High-impact road projects to improve inter-provincial travel, domestic trade in Caraga region

By Ian G. Maculob

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 4 -- Commuters will soon enjoy a shorter travel time from Agusan del Norte to Surigao del Sur and vice-versa upon completion of multi-billion road projects by 2022.

Construction works have started since 2016 for the Butuan City – Pianing – Tandag (BPT) Road and Cabadbaran – Puting Bato – Lanuza  (CPL) Road, which includes road opening and upgrading to paved roads.

The two road projects have a total budget allocation of PhP14.871 billion, which includes PhP8.152 billion and PhP6.719 billion for the BPT Road and the CPL Road, respectively.

With a total length of 55.82km, the BPT Road will provide interconnectivity between the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur which will not only provide a direct inter-provincial connectivity among the three provinces but also promote development in the agriculture industry and domestic trade. On the other hand, the CPL Road, which is part of the Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network, stretching from Junction Daang Maharlika (Surigao – Agusan Road) to Junction Surigao - Davao Coastal Road, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur for about 73.048km, is expected to promote development in eco-tourism, agriculture industry and domestic trade.

When completed, travel time will be reduced by a maximum of one hour and 30 minutes. 

Priscila R. Sonido, regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga and chairperson of the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC), has pushed anew the commitment of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ramp up completion of the said projects.

“Let us inform the public that these projects can be used soon,” she said during the 1st Quarter RPMC Meeting, which was held through a teleconference on March 2, 2021. Dir. Sonido further instructed the RPMC to include the said projects in its monitoring activities to ensure that delays and other issues will be addressed quickly.

In the same meeting, the DPWH Caraga reported that physical completion for the BPT Road and CPL Road is at 17.67% and 35.25%, respectively. (NEDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Get vaccinated, President Duterte tells Filipinos after welcoming AstraZeneca jab

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has welcomed the arrival Thursday of the first shipment of COVID-19 vaccine developed by British-Swede drugmaker AstraZeneca, and made an appeal to Filipinos to get COVID-19 shot to contain the coronavirus.

The plane carrying 487,200 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Thursday night with President Duterte, foreign dignitaries and other top government officials welcoming the delivery.

The vaccine delivery was arranged through the World Health Organization-led COVAX facility.

“I thank the [COVAX] Facility, co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi and [the] World Health Organization (WHO) alongside its partner the UNICEF, for this delivery,” President Duterte said in his address during the arrival of the vaccine at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Following the recent vaccine delivery, the President assured the Filipino people that the government would continue working to ensure the immediate distribution of the available shots to the communities.

“On this note, I would like to appeal to all our kababayans: Please get vaccinated against COVID-19 and be the government’s partner in preventing further spread of the disease,” he said.

“I encourage you to get vaccinated at the soonest possible time. These vaccines are safe, and they are the key to reopening our society,” he added, calling on the public to continue observing and practicing health and safety protocols while waiting for more COVID-19 vaccines.

Although the country may not be out of the woods yet, it is making progress and the end is in sight, the President said, stressing that with the cooperation of the public, the country will eventually overcome the pandemic and ensure people’s safety.

At the same time, the chief executive directed all government agencies to actively institutionalize and sustain the whole-of-government approach in addressing the country’s COVID-19 situation.

The President also thanked the country’s vaccine czar, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), and the Department of Health (DOH) for making the recent vaccine delivery possible.

“Let me thank you to our key partners in the international community, represented by their Ambassadors tonight. Their cooperation in public health is very much needed. Positive engagement is very much welcome,” he noted.

President Duterte said in his previous pronouncements that the vaccines should be treated as a global public good, underscoring international solidarity and cooperation are paramount at this time “because no one is safe globally until everybody is safe.”

He also said that the arrival of the vaccine manufactured by the United Kingdom in partnership with Oxford University, will further boost the government’s ongoing national vaccination program.

The AstraZeneca jab was delivered a few days after the arrival of the 600,000 doses of Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccine donated by the Chinese government.

During the Department of Education event in Valenzuela City on Thursday, the President announced that China will send an additional 400,000 doses of vaccines, making its total donation one million doses. PND

9,000 vials of COVID-19 vaccines arrive in Caraga region

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 5 (PIA)– After months of waiting for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, some 9,000 vials have already arrived at the Bancasi Airport of this city from the Department of Health (DOH) Manila, which are intended to be given to the medical health workers in different hospitals of the region as they formed part of the priority sectors to be inoculated.

These 9,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Caraga region will cover the 4,500 healthcare workers in the identified priority public and private hospitals in the region. According to DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., the health care workers who will be inoculated as among the priority sectors have expressed their willingness and consent to take the vaccines for their protection.

Together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Dr. Llacuna led the team in receiving the 9,000 doses of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines and made sure that these are properly handled and managed at the storage facility of the department.

Llacuna said he welcomed those who opted not to get vaccinated for the COVID-19 vaccines since "this is a democratic country; we are entitled to certain rights." Yet, the health official said there is a need to provide education to the public concerning COVID-19 vaccines and the vaccination program to encourage people to get vaccinated and counter misinformation which is partly the root of the fear and speculations people are having on the vaccines.

The health official also reminded the healthcare workers who were trained to administer the COVID-19 vaccines to be very careful when administering a shot to patients with allergies and those who have asthma/history of asthma.

“We encourage every Caraganon to support this cause and be willing to take the vaccine for us to achieve herd immunity and be safe from further threat brought about by the deadly virus,” cited Llacuna. (JPG/DMR/PIA-Caraga)

9,000 doses ng vaccines dumating na sa Caraga region, mga Caraganon inaabangan na ang simula ng vaccination 

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Marso 5 (PIA) -- Matapos ang ilang buwang pag-aantay sa coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines na inaasahang makatutulong na mas maging ligtas mula sa hawahan ng nakamamatay na virus, dumating na rin sa Caraga region ang 9,000 vials ng vaccines para sa mga sektor na prayoridad na mapabakunahan ng gobyerno.

Mayroong 15 kahon na naglalaman ng bakuna ang dumating kaninang umaga sa Bancasi Airport sa Butuan City na nakatakdang ipamahagi sa iba’t-ibang health facilities ng rehiyon.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Health (DOH) Caraga kasama ang Philippine National Police (PNP) at Philippine Information Agency (PIA), naging maayos ang paghatid ng mga vaccines mula sa airport patungo sa storage facility ng DOH.

Ayon kay DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., sisimulan na bukas (Sabado) ang distribusyon nito maging ang pagbakuna sa mga medical health workers. Isinasagawa rin ang simulation sa mga local na pamahalaan sa ibat-ibang probinsya.

“Sisimulan natin ang distribusyon bukas sa mga health facilities ng rehiyon tulad ng Adela Serra Ty Memorial Hospital, Caraga Regional Hospital, at marami pang iba,” ani ni Llacuna.

Positibo naman ang naging tugon ni Dr. Odelio Ferrer, ang hospital chief at provincial health officer ng Agusan del Norte sa pagdating ng vaccines sa rehiyon. Binigyang-diin niyang malaking tulong ito sa seguridad ng mga health workers lalo na ngayong patuloy pa rin ang banta ng COVID-19.

“Malaking tulong ito mula sa ating gobyerno at nagpapasalamat kami na prayoridad ang mga medical health workers na mapabakunahan para sa rin sa aming kaligtasan habang ginagawa rin namin ang aming tungkulin sa publiko,” banggit ni Ferrer.

Naging saksi rin ang mga media practitioners sa lungsod ng Butuan sa pagdating ng vaccines at nagpahayag ng suporta sa gobyerno.

“Bilang media practitioner, tutulong ako na maipalaganap o maipaalam sa publiko ang magandang dulot ng bakuna sa ating lahat. Umaasa rin akong matatapos na itong pandemic at maging normal ulit ang lahat,” ani ni Manuel Egay, Jr., reporter ng Netz TV.

“Sumusuporta tayo sa hakbang na ito ng ating gobyerno at tutulong tayo na kombinsihin ang mga Pilipino dito sa Caraga region na magpabakuna dahil ito’y ligtas at malaking tulong sa ating lahat,” dagdag ni Mike Imbo, reporter ng One Mindanao at Radyo Trese.

Maliban sa dumating na 9,000 doses ng vaccines, inaasahang may susunod pang darating para sa mga Caraganon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Pagbabakuna kontra COVID-19 umaarangkada na sa Caraga region

By Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Marso 7 (PIA) -- Walang pag-atubiling sinimulan ang opisyal na pag-arangkada ng coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination rollout ngayong araw sa Caraga region.

Mahigit 900 mga frontline healthcare worker ng Caraga Regional Hospital (CRH) sa Surigao City ang napabilang sa nagsignify para sa unang batch ng COVID-19 vaccination sa rehiyon.

Unang naturukan ng awtorisadong bakuna na CoronoVac mula sa Chinese company na Sinovac si Dr. Angel Eugenio Batac, hepe ng Department of Medicine at COVID-19 vaccination team leader ng CRH kung saan idinaos ang seremonyal na pag-umpisa ng vaccination program dito sa Caraga region.

May kabuoang 650 vials ng COVID-19 vaccines ang inisyal na naideliver sa CRH.

Positibo naman ang pagtanggap ni Grace Platil, chief nurse ng naturang ospital, sa itinurok sa kanya na bakuna. Ayon pa sa kanya, hindi siya nasaktan sa pagturok ng bakuna.

“Eto, katatapos ko lang natanggap ang aking first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Wala naman akong naramdamang hapdi o kakaiba. Talagang kailangan natin ito upang maprotektahan ang ating mga sarili sa pagkahawa sa nakakamatay na COVID-19,” sabi ni Platil.

Paalala naman ni Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr. kahit may available nang bakuna ay patuloy pa ring sundin ang safety at health protocols hanggang tuluyan ng matapos ang pandemya.

“COVID-19 vaccines help our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19. It’s our defense aside from the regular wearing face mask and face shield, washing of hands, and social distancing,” sabi ni Llacuna.

Bagama’t hindi sapilitan ang pagbabakuna, tumaas naman ang kumpyansa ng mga Caraganon sa pagsisimula at patuloy na pagratsada ng pagbabakuna.

“Payag po ako na maturukan ng bakuna laban COVID-19 dahil hindi lamang ang aking sarili ang mapoprotektahan nito kundi pati na rin ang aking pamilya,” pahayag ni Arnel Arceso, residente ng Surigao City na may anak at nagtatrabaho rin sa isang pribadong ospital.

Bukas ay nakatakda naman ang pagbabakuna ng mga recipients sa Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center sa Surigao del Sur kung saan may nakalaan at naideliver nang 500 vials ng COVID-19 vaccines.

Labing-isang referral hospitals ang inaasahang mabibigyan sa 9,000 vials ng vaccines na dumating sa Caraga region nito lamang Biyernes, Marso 5. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Senator Richard Gordon berated former and current officials of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Department of Transportation (DOTR) who entered into anomalous deals with private companies that caused the delay in the production and distribution of vehicle license plates.

“‘Yung kanilang pagpapahirap sa mga tao, whoever causes damage to third parties and other agencies, ay anti-graft ‘yon. Ngayon, dahil ang laki-laki ng pera, baka umabot sila doon sa tinatawag na plunder. ‘Yon ang sinisilip natin ngayon,” warned Gordon, Chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

In an interview with Double B TV, he enumerated numerous violations committed by officials from both the Aquino III and Duterte administrations. In 2013 DOTR opened bidding for the procurement of plates without appropriation. Former DOTR Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and DOTR Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Jose Perpetuo Lotilla then signed a multi-year contract with joint venture PPI-JKG without securing a Multi-Year Obligational Authority from the Department of Budget and Management.

The Commission on Audit called the procurement transaction “irregular and illegal,” and disallowed an advance payment to PPI-JKG worth PHP 478M. A Supreme Court restraining order finally halted the production of plates for both motor vehicles and motorcycles in 2016.

“Umabot ng tatlong taon ‘yon, tatlong taon wala tayong plaka. Hanggang tumawid na sa bagong administrasyon, na hinahanapan ng tao ng plaka ang gobyerno. LTO, ‘yan ang pakay nila, walang plaka, tapos kanya-kanya na lang,” Gordon admonished. “Nahihirapan din ang mga pulis na manghuli, at pinapahirapan din ang mga tao na dumadaan sila sa checkpoint, di naman nila kasalanang wala silang plaka.”

PPI-JKG then could not deliver their vehicle plate dues because another supplier Trojan—to whom LTO consistently awarded the contracts for the supply of license plates since 2018—monopolized LTO’s Order Management System, and the Digital Signature that is an important feature of the new plates. The issuance of license plates is further delayed.

“Kasalanan ito ng LTO at DOTR,” Gordon announced, vowing to hold accountable all the erring officials who were involved in the anomalous procurement transactions. The Blue Ribbon Committee continues to investigate the implementation of Republic Act 11235 or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act. 

DAR ordered to speed up land distribution to defeat communist insurgency

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte wants the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to hasten land distribution in areas that remain hotbeds for communist insurgency to eliminate the rebels’ influence.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech during the Joint National Task Force (NTF)-Regional Task Force (RTF) to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) Region 10 meeting at the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Cagayan De Oro City on March 5, 2021. ACE MORANDANTE/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

In his message in Cagayan de Oro City during the Joint National Task Force (NTF)-Regional Task Force (RTF) to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) Region 10, President Duterte said 450,000 hectares of land are up for distribution, based on the report of Agrarian Reform Secretary John Castriciones.

“I hope that you will be able to distribute it before my term ends. Something to do, leave behind. Thank you. I will give away all 400,000 (hectares)," the President said.

So far, the government has distributed more than 2,100 hectares in the Northern Mindanao region alone. It has been the President’s policy to give away all government-owned lands that have been idle for decades.

Apart from land, farmer beneficiaries should also receive fertilizer and seedlings from the government, the President said, expressing his willingness to spend money for the program.

The chief executive also made renewed offer to the rebels for a local peace dialogue. “This is my request from you: to go down here so we can talk. Do you want us to talk in the mountains? I will be the one to go up there.”

“I’m used to having dialogues with you, right? I’m used to that. If you want me to go there alone, then we can talk there. But you should swear on your honor that I go up there alive and come back down alive. Let’s talk.”

The Duterte government abandoned the peace talks with the communist movement after it insisted on a coalition government, which, according to the President, is non-negotiable.

And for those who want to return to the fold of the law, President Duterte said his government is ready to provide them with shelter and livelihood. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will extend skills training to rebel returnees for them to secure well-paying jobs.

“For those who do not want war, those who understand what’s wrong and right, you know that we will know if what you did was right or wrong, we will still welcome you,” he told the rebels.

“I’ll give you a house and a job. And while you don’t have a job, I’ll give you rice. I’ll also find a job for your wife. TESDA is there,” he added.  PND

Ordinansa nga mag-amnestiya mga buhis sa yuta aprobado na sa AgNor

By Ramil L. Pasco

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Marso 9 -- Giaprobahan sa ikaduhang pagbasa sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan atol sa sesyon regular kaniadtong Marso 1 ang Proposed Provincial Ordinance No.407-2021 nga mag deklarar og amnestiya sa pagbayad sa interest o penalty niadtong mga magbubuhis sa Probinsya nga wala naka bayad sa real property taxes tungod sa pandemya. Ang maapil sa amnestiya mao kadtong, interest o penalties hangtod sa Disyembre 31, 2020.

Ang naasoy nga ordinansa gipasikad sa sulat-hangyo ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera isip suporta sa mga tag-iya sa real properties nga naningkamot pa og balik gikan sa pinansyal nga kalisod tungod sa pandemya.

Matod pa ni Gob. Corvera nga ang paghatag og lugway sa buhis makatabang sa ilang lakang sa rehabilitasyon ug sa samang higayon madani ang mga magbubuhis nga mobayad sa ilang mga obligasyon. Gisuportahan ang naasoyng sugyot ordinansa ni Junie Vinatero, Provincial Assesors.

Ang real properties nga maapil sa amnestiya mao ang mosunod:

* Katong wala gideklara para buhis;

* Kadtong gideklara apan dili pa hingpit nabayran ang buhis

* Kadtong gisubasta sa siyudad ug mga lungsod sa lalawigan, apan walay nipalit atol sa maong subasta, basta ang titulo o tax declaration wala pa nabalhin sa ngalan sa LGU.

* Kadtong adunay kaso sa korte tungod sa pagkadelingkwente sa buhis

Ubos sa Section 276 sa R.A. 7160, the Local Government Code of 1991, kon adunay kalamidad sa bisan unsang probinsya, siyudad. o munisipyo, ang hingtungdan sa Sanggunian, pinaagi sa ordinansa nga gipasa sa wala pa ang inang adlaw sa Enero sa bisan unsang tuig ug pinaagi sa rekomendasyon sa Local Disaster Coordinating Council, pwede modeklara nga menosan o ipaubos ang interes o penalty sa real property taxes sa LGU nga naapektohan sa kalamidad.

Strictly observe minimum health protocols to fight COVID-19, President Duterte reminds public

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday, March 8, has urged the public to vigilantly follow health protocols such as wearing face masks, frequent handwashing, and observing physical distancing to stem the rising coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the country.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on March 8, 2021. RICHARD MADELO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

“Iyan lang ang payo namin sa inyo. Maniwala kayo sa gobyerno, sumunod lang kayo,” President Duterte said in his weekly address to the nation.

“Sana, sana kung makatulong lang kayo sa bayan, sumunod lang kayo at medyo mapababa natin ang kaso ng COVID.”

Reducing the rate of infection will help the government “effectively combat” emerging COVID-19 variants, President Duterte said.

Enforcing the law, he said, is also crucial in managing the pandemic especially “for those who do not believe” as well as citizens “avoiding social distancing".

The President also underscored the important role of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in government’s pandemic response, noting it is crucial for the country’s welfare that the DILG “plays its role".

In particular, President Duterte pointed out the participation of the barangays as the government unit that can best address coronavirus infections in the country through strict enforcement of health protocols in their respective localities.

The dedication of local chieftains in the government’s coronavirus fight is crucial in protecting public health, the chief executive said.

“Ang barangay ang pinakaimportante sa lahat and kung talagang ginusto ng lahat ng mga barangay captains na magtrabaho, really work at it, baka talagang ma --- well, decrease the number of transition,” he said.

Barangay captains and other local leaders should also have the “political will” to see to it that their constituents get vaccinated against COVID-19, he noted.

The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 3,356 new infections on March 8, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country to 597,763 with 545,912 recoveries and 12,521 deaths.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has reported the spiking number of cases in Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and National Capital Region (NCR).

The NCR recorded high two-week growth rate, Duque said, adding those in the critical risk are Pasay City and Malabon City while those in the high-risk level are the cities of Navotas, Makati and San Juan.

The health chief also assured that although there is a rising number of infections in those areas, the government is doing everything to ensure that hospitals have the capability to threat individuals infected by the virus.  PND

Gov’t may receive 20 million COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2nd quarter of 2021— vaccine czar

The government may secure more than 20 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines in the second quarter of this year, the country’s vaccine czar said on Monday.

National Task Force against Coronavirus Disease-2019 (NTF COVID-19) chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. listens as President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on March 8, 2021. JOEY DALUMPINES/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

In his report to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the Philippines may receive more than 20 million doses of vaccines in April, May or June.

Galvez, who is also the chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19, told the President that in June or July, he expects shipments from Sinovac, Novavax and the World Health Organization-led COVAX facility.

“And then also ‘yong ano sir sa May - June, baka dumating na rin po ‘yong AstraZeneca. Mayroon pong order ang private sector na 2.6 million (doses),” Galvez told President Duterte.

The vaccine czar also reported the recent vaccine shipment, telling the President that they have received the additional 38,400 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine from the COVAX facility.

With the latest delivery, the government had a total of 525,600 doses from the WHO-led initiative.

“Then ngayon, ang total na po ng ating doses na dumating po ngayon is from 600,000 na Sinovac at saka 525,600. So ang total na po mayroon na po tayong 1,125,600 doses,” Galvez said.

Galvez also mentioned the ongoing vaccine rollout in the country, which he said, is now being done outside Metro Manila. The government started mass vaccination among health frontliners last March 4 in Cagayan de Oro City, Vicente Sotto Memorial Hospital in Cebu City, and Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City.

Mass inoculation was also conducted in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) using Sinovac vaccine, he reported, adding similar rollouts were done in different civilian hospitals including Makati Medical Center.

Public confidence on COVID-19 vaccines is also increasing, Galvez said, noting that after hospital directors received the shots, there’s a growing acceptance of the jab from the people.

“Noong nagkaroon po tayo ng vaccination ng ating mga director ng mga hospital, tumaas po ang level ng kanilang confidence,” he said.

“In fact, doon sa Northern Mindanao Medical Center, almost --- halos 100 percent ‘yong nagpapabakuna na.”  PND

President Duterte says VP Robredo’s comment counterproductive, asks public to trust gov’t

Vice President Leni Robredo’s comment on the government’s vaccination campaign is ill-timed and she should shut up if she could not say anything helpful, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said on Monday.

In his weekly public address on government’s COVID-19 interventions, President Duterte said the statement made by the vice president is creating doubts in the mind of the public over the vaccines being rolled out by the government.

Robredo supported the call of some health workers for the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) to review Sinovac Biotech’s CoronaVac vaccine.

“Hindi niya binasa ang batas na recommendatory lang ang HTAC. If the opinion is sought by the secretary of Justice and by other in the medical profession in government,” the President said of the vice president.

The chief executive said the government is in a race against time to save the lives of millions of Filipinos from the coronavirus and any misleading information could discourage people from taking COVD-19 shot.

“Ngayon, we were fighting because time was of the essence. We were fighting against the tide of non-believers na huwag kayong matakot, ganito. Now, here comes the statement na hindi niya --- hindi niya binasa kumpleto ang batas, with just a simple statement, magke-create ka ng doubt,” he said.

The government is doing everything to convince the public that the vaccines are safe and effective and such comment could create uncertainty in people’s minds and eventually opt not to get vaccinated, the President said.

President Duterte explained that the HTAC recommendation is not necessary because Sinovac’s vaccine was not acquired and was given Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Rallying support for the government’s immunization program, President Duterte asked the public to trust the administration’s plan of actions.

“Alam mo mga kababayan, isa sa pinakaimportante talaga is maniwala kayo sa gobyerno. At huwag lang basta-basta --- sinabi ko nga sa inyo noon eh, dito kayo makinig sa gobyerno kasi ‘yon ang trabaho namin. Pinapag-aralan muna at bago gagamitin,” he said.

“So I hope that next time kung wala naman siyang masabi na tama, she just would maybe shut up. Siguraduhin niya muna o hindi magbasa siya, siya mismo,” he added.  PND

GORDON HONORS CONSTITUTIONALIST FR. JOAQUIN BERNAS THRU A RESOLUTION

Dinagat Islands town SK joins local gov’t for vaccination initiatives

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 10 (PIA) -- With the expected vaccine rollout for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Dinagat Islands in the succeeding weeks, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Loreto town joins the local government in its preparations.

“We will build a team whose primary function is to coordinate with Loreto’s task force [for COVID-19] for the vaccination program. We will make sure to always participate in the planning [and in] the steps to be undertaken,” said Kimberly Salem, Vice President of Loreto town’s SK, during her guesting at the Network Briefing News recently with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Sec. Martin Andanar.

The youth leader also said that they will also orient members of the youth council to execute the vaccination procedure properly, leaving no room for errors.

Transparency and information dissemination on the upcoming rollout will also be given ample attention, where Vice President Salem said that monitoring and evaluation will be properly done and all actions undertaken for the vaccination will be documented and recorded.

The rollout for the COVID-19 vaccines is ongoing, with 11 priority public and private hospitals in the Surigao and Agusan provinces and the city of Butuan participating. A total of 4,500 health care workers are expected to get vaccinated on the initial vaccine rollout. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

DENR receives wildlife ambulance from USAID

BUTUAN CITY, March 10 -- To mark World Wildlife Day and strengthen the Philippine government’s wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) turned over on March 2 a new wildlife ambulance to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The wildlife ambulance which is the first of its kind in the country will help the DENR’s National Wildlife Rescue and Research Center improve its response time during wildlife rescue and retrieval, as well as facilitate the provision of immediate on-site care for injured and trafficked wildlife.

The specially designed vehicle has furnished cabinets for veterinary and wildlife handling equipment, a collapsible veterinary examination table and seats, and a roof rack for transporting animal crates, ladders, and other equipment for wildlife rescue.

USAID also handed over WILDBase, a centralized online system for recording and monitoring rescued wildlife. WILDBase will help rescue centers keep track of wildlife in their care, as well as medical records, inventory, and other important information for rescue center operations and decision-making.

“We appreciate USAID’s continued generosity to the DENR through the years. The enforcement of our wildlife laws, rules, and regulations do not end with the confiscation of the wildlife and the prosecution of the violators,” said Usec. Adobo.

He furthered that with this new ambulance, WILDBase, and newest equipment and materials, they can more easily treat and monitor the health of confiscated wildlife.

“This ambulance and online system complete USAID’s program of assistance for the DENR’s National Wildlife Rescue and Research Center, and complements the Center’s new wildlife diagnostics equipment, wildlife handling tools, and digital innovations,” said Seong.

Since 2016, the Protect Wildlife project has helped protect 750,000 hectares of diverse landscapes and seascapes, trained 2,300 men and women in improved environmental enforcement practices, and brought economic and environmental benefits to 95,000 Filipinos through environmentally sustainable livelihoods, community-based enforcement, and sustainably managed natural resources. (U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/PIA-Caraga)

NPA member rescued by Army troops in Surigao del Norte

By Capt. Joash Pramis

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mar. 10 -- An armed member of the New People’s Army (NPA) Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) 16C2, Guerilla Front16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) who ran away from the said terrorist group was rescued by the troops of 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, Philippine Army, bringing along with him his M14 rifle after a firefight transpired in Serinihon, Brgy. Camp Edward, Alegria, Surigao del Norte, morning of March 5, 2021.

The said NPA member revealed after he was successfully rescued that he decided to escape and liberate from the group as he was fed up with the lies and failed promises of the NPA terrorists. Upon learning also the benefits and the seriousness of the government to help former rebels through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs (ECLIP), he has finally decided to return to the fold of the law.  

Necessary information about the ECLIP including contact numbers has been massively disseminated by the 30IB troops through its regular radio programs that reached the far-flung areas of the Battalion’s area of operations. The troops also distributed leaflets in an effort to reach out the NPA’s active members and to provide them with means to contact the said army troopers and other government agencies.

Prior to the encounter the said NPA member reached out to the 30IB's hotline number while he was on his way out from the NPA terrorist group and being chased by several of his ex-comrades.  

Responding to the said information, the unit sent out a patrol to purposely extricate the said defecting NPA member. While approaching the designated meeting place, the government troops encountered more or less seven NPA members of SYP16C2, GF16.

The encounter lasted for about ten minutes of giving the said defecting NPA an opportunity to further secure himself along with his issued M14, seven magazines with 21 live ammunitions and one bandolier. 

Meanwhile, the 30IB troops successfully secured and brought him safely at the headquarters in Brgy Mahanub, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. He is now under the custody of 30IB for proper documentation and processing of his benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“Malisod di ya kahimtang ka banwa daw anisab kanaong na batian nga madajaw sa ya kahimyang na mga kaibahan nga mingbaba ka una. Daw nakitan sab nao nga wara ya kahamjangan ka kalihukan agun min baba koman hao kay para maka hula ka mahamjang. (The situation in the mountain is hard. I’ve heard that my former comrades who surrendered before are now living peacefully and I also noticed that there is no better life in the armed struggle. So, that’s the reason for my surrender in order to live peacefully)," the defecting NPA lamented.

Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Charles G. Callanta, commanding Officer of 30IB, said that “the fateful incident is a clear manifestation that NPA ranks are slowly disintegrating, making most of their ordinary members tired and fed up with the endless false promises and lies by its leaders giving them empty hopes."

"One can imagine how hard it is to being always on the run, hiding, when tiredness and hunger crept in, how can one endure these situations? Amidst of this, we continue to urge the remaining active NPA members to decide and embrace the path of peace and avail the governments’ reintegration program, the ECLIP. Rest assured that we will assist them along with the respective LGUs of Surigao del Norte to renew their lives and build their future with their families and loved ones through the foundation of peace, free from fear and intimidations,” he said. (901st Infantry Brigade/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

NPA rebels withdraw from a clash with gov’t troops

By 1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, March 10 -- The members of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) withdrew in disarray after a 15-minute clash with the troops of the 29th Infantry "Matatag Fighters” Batallion on March 7, 2021, around 7:44 in the morning at the vicinity of Brgy. Linongganan, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte. 

The CNTs have withdrawn towards the east direction of the said barangay leaving one anti-personnel mine, three blasting caps, 12 Eveready battery (A), two bottles of diesel, one backpack, food supplies, medical paraphernalia and other subversive documents with high intelligence value.

There was no casualty on the government side while undetermined on the enemy’s side since bloodstains were also seen in their route of withdrawal.

“Our troops will sustain security operations against CNTs who are hiding in the hinterlands. They have nowhere to go. We will find them. Residents were already fed up with all their lies and deception. It would be better for them to stop and surrender now. The crooked ideology which they have been indoctrinated with is just a snare and chain that will drag them to infinite misery," said Lt. Col. Aristotle F. Antonio, commanding officer of 29IB.

He also commended the troops for courageously facing the enemy. "You did not fail your people on the shared responsibility entrusted on you to secure peace and freedom, especially against deceitful schemes by the CNTs,” Lt.Col. Antonio said. (CMO officer, 29IB/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

U.S. welcomes arrival to PH of U.S.-supported COVAX vaccines

BUTUAN CITY, March 10 -- The United States (U.S.) welcomes the successful arrival of 487,200 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to the Philippines on Thursday, March 4. These vaccines were made available through the COVAX Advance Market Commitment, a global initiative to support equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.

The United States already has donated P97.2 billion ($2 billion) to COVAX, by far the largest contribution, to ensure the Philippines and other countries receive COVID-19 vaccines.

In February, the U.S. government announced a total planned contribution of P194.4 billion ($4 billion) to the COVAX Advance Market Commitment. The United States already has provided an initial P97.2 billion ($2 billion), and the Philippines is among the first countries in the region to have received COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX facility.

“The United States is proud to be the largest contributor to COVAX, and we welcome the successful arrival of the first tranche of AstraZeneca vaccines in the Philippines. As we fight the pandemic together, the United States will continue to support the Philippines’ vaccination and COVID-19 mitigation efforts,” said U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law.

The U.S. contributions to COVAX, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), will support the purchase and delivery of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines for the world’s most vulnerable and at-risk populations in 92 low and middle-income countries. This support is critical to controlling the pandemic, slowing the emergence of new variants, and helping to restart the global economy.

The United States has worked closely with Philippine stakeholders throughout the duration of the pandemic to protect public health and strengthen the response to COVID-19. To date, total U.S. government COVID-19 assistance to the Philippines has amounted to more than P1.1 billion ($23.4 million). (U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/PIA-Caraga)

Women of the 21st century transcend to break free

BUTUAN CITY, March 10 -- March is Women's Month, and today's women transcend to break free from the past. Leading this clarion call for women to break free include Miss World 2013 Megan Young and Miss Trans Global 2020 Mela Habijan.

Together with the community volunteers, Megan and Mela headline Transcend by LoveYourself's women empowerment segment of its latest campaign, #BreakFreePH.

This campaign hopes to inspire ciswomen and transgender people to fight off the stigma surrounding sexual health and ensure their holistic well-being. Women deserve to be taken care of and respected even for their sexual health choices.

Filipinos should also continually welcome newer perspectives and create more inclusive actions for all genders. Megan and Mela, whose purposes are beyond their beauty and title, aim to enable voiceless women to break free from any form of abuse, discrimination, and violence.

In the #BreakFreePH campaign video (http://bit.ly/MeganBreakFreePH), Megan emphasized that society is never just a man's world and that empowered women are no different. As women of the 21st century, "We are not limited by our sex and physical built," Megan stressed.

Mela, a woman of trans experience, underscored that trans women are valid and refuse to be seen differently. She mentioned that transgender people can fulfill roles regardless of gender, such as being parents, having a business, or being in anything they choose to pursue.

Mela highlighted that trans people definitely exist as an essential part of the country's developing society. "We are not limited by our gender transition," she firmly said on another #BreakFreePH campaign video (http://bit.ly/MelaBreakFreePH).

Lastly, the #BreakFreePH also discussed gender-related socio-political issues concerning all women like physical abuse, verbal assault, rape, hate crimes, psychological violence, and killings.

HIV advocate Janlee Dungca, Cebuana vlogger Alem Garcia and trans man Nick Escalderon will also take part in the campaign to promote the holistic well-being of trans people, especially for their gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and health-related issues about transitioning.

Transcend by LoveYourself was established in 2020 to address the lack of services catered for trans health issues such as biomedical transitioning and ciswomen's sexual concerns. It was finally made into fruition in view of expanding the services offered in the country’s first community-led transgender health center called Victoria by LoveYourself. This community center offers free gender-sensitive HIV testing and transition counseling and consultation services, among others. (LoveYourself PH/PIA-Caraga)

DA Caraga gears economic up-scaling through farm clustering

By Aurelius P. Arais

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 10 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga is taking a big leap to level-up farmers and fisherfolks cooperative and associations (FCAs) in Caraga Region to attain economies of scale.

This is through the implementation of the Farmers and Fisherfolks Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) otherwise called Bayanihan Agri-Clusters (BACs).

As a jumpstart of the implementation, massive information dissemination had been implemented for them to be able to grasp the importance of the clustering approach.

“Despite the pandemic, our F2C2 team has had conducted briefing in different municipalities and cities around the region,” Rebecca Reyes Atega, Regional Technical Director for Operations said.

A Regional Technical Working Group (RTWG) had been created for the said purpose headed by Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo as the over-all coordinator with RTD Atega and Maria Espenido as F2C2 Regional Focal Person and Alternate Focal Person respectively.

To strengthen the associations, DA-Caraga had already conducted two batches of Training on Financial Management for Bayanihan Agri-Clusters.

“We want to capacitate our FCAs with the necessary skills to effectively manage their group especially in the financial matter, which is considered the bread and butter of the group’s existence,” Atega reiterated.

Atega said that the program is also working closely with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to assist farmers and fisherfolks cooperative and associations, so they can have the legal identity to manage a business.

On August 5, 2020, DA Secretary William D. Dar issued Administrative Order No. 27, series of 2020 mandating DA Regional Offices to establish the F2C2 Program towards greater inclusive agri-business development in the country.

Atega explained that through BACs, DA can effectively assist FCAs to achieve and benefit from economies of scale, forge stronger linkages among agri-producers and markets, improve bargaining and market power, establish better access to credit and financing, encourage active “Big Brother – Small Brother” partnerships and joint ventures between FCAs and large corporate enterprises, and raise the overall productivity of the agriculture sector.

Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo said that clustering is an effective way of achieving a food secure Philippines through a prosperous farmers and fisherfolks.
 
“Clustered areas will be prioritized by the government support and interventions such as production and mechanization support as well as technical training, so in time, they will become a key player in the economy through agribusiness, not just mere producers,” Monteagudo stressed.

As of now, about 32 BACs have been identified as pilot areas in Caraga Region and are expected to increase as more farmer associations appreciate the advantage of the F2C2 program. (DA-Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Mga residente sa usa ka barangay sa Buenavista gipasabot sa hustong pagpahiluna sa basura

By Shena Mae Pabia/Lexter Fernandez

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Marso 10 -- Mokabat sa kapin 100 ka mga mulopyo sa Brgy. Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte ang natudloan kaganina, Pebrero 23, sa proper waste segregation nga gipangunahan sa buhatan sa Municipal and Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) Buenavista.

Kabahin ang maong kalihukan sa Information and Education Campaign (IEC) sa Solid Waste Management sa MENRO sa lungsod.

Unang gipasabot sa mga mulopyo ang mahitungod sa Republic Act 9003 o Ecological Solid Waste Management. Ika-duha ang hustong pamaagi sa paglabay og basura o pag segregate niini sa “malata, di-malata ug mapuslan pa.”

Matod ni Lexter Fernandez, personahe sa MENRO Buenavista, usa sa tumong sa aktibidad nga human sa pag edukar nila makabaton ang barangay sa sistemang “Purok Based Collection” aron mas mahan-ay pa ang pagpangolekta sa basura.

Mitambong sa maong kalihukan ang mga Barangay Officials, Purok presidents, mga personahe sa MENRO ug mga negosyante sa maong barangay.

Gilaoman sa MENRO-Buenavista nga aduna pay mo sunod sama ani nga kalihukan sa walo pa ka-barangay sa maong lungsod.

Ang pagpahiluna sa mga basura kabahin sa Lunhaw’ng Agusan Flagship Program sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Angel Amante-Matba. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

GORDON COMMENDS THIS YEAR’S TOYM AWARDEES 

AgSur LGU receives fund for Monolithic Dome Cold Storage Project from DA-Caraga

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur, Mar. 11 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga headed by Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo, recently turned-over the cheque for the funds intended for the Monolithic Dome Cold Storage and Packing Facility for Fruits and Vegetables to the local government unit (LGU) of San Franciso, Agusan del Sur.

The said project is under the High-Value Crops Development Program and costs a total of P25,000,000.00 with P20,000,000 funded by the DA–Caraga and P5,000,000 as LGU counterpart.    

Dir. Monteagudo said the Monolithic Dome Cold Storage, which prolongs storage of perishable goods, is a timely project since these are still difficult times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and travel and movement are still limited.

On the other hand, Municipal Mayor Solomon Rufila said that they would hasten the implementation of the said project so that the farmers of San Francisco and even those from the neighboring municipalities can already start benefitting from it.

The turn-over ceremony was also attended by DA-Caraga Field Operations Division OIC Melody Guimary, HVCDP Coordinator Marco Antonio Morido, and Municipal Agriculturist Viña Ranoco. (DA-RFO XIII, RAFIS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

RTWPB Caraga conducts 'usapang 2Ps' cum orientation on labor standards to MSMEs

By Sara Mae Cassion-Dahuyla

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 11 -- The Regional Tripartite Wages & Productivity Board (RTWPB) – Caraga in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga and Cabadbaran City Business Club, Inc. recently conducted an Orientation on Productivity Toolbox, Wage Related Statistics and Incentivizing Schemes to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at Loreta Resort in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

The said activity was conducted in two batches, one session in the morning participated by 13 establishments and one session in the afternoon participated by 21 establishments.

The activity is aimed to promote the various productivity technologies under the Productivity Toolbox and encourage enterprises to motivate their respective workers thru performance incentive schemes.

Lawyer Claire L. Jamero, Attorney IV, opened the discussion by formally introducing the office's basic services and its mandates and composition.

Earl D. Dela Victoria, Board Secretary VI, discussed the Productivity Toolbox and Incentivizing schemes.  He said, the agency provides different productivity programs and services to help establishments improve businesses and enhance workers to be more competitive, quality conscious and service oriented.

Dela Victoria also encouraged the business owners to adopt the Performance Based Incentive Scheme. “Despite of what the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic brought to the business industry, the grant of incentives to workers for work related performance will help increase productivity, competitiveness and improvement in overall business performance,” he added.

Also, Lilian Solis, Senior Labor and Employment of DOLE Caraga, shared her knowledge in discussing the General labor Standards. The discussion is to give information and assistance to MSMEs when it comes to the rules and regulations relating to wages, hours of work, allowances, other monetary and welfare benefits, etc.

After the discussion, participants are encouraged to avail of the free programs and services of RTWPB.

Minimum Health Protocols and safety measures were strictly observed before entering the venue and during the activity. (RTWPB Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Pagpalapad sa Moringa Processing Project sa Jabonga gipursige

By Angel Lyn F. Gaviola

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Marso 11 -- Nauyonan sa ikaduhang miting tali sa mga representante sa lungsod sa Jabonga, sa non-government Agri-Aqua Development Coalition (AADC) ug sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa mga personahe sa AGUSAN UP! nga ipursige ang pagpalapad sa Moringa Processing Project alang sa kabulahanan sa labing ubos 50 ka pamilya nga nagpasiugda niini.

Sugdan ang lakang pagpalapad sa operation niini sa diagnostics nga himoon aron mahimong basehan sa hulmahon nga business plan.

Ang mahimong business plan nga gipunting nga mahuman sa Abril ang mahimong basehan unya sa mosunod nga mga lakang unya.

Sumala pa ni Glenda Plaza, ang deputy administrator sa AADC, ang NGO nga nagtabang sa pagpahiluna sa maong proyekto nga daku ang mahimong tabang sa maong proyekto sa panginabuhian sa mga residente sa mga lungsod sa Jabonga ug Kitcharao, ilabi na sa mga kababayen-an nga maoy nag-unang makabenepisyo sa proyekto sa pagproseso sa moringa powder, moringa tea, ug flakes.

Mahinumdoman nga isip resulta sa unang meeting nga gipatawag ni Mayor Napoleon Montero sa Jabonga naporma ang Techincal Working Group (TWG) nga motuon sa mahimong lakang aron ma-estabize ug mapalapad ang operisyon sa maong proyekto. 

Ang nakita nga problema sa kooperatiba sa kababeyen-an nga nagpadagan sa proyekto ngano nga hinay ang dagan sa proyekto mao ang panginahanglan og building nga mahimong kapahilunaan sa makinarya aron makakuha ang proyekto og License to Operate ug Certificate of Product Registration gikan sa Food and Drug and Administration (FDA). 

Apan nauyonan sa unang meeting nga posibleng naa pay mga kinahanglang tan-awon sa kinatibuk-an aspeto sa proyekto aron magmalamposon ang pag-establize ug pagplapad sa operisyon niini.

Ang pagpahiluna og mga processing projects kabahin sa Process! Process! Process! Project sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kongresista Angel Amante-Matba. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

President Duterte inaugurates infrastructure projects in Negros Oriental

Philippines must address rapid population growth, says President Duterte

Caraga ConsumerNet members tackle ways vs plastic pollution

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 12 (PIA) -- Being the lead agency of the Consumer Network (ConsumerNet) in Caraga region, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has briefed its members from different government agencies and private sector on plastic pollution and how to prevent it.

Lorijane Sacote of DTI-Caraga shared how consumers could be wise enough in purchasing items with a limited budget. She also cited several ways on how to reduce wastes. "The best way to manage waste is not to produce it," she said.

“If we want to live with less plastic, let us practice the following: 1) Bring your own shopping bag; 2) Carry a reusable water bottle; 3) Bring your own cup; 4) Pick your lunch in reusable containers; 5) Say no to disposable straws and cutlery; 6) Skip the plastic produce bags; 7) Slow down and dine in; 8) Store leftovers in glass jars; and 9) Share these tips with your friends,” added Sacote.

Sacote further encouraged consumers to recycle materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turn them into new products. “Look for the recycled option in all the products your buy,” she bared.

Meanwhile, Leslie Cortes, representative from the Department of Health (DOH)-Caraga, also briefed from the members the COVID-19 vaccination program of the government that the public must know about. She bared that the DOH with the local government units in the region will implement an electronic immunization registry in sites following priority eligible groups.

“We could protect our families by getting ourselves vaccinated and getting our immediate families vaccinated too,” Cortes said. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

195 MSMEs receive starter kits from DTI in SurSur

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 12 (PIA) -- Some 195 micro-small medium enterprises (MSMEs) beneficiaries who were affected by the onslaught of Tropical Storm Auring have received the livelihood starter kits worth P5,000.00 from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Surigao del Sur, recently.

Surigao del Sur business owners receive the livelihood starter kits from the Department of Trade and Industry. (Photo by: Nerissa M. Espinosa, RP1-Tandag)

In a radio interview, DTI Provincial Director Romel Oribe revealed that the distribution was conducted last March 5, 2021, not only in the provincial level but as well as, in the regional and national level spearheaded by the said agency. 

The activity was graced by DTI-Caraga Assistant Regional Director Gay Tidalgo with Provincial Director Oribe, Tandag City Vice Mayor Eleanor Momo, and a representative from the Office of Senator Bong Go, Atty. Renan Lasala.

Liezel Dua, one of the recipients, extended her gratitude as she benefitted the livelihood program. “Mapasalamaton ako sa DTI kay dako na ni na tabang sa akoa. (I am thankful for DTI for the great help)," she said.

Meanwhile, the beneficiaries also received aid from the Office of Senator Bong Go composed of food packs and vitamins. Some beneficiaries also won bicycles, tablets, and shoes in a raffle draw conducted. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Army introduces 'Memoirs of a Teenage Rebel’ docu film to Agusanons

By 1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Mar. 12 -- The 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army in cooperation with the city government of Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte recently launched a free film viewing of ‘Memoirs of a Teenage Rebel’ at the Rizal Park Plaza, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

The documentary film is a workpiece of the Philippine Army in cooperation with Robinhood Cariño (RCP) Productions, to expose the schemes committed by the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and their front organizations.

It covers the story of Ivy Lyn Corpin, a former rebel, who left the armed group in her pursuit of much peaceful life.

Likewise, the unit has also uploaded the said full movie at the 29IB Official Facebook Page for those others who were not able to watch it at the plaza.

According to Lt. Col. Aristotle Antonio, Commanding Officer of 29IB, the movie is perfect to be watched by youth and parents to help them see the reality of deception and recruitment made by the NPAs. "Also, this would awaken the sense of responsibility of every parent to better lookout and properly guide their children,” Lt. Col. Antonio said.

“The unit has been very zealous in its aim to conduct information education campaign (IEC) in the whole area of operation, not just that they may be informed and awaken from its sweetest lies, but also that people may not have any excuse to say that they have been deceived or that they didn’t know that it was NPAs then,” he added. (CMO Officer, 29IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

A jab up for grabs

By Venus L. Garcia

With the government mainly ensuring the welfare of the country and every Filipino, the life-saving coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines were finally delivered in the Caraga region.

The vaccination speedily commenced wherein more than 900 frontline healthcare workers of the Caraga Regional Hospital (CRH) in Surigao City have signified for the first batch of COVID-19 vaccination in the region.

First to get the jab of CoronaVac vaccine from a Chinese company Sinovac was Dr. Angel Eugenio Batac, Department of Medicine head and vaccination team leader of the CRH where the historic ceremonial vaccination was held.

“Vaccination is most beneficial especially for us medical frontliners and those others who are in the frontline service. Let’s do away with the apprehensions and be glad instead that the vaccines have now arrived in our region. This is one of the means to totally terminate the pandemic,” said Dr. Batac.

Out of the 9,000 vials of Sinovac vaccines received, a total of 650 vials were initially delivered to the CRH while recipients from the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Surigao del Sur were also given from the allocated 500 vials of COVID-19 vaccines.

Grace Platil, chief nurse of the CRH and the first female vaccine recipient in the region, said she did not feel any pain at all as she received her initial dose.

She likewise motivates people by emphasizing optimism that a COVID-19 jab will be up for grabs not only to healthcare workers but to the elderly, people who are considered most vulnerable, and to every Filipino.

“Here I am now, I just got my first dose and I didn’t feel a sting of pain or whatsoever. We really need to be inoculated as a defense against the deadly virus and as a protection not only for ourselves but for our loved ones and the people surrounding us,” she said, describing her condition after taking the shot of vaccine.

Meanwhile, Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr. advised that even with the availability of vaccines, people should not let their guard down and continue to follow the safety and health protocols.

“COVID-19 vaccines help our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19. It’s our defense aside from the regular wearing face mask and face shield, washing of hands, and social distancing,” said Dir. Llacuna.

While the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines continues across the country, the Caraganons have an increased confidence that it would bring hope for a COVID-19-free world.

“I am willing to be vaccinated because I believe this is one important way to help stop the pandemic. I want my family to be protected from the risk of acquiring the virus,” said Arnel Arceso, a resident and an employee in one of the private hospitals in Surigao City.

According to Lacuna, the government assured that the purchased and distributed vaccines are safe and effective.

The initial 9,000 vials of vaccines that arrived in the Caraga region are expected to be distributed to the eleven referral hospitals.

The allocated vaccines for the region cover two doses with an interval of four weeks from the first dose. (Venus L. Garcia/PIA-Caraga)

PNU-Mindanao supports TF-ELCAC peace efforts

AgNor coop gets multi-purpose building

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 15 -- The San Isidro Upland Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SIUFMULCO) assisted through the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) of Agusan del Norte is the latest recipient of newly constructed Multi-Purpose Building (MPB) worth P857-thousand to help abaca farming-sector in Agusan del Norte.

The MPB was implemented through the DAR’s Project COnVERGE (Convergence on Value-Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment), under the provision of value-chain equipment and facilities.

SIUFMULCO is the lead group, with 23 participating ARBOs operating within the clustered municipalities of Tubay, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Santiago (TUJAKITSAN) agrarian reform communities.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Andre B. Atega said that the MPB will provide in various ways including marketing and agricultural services from the coop’s abaca value chain business enterprise.

Project ConVERGE Provincial Coordinator Annelyn R. Chan said that aside from MPB, several projects have had already distributed a package of support services intended for SIUFMULCO and its 23 participating ARBO members.

 “Under the project, the provision of value-chain equipment and facilities were also distributed which includes 17-stripping machines, 3-digital weighing scale, 1-truck scale, 1-hauling truck, and 2-shed houses since the program started from 2017,” Chan said.

She said the coop and its members are also the recipients of abaca suckers, organic fertilizer, nursery, stripping machines, abaca technology training, farm-to-market road, among others, distributed to the clustered areas as part of the project package of support services.

She noted that the interventions benefitted 5,819 abaca-farmers comprising 2,173 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and 3,646 Small-Holder Farmers (SHF).

SIUFMULCO General Manager Leonila Mila was delighted since taking advantage of the project interventions. She said the abaca business enterprise of SIUFMULCO has become profitable that resulted in the increase in the abaca farmers' income by 47% and a 35% increase in gross value of production. (DAR Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

DAR AgNor inks partnership with LGU of Cabadbaran City

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 15 -- A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing between the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cabadbaran City for the launching of Farm Business School (FBS) and signing of Memorandum of Understanding for Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) were conducted in Brgy. Avancena, Cabadbaran City recently.

PARPO II Atega appreciated the pro-active support from the LGU of Cabadbaran City led by City Mayor Judy C. Amante.

Atega noted that ABFMPC is one of the successful DAR-assisted cooperatives in the province whose members are composed of 105 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs).

Mayor Judy Chin-Amante, in her message, recognized the DAR’s effort and in partnership with different stakeholders helping together to implement this intervention.

Mayor Amante vowed to support and help the group's undertakings to raise the living standard of the agrarian reform beneficiaries.

OIC-Chief Ellen J. Torralba, of PBDD said that the project is in partnership with the LGU of Cabadbaran City, Agricultural Trainings Institute (ATI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Avancena Beneficiaries Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

She is hopeful that this project will be a successful one, making the ABFMPC a producer of fruits and vegetables in the city in addition to their rice trading.

Meantime, MARPO-Cabadbaran Joseph Torralba revealed that 70 percent of ABFMPC members were engaged in palay farming and 30 percent in upland farming.

He said that the FBS is a 25-session on-site training focused on capability building for good agricultural practices while the EPAHP assists in collective production and access greater value in the market chain aspect.

Sergio Baguhin, chairman of ABFMPC, has lauded the DAR-Agusan del Norte for the project that will significantly improve their production and income.

The ABFMPC is engaged in a milled rice business enterprise with marketing tie-ups with the city government of Cabadbaran for its social amelioration program. (DAR Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)