Region, along with Brgy. Captain Ibrahim T. Abdulahim and Datu Muna Datu S. Ebra of the Bangsamoro-MNLF Caraga welcomed Most Rev. Fr. Cosme Damian Almedilla, Bishop of the Diocese of Butuan, Datu Revise Mandahinog of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, and other leaders and members of the Christian and IP communities in Caraga to the brief immersion that was scheduled by the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) as its activity for the third day of the weeklong celebration of MWOP.
The activity commenced with non-Muslim participants witnessing the khutba, an Islamic tradition equivalent to a Sunday mass performed by the Catholic church which is observed during the duhr (noon) congregation prayer every Friday.
This was succeeded by a feast prepared by the women of the community where exotic Maranao dishes were served in a tabak, a traditional Maranao silverware that serves as a tray for the dishes. The guests were also encouraged to observe Maranao table manners such as sitting on the floor during meals and using one’s hands when eating.
A program was then hosted after a shared meal. Leaders of the various participating communities praised the hospitality of the community, acknowledging the uniqueness of their manner of welcoming their guests and providing them an opportunity to experience their traditions.
Barangay captain Ibrahim T. Abdulahim remarked on the holiness of the occasion since it was held on a Friday. “Friday is a holy day in Islam which therefore makes this event even more blessed,” he said.
Reverend Father Carlito P. Clase, executive director of CCPD, took the chance to apologize on behalf of the whole non-Muslim communities for perpetuating the negative stereotypes against the Muslims, which are primarily rooted on ignorance and indifference.
To signify the reconciliation between the Muslims and the members of the non-Muslim communities, the leaders exchanged bahandi – a century-old malong was gifted by the Muslims to the Christian and IP communities while the latter gifted the Muslims an ancient pottery.On behalf of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) regional director Monaim Guro, chief of Settling Division Norlain Balt delivered a speech to conclude the program.
“We try our best to extend our understanding for our non-Muslim siblings when they mock our traditions such as our manner of praying. We take into consideration the fact that they still do not possess a deep understanding of the customs we observe, which is why an inter-religious dialogue is necessary,” she emphasized. (DMNR/VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Mga dating rebelde, nagsisisi sa pagsali sa teroristang CPP-NPA
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 10 (PIA) -- Patuloy ang pagsuko at pagbabalik-loob sa gobyerno ng ilan pang miyembro ng rebeldeng grupong Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) sa rehiyon ng Caraga.
Ito ay sa harap ng pagpapatupad ng Executive Order 70 o ang whole-of-nation approach sa pagsugpo ng insuhensiya sa rehiyon.
Sa pagbisita ng mga kawani ng gobyerno sa Zapanta Valley, Barangay Bangonay sa bayan ng Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, isiniwalat ng mga dating miyembro ng rebeldeng grupo ang kanilang mapait na karanasan at paghihinayang sa mahabang panahon na kanilang iginugol sa nasabing grupo.
Ayon kay Datu Lando Adlangan, dating courier at supporter ng NPA, nanghihinayang siya sa panahong inilaan niya sa rebeldeng grupo na sana ay naibigay niya sa kanyang pamilya.
Dagsag pa ni Adlangan, walang magandang naidulot sa kanyang buhay ang pag-anib sa makakaliwang grupo.
Nanawagan din siya sa iba niyang kasama sa tribu na nalinlang ng NPA na sumuko na at mamuhay ng mapayapa kasama ang kani-kanilang pamilya at magkaroon ng maayos na hanapbuhay.
“Kung makikita ko lang yung mga kasama ko sa tribu na sumusuporta pa sa NPA ngayon, kokombinsihin ko talaga silang bumaba na at mamuhay na nang tahimik kasama ang pamilya nila,” sabi ni Adlangan.
Pagsisisi rin ang naramdaman ni Ging-Ging Adlagan, dating secretary ng grupong Kasalo dahil sa kanyang pagiging aktibo nuon sa kalakaran ng grupo. Walang katuturan aniya ang kanyang pagsali sa rally at ‘operation bakwit’ ng NPA.
Masaya na siya ngayon kasama ang kanyang pamilya at sa tulong na ibinigay ng gobyerno sa mga katulad niyang former rebel. “Marami na talagang magandang pagbabago sa aming lugar at marami na ring naibigay na tulong ang pamahalaan ditto sa pamamagitan ng mga programa’t proyekto dito sa Zapanta Valley,” pahayag ni Adlangan.
Marami rin sa mga dating rebelde at mga lokal na residente ang nagpasalamat sa mga programa’t proyektong nailunsad ng gobyerno sa Zapanta Valley na ngayon ay napapakinabangan na nila.
“Nagpapasalamat kami sa malasakit at sa patuloy na pagtulong ng gobyerno sa aming luagr at sa tribu. Maganda na an gaming buhay mula nang tumiwalag na kami sa NPA,” sabi ni Brando Fernandez, chairperson ng Zapanta Bisaya Organization.
Samantala, binigyang-diin ni regional director Manuel Ordña ng National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) na layon ng gobyerno na matugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng mga mamamayan partikular na sa mga rebel-infested areas. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Kuta ng mga NPA sa Agusan Norte, nadiskobre
By Nora L. Molde
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 10 (PIA) -- Natunton ng mga militar ang malaking kweba na pinagkukutaan ng mga miyembro ng CPP-NPA sa sitio San Jose, barangay Durian sa bayan ng Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
Nadiskubre ito matapos ang 15 minutong bakbakan sa pagitan ng 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army at mahigit apat napong (40) CPP-NPAs na pinaniniwalaang myembro ng SDG CAOCAO, GF4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Command.
Sa naturang kweba ay nakuha ang tatlong high-powered firearms, laptops, generator set, medisina, pagkain at marami pang iba.
Iniwan lang ng mga rebelde ang isa nilang kasamahang napatay sa engkwentro at agad naman itong itinurn-over ng mga militar sa barangay officials sa nasabing lugar.
Nakompiska rin ang mga kagamitang pambabae tulad ng mga underwear, feminine napkins at contraceptives pills.
Ayon kay Ltc. Francisco Molina, Jr, commander officer ng 23IB, posibleng pinapainom ang mga contraceptives sa mga myembrong babae dahil ayon na din sa mga rebelasyon ng mga naging myembro ng CPP-NPA, kinomperma nilang ginagamit ng mga nakakataas sa kanilang grupo ang mga babaeng kasapi.
Samantala, sa isa pang bakbakan sa Sitio Salvacion, barangay Manila de Bugabos sa Butuan City, isang 16 na taong gulang na myiembro ng CPP-NPA ang namatay at ilang high-powered firearms din ang nakompiska.
Ang naturang menor de edad na miyembro ng NPA ay kinilalang si Litboy Binungcasan na residente ng Malinao, lungsod ng Gingoog.
Ayon sa kanyang kapatid na si Emalyn, nagpaalam lamang si Litboy na magtatrabaho sa isang lugar ng Agusan del Norte subalit hindi na ito nakabalik pa. Nalaman nalang din nila na siya ay patay na sa engkwentro sa lungsod ng Butuan.
Malaki ang pasasalamat ni Ltc. Molina sa mga sibilyan na nagbigay agad ng impormasyon sa mga militar upang makaresponde sa lugar at nang mahinto na ang mga gawaing terorismo ng mga CPP-NPAs.
Nanawagan din ang opisyal sa mga CPP-NPAs na ihinto na ang pagrerecruit ng mga menor de edad at magbalik-loob na sa gobyerno. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Thursday, December 12, 2019
AgNor lights up 'Capitol dreamland'
By Nora L. Molde
Mostly children, families and even adults joined the big crowd to celebrate with the provincial government the opening of the month-long celebration of Christmas season at the Capitol dreamland.
Anna Mary Budiongan Yong with her friends went to the provincial capitol to witness the different lights and decorations. She said, this is the time where she can celebrate with friends especially that Christmas vacation is near. “The decorations are so elegant, and it is a very nice place to stay with friends and families,” she said.
Despite the big crowd, Richard Palma Camosa along with his wife and two kids also witnessed the light up and decorations at the provincial capitol. He said, his kids enjoyed so much during the night and he wished to be back again to enjoy more before the year ends.In his first year being the father of the province, Governor Dale Corvera expressed his gratitude to the different committees that made the Capitol dreamland a place to stay and celebrate.
“I am happy seeing you all here, celebrating with me my first Christmas as the governor. Thank you for trusting and believing in me,” he said.
The ceremony was also witnessed by Second District Representative Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba together with other provincial and municipal officials. The light-up ceremony of the Capitol dreamland is an annual tradition of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte of extending joy and entertainment to its constituents. It is open to the public from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for free.
Provincial administrator Gerry Joey Laurito called on the support from the visiting public to fully cooperate in the implementation of its security plan for the safety of everybody. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
VSO holds volunteerism forum in Butuan City
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 12 (PIA) -- People of all ages with a heart for volunteerism gathered at the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga Conference Hall this city on December 11, 2019, to participate in the Forum on Volunteerism for Development by the Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO) Philippines. This served as a kickoff celebration of this year’s observation of the National Volunteerism Month (NVM).
The forum featured a lecture on the importance of volunteerism in socio-economic development and in achieving the Filipino’s long-term vision of a “Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Buhay Para sa Lahat” or the AmBisyon Natin 2040, the nation’s plan to attain a ‘predominantly middle-class Philippine society’. Participants were then introduced to VSO, the world’s leading international development organization that envisions a fair world for everyone by fighting poverty through the lasting power of volunteerism.
This year’s celebration puts emphasis on the important role of volunteers as motivators, enablers, and leaders in development activities and the power of volunteerism to touch the lives of individuals and communities to inspire them to actively contribute and participate in volunteerism for development, encapsulated in the theme ‘Be an Inspiration, Volunteer!’.
Michelle P. Dela Calzada, Chief Economic Development Specialist, considers the partnership with the organization highly significant to the attainment of NEDA’s mandate of inclusive development.
“The partnership with VSO helps us gather champions and actors who will positively complement and contribute to the efforts of the government’s long-term vision of socioeconomic sustainability in the Philippines,” she said.
Caraganon volunteer Ma. Socorro Alcantara of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) of Surigao del Norte served the Tanzanian community for a year through the Enhancing Employment through Vocational Training (EEVT). She took part in coming up with case studies on the local projects, particularly on providing employment to the women of the community through enrolling in courses that teach non-traditional women jobs such as carpentry and plumbing. She encouraged everyone to share their talent and skills through volunteering overseas, as it is an enriching and life-altering experience.
VSO started its mission in the Philippines in 1964 and has been helping improve Filipino lives since then. The organization is currently focusing on combating poverty in Mindanao, as it is home to eight of the country’s poorest provinces. They provide intervention through peace initiatives, disaster risk reduction projects, and youth and professional volunteerism. With a strong belief on transgenerational volunteerism, application for volunteers is open to anyone who possesses the passion for community and peace building. (DMR/PIA-Caraga)
RDC Caraga chair keynotes ACE general assembly
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
Regional Development Council (RDC) Caraga Chairperson and Agusan del Norte Governor Dale B. Corvera, the event’s keynote speaker, shared a message of gratitude and hope to the members of the association.
Corvera commended the ACE members for their continued support to him as the head of the council by remaining committed to fulfill their duties.
In his election as the new chairperson of the NEDA Board Regional Development Committee – Mindanao Area Committee, Corvera believed that there is a greater purpose behind having been appointed to the said high-ranking position, “for it had always been handed over to officials from the Davao region.”
“That being said, the interest of Caraga will now be placed under the limelight, maneuvering the Caraga Administrative Region on the path to more progress and development," he said.
"This will enable access to additional support from the government and greater advantage in lobbying for the provision of the committee’s needs to better its aims and programs,” Corvera added.
He also reiterated the formulation of a development agenda in the Caraga RDC for the term 2019-2022 in line with the development directions of the updated Caraga Regional Development Plan for the next term which focuses on increasing investments, pursuing big-ticket projects, further comparative advantages, and over-all promote good governance in the region.
“With you working side by side with me in the RDC, and with synergy in our efforts, the volume of concerns our region is facing… will be easy to address,” Corvera affirmed.
He concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of unity in materializing their visions for the region. (DMR/PIA-Caraga)
Army lauds CHR's probe on NPA's use of child warriors
By Maj. Francisco P. Garello, Jr.
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 12 -- The 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Philippine Army in Caraga lauded the bold step of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in probing the continuing use of child warriors by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army Terrorist (CNT).
In an online article published on Sunday, December 8, 2019, the CHR denounced the CNT’s supposed use of a 16-year-old boy as a soldier, saying the use of minors in combat is a war crime. Likewise, CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said, “Under the International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, even non-state armed groups must respect the prohibition to recruit and use children in armed conflict and hostilities.”
Brig. Gen. Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander, said they welcome the latest pronouncement of CHR condemning the CNT’s use of child warriors and its action to investigate the recruitment of children. "They can interview all the former rebels and know their story. We are very confident that the truth will come out and the CHR can now listen first-hand about the deceptive tactics and the ploys of the CNTs in luring to fight the government," he said.
It can be recalled that a 16-year-old minor, Litboy Binongcasan, was killed during an encounter between the troops of 23rd Infantry Battalion under the 402nd Brigade and CNTs belonging to Sentro de Gravidad (SDG) Caocao, Guerilla Front 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) under alias Weds/Patrick on November 30, 2019 at Sitio Salvacion, Barangay Manila de Bugabos, Butuan City.
The unfortunate demise of the said minor was denounced by the different sectors of the society. The social media netizens also condemned the use of children as child warriors and pushed them as a combatant at their young age to be involved in an armed conflict.
BGen. Licudine said, for this year alone, they have recorded a total of 10 minor CNT members (one killed, nine surrendered). "It showed the CNTs continue to violate the rights of the children guaranteed under the International Humanitarian Law and the fundamental laws of our land," he said.
"Without the indoctrination and agitation of the CTGs, these children could be in school or with their families enjoying the Christmas season and not carrying firearms and experiencing a violent life,” added BGen. Licudine. (CMO Officer, 402IB PA/PIA Caraga)
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Tuesday, December 17, 2019
25 former rebels finish training in automotive servicing
By Robert E. Roperos
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 17 -- Former rebels have successfully finished their training in Automotive Servicing NC I.The development came after a total of 25 former rebels received their Certificate of Training during the graduation ceremony on Thursday, December 12 at the camp of the 23rd Infantry Battalion (IB) of the Philippine Army in Brgy. Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
In his speech, Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina, Jr., commanding officer of the 23rd IB emphasized that the training offered by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through the Agusan del Norte Provincial Office paved a venue for the former rebels in achieving a long and lasting peace and development.
The official likewise expressed his thanks and gratitude to TESDA for the continuous partnership. He also explained that the government is not an enemy of the people, but rather a partner in attaining peace and development.
Molina further shared the quote of former United States President Benjamin Franklin which says, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” Thus, he said teaching and telling is not enough for every graduate to experience.
“More importantly, after they will be equipped with the knowledge and skills that they need, we really have to involve them so that they will be able to practice what they have learned,” he added.
In a response message from the graduates, alias Dave who is one of the graduates said that he has already realized that what the leftists have taught them is not true.
“Karon pa nako nasabtan nga ang gipang-tudlo nga doktrina sa amo didto sa kabukiran usa diay ka dakong sayop. Maayo gyud diay ang atong gobyerno ug ang atong mga opisyales adunay taas nga panglantaw alang sa malahutayong kalinaw ug kalamboan.
Daghang salamat sa tanan nga mga ahensya sa gobyerno nga mitabang kanamo aron mabag-o ang among kinabuhi (Now I understand that the doctrines that were taught to us in the hinterlands are not true. Our government and its officials have vision towards lasting peace and development. I would like to express my sincerest thanks and gratitude to all government agencies who have helped us in transforming our lives)," he said.
The graduates were recipients of Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), one of the scholarship programs of TESDA under the leadership of Sec. Isidro S. Lapeña for special clients that include former rebels, drug surrenderers, indigenous peoples (IPs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), inmates, among others.
The training provider is Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF), a TESDA-administered school in Matabao, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
8,000 ektaryas gi-enrol sa mga mag-uuma sa 'Plant! Plant! Plant Project sa Agusan Up!'
By Annalie Jean A. Mag-aso
BUTUAN CITY, Disyembre 17 -- Dul-an sa 8,000 ektaryas ang gi-enroll sa Plant! Plant! Plant! Project sa AGUSAN UP! sa inisyal nga panagtagbo tali sa mga mag-uuma ug sa panggamhanan sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte paghisgut sa kampanya sa kalambuan ubos sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera, niadtong Disyembre 11.Ang labing lapad nga luna gi-commit sa mga mag-uuma nga tamnan og cacao, usa sa siyam ka crops nga tutokan sa supporta sa probinsya ubos sa maong proyekto. Mokabat sa 4,563 ektaryas ang gi-commit nga area alang niini.
Ang laing crop nga buot gahinan sa mga mag-uuma sa og daku-dakung luna sa ilang yuta mao ang abaca nga naay 1,666 ektaryas.
Ang ubang crops nga buot nilang itanum sa ilang yuta mao ang saging, lubi, kape, mangga, rubber, bulanghoy ug falcatta.
Ang AGUSAN UP! mao ang walo ka punto nga development agenda sa probinsya ubos sa pagdumala ni Gob. Corvera ug sa suporta ni Congresswoman Angel Amante-Matba ingon man sa Sangguniang Panlalwigan niini sa pagpangulo ni Bise Gob.Ramon A.G. Bungabong.
Usa sa upat ka flagship programs sa AGUSAN UP! mao ang AGUS 3Ps o Plant and Process for Prosperity. Ubos sa maong proyekto ipursige usab ang kampanya alang sa pagproseso sa mahimong abot unya sa uma o ang Process! Process! Process! Project.
“Kinahanglang usbon na nato ang atong mindset,” pasabot ni Gob. Corvera sa kapin sa 1OO ka representante sa 88 ka organisasyon sa mga mag-uuma nga mitambong sa maong gihimong konsultasyon. “Kung kaniadto mananum kita aron kaonon, karon mananum kita isip negosyo. Agri-business na ang atong mindset” pasabot ni Gob. Corvera.
Dugang sa gobernador nga dili usab igo nga mananum lang. Iyang giawhag ang mga mag-uuma nga dungan sa pagpananum magtibnabangay ang mga mag-uuma pagmugna og mga industriya diin ibahug ang abot sa uma aron mas daghan ang makatrabaho ug mas modaku ang bahandi nga mamugna sa probinsya.Ubos AGUSAN UP! ipadangat sa probinsya ang supporta sa pag-organisa sa mga mag-uuma, pagpalambu sa ilang organisasyon ug pagpalig-on sa ilang katakus pagpadagan sa ialng operasyon.
Ipahiluna usab sa probinsya nga mapadangat ang serbisyo sa pagmugna og mga nurseries, demo farms ug common service facilities.
Ipadangat usab sa probinsya ang technical assistance pag-develop og mga proyekto ilabina sa mga processing projects.
Apil usab sa serbisyo mao ang fund facilitation o ang pagsilbing tulay sa probinsya tali sa mga mag-uuma ug sa mga tigpadangat og pinansyal nga serbisyo sama sa mga kooperatiba ug mga bangko.
Mahinumdoman nga 3O ka mga kooperatiba ang gi-facilitate sa probinsya nga makigtagbo sa Land Bank of the Philippines ug Development Bank of the Philippines niadtong Disyembre 9 ug sa maong panagtigum mi-commit sila nga mahimong kaabag sa probinsya pagpadangat og pinansyal nga serbisyo sa mga moapil sa kampanya sa kalambuan ubos sa AGUSAN UP! (Agusan Up, Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Thursday, December 19, 2019
Caraganon IP youth passes army course class
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 19 -- A Manobo youth, who once served as a Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) Active Auxiliary (CAA), successfully graduated from the Candidate Soldier (CS) Course Class of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID), Philippine Army on December 14 at the division's training school at Camp Osito, Bahian, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
Private Marvin T. Banglid, 23, a Manobo from Brgy. Kasapa-1, Loreto, Agusan del Sur, served the military as a CAA for five years before joining the course. To inspire fellow indigenous people (IP) youth to serve the country and their people was his motivation for finishing the course.
“I am humbled with our government’s endless service to my people and I wish to repay it with by serving the military,” he said.
Banglid is one of the 243 CS who were promoted to new privates after completing the 24-week Basic Military Training (BMT) and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operations (JWMOC) and are now ready to serve the people of regions 10 and Caraga.
Over 88% of the total graduates are from the said regions while the remaining 12% came from regions 1, 7, 8, 9, and 12.
Batches 608 and 609 of 2019 also take pride in their IP candidates who endured immense hardships to pass the course class and help oversee the welfare of the IPs in the country.
Commander of the 4ID MGen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal congratulated the batches for having completed the course and imparted a piece of advice to the new batch of military personnel to ‘prepare to assume different roles’ in the attainment of peace and development.
“The Philippine government and your fellow countrymen are expecting a lot from you. You are now catalysts for change. Let this serve as a reminder for you to find the courage and discipline to do what is right and just,” he added. (with a report from 4ID, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)
Manobo youths: We need DepEd schools for IPs
By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 19 -- A young resident of Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga Surigao Del Sur wishes that a Department of Education (DepEd) operated school will be constructed in their place. The young resident emphasized during his speech at the closing ceremony of the 3rd Lianga Youth Leadership Summit (YLS), recently held at the 9th Special Forces “Hounds’ Company, 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) headquarters in St. Christine, Lianga town. 
“I strive hard to finish school and help my family because I know that the communist New Peoples Army (NPA) terrorist-influenced areas find it hard to prosper. We wish that a DepEd school will be constructed here in our sitio,” said Jackyboy Salinas, a young resident of Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9).
Of the 95 YLS participants, eight of them were from the conflict-affected indigenous peoples (IP) community of Kilometer 9 who joined for the first time.
In their problem tree and root cause analysis workshop, they identified the issues that greatly affect the youth in their community which include quality education and insurgency.
Salinas, a product of Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural Development (ALCADEV), and his fellow YLS graduates who are currently secondary school students said that it would be better if IP DepEd schools are established. Some of the ALCADEV and Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) graduates find it hard to transfer to other DepEd schools because their papers are not valid and are non-accredited.
The reason why communist-influenced militant groups hamper the educational intervention of DepEd in conflict areas is because their schools, TRIFPSS and ALCADEV, will become irrelevant and will die a natural death. Most of the IPs, when asked, wanted to transfer to the DepEd-accredited IP government schools once these become readily available in their sitios,” said Col. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade commander.
Meanwhile, the DepEd said that they will include Kilometer 9 as a beneficiary of their Last Mile School Program to address gaps in isolated, disadvantaged areas and to offer a far better quality of education than the ALCADEV and TRIFPSS which are non-DepEd accredited and alleged NPA-linked schools. (3rd SFBn/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
AgNor town conducts RICO program
By Atty. Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise-Punzalan
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 19 -- The municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte conducts its second Renewed and Intensified Community Outreach (RICO) Program at Sitio Tabon, Barangay, Aclan, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.The RICO Program was first launched in Barangay Jaguimitan, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte last December 11, 2019. More than 550 households benefited from different government services.
The outreach program in Barangay Aclan catered to more than 300 households in the said barangay and its neighboring sitios.
Free legal services, operation tuli, provision of food packs, distribution of seedlings, release of COMELEC IDs, medical-dental services and all other services were provided by the LGU and its partner national government agencies."This is our way of winning back the lost trust of the people to the government, making the constituents feel loved and cared by government officials," said Mayor Enrico R. Corvera.
"If we have to make this monthly, we will, just to change the way people living in the mountainous areas define public service," he added. (DILG Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Model farm sa bulanghoy gikasa na
By Angel F. Gaviola
MUNISIPYO SA LAS NIEVES, Agusan del Norte, Disyembre 19 -- Gisugdan dinhi niadtong Disyembre 16, pagpahiluna ang mahimong model farm sa bulanghoy, usa sa mga crops kansang kalambuan tutokan sa probinsya ubos sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa kalambuan ubos sa administrayon ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera.
Sa panagtigum nga gihimo sa Barangay Lingayao, ang sentro sa model farm, mikomiter ang grupo sa mga mag-uuma og kinatibuk-an 30 ektaryas nga himoong uma sa bulanghoy, ang magsilbing unang tikang sa pagpatuman sa maong proyekto.
Sa maong panagtigum gilatid usab sa mga lumilihuk sa gobyerno sa serbisyo sa agrikultura sa munisipyo, sa probinsya ug sa rehiyon sa Caraga ang mahimo nilang mga serbisyo pagpatigayon sa maong model farm.
Mitambong usab sa maong tigum ang representante sa mag-uuma sa bulanghoy sa silingang lungsod sa Esperanza, Agusan del Sur nga mipaambit sa kakulang sa suplay sa produkto sa nahimo nilang merkado ug andam ang iyang grupo nga paliton ang tanang ani sa mahimong model farm.
Isip suporta sa model farm, gipadayag ni Francis Louie Parina sa Department of Agriculture sa Caraga nga mopadangat ang iyang buhatan sa gikinahanglang planting materials ug inputs
Sa bahin sa munisipyo, tabangan sa buhatan sa agrikultura niini ang mga mag-uuma pag-organisa ug pagpalig-on sa ilang organisasyon, sumala pa ni Leonito Pasquito, ang Municipal Agriculture Officer. Motabang usab ang munisipyo pagproseso og loan gikan sa banko o gikan sa mga kooperatiba nga mahimo nilang conduits.
Sa bahin sa probinsya, nakatakda usab nga suportahan sa Provncial Agriculture Office ang pagpataas sa katakus sa mga mag-uuma pagpadagan sa model farm. Mopahiluna usab kini ug lain pang mga model farms sa ubang lungsod, sumala pa ni Miguel Velasco, ang corn and cassava production coordinator sa probinsya.
Kalambigit sa AGUSAN UP!, gipasabot ni Orencio Corvera Jr., ang nagsilbing consultant sa maong kampanya sa paglambo, nga gawas sa suporta sa model farm sundan sa programa ang mahimong sustinidong paglambo sa industriya sa bulanghoy. Iyang gibutyag nga ubos s AGUSAN UP! gipunting nga 3,000 ektaryas ang matamnan sa mosunod nga walo ka tuig ug makamugna gyod og processing plant sa probinsya mismo sama sa paggama og harina, feed processing ug paggama ug uban pang produkto gamit ang bulanghoy. (AGUSAN UP, Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Pagproseso sulbad sa mga mag-uuma sa lubi sa barat nga presyo
By Angel F. Gaviola
DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Disyembre 19-- Aron masulbad ang kasamtangangang barato kaayo nga palit sa lubi, gisugyot sa mga organisasyon sa mag-uuma nga nagsandig sa maong industriya nga maghiusa, magtampohay og kapital ug makig-alayon sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ug ubang ahensya sa gobyerno pagtukod og kaugalingong integrated coconut processing plant ubos sa proyektong 'Process! Process! Process! sa AGUSAN UP!'.
Kini ang nahimong resolusyon tubag sa kakulian nga giatubang karon sa mga maglulubi kansang mga lider mitambong sa konsultasyon kalabot sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa kalambuan sa probinsya ubos sa administrayon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera.
Walay pag-ubos ang taas nga sa presyo sa oil, sumala pa usa ka lider sa mga mag-uuma sa lubi. P50 gihapon ang kilo niini karon samtang ang tibuok lubi naa lang sa P2-3 ang kilo, iyang dugang.
Sa maong presyo sa lubi, igo ra sa magkatkat ang mahimo nilang halin, dugang sa ubang mag-uuma nga apil sa maong konsultasyon.
Ang Agusan del Norte naay 37,415 ektaryas nga kalubian karon. Nag-okupar kini sa 77% sa kayutaan pang-agrikultura sa probinsya ug nagpakita kini sa kadaghan sa mga mag-uuma nga apektado sa ubos nga presyo niini.
Apil sa resolusyon sa mga mag-uuma sa lubi mao ang pag-intercrop sa ilang kalubihan og cacao o saging aron mokita ang ilang luna og dugang.
Ang sugyot sa pagmugna og integrated coconut processing plant apil sa unang mga proyekto nga tutokan ubos sa 'Process! Process! Process! sa AGUSAN UP!' nga programa. Suportahan usab niini ang intercropping sa cacao ug saging.
Ubos sa AGUSAN UP! gipunting nga mosaka ang bahandi nga mamugna sa probinsya aron modaku ang kita sa mga lumulupyo niini pinaagi sa pagproseso sa mga abot sa uma. Gipunting usab nga motaas ang kita sa matag ektarya sa uma sa probinsya gikan sa kasamtangan nga P56,000 ngadto sa P100,000 matag ektarya ug ang intercropping maoy usa sa mga nakitang pamagi niini. (AGUSAN UP, Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Friday, December 20, 2019
Blue alert raised in Caraga due to 2 LPAs
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 20 (PIA) -- Caraganons are to expect a rainy Christmas in the region, as reiterated during the Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) conducted by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga on Friday at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga Regional Office, this city.
Two low pressure areas (LPAs) are currently monitored by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), one of which has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and is situated 605 km east-south east of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur, as of 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Heavy rain is expected to fall in the region on Saturday, December 21. However, the chances of the said LPA turning into a tropical storm is slim, said PAGASA.
The second LPA, currently located 2,375 km east of Mindanao, is yet to enter PAR. According to Lance Galanida, Chief Meteorologist of the PAGASA Butuan, the likelihood of the said weather disturbance to actually pass through PAR is still in question hence the on-going monitoring by their agency.
In response to the current weather situation in the region, RDRRMC Caraga and OCD Caraga Regional Director Liza Mazo declared a blue alert status, of which she instructed responsible line agencies to cooperate in the close monitoring of the weather. PMaj. Marife Farol of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga assured the present members that the police force in the region is as vigilant and ready to respond in case of calamities.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga has also prepared their office for relief operations. Around 8,988 family food packs that contain rice, corned beef, sardines, and coffee are now stored in their warehouses while 6,100 food packs were distributed to local government units: 3,000 the Surigao provinces, 2,500 in Dinagat Islands, and 600 in Agusan del Sur.
Medicines worth P317,382.27 have also been prepared by the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga and are ready for distribution.
Dir. Mazo then advised the public to cooperate and prepare, especially when preemptive evacuation is necessary.(PIA-Caraga)
45 Agusanon students pass Japanese language, culture program
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 20 (PIA) -- A total of 45 students graduated from the Japanese Language and Culture program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) held on December 16 here. The said program is one of the seven courses under the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), the enrollees of which are supported by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte.
Overseas job opportunities are expected to provide employment for the Agusanons hence the creation of the Basic Japanese Language and Culture, it was learned.
“I hope that you will use what you learned for the improvement of your individual lives,” said Gerry Joy S. Laurito, provincial administrator of Agusan del Norte who represented Gov. Dale Corvera during the graduation ceremony.
The TWSP is one of the initiatives under the AGUSAN UP!, an eight-point development program of the provincial government.
One of the major targets of the province's development agenda is the provision of 30,000 quality jobs before the year 2027. At present, over 3,000 are unemployed, 14,000 are underemployed, and an estimation of 13,000 are expected to join the labor force in the next eight years, said Laurito.
The provincial government allotted P2-million to provide financial aid to the scholars of the TWSP this year. Funding for the future batches of scholars will continue, Laurito further stated.
In addition to the Japanese Language and Culture program, six more courses are available under the TSWP, namely Computer System Servicing NCII, Visual Graphic Design NCII, Shielded Metal Arc Welding NCII, Events Management Services NCIII, and Driving NCII. (with reports from J-anne Mag-aso and Angel Lyn Gaviola, LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA Caraga)
DA Caraga turns over P9M slaughterhouse
By Fretcher Magatao
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 20 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the region turns over the P9 million “AA” Slaughterhouse Building to the Municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte last December 17.The building project that can cater to up to 50 hogs per day is funded under the Department’s Bottom-Up Budgeting.
“With the new facility, consumers in Nasipit and the neighboring areas are assured of clean and safe meat,” said Mayor Enrico Corvera.
Corvera added that the municipality will make sure to maintain the facility and its equipment, sufficient water supply, and proper waste disposal management.
Dr. James Cabrera from the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) said that an abattoir that is given an "AA" grade by the NMIS is allowed to market its products anywhere in the Philippines.
Cabrera explained that the priority of NMIS is to strengthen meat inspection in all local government units in the country.
“We will constantly monitor this facility and make sure that the sanitary condition is well-maintained,” said Dr. Cabrera.
There are three categories of slaughterhouses under NMIS guidelines: Class Triple-A or top-grade abattoir that can supply both domestic and international markets; Class Double-A or the slaughterhouse that can supply all over the country, and Class A or the slaughterhouse that can only supply the local city or municipality.
“The slaughterhouse can boost the local meat industry as more investors will be enticed to use the facilities of the municipal slaughterhouse,” said BUB Focal Person Edelmira Luminarias.
With its bigger space, the slaughterhouse can now accept more animals for slaughtering and this would mean an increase in the local government’s income from the slaughterhouse operations. (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)
Army, partners bring Christmas closer to conflict-affected communities
By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
MARIHATAG, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 20 -- “Despite any conflict, there is still a room for peace and love within everyone’s heart.”This was the statement Lt. Colonel Joey Baybayan, Commanding Officer of the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion, after the successful gift-giving activities in Kilometer 9, Diatagon, Lianga and in Caras-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur and in Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur from December 14-17.
Sitio Supon of Barangay Magsaysay, Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon and Barangay Caras-an are homes for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), mostly Manobo tribes. Caras-an is approximately 50 kilometers away from the municipality proper of Tago. All barangays are traditional routes of Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs).
“No road is long and no mountain is high if we are sincere to bring sustainable and genuine peace in these conflict-affected areas,” Lt. Col. Baybayan said.
The collaborative efforts of the various agencies and private organizations exemplified the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
The 7th Special Forces “Spartan” Company; 8th Special Forces “Dragoons” Company; 9th Special Forces “Hounds” Company; 41st CMO Company; PNP personnel; local government units (LGUs) of Prosperidad, Tago and Lianga; Philippine National Red Cross Agusan and Surigao del Sur Chapters; ACDI Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative; Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc (AFPMBAI); Rotary Club San Francisco Chapter; DSWD Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth; Propelling our Inherited Nation Through our Youth (POINTY) Agusan and Surigao del Sur Chapters; and the Bureau of Customs produced and distributed the goods, mostly toys, school supplies and Noche Buena packages to around 1,000 beneficiaries.
“There is no substitute for your families, we call on the remaining NPAs to surrender and think about their families. To live life in peace with your families despite the hardships in life is better than living with corrupt NPA leaders and terrorists because they never value family as they continually recruit minors and take them away from their parents,” Lt. Col. Baybayan ended.
Meanwhile, NPA terrorists attacked the government forces, civilians, including children, in an ambush last December 13 in Borongan, Eastern Samar, leaving 3 killed and 14 seriously injured. This caused the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to condemn the NPA terrorists and outraged the LGU of Borongan. NPA terrorists involved are allegedly minors and were recruited from various schools through alleged NPA-linked militant front groups and party lists. (3SFBn/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Caraga region’s poverty incidence declines in 2018
By Paul Edward B. Castillo
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 20 -- The full year 2018 poverty incidence among population for Caraga Region displays an improvement of 9.0 percentage points from the 2015 figure of 39.5 percent.
The 30.5 poverty incidence among population for the full year of 2018 released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), roughly translates to 822,800 Caraganons living below the poverty threshold of the region estimated at P11,482, on average, for a family of five per month in 2018. This is 192,200 less poor Caraganons than what was recorded in 2015.
In addition, Caraga region also experienced improvement in terms of subsistence incidence among population or proportion of Caraganons, whose income is not enough to meet even the basic food needs, which registered at 10.2 percent in 2018.
This is an improvement of 7.1 percentage points from 17.3 percent in 2015. The region’s monthly food threshold for a family of five was estimated, on average, at P7,349.
However, despite the decline in figures, Caraga Region’s poverty incidence among population of 30.5 percent is still relatively high compared to the country’s poverty estimates of 16.6 percent in 2018. Among other regions, Caraga ranks as the 4th poorest region following Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with 61.3 percent; Zamboanga Peninsula with 32.7 percent; and Eastern Visayas with 30.9 percent.
Among the regions in Mindanao, Caraga ranks third poorest following BARMM and Zamboanga Peninsula while SOCCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos) ranks fourth poorest with 28.2 percent, followed by Northern Mindanao Region with 23.0 percent and Davao Region with 18.9 percent.
On a positive note, the 2018 poverty and subsistence incidence among population of 30.5 percent and 10.2 percent, respectively, exceeded the targets set in the Updated Caraga Results Matrices, the accompanying document of the Midterm Updated Caraga Regional Development Plan 2020-2022, which targeted 34 percent for poverty incidence and 13.15 percent for subsistence incidence in 2018. Such positive results indicate that the region is on track in achieving the poverty targets set in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of reducing by half the proportion of population living in poverty and eradicating extreme poverty for all by 2030. (NEDA Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Trabaho gilantaw alang sa migradwar nga 45 scholars pagkat-on sa Nihongo
By J-anne Mag-aso/Angel Lyn Gaviola
DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Disyembre 20-- Migradwar niadtong Disyembre 16 ang 45 ka suportado sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte nga scholars sa Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) sa kurso nga Basic Japanese Language and Culture, usa sa pito ka mga kurso ubos sa Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) niini.Ang TWSP usa sa mga mahimong dakung kabahin unya sa kampanya sa kalambuan ubos sa AGUSAN UP!, ang walo ka punto nga agenda sa Team Agusan del Norte ubos sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera.
Usa sa mga gipunting nga resulta sa mga kalambuan nga ipahiluna ubos sa AGUSAN UP! mao ang pagmugna og 30,000 ka de-kalidad nga trabaho pag-abot sa 2027. Kapin sa 3,000 sa gipunting nga makatrabaho mao kadtong mga unemployed karon, ang dul-an sa 14,000 mga underemployed ug ang laing kapin sa 13,000, mga bag-ong mosulod sa labor force sa mosunod nga walo ka tuig.
Ang gilantaw nga makamugna unya sa trabaho mao ang mga ekonomikanhong kalihukan ubos sa magkalambigit nga mga proyekto Plant! Plant! Plant! diiin gipunting nga 125,000 ektaryas ang matamnan ug sa Process! Process! Process diin labing ubos 20 ka mga manufacturing projects nga mo-proseso sa mga abot sa uma ang ipahuluna.
Apil usab sa mga gilantaw nga momugna ug mga kapangitaan, ilabina karon nga yugto diin nagsugod pa lang ang AGUSAN UP!, mao ang mga trabaho sa gawas sa nasud, usa sa gipunting nga adtoan sa mga gradwado sa bag-ohay pa lang gihimo nga Basic Japanese Language and Culture.
“Hinaut unta nga gamiton ninyo ang inyong naantiguhan aron molambo ang tagsa-tagsa ka estado sa inyong kinabuhi”, sumala pa Gerry Joey S. Laurito, provincial administrator sa Agusan del Norte nga nag-represent kang Gob. Corvera sa graduation ceremony.
Ang probinsya naggahin og P2 milyones alang sa mga scholars sa probinsya sa TWSP ning tuiga. Padayon kining pondohan ubos sa administrasyon ni Gob. Corvera, sumala pa kang Laurito. Naay pito ka kurso ang TSWP. Ang uban mao ang Computer system Servicing NCII, Visual Graphic Design NCIII, Shielded Metal Arc Welding NCII, Events Management Services NCIII, Driving NCII. (Agusan Up, Agusan del Norte/PIA Caraga)
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Monday, December 23, 2019
Andanar calls for media workers to support passage of Media Workers' Welfare Act
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Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar called for support from the members of the press for the passage of Media Workers’ Welfare Act during his media engagement in Baguio City on Friday, December 20, 2019 |
BAGUIO CITY, Dec. 22 -- It’s high time for media workers to take winning the side of their own welfare, said Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Friday as he called for support on the passage of Media Workers’ Welfare Act.
“Ang panawagan ko sa inyong lahat, sa lahat ng kabaro natin, tingnan ho natin yung posibilidad na supportahan yung Media Workers’ welfare act (I am calling for everyone to look into supporting the Media Workers’ Welfare Act),” said Secretary Andanar, a former broadcaster, during a media engagement in Baguio City on Friday.
Secretary Andanar said that the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has vowed to support the proposed bill submitted to Congress early this year and sponsored by the ACT-CIS partylist.
“Kung kaya niyong magpapanalo ng kosehal, kayang magppanalo ng mayor, vice mayor, congressman, senador, presidente eh bakit tayo di natin kaya ipanalo sarili natin? (If you can elect councilors, mayors, vice-mayors, congressmen, senators, presidents, why are we not able to get a win for ourselves?),’” he said.
The PCOO chief said that the proposed bill will help address the economic vulnerabilities of media workers, especially in some provinces where broadcasters have meager opportunities to earn. He also mentioned journalists who take on blocktiming.
“Yung mga kabaro po natin sa ibang mga lugar, sa ibang probinsya po ay napakataas ng economic vulnerability (For our fellow media, in other places, in provinces, have high economic vulnerability),” Secretary Andanar said.
“Sila ay nagiging blocktimer, pag nagblock time sila, kukuha sila ng supporter, sponsors, more than often ay politiko po yung sponsor. Kung uutusan sila politiko na titirahin yung kabilang kampo. Magagalit, mabu-bwisit. Eh, kung hindi ka madaan sa usapan eh bala ang katapat (They become blocktimers, they look for supporters, sponsors, more than often the sponsors are politicians. If the politicians ask them to criticize an opponent. They become angry or annoyed. If it cannot be talked over, they'll just shoot you),” he added.
The PCOO chief further said that the bill is comprehensive, covering not only the general welfare, but also ensuring capacity in the availment of housing programs, regular employment, job security, and health benefits.
“This administration is working very hard to protect every media worker in this country who is threatened, and also to go after the criminals who have assassinated or killed other media workers,” he said.(PCOO)
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Monday, December 23, 2019
Caraganons suportado ang pagpapatupad ng Disiplina Muna advocacy campaign
By Nora C. Lanuza
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 23 (PIA) -- Hinikayat ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga ang kanilang mga kababayan, partikular na ang mga lokal na opisyal na pag-igtingin ang pagpapatupad ng displina sa kani-kanilang lugar.Ito ay kasunod ng paglagda ng mga opisyal at stakeholders sa isang pledge of commitment bilang suporta sa disiplina muna campaign sa rehiyon ng Caraga.
Ayon kay DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion mahalaga ang papel ng mga LGU sa pag-iral ng disiplina sa kanilang nasasakupan para makamit ang inaasam na kaunlaran.
Ayon din kay police staff sargeant Mashul Nami, Jr, ang disiplina muna regional ambassador ng Caraga, kung ang lahat ay may displina sa sarili walang imposible.Ayon pa sa kanya, ang disiplina ay dapat magsimula sa loob ng pamamahay lalong lalo na sa mga pamilya at mga anak.
Naniniwala si Nami na ang tagumpay na kanyang tinatamasa sa ngayon ay dahilan sa disiplina ng kanyang mga magulang. Ang pamilya ni Nami ay hinirang bilang isang PNP model family sa taong 2019.
Bilang isang media practitioner ibinahagi naman ni Alexander Lopez, ang bureau chief ng Philippine News Agency ng Caraga region ang kanyang karanasan sa kanyang araw-araw na gawain, simula sa simpleng mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad sa mga sasakyan at pampublikong luga, anya ang lahat ng ito ay may malaking kontribusyon sa pagpapalago ng lipunan. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)
100 porsyento nga kooperasyon gikinahanglan alang sa katumanan sa mga proyekto sa AGUSAN UP! - Cong. Angel
By Angel F. Gaviola
DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Disyembre 23-- Walay makab-ot nga tiunay nga kalambuan kung dili ihatag ang 100 porsyentong abilidad ug kooperasyon sa matag empleyado sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan ilabina sa gipunting nga mga proyekto ubos sa AGUSAN UP!Kini ang nagsilbing mensahe sa pasko ni Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba atoll sa gihimong Christmas party sa kapitolyo kagahapon, Disyembre 19.
Sumala pa sa kongresista nga nahibawo siya nga panahon karon sa pasko apan usa kini ka higayon aron ma-remind niya ang mga empleyado sa kapitolyo.
Pasabot sa kongresista nga giila niya nga ang mga empleyado sa kapitolyo maoy kalig-on sa probinsya ug kung mahatag nila ang 100% sa ilang abilidad ug suporta walay katarungan nga dili kini samot pang molambo.
Dugang ni Cong. Matba nga “blessing” sa probinsya nga si Gob. Dale B. Corvera ang nahimong gobernador niini. Kampante siya nga naay maayong kasing-kasing si Gob. Corvera alang sa katawhan. Apan unsaon man sa gobernador kung dili 100% ang suporta sa mga empleyado sa iyang mga programa.
“Tan-awa ta karon we have new program nga AGUSAN UP!. We can only do that if we are able to collectively work together and unify our commitment to the leadership not only of Gov. Dale and Vice Governor(Ramon A.G. Bungabong), but sa isa isa nato, when we work we always give our best. Kay bisan the best si Gov Dale and all the others will only give 50% of their commitment and the rest will only give 25% ang outcome ana will never satisfy the people that we serve,” dugang pasabot ni Cong. Matba. Sa iyang bahin gipasalig sa kongresista nga hatagan niya og dakung pagtagad aron makatabang nga ma-implementar ang mga programa sa AGUSAN UP!
Ang AGUSAN UP! mao ang walo ka punto nga development agenda sa Agusan del Norte ubos sa administrasyon ni Gob. Corvera. Punting niini nga makunhoran ang poverty incidence sa probinsya gikan sa 34% ngadto sa 15% pinaagi sa paghimo niini nga agri-processing ug special economic zone sa Caraga pag-abot sa tuig 2027. (Agusan UP, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Mabulokong pasko ug suporta sa iyang mga programa gipanghinaut ni Gob. Corvera sa mga empleyado
By Angel F. Gaviola
DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Disyembre 23 -- Usa ka panghinaut alang sa usa ka mabulokong pasko ug hiniusang pagsuporta sa iyang mga programa sa mosunod nga mga tuig ang gipaabot ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera sa mga empleyado sa kapitolyo atol sa Christmas Party nga gihimo kagabii, Disyembre 19.Gihimo sa gobernador ang maong mga panghinaut samtang gi-anunsyo niya ang mokabat sa Php38,000 nga mga benepisyo nga madawat sa kapin kon kulang 1,500 nga regular, casual ug contractual nga mga empleyado sa kapitolyo niining paskuha ug pagsaka sa minimum nga sweldo sa mga job orders gikan sa Php305 ngadto sa Php400 matag adlaw sugod sa milabay’ng Nobyembre.
Sa iyang hangyo nga suportahan ang iyang mga programa gipasabot sa gobernador nga nagdagan karon ang kampanya sa kalambuan sa probinsya ubos sa AGUSAN UP!, ang walo ka punto nga development agenda nga tutokan sa iyang administrasyon.
“Duna tay dakung programa nga gihimo karon, ang AGUSAN UP!. In fact duna tay usa ka grupo nga mo-focus niini aron atong makab-ot ang tinuoray nga kalamboan sa atong probinsya,” sumala pa ni Gob. Corvera.
Dugang sa gobernador nga sa suporta ni Congresswoman Angel Amante-Matba, ni Bise Gob. Ramon A.G. Bungabong ug sa mga sakop sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan, mga ahensya sa nasudnong panggamhanan ug sa mga Agusanon siya nagtuo nga makab-ot ang gipunting nga haruhay nga pagpuyo.
Gihimo sa mga empleyado sa kapitolyo sa Christmas Party pinaagi sa mga sayaw, diin miapil si Gob. Corvera ug Congresswoman Matba mismo, kanta ug raflle sa gatusan nga mga regalo. (Agusan UP, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Thursday, December 26, 2019
Over 38 rebels surrender in AgSur town
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 26 -- Through the joint efforts of the La Paz Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) and the Community Support Program (CSP) of the Philippine Army, the voluntary surrender of 38 rebels from different left-leaning groups was induced on December 17 in La Paz, Agusan del Sur.Among those who surrendered were two regular members of the Guerilla Front 88 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), two on lay low members, eight active members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB), eight former members currently in support, and 18 mass supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Upon surrender, firearms and ammunition were also yielded from the rebels such as four cal. 45 pistols, one KG-9 sub machine gun pistol, one ARMSCOR shotgun, two homemade rifles known as “surit”, over 65 ammunitions, and five magazines.
The mayor of the said municipality Michael D. Lim officiated the recitation of the Oath of Allegiance to the Philippine Constitution and assured the surrenderees that they will be assisted by the local government in establishing their new lives as law-abiding citizens of the Philippine law.
“Through the mandate of the Executive Order No. 70, we will implement all the necessary livelihood programs in your community that will help you improve your economic status and relieve you from poverty,” he said.
Lt. Col. Romeo C. Jimenea, Commanding Officer of the 26th Infantry Battalion, also lauded the task force for such an accomplishment, citing it as a marker of the effectiveness of the executive order in combating insurgency.
“We have already made great progress in our campaign against insurgency. With the cooperation of everyone and other agencies, creating conflict-resilient communities will be more than just a goal, it will indeed become a reality,” he added. (26IB/PIA-Caraga)
123 CNT members, supporters surrender to Army in SurSur
By Capt. Jonald Romorosa
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec 26 -- A total of 123 Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) members and their supporters voluntarily surrendered to the Community Support Program (CSP) teams of the Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB) from the third and fourth quarters of the year 2019 in the province of Surigao del Sur. Of the 123 surrenderees, 10 of them are NPA regulars on lie-low status, 32 were Milisya ng Bayan, five Sanga sa Partido sa Localidad (SPL) and 76 Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members.
Accordingly, they were from Sitio Banahao of Barangay Maitom in Tandag City; Sitio Cadlum of Barangay Cabangahan in Tago town; and Sitio Baroboan of Barangay Carromata, Sitio Kiskis of Barangay Siagao, and Sitio Inadan of Barangay Magroyong, all in San Miguel town.
The said locations were identified as conflict-affected areas and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where the communities are vulnerable to the recruitment of the CNTs through their lies and deceit to join their futile cause.
CSP teams deployed in Sitio Banahao, Barangay Maitom facilitated a total of 71 surrenderees; 11 surrenderees in Sitio Inadan, 24 in Sitio Kis-kis, eight in Sitio Cadlum, and nine surrenderees in Sitio Baroboan.
One of the regular NPA members expressed his resentment to the CNTs for the miserable life he suffered inside the organization. He realized that the NPA is fighting a lost cause, while their leaders are enjoying a better life through extortion and revolutionary taxes.
“Life there is so difficult, every day we roam in the mountains looking and seeking for an answer on our cause. I voluntarily surrendered because I was afraid that maybe one day my life will be in danger and a possibility that someday I cannot see my family anymore,” he said.
In a statement, Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmel, 36IB Commanding Officer said, the mass surrender is the result of the military’s relentless combat operations against the CNTs and the deployment CSP teams in the identified conflict-affected areas with the help of the LGU and other stakeholders within the 36IB area of operation.
“The CNTs are weakening and have been losing mass base support which is their lifeblood in advancing their objectives. The growing numbers of surrenders and shifting of support of the masses to the government is a manifestation that they are already awakened on the deception strategy and the futile arm struggle of the CNT’s,” the army official added.
The 123 CNT members and supporters who surrendered will undergo the process of validation for them to qualify and avail for the enrollment of the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), a government intervention program intended for the formal rebels. (36IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Army initiates mass wedding for former rebels
By Cpt Edwin Leo Francisco
BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 26 -- The 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion (75IB), Philippine Army initiated a wedding ceremony to the former New Peoples Army (NPA) rebels, as one of the highlights of the battalion's 29th founding anniversary held at the 75IB headquarters on December 18, 2019.The seven couples, composed of three former NPA rebels and four former NPA rebels turned into soldiers, were from the dismantled Guerilla Front 14, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (GF14, NEMRC).
The couple tied the knot in a ceremony officiated by Major Dionesio Acaso, Division Chaplain, 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army with Bislig City Mayor Florencio Garay and wife Second District Board Member Margarita Garay, who served as principal sponsors of the newlywed couples.
Families, visitors, and friends were invited to witness the holy matrimony of the couples. Other visitors were Hinatuan Mayor Hon Shem Garay; representatives from the Presidential Management Staff-Caraga, Philsaga Mining Corporation, API Group of Company, SSS Bislig City, Rotary Club of Bislig, The Fraternal Order Club of Eagles, Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation Inc (FPPI), Southern Technology Institute of the Philippines (STIP), Conception Basic Builders Incorporated (CBBI), PCSO Bislig City and Radyo Bandera.
Meanwhile, alias Vladimir got teary-eyed during the entourage. He then expressed his gratitude to the 75IB and other stakeholders who facilitated the activity.
"Nagpasalamat mig utro uban akong asawa sa suporta na gihatag sa 75IB sa amo. Karon, bag-ong dalan na ang among agion, ang dalan kung asa mi magtukod ug pamilya nga malipayon ug hapsay. Salamat sa atong gobyerno ug sa 75IB sa ilang pinakamalipayong pinaskohan na among nadawat karon. Salamat sa inyong suporta ug paghigugma (Again, we express our thanks together with my wife for the support given to us by the 75IB. Now, we have a new path, the way we build a happy and orderly family. Thank you to our government and the 75IB for the happiest Christmas that we ever received. Thank you for your support and love)," AKA Vladimir said in a local dialect.
In his message, Mayor Florencio Garay of Bislig City congratulated the 75IB for keeping its Area of Responsibility(AOR) peaceful and likewise congratulated the newlyweds."I honor the 75IB in upholding the traditions of love, inspiring unity and cooperation through this Christmas season. May the celebration nurture solidarity, objectives, and goals for the benefit of the Filipino people, particularly the people of Bislig. If there's no peace, we will not achieve progress," Mayor Garay said.
Further, Lieutenant Col. Warren Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB, expressed his gratitude to the city government of Bislig, stakeholders, and the Marauder troopers for the untiring support displayed by everyone."We'll work together with unity in promoting our vision and mission for peace and development. The 75IB will always be proud to pursue the Philippine Army's vision towards professionalism to serve better and people whom we are mandated to serve. Thus, we always leave up to the Army Slogan of being at your service across the land," added Lt. Col. Munda. (75IB CMO/PIA Surigao del Sur)
Caraga PADACs receive award for outstanding anti-illegal drug drive
By Jason Ryan R. Lam
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Dec. 26 -- The provinces of Agusan del Sur and Dinagat Islands of Caraga region were among the top 155 local government units (LGUs) that received an award in the 2nd National Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Performance Award held in Manila on December 16, 2019.The National ADAC Performance Award was given to LGUs who achieved one hundred points or perfect score with an adjectival rating of ideal (high functionality) based on the 2018 ADAC Performance Audit.
The award recognizes the exemplary efforts of the LGUs, through their respective ADACs, in complementing the national government’s efforts in eradicating the country’s illegal drug problem per Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular No. 2019-208 dated December 10, 2019.
On the other hand, the 2018 ADAC Performance Audit contains the following major criteria: 1) Organized local ADAC; 2) Conduct of quarterly meetings; 3) Allocation of funds for the Implementation of anti-illegal drugs activities as indicated in the POPS Plan; 4) Implementation of ADAC plans and programs; 5) Support to ADACs in component LGUs; and 6) Innovations (DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2019-117 dated July 24, 2019).
The awarding ceremony was attended by DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año as the guest of honor. In his message, he encouraged all local leaders to think outside the box and act against illegal drugs.
“One hundred fifty-five LGUs is just a small portion compared to the thousands of LGUs nationwide but it is a good start. The ADACs are one of the avenues for good governance in our society,” he said.
The awarding activity was successfully conducted with the participation and support of the local chief executives and representatives of the LGU awardees, DILG Central Office key officials, DILG regional/provincial/city directors, and ADAC regional focal persons and Project Management Office. (LGOO V, DM, DILG-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Saturday, December 28, 2019
Caraga EMB intensifies protection of Taguibo watershed forest reserve
By Venus L. Garcia
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 28 (PIA) -- Underscoring the significance of implementing water quality protection and preservation of the Taguibo watershed as the primary source of potable water in Butuan City, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Caraga through the Taguibo River Water Quality Management Area (TRWQMA) Governing Board conducted a training on the Philippine Clean Water act of 2004.It was attended by the local officials of the barangays near the Taguibo watershed and representatives from different government agencies.
“We have done a lot to preserve and protect our watershed. In fact we conducted our regular meetings and discussed the issues and concern of the communities especially those who are living near the watershed. We gather the inputs from the stakeholders and representative of the respective barangays and have developed action plans,” said Engr. Albert Arcamo, regional director of EMB Caraga.
Rogelio Dumadag, barangay captain of Taguibo, cited the need to intensify information campaign to make the public more aware that healthy watersheds are essential to the development and survival of the community.Dumadag also asked the EMB to closely monitor the watershed area in order to resolve issues particularly on the improper solid waste disposal and lack of toilet facility in some households that affect water sources.
He also encouraged residents and nearby barangays to help in keeping the waterways clean and for the public to refrain from forest exploitation and inappropriate land use practices.
“Collective action and intensified efforts of the locals are needed. Everyone must exercise proper waste disposal; help in maintaining the surroundings clean; and to avoid illegal cutting of trees,” said Rogelio Dumadag, barangay captain of Taguibo.According to Glenn Betco of the Butuan City Environment and Natural Resources, the conduct of said training is most beneficial in crafting a better watershed management plan.
This is to ensure improved access to clean and safe water and to maintain the water quality classification of the Taguibo river watershed forest reserve.
“This training is very helpful in order for us to learn more on how to gather significant data. We know that properly managed watersheds offer a multitude of ‘free’ benefits,” said Betco.” (VLG/MFC/PIA-Caraga)
Caraganon students awarded as model teens
BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 28 -- Chosen students from various cities and provinces of Caraga region was awarded on this year’s Search for Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Model Teens as part of this year’s AHD festival that was recently held at Robinson’s Place Butuan.The Model Teen Awardees are students from public or private schools around Caraga region aged 10 to 19 years old, who exhibited great leadership qualities and academic achievements which are good examples for their fellow youth to emulate.
Having in mind that notable students who contribute in championing advocacies that focus on population and community service need to be recognized, the Local Population Offices endorsed their respective provincial/city model teens.
Embodying the essence of a Model Teen such as Academic Excellence, Community Service, Integrity and Professionalism, and Leadership. The chosen young students exhibited positive contributions in their localities that impacted their fellow youth to be on the same right direction as they are.
The Model Teens participated in environmental causes such as school clean-up to retain the cleanliness and prevent diseases that are caused by dirty surroundings in their respective schools. They also take part in environmental protection and preservation by advocating proper waste disposal and community clean-up as well as tree planting activities for a cleaner and greener future.
These youngsters are also making ways to educate their peers on responsible sexuality that could help their fellow youth prevent acquiring Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) due to unprotected sex.
These students also excel in academics and leadership. These students were able to balance their responsibility of bringing their school’s and locale’s name by representing it in regional and national competitions and contests, at the same time these students are also representing the entirety of their school’s student body by leading through being a Supreme Student Officers.
By showcasing their exemplary contributions, the following students are the recipients of the 2019 Search for Model Teen Awards:
• Leonard M. Himarangan of Agay National High School
• Jazmin Angelie K. Paclar of Agusan del Sur National Science High School
• Shiela Marie B. Sacro of Bayugan National Comprehensive High School
• Lloyd Dion M. Calusayan of De La Salle John Bosco College
• Sheinnetonette Anne K. Maglente of Agusan National High
• Cate Gwynette D. Echavez of Cabadbaran City National High School
• Rose C. Olaivar of Don Jose Ecleo Memorial National High School
• Jazmin Angelie K. Paclar of Agusan del Sur National Science High School
• Shiela Marie B. Sacro of Bayugan National Comprehensive High School
• Lloyd Dion M. Calusayan of De La Salle John Bosco College
• Sheinnetonette Anne K. Maglente of Agusan National High
• Cate Gwynette D. Echavez of Cabadbaran City National High School
• Rose C. Olaivar of Don Jose Ecleo Memorial National High School
The Model Teens accompanied by their advisers and population officers accepted their plaque of recognition that was handed to them by POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano.
The Search for Model Teens was patterned to the AHD program of POPCOM Caraga that aims to contribute to the improvement and promotion of the total well-being of the adolescents by addressing issues related to sexuality and reproductive health and rights. (POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)
Pangangalaga sa tubig sa Taguibo watershed, isinulong
By Venus L. Garcia
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 28 (PIA) -- Sa harap ng pagnanais ng Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Caraga na mapabuti pa ang kalidad ng tubig sa Taguibo watershed na pinagkukunan ng supply ng tubig sa lungsod ng Butuan, isang training ang isinagawa ng Taguibo River Water Quality Management Area (TRWQMA) Governing Board alinsundo sa philippine clean water act of 2004.
Nilahokan ito ng mga opisyal ng mga barangay malapit sa Taguibo watershed at ng mga representante ng iba't ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan.
“Marami na po tayong nagawang hakbang upang maprotektahan at mapangalagaan ang Taguibo watershed. Regular ang ating meetings at pagtalakay sa mga isyu lalung-lalo na ng mga residenteng nakatira malapit sa watershed. Ang mga input nila ay nakapaloob na rin sa ating nagawang action plan,” sabi ni Engr. Albert Arcamo, regional director of EMB Caraga.
Ayon kay Rogelio Dumadag, punong barangay ng Taguibo, mahalaga ang information campaign at konkretong aksyon upang maipaalam sa mga residente ang kahalagahan ng naturang watershed.
Partikular na problema ngayon ang hindi tamang pagtatapon ng basura at kakulangan ng maayos na palikuran sa ilang mga bahay na nakakaapekto sa kalidad ng tubig.
Kaya nanawagan siya sa EMB na mapaigting ang pagbabantay at pagmomonitor sa lugar.
Hinikayat din niya ang kanyang mga kabarangay at karatig barangay na magtulungan para linisin ang mga konektadong daluyan ng tubig dito.
“Kailangan nating magtulungan at hinihikayat ko ang lahat na sana ugaliin ang wastong pagtatapon ng basura; panatilihing malinis ang kapaligiran; at iwasan ang pagputol ng mga kahoy,” sabi ni Rogelio Dumadag, barangay captain of Taguibo.
Ayon naman kay Glenn Betco ng Butuan City Environment and Natural Resources na makatutulong ang nasabing training upang makabuo sila ng angkop na plano para maiwasan ang kontaminasyon at mapabuti pa ang water quality classification ng tubig na galing sa Taguibo River Watershed Forest Reserve.
“Makatutulong talaga sa amin ang training na ito dahil sa kaalaman na natutunan namin. Alam naman natin na maraming libreng benepisyo na mapapakinabangan sa maayos na pangangalaga ng watershed,” sabi ni Betco.” (VLG/MFC/PIA-Caraga)
Mga natatanging LGUs sa Caraga region, pinarangalan ng DOH-NNC
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Disyembre 28 (PIA) - Pinarangalan ng Department of Health - National Nutrition Council (DOH-NNC) ang mga natatanging local government units (LGUs) sa Caraga region na seryoso at puspusan ang pagpapatupad ng mga programa at serbisyo na nagtataguyod sa kapakanan ng mga bata lalo na ang pagsiguro ng tamang nutrisyon.
Ayon kay Dr. Gerna Manatad, OIC-administrative officer ng DOH-Caraga, taon-taon ay kinikilala ng ahensiya ang mga LGUs na patuloy sa kanilang dedikasyon sa pagbigay ng naaayon na programa para mawakasan ang malnutrisyon sa rehiyon.
Isang paraan aniya nila ito na mapasalamatan at makilala ang consistent LGUs na sumusuporta sa ginagawang hakbang ng gobyerno para sa sektor.
“Malaki ang ginagampanang tungkulin ng mga LGUs sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa upang mawakasan ang malnutrisyon at masiguro ang maayos na kalagayan ng mga bata, maging ng mga buntis at kanilang sanggol,” pahayag ni Manatad.
Isa si Solidad Garcia ng Barangay Baan, Butuan City sa mga naparangalan. Tinanggap niya ang award bilang Regional Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar. Ibinahagi rin niya kung papaano sila nagkakaisa sa kanilang barangay tungo sa pagkamit ng maginhawang buhay sa pamamagitan ng tamang serbisyo sa nangangailangan.
“Iba-iba ang aming ginagawang hakbang at stratehiya upang matugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga residente sa aming barangay. Binibigyang-halaga talaga ng aming barangay ang iba’t-ibang sektor at sinusiguradong napapakinabangan nila ang mga serbisyo mula sa gobyerno,” sabi ni Garcia.
Samantala, nanawagan naman si Leah Vina Vargas, nutrition officer ng NNC-Caraga sa LGUs ng rehiyon na maging sensitibo sa pangangailangan ng mga mamamayan lalu na sa usaping pangkalusugan.
“Sana po ay magpatuloy pa ang ating mga local government units sa Caraga na maging sinsero sa paganap ng kanilang tungkulin sa bayan at maibigay ang nararapat na serbisyo sa publiko,” sabi ni Vargas. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
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Thursday, January 2, 2020
Caraga VAW desk officers join 1st Regional Quiz Bowl in Butuan
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 2 (PIA) - To equip them and widen their knowledge on gender and development (GAD) campaign against any form of violence and abuses to women, as well as women's rights, the 1st Caraga Regional Quiz Bowl for Violence Against Women (VAW) Desk Officers was recently conducted in this city.
This was spearheaded by the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC) composed of various government agencies in the region.
The VAW desk officers had performed well and gave their best to win in the competition with the full support of their respective local government units from the different provinces of Caraga.
Joan Bitos, VAW desk officer of Barangay Taglatawan, Bayugan City was one of the participants who prepared for the said event and who wanted to show dedication in her duties and responsibilities and be able to raise public awareness on women's rights, as well as gender mainstreaming.
“It’s a privilege to work in public service and being a public servant is a great opportunity for me to help my constituents particularly the women sector. We should not only be a good public servant but also equipped with knowledge and skills to perform well in our respective functions,” said Bitos.
Lt. Ruth Cullantes, officer-in-charge of the center for women and children protection desk - Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office, said that this initiative of the government contributes much to the development of the VAW desk officers, as it will also aid them to effectively address the issues and concerns that women and children are facing today in every community.
“This kind of activity is very useful for the VAW desk officers, and we believe that they would be more effective in their function, along with the PNP in handling cases from the barangays,” Cullantes said.
Meanwhile, Catherine Aranas, social welfare officer and focal person for RIACAT-VAWC Caraga emphasized that through the conduct of the quiz bowl, local chief executives would also be able to determine what specific trainings they are to provide for their VAW desk officers to make them more capable of their function. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Abandoned NPA cadaver, brought home by Army
By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Jan. 2 -- "Justice for my son." This was an outcry of a mother whose son was abandoned by his comrades in the mountains of Sierra Madre when he got sick and was unable to carry firearms and cannot anymore fight the government forces. This was what Erlinda Cabachete of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte was begging when she saw and received her son, Bertoldo Cabachete.
He was brought home by the government troops from the hills of Sierra Madre in Luzon to their house in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. It can be recalled that last November 30, 2019 the cadaver of late Bertoldo Cabatchete alias “LJ”, male, 29 years old, and a regular member of NPA’s Komiteng Larangang Gerilya Sierra Madre, Central Luzon Regional Committee (CLRC) operating in the mountain ranges of Sierra Madre was found at the vicinity of Mt. Olong Amot, Barangay General Luna, Carranglan, Nueva Ecija by the elements 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division after receiving an information from a former rebel that one of his comrades was left alone by his fellow NPA members.
Alias LJ died due to severe illness and was just abandoned and buried by the CPP-NPA Terrorists at the hinter area of Barangay General Luna, Carranglan, Nueva Ecija. His family was not informed of his situation. He was not even given medication nor brought to a hospital.
The remains of alias LJ was then exhumed by the soldiers after a former rebel gave the information and location of where his dead body was buried. It was then brought to Villamor Airbase, Pasay City and through a C130, he was flown to Languindingan Airport, Cagayan de Oro City on December 29, 2019 where his mother, Erlinda, was waiting.
With great sorrow, Mrs. Erlinda Cabatchete, mother of alias LJ poured out her grievance against the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who recruited her son. “We are very saddened by the death of our son. He left our home way back 2016 and said that he will apply for a job in Manila. But then he didn’t communicate with us anymore. We don’t have any idea that he was recruited by the CNTs and what happened to him now really broke me into pieces. It's hard for me to know that I can no longer see my son alive anymore. The heartless NPAs recruited my son, but they never help him when he was sick. They should have brought him to the doctor because we usually admit him to the doctor when his illness attacks. If only the NPAs did not recruit my son, he is still alive up to now because I can take care of him,” said Mrs. Cabatchete.
Moreover, Mayor Enrico Corvera of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte said that "this is another incident that shows the CPP-NPA Terrorists don't care and value life. That is why, we initiate programs to insulate the youth from being recruited by the CPP-NPA.”Likewise, Lieutenant Colonel Francisco L. Molina Jr, Commander Officer, 23IB covering the area of Nasipit expressed his condolences to the bereaved family of LJ. "Kung hindi sana siya niloko at nilinlang Ng CPP-NPA, marahil ay buhay pa siya ngayon. Everyone must be vigilant from the deceit of the CPP-NPA," he said.
"They take advantage on the weaknesses of the poor people in staging their nonsense business," Molina added. (CMO Officer, 23IB, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Army, locals hold indignation rally vs NPAs
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 2 - “NPA salot sa lipunan.”This was the drumbeat of citizens from all walks of life during the recently held indignation rally against the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in Bayugan City and Lianga Peoples’ Park in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, simultaneously.
The local government unit (LGU) representatives, Indigenous Peoples (IPs), youth organizations with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) attended the anti-NPA campaign.
Lianga Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hawudon Jumar Bucales said the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) are the ones who destroyed their IP culture by disrespecting the IP’s tribal governance system.
“Gusto nilang ipalit na mga lider sa IP ay yung mga kaya nilang kontrolin at gamitin ang tribo para iabante ang political at armadong pakikibaka ng CPP-NPA (They wanted to post leaders for the IPs those that they could easily control and use the IP tribes to pursue the political and armed struggle of the CPP-NPA),” Bucales said.
He also called on the militant groups to stop using the tribe as props to gain sympathy from foreign funding institutions.
“Pauwiin niyo na ang mga katribo naming nasa Maynila, nandyan sa UP Diliman, ginagawa niyo silang kasangkapan para kumuha lang ng simpatya at siraan ang gobyerno at military na tumutugis sa mga teroristang NPA (Release our co-IPs who are now in Manila, particularly in UP Diliman, you are just using them as your instrument to get sympathy from the public and force them to revolt against the government, and prevent the Army from pursuing the terrorist NPA),” Bucales added.
This year, Agusan, Surigao del Sur municipalities and various provinces in Mindanao have declared the CNTs as persona non-grata making them more irrelevant and their cause useless.
Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, commander of 3SFBn, called on the remaining terrorists to surrender and lay down their arms as the whole nation stands against them.
“With the Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, many people became enlightened with their deceitful tactics making them more cautious and concerned because anyone could be a target and a victim of NPA recruitment, extortion and many other atrocities committed by the CNTs,” LTC Baybayan said.
“Filipinos are peace-loving and if you really fight for the people, hear their cry against you. The people want you out. They want you to stop your crimes and atrocities. The people don’t need you (NPAs) because you are a hindrance to attaining lasting peace in the country,” he added.
Meanwhile, Hands off of Our Children, League of the Parents of Philippines, Citizen Crime Watch at Manila NGO Alliance, Bantay Bayan and other concerned citizens rose up against the CNTs, Communist Party of the Philippines and National Democratic Front, who have caused divisiveness, terror and unrest especially in the conflict-affected areas around the country through mass rallies in Metro Manila. (CMO officer, 3SFBn/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Pangangalaga sa Agusan Marsh, pinaigting pa ng lokal na pamahalaan
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 2 (PIA) - Para mas maprotektahan ang Agusan River na pinakamalaking wetlands sa Caraga region, nagpulong ang iba't-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno sa pangunguna ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) at ng pribadong sektor para bumuo ng plano na makakatulong sa pagsalba rito mula sa posibleng pagkasira.
Malaking parte ng Agusan River ang Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, na idineklarang protected area sa Agusan del Sur ng dating pangulong Fidel V. Ramos.
Nagsisilbi itong drainage basin na malaking tulong sa mga Agusanon tuwing panahon ng tag-ulan at mula sa pagtama ng bagyo.
Ayon kay Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., mahigpit na pinapatulad ng gobyerno ang Environmental Code sa Agusan Marsh.
Nanawagan din sya sa lahat ng Caraganon na tumulong sa pagpreserba ng mga natural-grown trees na malapit sa wetlands dahil ang mga ito ang nagbibigay-buhay sa Agusan Marsh.
Para naman kay Eugene Taw-on, isang mag-aaral sa Bayugan National Comprehensive High School, mahalaga ang papel ng mga kabataan sa research ng gobyerno at pribadong institusyon maging ang mga hakbang nito para mapanatiling buhay at kapaki-pakinabang ang wetlands ng rehiyon.
Samantala, binigyang-diin ni DENR-Caraga regional director, Atty. Felix Alicer ang kahalagahan ng Agusan River at ang binibigay na benepisyo nito sa mga Caraganon. Isa ito sa mga kilalang tourist spots sa rehiyon.
Sakop ng Agusan Marsh ang mga bayan ng San Francisco, Rosario, Bunawan, Veruela, Loreto, Talacogon At La Paz sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur. Idineklara rin itong Ramsar Wetland Site noong 1999. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
VAW desk officers nakilahok sa 1st Reg'l Quiz Bowl sa Butuan City
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 2 (PIA) - Sa layong mahasa at lumawak pa ang kaalaman ukol sa gender and development (GAD) at kampanya laban karahasan sa mga kababaihan, isinagawa sa lungsod ng Butuan ang 1st Regional Quiz Bowl for Violence Against Women (VAW) desk officers ng Caraga region.Ito ay sa pangunguna ng Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC) na binubuo ng ibat-ibang ahensiya sa rehiyon.
Aktibong nakibahagi ang VAW desk officers mula sa ibat-ibang probinsya ng Caraga.
Isa si Joan Bitos, VAW desk officer ng Barangay Taglatawan, Bayugan City sa mga naghanda para sa nasabing quiz bowl.
Ayon kay Bitos, nais lamang niyang maipakita ang kanyang dedikasyon sa kanyang tungkulin na mapalawak ang kamalayaan ng mga kababayan sa karapatan ng mga kababaihan.
“Isang karangalan ang maglingkod sa bayan at mapagsilbihan ang ating mga kababayan lalo na ng mga kababaihan. Importante talaga na hindi lang magaling magsilbi sa bayan, kundi may alam din at marunong mag-handle ng mga kaso sa sinasakupang komunidad ang kagaya naming VAW desk officers,” sabi ni Bitos.
Para naman kay Lt. Ruth Cullantes, officer-in-charge ng center for women and children protection desk-Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office, malaking tulong ang inisyatibong ito ng gobyerno upang matugunan din ang mga isyu at concern na kinakaharap ng mga kababaihan at mga bata sa bawat komunidad.
“Malaking tulong para sa ating mga VAW desk officers sa bawat barangay na mas mapalawak pa ang kanilang kaalaman at mahasa pa ang kanilang galing sa pagresolba sa mga isyu lalu na sa mga kababaihan. Patuloy naman ang aming koordinasyon sa kanila,” ani ni Cullantes.
Samantala, binigyang-diin din ni Catherine Aranas, social welfare officer at focal person ng RIACAT-VAWC ang kahalagahan ng pagbibigay ng naaayon at nararapat na skills training at capability building nang mas maging epektibo sila sa paganap ng kanilang tungkulin. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
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