LGUs must have necessary infra for an effective vaccine rollout—President Duterte

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 Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 13, 2021. RICHARD MADELO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Local government units should have the necessary infrastructure to conduct mass inoculation drive and avoid wastage, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said on Thursday.

“We know that you can do it but see to it that the mechanism, ‘yong infrastructure ninyo sa baba kailangan must be able to come up with the numbers required kasi itong mga bakuna may expiry date. It cannot be effective forever. The efficacy loses in a less period of time than other medications,” President Duterte said during his public address on government response on COVID-19.

“So kailangan pagdating doon sa inyo mapatakbo na kaagad ninyo ‘yong administrative pati siguro mga local --- may mga hospital. Magtulung-tulungan na lang so that we would not waste the vaccines because we were not able to deliver it on time.”

It would be a problem if the vaccines expire due to lack of infrastructure on the part of the LGUs who are supposed to facilitate giving the shot to the targeted population on time, the President said.

Some vaccines are so sensitive that require certain temperature to maintain their efficacy such as Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna.

“I am just saying this because I do not want to lose the battle here through negligence,” he stressed. “Alam ninyo, you --- mga doktor all throughout alam nila ‘yan. It’s a very simple way of explaining to the people. The only problem is you are not able to administer the vaccines on time because there is a limited period of time for their effectiveness.”

The national government has presented to the private sector and LGUs its focus and expand strategy, aimed at prioritizing areas with high economic, social, and health risks, Secretary Carlito Galvez said in his report to the President.

Health experts have already identified those areas, Galvez said, noting the government will provide steady supply of vaccines in those jurisdictions once the bulk of supplies arrive.

Among those areas include the so-called NCR Plus, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.

For the NCR Plus, the vaccine czar said there’s a need to allocate 3.3 million every month. For Davao and Cebu, the allocation should be 400,000 each month.

He predicted that once this monthly allocation is reached, herd immunity could be achieved by November or by December.

Similar initiatives will be done in Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Calabarzon, Cagayan de Oro City, Baguio City, Cagayan Valley, CAR and Zamboanga.

“Ang gagawin po talaga natin is ‘yong tinatawag nating for focus targeting para ‘yong centers of gravity iyon kaagad ang ating i-strengthen para ‘yong risk mawala po, sir, ang risk,” he said.

“Mawala rin ang economic risk at puwede na po tayong mag-open ng ating economy. Iyon po ang ating strategy po na gagawin, Mr. President.”

The government has so far administered 2.6 million doses with a nationwide daily average of 83,000.

The government has a total vaccine inventory of 7.7 million doses and was able to put up 3,458 vaccination sites. PND

Phl expects 21.8 million vaccine doses in inventory by end-June

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members prior to his talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 13, 2021. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

The government is expecting a total inventory of 21.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses by the end of June, which will be enough to cover a segment of the population on the government’s priority list, the country’s vaccine czar said on Thursday.

Reporting to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said that vaccine negotiations are going smoothly, adding that the country expects full procurement of around 158 million doses and 44 million from the global COVAX program.

“Total po na ano natin dati ang ating computation is only 148 dahil nakuha natin mababa ‘yong presyo. Ngayon po makukuha po natin na ‘yong 202 million doses. Ito po ang mabibili po natin at ibibigay po sa atin ng COVAX,” Galvez told the President.

Negotiations with Sinovac and AstraZeneca are also good and the vaccines ordered by the local government units (LGUs) will be arriving soon, he noted.

Russia’s Gamaleya Research Institute will deliver 1.3 million doses this month, while a shipment of 250,000 doses from America’s Moderna will be coming this June.

Galvez also said that there will be a signing between the government and Pfizer on the head of terms for the supply of 40 million vaccine doses.

“And then ‘yong Novavax, bukas po ipa-finalize po namin ang agreement kasi gusto po ng LGU at saka po ng private sector na makihati po sa 30 million. So paghahatian po namin kung ilan po ‘yong para sa atin at saka para po sa national government,” he reported.

“And then ‘yong Johnson & Johnson, iyon lang po ang inaano po namin at magkakaroon na rin po kami ng at least final na sa mga agreement natin,” Galvez noted, adding Johnson and Johnson’s vaccine performance is good and that it is now used by millions globally.

The vaccine czar also reported that aside from the 15,000 doses of Sputnik vaccine that arrived on May 12, another 300,000 doses will be delivered next week.

Galvez, who is also the chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19, said the country would get additional doses of Pfizer vaccines from COVAX.

He said that instead of just 1.2 million doses of Pfizer vaccines, the country will be given 2.2 million for the month of May.

“Kaya tuwang-tuwa po tayo dahil kasi nadagdagan po tayo ng 1.2 ngayong month. And then sa coming June, mayroon po tayong darating na almost two million po na AstraZeneca. Ito po ‘yong pang-second dose doon sa nauna po na 2 million ng COVAX,” he said.

The bulk order will be 4.5 million doses including 500,000 doses being procured by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry Inc. (FFCCCII). These also include 250,000 doses from Moderna, 1.3 million from AstraZeneca, and two million doses from Gamaleya.

“For a total po na makukuha po natin sa May is 7 million. Dito po sa June is 10 million," Galvez said. PND

AgSur LGU showcases IPs’ products during Kaliga-on Festival

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 14 (PIA) -- Amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the local government unit of San Luis, Agusan del Sur led the celebration of the Kaliga-on Festival with the presence of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) who actively participated in showcasing their locally-made products, rituals, and ethnic dances, among others.

She added that this year, this festival becomes more meaningful as the IPs and the LGU work together to maintain the real essence of this celebration amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In San Luis, we have the Talaandig, Banwaon, Manobo tribes so we tried to have even a simple celebration because what's important is that we showcase and preserve our culture,” added Corvera.

The lady mayor also highlighted the LGU’s One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) Pasalubong Store, where different products including the work of the IPs are displayed.

“This was supposed to be opened last year but because of the pandemic, it was prolonged. We have an association that was given the opportunity to display their products, including rattan bags and baskets. This is what we are piloting now, and the store is open to everyone. With this, we are also inviting all the small businesses here in San Luis to display their products,” bared Corvera.

The Kaliga-on Festival is celebrated every 15th day of June. It is a festivity of thanksgiving and praising the ‘Magbabaya’ for the good harvest, abundant blessings, and a gift of life. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga’s first monolithic dome now underway

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, May 14 -- Taking one step closer to realizing the establishment of the first monolithic dome in the region, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga and the local government unit (LGU) of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur conducted a groundbreaking on May 7 this year.

The groundbreaking signals the official start of the construction of the monolithic dome cold storage facility in the said town.

Cold storage is a facility that is like a large refrigerator that helps in keeping the freshness of the perishable goods such as vegetables and fruits by slowing down the deterioration process which prolongs its shelf life for several weeks and thus decreasing losses.

The monolithic dome cold storage and packing facility is an air-tight, super-insulated, and disaster-resistant structure that offers absolute protection against calamity.

It will be constructed on a 1,000 square meter land area in Barangay 1 in the town of San Francisco.

The project is under the DA-Caraga’s High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP). It costs P25,000,000.00 with P20,000,000.00 funded by the DA-Caraga and P5,000,000.00 as the LGU of San Francisco’s counterpart.

Municipal Mayor Solomon Rufila said he is thankful that the efforts of the LGU to help uplift the lives of the farmers are paying off.   He said he is thankful for the cold storage project which the farmers of the town would really benefit from.

On the other hand, DA-Caraga Regional Technical Director Nicandro M. Navia, Jr. said that San Francisco is a strategic area for the project and that hopefully, the facility will really aid the farmers as well as the advancement of the agriculture sector. (DA 13–RAFIS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Online caravan on updated PDP to be launched in Caraga 

By Rhea Mae C. Mendez

BUTUAN CITY, May 14 (PIA) -- The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) will conduct the Caraga leg of the virtual caravan on the updated Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 on May 18, 2021, via Zoom teleconference and Facebook Live to strengthen stakeholder engagement and gain wider support for the PDP.

The updated PDP 2017-2022 is anchored on the 0+10 Socioeconomic Agenda of the Duterte Administration and the first medium-term plan geared towards the AmBisyon Natin 2040, which envisions a middle-class Philippines with a life for all that is “Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag.”

This employs a whole-of-society approach for economic recovery amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic while staying on course in achieving the Filipino dream.

Participating Caraganons are to gain awareness on how the updated PDP 2017-2022, as a national blueprint for development, takes into account both the medium-term needs and the long-term aspirations of the Filipinos. The event hopes for participants to realize that each one can do something purposeful and contribute solutions to the challenges that we face in attaining our aspirations. Hence, the Caravan is dubbed, “Tayo Na, Bumangon Para sa AmBisyon,” which is a call to action – let’s get up and go for our ambition.

No less than Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua will grace the event to give the rationale of conducting the caravan. The strategies embodied in the updated PDP 2017-2022 will be discussed by NEDA Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Rosemarie G. Edillon. Two reactors from Caraga will share their thoughts on the PDP and how said Plan has helped in providing direction in their respective sectors. After which, the participants will be asked to express their support for the Updated PDP and AmBisyon Natin 2040 by committing positive actions in their respective sectors.

For Caraganons who are interested to participate in the Caravan, please register at https://forms.gle/nsXK27JPUQif5Swr6 and follow the NEDA Caraga Facebook Page www.facebook.com/neda13caraga for updates. The NEDA would like to encourage each Caraganon to pause and reflect: “Ano ang taya ko para sa AmBisyon?” (NEDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Phl will not withdraw from contested waters in West Philippine Sea, President Duterte tells China

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 Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 13, 2021. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Philippine maritime assets will continue patrolling the country’s territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has said, reiterating he will not compromise national sovereignty.

In his taped address to the nation Thursday, President Duterte described the 2012 standoff in the Scarborough shoal “a poor man’s gamble,” where the Philippines lost control over the sea feature to China.

“Kaya ako sabihin ko sa China ngayon, as I’ve said before to repeat: I am not ready to withdraw. I do not want a quarrel, I do not want trouble, I respect your position and you respect mine. But we will not go to war,” President Duterte said.

The President insisted there’s nothing wrong in admitting the country’s inferiority in terms of might and power, but this shouldn’t give China the right to bully smaller nations like the Philippines.

“Hindi naman masama magprangka ka, ito lang talaga ang kakayanan ko. Pero huwag mo naman akong kayahin. Ngayon, hindi talaga ako aatras. Patayin mo man ako kung patayin mo ako, dito ako. Dito magtatapos ang ating pagkakaibigan.”

With regard to the possible intervention by the Americans, in which the Philippines maintains a mutual defense pact, the President said he has no intention of toeing the US’s line.

“Please do not include me with you. Baka tingin ninyo sa akin kagaya nitong mga insurektos na ito. Hindi mo ako mapasunod diyan. Basta sinabi ko, you stay put. I die there, we die there,” he said.

The Philippines sent coast guard assets after Chinese vessels entered and remained anchored for some period of time in the country’s territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told the President that the Philippine sea assets continue to patrol the area.

“Paikot-ikot diyan sa may bandang Kalayaan Island Group natin, Mr. President, hanggang diyan sa Mischief Reef, ‘yong maraming shoal doon, nagpaikot-ikot sila doon,” he said.

The President considers China a friend, particularly after the Asian economic giant donated COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines in March. Vaccines from pharmaceutical firm Sinovac continues to form part of the country’s inventory of COVID-19 jabs. PND

VCO to help mild COVID cases recover faster, ease burden on health system–Nograles

Even with heightened restrictions in the National Capital Region Plus bubble to help continue the downward trend in COVID-19 cases in the area, efforts should be made to ramp out treatments for mild COVID-19 cases in order to help ease the stress on the hospital system in the NCR and its neighboring provinces.

This according to Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, who over the weekend led the distribution of virgin coconut oil (VCO) to Level 1 hospitals in Bulacan tasked to treat COVID-19 cases with mild symptoms.

Four hospitals treating a total of 46 COVID-19 patients––Dr. Yanga's Hospital, Inc., Malolos San Vicente Hospital, Mary Immaculate Maternity and General Hospital, and La Consolacion University General Hospital––received VCO as part of a personal initiative of Nograles, who also co-chairs the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF).

Nograles pointed out that "studies conducted by the DOST (Department of Science and Technology) indicate that VCO can help those with COVID-19 recover faster."

"Right now it would benefit our hospital system and even our medical frontliners if we could both reduce the numbers of those infected and reduce the treatment time of COVID patients," said Nograles.

"This way, the resources of our medical facilities will not be overly stretched beyond their intended capacities."

The Palace official said the government recognizes that health workers and medical frontliners in the NCR Plus Bubble "have had to work multiple shifts, and really work overtime to care for those who have contracted COVID-19."

"We recognize their dedication and the sacrifices they have made. So if we can do something to lighten their burden, dapat gawin natin. Kailangan natin magtulungan."

Prior to the four Bulacan hospitals, three other Level 1 hospitals in Bulacan likewise received VCO supplies: Ospital ng Guiguinto, Romel Cruz Hospital, and Guiguinto Polymed Hospital, Inc.

Nograles revealed that he has tapped the help of the media and other concerned parties to encourage individuals that have contracted COVID-19 to try VCO because of its potential benefits and practically zero side effects.

Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms are advised to take one tablespoon of VCO after each meal for three straight days. If tolerated well, they are then advised to double the dosage from the fourth day onward, until the patient tests negative. Patients may also rub VCO on their nostrils and gargle with VCO to help alleviate symptoms. ###

DSWD turns over 2 tribal centers in AgSur town

BUTUAN CITY, May 17 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has officially turned over two tribal centers, which are subprojects under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Indigenous Peoples-Community-Driven Development (IP-CDD) program Cycle 2, to the Manobo tribal communities of Barangay Sta. Cruz and Barangay Maligaya in Rosario town of Agusan del Sur.

The turnover ceremonies in Barangay Maligaya and Barangay Sta. Cruz were held on May 11 and April 29, 2021, respectively.

In Barangay Sta. Cruz, the 89 square-meter Himunanan Tu Tribu (tribal center), which cost Php2,856,924.00, has two restrooms, an office, and a small kitchen. It is complete with a rainwater collector, split-type inverter air conditioning unit, Wi-Fi, three wall fans, a water dispenser, two office tables, fire extinguishers, and 50 monoblock chairs.

The building amenities are in-kind counterparts from the local government unit (LGU) of Sta. Cruz. The facility is built not just for the Manobo tribal community but including the non-Indigenous Peoples in the barangay.

The project, which was completed on December 12, 2020, is expected to serve 206 household beneficiaries in the said barangay.

Hawudon Gawahon Emeliano Pugosa, Sta. Cruz Community Sub-Project Management Committee chairperson, said that the IPs have a huge role in nation-building, adding that many IPs join the leftist movement due to lack of government projects or services in the far-flung tribal communities.
"Dako ang role sa tribu sa community. Ang atong nasud hinay ang pag-usad sa ekonomiya tungod sa insurgency. Almost 70% tribu ang nabiktima, tungod kay ang tribu is a vulnerable sector sa atong society, tungod kay usahay dili maabot ang serbisyo sa goberno sa pinaka ubos ug layo nga lugar sa komunidad. Mapasalamot mi nga gihatagan kahigayunan, pinakusgan sa atong Presidente Duterte ang ELCAC (The tribal community has a huge role. Our country experiences slow economic growth due to insurgency. Almost 70 percent of the IPs, which is a vulnerable sector in our society, [fell victim to the communist ideology] as the government's projects and services could not reach the remote areas in the country. We are thankful that we were given a chance through President Duterte's strong push for ELCAC),” Pugosa said.

The country is experiencing over 50 years of communist insurgency and is now doubling its effort to combat and quash the rebellion through the “whole-of-nation” approach by the National Task Force to End Local Communists Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

DSWD Caraga PAMANA IP-CDD focal person Annabella Madelo, during the turnover ceremony last April 29, said that the project was completed because of the cooperation and unity of the community as well as the contribution of the LGU.

"Kabalo ko nga dili ni ma ingani ang hitsura kung wala ang pagtinabangay sa tanan stakeholders nga nagpuyo dri sa Sta. Cruz ug sa municipality sa Rosario. Karun pa ko kakita og usa nga building nga gi-implementar namo sa KALAHI-CIDSS nga adunay aircon ug fully-furnished. Sa among gihatag nga plan, gipasobrahan pa gyud pinaagi sa in-kind nga counterpart sa munisipyo ug sa barangay. Gi-acknowledge na sa Departamento (This building won’t be completed without the cooperation of all the stakeholders in Barangay Sta. Cruz. Since I started in DSWD, it is only now that I saw a building of KALAHI-CIDSS that has an air conditioning unit and is fully-furnished. The Department acknowledges the fact that the LGU has even given more than what was in the plan for the project)," Madelo said.

"On behalf of our OIC-Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen, gipaabot namo among mainiton nga congratulations sa katawhan sa Barangay Sta. Cruz ug mainiton nga pasalamat sa LGU sa Rosario, ug sa suporta sa tribung Manobo (we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the residents of Barangay Sta. Cruz as well as our warmest gratitude to LGU of Rosario and the support of the Manobo tribe)," she added.

"Ang kaning subproject pakapin lang kini sa atong proseso. Sa KALAHI-CIDSS, ang giimplemtar gyud namo sa ang proseso nga CDD (Community-Driven Development). Kung mo-ingun gani ta CDD, ang komunidad ang modesisyon kung unsa gusto nila nga kalambuan ug kung unsaon nila pagamit sa pondo nga gihatag sa OPAPP pina-agi sa DSWD (This subproject is just a bonus. In KALAHI-CIDSS, what we really implement is the CDD process. When we say CDD, it is the community who decides what development they want and on how to use the fund given by OPAPP through the DSWD)," Madelo further elaborated.

In the mountain barangay of Maligaya, an 89 sq.m. tribal center was also turned over, complete with two restrooms, an office, a small kitchen, a rainwater collector, wall fans, and a water dispenser.

The construction of the tribal center, which costs Php3.4 million, started on September 11, 2020, and was completed on December 22, 2020. The subproject targets to benefit 98 household beneficiaries in the area.

“Ang proyekto dili sa DSWD. Ang proyekto nag-gikan sa inyo. Mao na nga ang kaakuhan inyo gyud na nga ipadayon. Kay sayang proyekto nga nagkantidad og P2.6 million kung dili maatiman (The project does not belong to DSWD, but to the people. Thus, it is important for you to continue the responsibility of taking care of the project so that Php2.6 million won’t just go to waste),” KALAHI-CIDSS Deputy Regional Program Manager Ester V. Villamor told the Manobos in Barangay Maligaya.

Rosario Municipal officials were thankful to the government for the Himunanan Tu Tribu and commit to taking care of the said tribal centers.
"Ang commitment nako ani isip amahan sa lungsod sa Rosario is pag-suporta ra gyud. Kung unsa man na inyong gusto mahitabo sa inyo nga mga programa, 101% suporta gyud mi (My commitment as mayor of Rosario is that I will support. Whatever programs you will implement, I will 101 percent support," Rosario Mayor Jupiter C. Abulog said during the turnover ceremony in Barangay Sta. Cruz.

“Ang ato local government, ang ato municipal mayor, kami sa legislative, andam gyud kami mag-suporta kung unsa mga kakuwangon (The local government, the mayor, and we at the legislative body are ready to support what will be needed for the project),” Rosario Councilor Rex Fuentes said during the turnover ceremony in Barangay Maligaya.

The PAMANA, under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), is the government’s framework for peace and development. It is implemented in conflict-affected communities, as well as in areas covered by existing peace agreements.

Meanwhile, KALAHI-CIDSS falls under the second strategic pillar of the PAMANA framework, which is building resilient communities. The project objective is to improve the access of KALAHI-CIDSS areas classified as conflict-affected barangays (CABs) to basic social services and responsive, transparent, and accountable local governments. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PCA distributes cash, food vouchers to Bayugan coco farmers

BUTUAN CITY, May 17 - The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Agusan del Sur personnel conducted distribution of cash and food vouchers to 137 marginalized coconut farmers from different barangays of Bayugan City held at the covered court of Barangay Wawa, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur on May 14, 2021.

Thru the QR card voucher, each farmer received P3,000.00 cash and P2,000.00 worth of rice, dressed chicken and fresh eggs. The food packs were delivered by Bayugan Achievers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BAMPCO) in the venue.

The cash and food assistance program aims to aid marginal farmers and fisherfolk who were severely affected by the pandemic, provide market support to the local rice and poultry industries, and support micro, small, and medium enterprises.(DA-PCA Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

NPA political officer killed in Surigao del Norte clash

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 17 -- A ranking cadre of Guerilla front 16 died in an encounter with the government forces at the vicinity of Sitio Pingaping, Barangay Motorpool, Tubod, Surigao del Norte on May 12.

The encounter ensued between the operating troops of 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion (30IB) and members of SYPC2, GF16 under Alberto Castaneda alias ‘JD’ when the soldiers responded to the report regarding the presence of the said armed group in the area.

The said firefight lasted for about 25 minutes and resulted to the death of Christopher John Trugelio alias ‘Krokis/Ajet,’ a political instructor of SYP16C2, Guerilla Front 16 and a resident of KM 10 Purok Rosal, Barangay Quezon, Surigao City.

Seized from the encounter site were one 9mm pistol, one improvised explosive, four Baofeng VHF radios, assorted ammunition and magazines, personal belongings, hammocks and subversive documents. No casualty was reported on the government side while pursuit operation is still ongoing.

According to Lt. Col. Charles Ryan G. Callanta, commanding officer of 30IB, they immediately launched the operation when they received the information regarding the whereabouts of the CTG.

Meanwhile, Brigader General George L Banzon, commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, expressed gratitude to the local residents who gave their full trust and untiringly support the soldiers by giving timely information that led to the successful operation.

“As we always say, the information coming from the localities are very vital. The outcome in the recent encounter clearly manifests that our soldier can promptly act on the arising situation if the community will give their utmost cooperation. Our main objective is to prevent this armed group from entering the community and disrupting the lives of the people,” he said.

On the other hand, Brig. Gen. Banzon expressed his condolences to the family of the dead NPA rebel. He said that another life had gone to waste because of a senseless armed struggle being waged by the CPP-NPA-NDF. He further said that the use of violence in resolving societal issues will never be an option.

“The use of violence will never resolve our problems and it will just make things complicated. The recent encounter that led to the untimely demise of another NPA may serve as a wake-up call for those CTG members who are still blinded by the wrong ideology,” he said.

He likewise gave assurance that the operating troops will continue to be relentless in conducting security operations so that the communities will be safeguarded from the threat of the CTG who capitalizes violence to pursue their agenda. (901st Infantry Brigade, Phil. Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PCOO chief lauds AgSur media for advocating truth, accurate information

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 18 (PIA)– In time with the conduct of the first Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) Philippine National Police (PNP) Press Corps Golden Heron Awards Ceremony held on May 14, 2021, Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) who served as one of the invited guests lauded the recipients of the awards for their sincere commitment, dedication and passion in advocating for truth and accurate information to the general public.

Andanar stressed, in his video message, that while people continue to face the challenges brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the media play a vital role in communicating the right information to the general public and fight against the spread of fake news.

"The world is experiencing a crisis, unlike anything it has ever faced before. It is a crisis of global proportions that affects everyone equally: young and old, rich and poor. You might be thinking about the covid-19 virus, that dreadful calamity that swept across the world, and you would be right -- but only partially. As damaging as that catastrophe continues to be, there is another crisis hidden in the shadows, unnoticed and unremarked. This crisis, ladies and gentlemen, is the crisis of false information. As events and situations unfold, we must deliver accurate and factual information, so that we are equipped with the right things to make our judgments on," he underscored.

Andanar called on all the media partners in Agusan del Sur and Caraga region to continue serving the best interest of the people and giving their best efforts in performing their functions and responsibilities, as expected from them.

“It is, therefore, my highest honor to bestow this Golden Heron award to the recipients, for showing exemplary service. The shining white feathers of the heron symbolizes purity despite adversity, just like the values encouraged in the media industry of today. And just like the values that we have seen you brave men and women display in the service of the people. Congratulations," he added.

Meanwhile, Richard Grande, the president of Agusan Media Club and organizer of the said event, expressed the team’s heartfelt gratitude for Sec. Andanar for taking time to share his words to all the AgSur media who constantly deliver relevant and right information on the government's programs and initiatives to the general public.

“Thank you, Sec. Martin Andanar for recognizing the vital role of the media and for partnering with us in all the government’s endeavors. Here in Agusan del Sur, we will continue to serve the people with the right knowledge they need to know and will fight against the spread of fake news on various platforms,” said Grande. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PCG chief reminds coast guardians to live up to ideal public service

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, May 18 -- Admiral George V. Ursabia, Jr., commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), once again reminded coast guardians to embrace and live up to the ideals of genuine PCG as they continue to serve fellow Filipinos amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

"Let it be our culture to be patriotic to our motherland; compassionate to the people we are expected to serve; and God-fearing, for nobody is great, but God," he furthered.

To express his sincere gratitude to the provincial government of Surigao del Norte for donating a 5,000-square-meter lot for the construction of the PCG Base Siargao, Admiral Ursabia assured the people of Siargao Island that the PCG will actively support the growth of their tourism industry, promote maritime safety, and advocate marine environmental protection.

"I am happy that the PCG is now an active partner of Siargao Island in protecting God's creations. Rest assured that we will be committed stewards of this beautiful paradise and its good people," Admiral Ursabia said. (PCG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Ethnic souvenir dolls na gawa sa papel tampok sa trade fair at exhibit sa Butuan City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Mayo 17 (PIA) -- Kamangha-manghang ethnic souvenir dolls na gawa sa papel ang isa sa mga produktong tampok sa limang araw na Trade Fair at Exhibit sa isang mall dito sa lungsod.

Agaw-pansin din ang mga damit na isinuot sa mga ito na sumisimbolo sa mayamang kultura at tradisyon ng mga Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sa Caraga region.

Ayon kay Jaguilen Bucong, business councilor ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negosyo Center sa Cabadbaran City, nasa 1,500 pesos ang isang ethnic doll na pwedeng pangsouvenir, token o regalo, o dekorasyon sa bahay o opisina.

“Ito ay produktong ito ay mula sa Cabadbaran at may mga coordinators tayo para sa mga doll makers. Ito ay gawa sa papel at may kemikal na ginamit para mabuo siya. Ito namang mga damit na duot nila ay hinabi mismo ng mga IPs sa Barangay Mahaba tulad ng Manobo at Mamanwa. Ang detalye ng beads na inilagay ay gawa rin mismo ng mga IPs,” ani ni Bucong.

Binigyang-diin din ni assistant regional director Gay Tidalgo ng DTI-Caraga na ang paglunsad nito sa mga malls ay isa lamang sa marami pang inisyatibo at programa ng pamahalaan para sa mga Micro-Small and Medium Entreprenuers (MSMEs) na apektado rin ng COVID-19 pandemic.

“Dito makikita ang mga produktong dumaan sa pagsusuri ng DTI na dumaan lahat sa product development, packaging and labelling at sinigurado ang kalidad ng bawat produkto, maging ang mga desinyo, kulay at iba pang kailangan matugunan. Target talaga natin na makakuha ng at least 1-million pesos na kita para sa limang araw na Trade Fair at Exhibit. Sigurado akong malalampasan natin ang target sa tulong na rin ng ating kapwa Caraganons at maging sa ibang nasa karatig bayan,” pahayag ni Tidalgo.

May kabuuang 95 MSMEs ang aktibong lumahok sa trade fair para sa non-food, arts and crafts, at food processing. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

'Month of the Ocean' gisaulog sa AgNor

By Shena Mae Pabia

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Mayo 18 -- Gipahigayon sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ang coastal clean-up activity alang sa pagsaulog sa 'Month of the Ocean' niadtong Mayo 14, sa Brgy. Tolosa, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

Ang 'coastal clean-up activity' gipasiugdahan sa buhatan sa Community Environmental and Natural Resources Office [CENRO]-Tubay ubos ni CENR Officer Nelson B. Caranzo kaabag niini ang Agusan del Norte Parole and Probation Office nga gipangulohan ni Jener C. Supnet.

Gisaulog ang 'Month of the Ocean' matag tuig sa bulan sa Mayo pinasikad sa Presidential Proclamation No. 57 issued in 1999.

Ang maong kalihukan gihimo sa kapin kon kulang 500-meter coastline area sa maong barangay. Mosuma sa 125 ka indibidwal ang miapil sa kalihukan nga gilangkuban sa mga parolees ug probationers gikan sa mga lungsod sa RTR, Tubay, Santiago Jabonga ug syudad sa Cabadbaran.

Mokabat sa 40 ka-sako ang nakolekta sa mga basura sa maong clean-up. Naglangkob ang maong mga basura og plastic wrappers, plastic bottles, ginamit nga sanina, surgical masks, diapers ug uban pa.

Tumong sa maong kalihukan mapanalipdan ang kinaiyahan pinaagi sa hustong paglabay sa mga residente og basura sa palibot ilabina diha sa lawod.

Ang CENRO-Tubay padayong nagdasig sa mga agusanon sa pagtuman sa lima (5) ka R’s – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ug Repurpose.

Himoon usab sa CENRO-Tubay ang maong coastal clean-up activity sa mga coastal municipalities ug barangays.

Apil usab sa maong kalihukan ang mga personahe ug mga opisyales sa barangay ug ang kapulisan. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Health chief reports continuing decline in COVID-19 cases

Government interventions seemed to start having an effect after the country’s health chief has reported a declining number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

In his report to President Rodrigo Duterte, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the country’s two-week growth rate last week fell to negative 24 percent from negative 22 percent while the average daily attack rate (ADAR) dropped to 5.95 cases per 100,000 population.

“At nananatiling nasa moderate risk naman ang NCR (National Capital Region) kung saan negative 46 percent na from negative 39 percent ang kanilang two-week growth rate,” he said in his report.

“Ibig pong sabihin nito, bumabagal na po ang pagdagdag o ang paglaki ng kaso at ang two-week growth rate at ang 13.44 naman ang ating ADAR mula po sa 24.9 cases per 100,000 population.”

Duque also reported that the healthcare utilization rate in the Philippines had decreased from 54 percent in April to 46 percent as of May 16.

He noted a 23 percent drop in the healthcare utilization rate for NCR –  from 68 percent last month to 45 percent as of May 16.

He said that the ICU bed utilization rate in the NCR has dropped from 88 percent to 56 percent.

The NCR Plus was put under general community quarantine (GCQ) with heightened restrictions from May 15 to May 31 in a bid to curb the virus.

Duque encouraged local government units (LGUs) to continue enforcing localized or granular lockdowns to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Despite the improving situation in Metro Manila, Duque has observed an uptick in COVID-19 infections in 10 regions nationwide.

These regions include Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Caraga,  Zamboanga Peninsula and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Meanwhile, President Duterte said the government should continue to improve its COVID-19 programs in the face of new coronavirus variants.

With the emergence of more dangerous COVID-19 variants, the chief executive said the country must prepare for the worst.

“If at all, and with the advent of new variants, it is good to prepare for a more serious attack,” President Duterte said.

According to the President, the Philippine government is maintaining and recalibrating its preparedness in response to the threats posed by the mutated variants.

“Kung medyo palapit nang palapit na at marami nang tinatamaan, then we will go full blast in making everything operational,” he added.  PND

Gov’t to prioritize poor families, policemen in mass inoculation drive

Poor Filipinos, the members of the police and the military should also be prioritized in the ongoing government mass immunization drive against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has said.

“Sundalo pati pulis, lahat. Pati itong --- kung madala ‘yang pamilya nila, okay na, tutal nandiyan na ‘yong mga bakuna,” he said.

“Kaya as many as we can, kung maaari lang day and night para we will not have a stock of spoiled medication. Dito nga sabi ko unahin ko na ‘yong --- pauna ko ‘yong mga pulis pati military because sila ‘yong asahan ko.”

The President underscored the importance of the role of the members of the police and the military in keeping peace and order, and protecting the country.

“They group together, so they must have the vaccine. So sabi mo ngayon na give them the priority. Pati ‘yong pamilya nila okay na rin… As long as there are the vaccines, we will give it to everybody.”

People in poor communities should also be prioritized because of their vulnerabilities of contracting the virus, given the cramped condition in informal settler areas, the President said.

“Ito namang mga squatters ang bahay nila dikit-dikit, so the transmission is really as fast as the virus can travel,” the President said. “At saka, they --- alam mo na, they tend to forget the protocols.”

He argued that wealthy families living in “well-off” subdivisions are less exposed to COVID-19 because they have more living space and can easily isolate. He made an assurance, however, that they will be vaccinated in due time.

The reason why indigent families must be on the top list, President Duterte said, is because of the emergence of more infectious COVID-19 strains, which were already detected in the country.

The India variant, believed to be another contagious strain, appeared in genome sequencing done by experts tracking dominant COVID-19 variants.

The government reported that the new variant was detected from Filipino workers returning to the Philippines.

Prioritizing the poor will give the government elbow room to shield them from the virus considering their financial inadequacies, according to the President.

He also underscored that it is the government’s “sacred duty” to look after the poor Filipinos first, especially since they are always at the mercy of their poverty particularly in terms of medical care.  PND

Former Senate leader lauds President Duterte’s approach in West Philippine Sea

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s balanced approach in dealing with China amid the years-long dispute over contested territories in the West Philippine Sea has helped the country survive difficult periods, former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said on Monday.

Former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile shares his narrative with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte regarding the disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea prior to the President's talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 17, 2021. ALBERTO ALCAIN/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

“Mr. President, I congratulate you for your effort to see to it that the country will survive in these critical times. Hindi dapat gamitin ang mainit na kaisipan na kagaya ng mga kritiko natin. Dapat balanced lang approach natin at mahinahon,” Enrile told President Duterte in a meeting about the West Philippine Sea issue.

The former Senate president, who was a guest during the President’s Talk to People aired Monday night, said the West Philippine Sea is being coveted by different claimants because of its strategic importance economically and militarily.

Enrile, who also served as the country’s defense minister in the 70s, said 7 billion barrels of oil and 900 trillion cubic feet of natural gas were proven to lie underneath the West Philippine Sea, making it a treasure cove of rich natural resources.

Being one of the leading countries in energy exploration, he explained that by maintaining friendly relations with China, Philippines could strike a good deal to tap its energy resources. Otherwise, Philippines would need to borrow money from foreign banks to fund energy exploration, he pointed out.

“We’ll lose more if we antagonize China. We have no choice except to negotiate with China,” said Enrile. “Maybe we can get better by talking with China instead of being aggressive.”

At the same time, Enrile said that the President, being elected by the Filipino people, has the sole duty to frame the country’s foreign policy, and this is true to true to other nations.

It is the highest political act of a president, and the former lawmaker wondered why people keep talking without understanding this system.

“Only history will judge you. And I think that history will judge you very well. If I were in your place, I would have --- I would have done the same thing. What else can a President of this country do under our present national circumstance?” he told the President.

For his part, President Duterte said he did his best in pushing the country’s best interests with regard to foreign policy. As a result, he said, Philippines secured its first tranche of coronavirus vaccine from China through donation.

Noting the country’s efforts being met with harsh criticism from the opposition, the chief executive said the best way to move forward is to downplay administration critics and for him to just continue fulfilling his mandates as president.

“Well, maybe I will just ignore my critics so to not derail me from my official duties. And I will just say that well, after talking to Senator Enrile, I --- you guys have become irrelevant to me,” he said. PND

President Duterte vows to protect Benham Rise

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday said the Benham Rise is exclusively Philippine property, stressing he would not allow other nations to intrude in the area except for innocent passage of foreign vessels.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discusses matters with former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile regarding the disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea prior to his talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 17, 2021. SIMEON CELI PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Benham rise became a topic for discussion after former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile suggested that the Philippine government exploit the area using resources from economic dealing with China.

“I have made it clear to all, to the world, that I will not allow any intrusion there. Well, of course, the right to innocent passage is everybody’s privilege,” President Duterte said during his weekly public address.

“But to allow anybody, even to just try to exploit or to even to look in, you know, I will not allow them to do that because that belongs --- Philippine Rise belongs to the Filipino people.”

Enrile, who was a guest during the President’s Talk to the People, suggested that whatever the country can get from China on the West Philippine Sea, it must be used to strengthen the Philippine military capability and to exploit Benham Rise.

The former Senate leader said that assuming there’s no dispute about the country’s right over exclusive economic exploitation of West Philippine Sea assets, it still needs foreign money to make it a source of wealth for the nation.

The choice is either go to Europe and get technology and capital to explore and exploit the energy resources in the economic zone in West Philippine Sea, or to deal directly with China.

China, he said, is now very advanced in terms of energy exploration, having major operations in Africa and elsewhere.

“As far as I am concerned, we will not gain anything by antagonizing China. I’m not pro-China. I’m not... I do not have any interest in China,” he said.

“But as a Filipino, I will take this position to protect my countrymen, to protect our core territory, to protect our economy. Maybe we can get better by talking with China instead of being aggressive.”

Benham Rise is a 13 million hectare under sea region east of Luzon and is 35 meters underwater at its shallowest point off the provinces of Aurora and Isabela.

In April 2012, the United Nation (UN) officially approved and recognized the claim of the Philippines in strict compliance with the requirements of the United Nations Convention on the law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Wider than the entire Luzon, Samar, and Leyte combined, it became official part of the Philippines because it is the only country within 200 nautical miles of the plateau.

UN’s recognition enables the Philippines to extract abundant mineral, oil and natural gas of Benham Rise, which is believed to have mineral and gas deposits, providing the country with its own energy source. PND

4th leg of Regional Pre-SONA Series successfully held in South Cotabato - Nograles

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles led the successful holding of the fourth leg of the Kasama sa Pamana: Regional Pre-SONA Series in Koronadal, South Cotobato last May 18, 2021. The event was attended by officials from national government agencies, local chief executives and other stakeholders.

This was part of preparations for President Rodrigo Duterte's sixth and last State of the Nation Address on July 2021, led by the Office of the Cabinet Secretariat (OCS) and the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) in coordination with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Regional Development Councils (RDCs), chairpersons of the Cabinet Clusters, members of the Cabinet and the Office of the Executive Secretary.

The activity, which was held at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center, aims to inform constituents in different regions of the various achievements of the Duterte administration, including plans for the remainder of the President's term. It featured a comprehensive report on measures taken to address the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic under the National Vaccination Deployment Plan (NVDP).

Nograles was joined by TESDA Director General and Secretary Isidro Lapeña, PCOO Undersecretary and PIA Director-General Ramon Cualoping III, as well as DOH-Region XII Director Dr. Aristides Tan who all served as resource persons.

One of the key issues Nograles discussed was how the Task Force Zero Hunger, which he chairs, was able to focus on programs addressing hunger, poverty and malnutrition in the country, stressing the "importance of proper implementation of the National Food Policy because it will serve as the roadmap to our #GoodbyeGutom advocacy and aims to show the effectivity of our whole-of-nation approach involving development partners from the private sector, academe, civil society, people's organizations and various stakeholders' groups."

The Malacanang official added that he was focusing on expanding the coverage of the anti-hunger projects in regions and provinces, foremost of which is the Enhanced Program Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) effort to elevate the livelihoods of farmers, fisherfolk and other community-based orgs in the countryside.

"Whether we are in Mindanao, in the Visayas, or in Luzon, our fight against hunger and poverty takes primacy. That's why we actively pursue partnerships with the private sector. Kailangan natin magtulungan. Government cannot do the task alone. We must collaborate for better and more lasting results, all for the benefit of the Filipino people." ###

President Duterte tackles South China Sea, security issues with Japanese PM Suga

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discussed the South China Sea and regional security issues during a phone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Malacañang said in a statement Wednesday.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga discuss matters during a phone call at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 19, 2021. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

During the phone conversation, President Duterte emphasized the need for cooperation on promoting domain awareness, maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight and maritime connectivity and commerce.

At the same time, the Filipino leader underscored the need to recognize and work for the peaceful settlement of disputes, stating that the eruption of conflict in the Asia-Pacific region would be harmful to regional interest.

Alliances and partnerships, he said, must redound to greater stability in the South China Sea and uphold the broader collective interest of the Asia-Pacific region.

The President also expressed his gratitude to Japan for its generous assistance to fight COVID-19, including the 20 billion yen initially approved out of the 50 billion yen Post-Disaster Standby Loan.

This is on top of 1 billion yen provided by Japan for cold chain development in the Philippines.

Prime Minister Suga, for his part, recognized and expressed his support for the Philippine government’s efforts to address the pandemic.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitments to further strengthen bilateral ties as the Philippines and Japan celebrate this year 65 years of normalized relations and 10 years of Strengthened Strategic Partnership.

Prime Minister Suga was supposed to visit the Philippines but postponed his trip to address Japan’s COVID-19 situation. President Duterte expressed the country’s solidarity with the Japanese people in combating the pandemic.  PND

Agri chief backs research on transboundary crop pests, diseases

By Rita dela Cruz

BUTUAN CITY, May 20 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) will continue to support research for development (R4D) efforts to effectively control and manage transboundary crop pests and diseases that adversely impact Philippine agriculture.

“We believe it is the opportune time to reshape the country’s crop pest management program, led by the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ National Crop Protection Center (UPLB-NCPC),” said Agriculture Secretary William Dar in his virtual message during the agency’s 45th founding anniversary on May 17, 2021.

He said the NCPC is considered as the country’s transboundary center in crop pests and diseases management, and thus the Department of Agriculture will continue to support it in whatever way it can.

“We are here not only to catalyze your growth in research but also to support this new thinking that we need to put in place today for the future. With more than four decades of existence, the NCPC has become the country’s beacon of hope and vast wellspring of development-oriented research and concrete innovative outputs,” Sec. Dar said.

According to the DA chief, most of your research outputs have been utilized in a big way, and it would be good for the NCPC leadership to conduct an impact assessment of your top 10 research outputs.

“This will give the center the opportunity to really say ‘Yes, the NCPC continues to be relevant!’ Hence, it deserves additional financial support to do more development-oriented research today and in the future,” Sec. Dar said.

He also urged the agency to continue training and capacitating researchers, noting that many have seen that even the non-important pests are now becoming important due to climate change, and today more virulent pests are affecting our crop industry.

“Clearly, the mandate of NCPC in tandem with the DA’s Regional Crop Protection Centers are more than relevant. We hope you will have the capacity to look not only at present concerns on pest management, but also on foresight analysis or future thinking,” he said.

Sec. Dar said the agriculture sector faced major challenges last year, but it proved as the most resilient among the country’s economic sectors. This simply means agriculture can be one of the pillars to fuel the country’s economic recovery.

“We need to enhance higher levels of food sufficiency and security, because of the global distortion that is happening due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We believe that the academic and science sector, like the UPLB and NCPC, need to be continuously relevant in helping transform Philippine agriculture, in general,” he said.

The spread of transboundary plant pests and diseases has increased dramatically in recent years due to globalization, trade, climate change, and reduced resilience in production systems, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

Transboundary plant pests and diseases can easily spread to several countries and reach epidemic proportions. Outbreaks and upsurges can cause huge losses to crops and pastures, threatening the livelihoods of vulnerable farmers and the food and nutrition security of millions.

Locusts, armyworm, fruit flies, banana diseases, cassava diseases, and wheat rusts are among the most destructive transboundary plant pests and diseases, the FAO said. (DA Stratcomms/PIA-Caraga)

Senior citizens sa Cabadbaran City nag-edad 86 makadawat og milestone award

By SVDeligero 

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Mayo 20 -- Adunay pagbag-o sa ordinansang gilusad sa syudad sa Cabadbaran mahitungod sa pagpahinungod og milestone award alang atong mga katigulangang niabot sa edad nga 86 pataas human gikauyonan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte nga balido ang City Ordinance No. 2021-003 nga nagtugot paghatag sa milestone award.

Ang nahisgutan nga ordinansa sa syudad nagtinguha nga ma-institutionalize ang paghatag og milestone award aron mas daghan ang mahatagan nga mga kwalipikadong mga Senior citizen nga angayang makadawat sa pasidungog ug ma revise ang City Ordinances No. 2013-014 ug City Ordinance No. 2019-008 “Granting Milestone Award to 90 years old and above Senior Citizens in the City of Cabadbaran.”

Ubos sa section 2 sa maong ordinansa, ang mga kwalipikadong makadawat mao ang mga mosunod:
a. Octogenarian  - mga nag edad 86th paduong  89th makadawat og Baynte mil (P20,000.00) ka pesos.

b. Nonagenarian - 90th paduong 99 nga edad makadawat pag usab og Traynta mil (P30,000.00) ka pesos.

c. Centenarian – mao ang mga niabot sa edad nga 100, makadawat og Singkwenta mil (P50,000.00) ka pesos.

Kini usa ka pahinungod sa lokal nga panggamhanan isip pagpakita og pagdayeg sa mga katigulangan nga nahimong kaabag sa pag-uswag sa syudad.

Ang monetary award usab magsilbing dakong tabang sa mga hingtundan alang sa matag adlaw niini nga panginahanglan.

Ang awardee kinahanglan rehistrado ug active member sa pagbayad sa membership dues sulod sa lima (5) ka tuig sa Barangay Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines kun BSCAP ug sa Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines.

Sa pagpanguna ni Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, tsirman sa Committee on Social Welfare Population Development, gi-aprobahan ang maong ordinance pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 221-2021 atol sa ika 89th regular session sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Over 26K senior citizens in Caraga receive COVID-19 jabs

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BUTUAN CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- A total of 26,076 senior citizens (A2) in Caraga Region have already been vaccinated for COVID-19, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga reported.

As of May 19, 2021, some 3,071 in Butuan City have been inoculated; 5,080 in the province of Agusan del Norte; 4,860 in Agusan del Sur; 3,873 in Surigao del Norte; 7,933 in Surigao del Sur; and 1,259 in the Province of Dinagat Islands.

“This constitutes 12.38% of the 210,616 masterlisted eligible population under the said priority group in the region,” said Cheryl Mary Plaza from the Family Health Cluster of the DOH Caraga during the 32nd Caraga Regional Task Force against COVID-19 (RTF COVID-19) Meeting Thursday, May 20.

Around 14,491 or 6.88% were inoculated with the Sinovac’s CoronaVac COVID-19 vaccines while 11,585 or 5.50% with AstraZeneca.

Meanwhile, vaccine rollout for the priority groups A1 (healthcare workers) is still ongoing. The health department reported that 43,554 HCWs have already received their first dose of the vaccines, making up 80.95% of the 53,802 total masterlisted vaccine recipients.  Of the total number, 51.49% or 27,700 received Sinovac vaccines while 29.47 or 15,854 received AstraZeneca.

The DOH Caraga also noted that 18,204 HCWs have already received their second dose of the vaccines and have now completed their vaccination.

At least 71,441 under the said priority group are expected to receive jabs.

The region’s vaccination efforts have resulted in the inoculation of a total of 72,842 recipients. Local health authorities are now doubling their efforts in order to vaccinate a total of 333,859 masterlisted eligible populations from the three priority groups.  (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

DOH detects 9 additional COVID-19 variants in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY, May 21 -- The Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH CHD) Caraga on Thursday announced the detection of another batch of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) variant cases in the region based on the results received from the University of the Philippines-Philippine Genome Center. Of the samples sequenced, nine tested positive for COVID-19 variants of concern: eight (B.1.351 (variant first detected in South Africa) and one B.1.1.7 (variant first detected in the UK) cases.

The confirmed B.1.351 cases are locals of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur (1), Butuan City (1), and Province of Dinagat Islands (6). Among the eight (B.1.351 variant cases, five were close contacts of confirmed positive cases; two had travel history from NCR+ Areas; and one neither had a travel history nor a close contact of a confirmed positive case. All of these cases have completed their prescribed quarantine period and were discharged from their isolation facilities. Currently, all cases are asymptomatic.

On the other hand, the B.1.1.7 variant case is a resident of Cabadbaran City, a 101-year old, female, with no travel history and was not a close contact with a previously confirmed case. She was admitted due to pain at her left side with general weakness and anorexia. As the health facility’s standard procedure for admission, the patient was tested for COVID-19. Her result came in positive and was tagged as a severe case. A day after, the patient died.

“Moreover, we are closely monitoring and coordinating with the health authorities of the Local Government Units concerned for implementation of appropriate actions and national protocols for these identified variant cases,” said DOH-CHD Caraga Regional Director Cesar C. Cassion.

Based on current studies, these variants of concern have increased transmissibility. Meaning, more people will get infected, which poses a risk for those people with a weak immune response. If left uncontrolled it will create a domino effect, overwhelming our health care system.

“To prevent such scenario, we strongly urge the public to consistently and strictly practice the BIDA Behaviours. The existing minimum public health protocols remain effective against the new variants of concern. Moreover, our vaccines against COVID-19 give an added layer of protection, the more people we vaccinate, the higher chance of halting the transmission across the population. Let us work together to beat this pandemic,” Dir. Cassion added. (DOH Caraga/PIA Caraga)

PCG-Surigao Norte recognized for support in coral reef farm project

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 21 -- Commander Elaine R. Pangilinan of the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Surigao del Norte was given a Certificate of Recognition by the JCI Surigao Nickel in recognition towards outstanding contribution and generous support to JCI Surigao Nickel’s Coral Reef Farm Project in Brgy. Mabua, Surigao City on May 20, 2021.

Said project was successfully conducted last March 27, 2021 spearheaded by the JCI Surigao Nickel wherein several artificial coral reefs were laid out at the seawaters off Brgy. Mabua, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte purposely for the temporary shelter of marine creatures in the area.

Pangilinan expressed her sincere gratitude to JCI Surigao Nickel for such a significant endeavor and stressed that the PCG in Surigao del Norte will continuously render full support and cooperation for the best interest of the public and for a safer and cleaner maritime domain. (PCG-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Coast Guard dons rank to new auxiliary officer

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, May 21 -- Admiral George V. Ursabia, Jr., commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), led the donning and oath-taking of Surigao del Norte first district representative Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas II as the newest Auxiliary Commodore of the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) Executive Squadron on May 12, 2021.

In his speech, Matugas expressed his gratitude for becoming part of the PCG that is in the first line of defense, especially in the promotion of safety of lives and properties at sea, as well as in the protection of the country's rich marine resources.

"Rest assured that as a member of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, I will continue to push for measures in support of the programs of the PCG, especially those that affect our people and our province. May God bless our plans and actions in the PCG as we together continue to guard lives and territories, especially now that we are in a world war against the pandemic," he said.

For his part, Ursabia thanked Matugas for partnering with the PCG, especially in lobbying for the expansion of Coast Guard infrastructure and the recruitment of sufficient number of PCG personnel in various parts of the country to be able to delivery quality public service to all Filipinos.

"The PCG is relatively young. We separated from the Navy in 1998 and acquired our enabling laws in 2010. Technically, we are only 11 years old and with 18,600 personnel to date, we have yet to achieve our initial goal of having one PCG personnel in every kilometer of our 37,000-kilometer coastline, excluding our internal waters and exclusive economic zone," Ursabia said.

"That is why I have been saying that the PCGA is our secret weapon for they are helping us in addressing such shortage in manpower, especially in this time of the pandemic. Nevertheless, we need to have permanent solutions to resolve this gap. I am grateful that first district representative, and now Auxiliary Commodore Matugas assured that he will continue to rally behind us to achieve such goal," Ursabia furthered.

Also present during the ceremonies held in Barangay Libertad, General Luna, Surigao del Norte were Reverend Father Julian Dayola, Surigao del Norte Governor Francisco "Lalo" Matugas, and Commodore Luisito Sibayan of the PCG District North Eastern Mindanao. (PCG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PCG inaugurates search, rescue base in Siargao 

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, May 21 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has inaugurated its first-ever search and rescue (SAR) base in the country situated in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte on May 12, 2021.

Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard

During the ceremony, PCG commandant Admiral George V. Ursabia Jr., shared the challenges that the PCG encountered in pursuit of the PCG SAR Base located in a world-class tourist destination in the country.

"It is not easy to look for an area, more so that for it entails significant amount of investment. Hence, Siargao Island is truly blessed dahil kayo ang kauna-unahang nagkaroon nito. If this will be a success story, our lawmakers will be easily convinced that we should have more of this kind of facility nationwide," Admiral Ursabia said.

With such accomplishment, Admiral Ursabia assured that competent and skilled locals of Siargao Island will be given opportunities to become part of the PCG and serve their fellow Surigaonons at the PCG Base Siargao.

"We will certainly be recruiting locals to be members of the PCG not only in Siargao, but in the entire Caraga region. In order for us to be effective, it is better for us to get locals and train them to become patriotic, compassionate, and God-fearing public servants," the Coast Guard commandant said.

Admiral Ursabia furthered that two to three units of 40 fast patrol boats that will be acquired by the PCG will be assigned at the PCG Base Siargao to strengthen maritime law enforcement and improve disaster management.

More importantly, the Coast Guard Admiral said that the newly-constructed PCG infrastructure will also serve as a radar station to safeguard the island and nearby vicinity waters against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

"We need to have a radar station here in Siargao Island so we can monitor and control fishing operations in our maritime domain in this part of the country remotely. These are high-value government assets and effective tools for us to protect our waters," Admiral Ursabia said.

Also, Admiral Ursabia reaffirmed the PCG's commitment to support the tourism industry by working with the local government in ensuring safety in the conduct of water sports and other water-related activities in accordance with international standards.

Also present during the inauguration were Auxiliary Commodore Congressman Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas II of the First District of Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Norte Governor Francisco "Lalo" Matugas, Commodore Luisito Sibayan of the PCG District North Eastern Mindanao, and Commander Ellaine Pangilinan of the PCG Station Surigao del Norte. (PCG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PCG, M-NAV Solutions Inc. install buoys in PH Rise

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 22 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and M-NAV Solutions, Inc. successfully installed three state-of-the-art lighted ocean buoys in the Philippine Rise on 14 to 16 May 2021.

Photo courtesy of MV-NAV Solutions, Inc.

The buoys were transported by vessel, MV Morning Light from the Uni-Orient Pearl Ventures Inc. Shipyard in Mandaue, Cebu to the Philippine Rise on 12 May 2021. The vessel arrived in said vicinity waters on 14 May 2021 when the two-day installation commenced.

According to PCG commandant Admiral George V. Ursabia Jr., the presence of buoys in the Philippine Rise communicates that said vicinity waters is considered a special protected zone. Hence, mining and oil exploration are strictly prohibited to preserve its rich natural resources.

The buoys are equipped with modern marine aids to navigation lanterns, specialized mooring systems, and a remote monitoring system that uses satellite technology to transmit data to the PCG National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila.

The PCG Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) said seven more state-of-the-art lighted ocean buoys will arrive in the country this year to mark other vicinity waters inside Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

The PCG is an attached agency of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) under the leadership of Secretary Arthur P. Tugade. (PCG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao solon commits to support PCG programs

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 21 -- "Rest assured that as a member of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, I will continue to push for measures in support of the programs of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), especially those that affect our people and our province," expressed Congressman Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas II of the First District of Surigao del Norte as he formally became the newest Auxiliary Commodore of the PCG Auxiliary Executive Squadron during a ceremony held in Barangay Libertad, General Luna, Surigao del Norte on May 12, 2021.

"May God bless our plans and actions in the PCG as we together continue to guard lives and territories, especially now that we are in a war against the pandemic," he furthered.

For PCG commandant Admiral George V. Ursabia Jr., the PCG Auxiliary is the Coast Guard's secret weapon, most especially in this unprecedented time when the men and women of the PCG are seen anywhere and everywhere to assist concerned agencies and local government units in upholding public health and safety.

These pandemic-related initiatives need not only assets and resources, but more importantly the selfless commitment of each and every frontline personnel in implementing the whole-of-nation approach in curbing the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Despite the limited budget, manpower, and assets, the PCG continues to provide public service with utmost humility and genuine compassion - made possible through sustained assistance from civilian volunteers of the PCGA.

PCGA members willingly provide necessary equipment and supplies and offer their time, expertise, and connections to help the Coast Guard in the performance of its mandates to the Filipino people.

With congressman and auxiliary commodore Matugas as the recent addition to the pool of government officials who are actively rallying behind the PCG, the humanitarian armed service is confident that the Coast Guard presence in Surigao del Norte, especially in the Siargao Island, will be intensified all for the promotion of safety of lives and properties at sea, and marine environmental protection. (PCG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Konstruksyon sa Concepcion Bridge, sugdan na

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Mayo 21 -- Gihimo sa pagpanguna nila Gob. Dale Corvera ug Kongw. Angel Amante-Matba kagahapon, Mayo 20, ang groundbreaking sa Php163-million Concepcion Bridge ug ang component nga road concreting niini.

Niini, gipaambit ni Gob. Corvera ang iyang kalipay alang sa mga lumulupyo sa Barangay Concepcion kansang hangyo gitabangan nila ni Kong. Amante-Matba pagpahiluna nga mapadangat gyod sa nasudnong panggamhanan.

“Nalipay gyod ko nga nia na, matuman na gyod ang inyong proyekto,” pahayag ni Gob. Corvera.

Gipahibalo usab sa gobernador nga kabahin ang concreting sa 929 metros nga kalsada sa maong proyekto.

Nagpahayag usab si Mayor Judy Chin Amante sa katumanan sa maong proyekto.

“Nalipay ko kay nia na gyod ang tubag sa dugay na gyod natong gidamgo diri sa barangay Concepcion. Nia na ang tulay kay kada muuwan diri mao gyud ni ang atong problema,” sumala pa ni Mayor Amante.

Pipila sa mga lumulupyo sa Barangay nakasinati diha kalisod sa pagtabok sa tulay ilabina pag abot sa mga kalamidad ug katalagman tungod sa paspas pag-apaw sa tubig.

Makita usab sa panagway sa mga residente ang kalipay sa pagpatuman na gyod sa proyekto sa ilang lugar nga lisud nang matabok tungod kay dali ra kaayong molapaw ang tubig sa suba sa mga panahon nga kusog ang ulan.

Nanguna usab sa maong groundbreaking si Pol M. Delos Santos, ang regional director sa Department of Public Works and Highways sa Caraga, city ug barangay officials, mga personahe sa PNP ug mga residente sa maong barangay.

Mahimong kaabag sa konstruksyon sa maong tulay ang ARQ Builders. (Sinulat ni Shena Mae Pabia, hulagway kuha ni Sonny Montilla, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

President Duterte calls for fairness in post-pandemic recovery initiatives

Post-pandemic recovery efforts by great powers must not come at the expense of smaller nations, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said, stressing the development of these powerhouses must adhere to international law and norms.

In his keynote address during the Nikkei Future of Asia Conference on Friday, President Duterte said the pandemic has not halted the eastward shift of power, noting early recoveries in Asia accelerated it.

“We seem to be hurtling back to an era of heightened big power competition. This adds another layer of complexity to longstanding security issues in the region,” he said during the conference.

“Great powers must resist the temptation to pursue interests at the expense of smaller countries, in plain defiance of international law.”

The pandemic has shown nations that zero-sum approaches are self-defeating and futile, the President said, adding what hurts one ends up hurting everyone else.

And if Asia is to serve as an engine of global recovery, the Philippine president said all have to act responsibly within a system of norms, commitments, and obligations.

“We have to resolve our disputes peacefully according to international law. We have to work together – not against each other – to achieve common ends. This is the only way to realize the promise of a prosperous Asian century.”

The President also recognized the impacts of the pandemic especially in the economic sphere.

The global health crisis has accelerated the de-globalization process, he said, noting the lack of connectivity in many parts of Asia can reinforce fragmentation and may possibly result to lost opportunities for trade expansion among developing countries.

The Philippines is not blind to the geopolitics of diversification and decoupling, he said, stressing, however, that the country does not see the need to take sides in the ongoing geo-economic competition among big powers.

“We maintain that deficiencies in world trade must be urgently addressed. We reaffirm our support for a free and rules-based multilateral trading system,” the President said, believing that the key to recovery and shared prosperity remains the free movement of goods, capital, and services, as well as valuable human resources.

“The Philippines is ready to be a competitive actor in an open and fair global economy.  Despite the pandemic, opportunities for growth remain.”

President Duterte also tackled the current fight against COVID-19, saying nations can draw many lessons from the ongoing global health crisis.

To address the contagion, he called for greater solidarity for collective, coordinated and comprehensive responses. Inward-looking policies are counterproductive, he added.

The Philippines, he said, supports all avenues for increased production of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines, adding the country has consistently championed universal, fair, and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.

He also said that equitable access to vaccines is a shared responsibility of nations with the Philippines taking such commitment seriously and at the same time expects similar response from its partners.

During the conference, President Duterte expressed his gratitude to Japan and other partners in the COVAX facility, which, he said, benefited many developing countries including the Philippines.  PND

CAR, Ilocos Region LGUs naghahanda na sa Mandanas Ruling — NOGRALES

“Nakita nating mataas na ang antisipasyon ng mga Mayor dito sa Northern Luzon sa inaabangang pagpapatupad ng Mandanas Ruling na siyang magpapalawak ng partisipasyon ng mga lokal na pamahalaan sa delivery ng basic services sa ating mga kababayan.”

Ito ang naging pahayag ni Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles na siyang naging pangunahing tagapagsalita sa isinagawang 2021 Regional Planning Conference ng League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) para sa Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) at Ilocos Region na isinagawa sa Vigan, Ilocos Sur noong Miyerkules.

Ayon sa kalihim ng Gabinete, kinakailangan ang isang malawakang training at capacity building upang ihanda ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa tuluyang debolusyon ng mga ahensya ng national government.

“Hindi ito ganun kadali ngunit tiwala tayo na kapag sapat ang pagsasanay at kahandaan ng mga pinunong lokal, maayos nating maisasakatuparan ang desentralisasyon at debolusyon ng mga serbisyong pambayan,” ayon kay Nograles.

Magiging susi umano sa tagumpay nito “ang mga isasagawang malaliman at komprehensibong pagsasanay ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) at ang mga sangay na isasalokal ang pangangasiwa.”

Bagama’t kulang pa ang mga impormasyon hinggil sa pagpapatupad ng desisyon ng Korte Suprema ukol sa lokal na pangangasiwa ng basic services na kasalukuyang nasa kamay ng national government, nagpahayag naman ng kahandaan ang mga alkalde mula sa CAR at Ilocandia na makibahagi sa mga pagsasanay at “structural and financial reforms” na malaking bahagi ng nasabing desisyon.

Ayon sa alkalde ng Narvacan, Ilocos Sur na si Mayor Luis “Chavit” Singson, “handa kaming makipagtulungan sa national government tungkol dito basta bigyan lang kami ng kapasidad na ipatupad ito ng maayos.”

“Ikinagagalak naming makasama ngayon si Cabsec Karlo Nograles at mga kasama niya mula sa DBM at DILG bilang pangunang hakbang sa implementasyon ng ruling ng Supreme Court dahil marami sa aming mga kasamahan ang nais matukoy ang dapat nilang gawin sakaling matuloy na nga ang debolusyon,” ayon sa alkalde na, kasama ang anak na si Gov. Ryan Singson, ay ang nagsilbing host ng pagpupulong.

Si Mayor Singson ang National President ng LMP, ang organisasyon ng mga alkalde sa buong bansa.

Sa nasabing pagpupulong na dinaluhan ng 120 mga mayor mula sa dalawang regiyon sa Norte, inilatag din ni Nograles ang mga programa ng Zero Hunger Task Force na kanyang pinamumunuan, at ang pinakahuling mga polisiyang binalangkas bilang tugon sa pandemyang Covid19 ng Interagency Task Force on the Management of emerging Infectious Diseases, na nangangailangan ng masusing partisipasyon ng mga lokal na pamalaan. ####

DAR, Nutrition Council pool efforts to fight hunger – Nograles

Cabinet Secretary and Task Force Zero Hunger head Karlo Nograles announced recently that the Task Force, together with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region 3 office and the National Nutrition Council (NNC) - NCR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) program to address the nutritional needs of pregnant women and small children.

The signing was held last Thursday, May 20, at Clark Marriot, Mabalacat, Pampanga and included the DAR, NNC-NCR and Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) to ensure supplies for the Tutok Kainan: Dietary Supplementation Program (DSP) of the National Nutrition Council.

"We need more of this kind of collaboration among agencies and stakeholders, especially since the NNC's Tutok Kainan is among the banner programs of Task Force Zero Hunger. Our aim is to provide for nutritionally-at-risk pregnant women for 90 days, and for 6 to 23-month old children for 18 days to address their dietary needs,” the Malacañang official explained.

Nograles likewise stated that there was an urgent need to strengthen farmers' incomes, stressing "the 240 ARBOs that are part of the EPAHP program earned PhP 148,863,818.80 for the produce they sold up to December 2020."

The Office of the Cabinet Secretariat was joined during the virtual MOU signing by DAR Secretary John Castriciones, Usec. Emily Padilla, Usec. Virginia Orogo, Asec. Milagros Isabel Cristobal, DAR Region 3 Regional Director Atty. Maria Celestina Tam, NNC Executive Director Azucena Dayanghirang, NNC NCR Coordinator Milagros Elisa Federizo, the president of the Santo Tomas San Luis Farmers Association, representatives from other partner agencies and ARBO members.

EPAHP was launched to respond to urgent needs relating to food and poverty. Partner agencies include the DILG, DepEd, DOH, DOST, DTI, NAPC, NIA, TESDA, PopCom, LANDBANK, Philippine Coconut Authority, National Dairy Authority, Philippine Carabao Center, DBP, DICT, CDA, BFAR, DBM, PCIC and the NFA. Technical support has been provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Program (WFP).

NNC Executive Director Azucena Dayanghirang expressed gratitude to the Task Force and to DAR for pushing the program, acknowleding the widespread benefits to intended beneficiaries particularly during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Nograles for his part acknowledged that it was an honor for him to lead the Task Force and be at the forefront in the fight against hunger and poverty.

"This is among my personal advocacies, one I have been actively pushing even before joining the executive department, when I was still in Congress as Davao representative."###

Sibagat LCE highlights importance of master plan for vaccination program implementation

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA)– Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur highlighted the significance of having a municipal master plan in the implementation of the government’s vaccination program to ensure that the vaccines are given to the eligible priority groups and consumed as targeted.

The lady mayor also revealed that the health personnel in their municipality, along with the barangay health workers went around to do information dissemination as there had been mixed reactions and perspectives about the vaccines -- there are people who are very positive about it and there are also people who are afraid not knowing the after-effects of the vaccine.

“We are capacitating our health workers and divided them into teams for the arrival of the vaccine; so far, it's manageable. There were already 987 who received their first dose. We continue to implement the guidelines from the Inter-Agency Task Force against COVID-19 up to the region and province especially that we are in between two cities (Butuan and Bayugan), so most of our residents' transactions are in the city,” bared Evangelista. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cultural properties display opens in Surigao City

By Venus Lim-Garcia

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mayo 24 (PIA)– As part of the celebration of the National Heritage Month, the Surigao City Tourism and Cultural Affairs opens the first-ever cultural properties exhibit dubbed as “Mga Kabilin Surigaonon.”

It aims to create more awareness and interest in the artifacts of cultural and historical value that played a crucial part in bringing history to life.

The exhibit is also one way of promoting and preserving local cultural property and rendering it accessible to Surigaonons so that its significance will become part of the lives

of people who also may gain consciousness of their own cultural identity and dignity.

“We make it a point that people, especially the Surigaonons will become more aware of our heritage. We do encourage them to preserve our heritage that’s why we intend to showcase or display some of the Surigaonon cultural properties which we have discovered during our cultural mapping in the different barangays of the city,” said Roselyn Armida B. Merlin, head of the Surigao City Tourism Office.

Included in the display are tadjaw, banga, and other heritage properties and items that were kept and preserved by the Surigaonons for more than 50 years already.

“This has become a treasure of Surigaonons. So, we do encourage people to come and visit these display at the Luneta Park at the ground floor of Surigao Reading Hub Center,” ani Merli.

Part also of the celebration of the Heritage Month was the painting competition among high school students.

The “Pintal Surigaonon” was joined by the contenders from the Canlanipa National High School, Taft National High School, Surigao City National High School, and Caraga Regional Science High School.

Meanwhile, an online songwriting competition was also held for elementary students from several participating schools which include Navarro Memorial Central Elementary School, B. Vasquez Memorial Central Elementary School, Talisay Elementary School, Special Science Elementary School, Surigao City Pilot School, at Mariano Memorial Elementary School.

“As young Surigaonons, we are happy and grateful because this exhibit has showcased our rich tangible cultural heritage. Magandang paraan ito para mas lalo pang mapahalagahan ang mga ito,” said Bruce P. Custodio, a student of NEMCO.

With the ongoing pandemic, the local government unit of Surigao City is reminding the public to constantly practice the minimum health standards as the best defense against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). (VLG/SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Loreto SKs advocate anti-terrorism activities in AgSur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA)– During the Network Briefing News aired on Friday, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in the municipality of Loreto in Agusan del Sur expressed their support for the government’s efforts in ending local communist armed conflict in the province.

Nicka Juliet Rafanan, SK Federation President of said municipality bared that there is a need for the youth to understand better the disadvantages of joining the communist terrorist group. She elaborated on the negative impacts of the terroristic acts in society.

“This is very important because some barangays here are under monitoring for terrorist presence because some youth are easily recruited. Others really lack the right knowledge on the government’s programs and services that’s why they are easily deceived by the communist group,” said Rafanan.

She further recognized the efforts and initiatives of the concerned government agencies in reaching out to the sector to provide for their needs and promote their rights and welfare. “The government has been constantly reaching out to the youth particularly in the far-flung barangays and we as young leaders in our municipality really support this kind of activities which could help improve the way of life of our constituents,” she underscored.

When asked about their counterpart in the implementation of the government’s vaccination program, Rafanan revealed that many of the target priority sectors in their municipality expressed that the vaccination is really helpful to protect them from the transmission of the deadly virus. The information campaign of the LGU is also intensified and the SKs are active in the advocacy in their respective barangays.

“As to the preparation for the vaccination by the SK councils here in Loreto, it  went well. Many got vaccinated, almost all SK chairpersons and they only felt minimal side effects. Since the Rural Health Unit of Loreto also conducted an information dissemination campaign in our barangays, most of the youth here are willing to get vaccinated,” cited Rafanan.

Meanwhile, on the increasing number of teenage pregnancy, she emphasized the need to gear up information drive efforts on sex education among youth and other activities that will enhance their interest and become more productive academically and in other curricular activities.

“We give the youth awareness on sex education through an information education campaign and give them activities for team building. We also conduct guidance counseling so they can fight off negative or unhealthy thoughts,” she said. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Gov’t agencies enhance 2022-2025 work plan for Filipino Family

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) -- In order to make the regional plan for the Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Filipino Family (RIAC-FF) and Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC), the members of the two committees from various government and non-government entities are set to convene on May 27-28, 2021 for its Capability Building and Strategic Planning at Amontay Beach Resort, this city.
 
According to DSWD-Caraga regional director Ramel Jamen, with this activity, the members would be able to discuss different relevant issues and concerns of the two sectors considering the COVID-19 pandemic and provide resolutions to it.
 
“The focal persons will prepare important information concerning Filipino families such as the data, situational analysis, and the like. A list of the PPAs which can be included in the unified and harmonized plan will also be presented,” cited Jamen.
 
Jamen added that the two committees continue to promote the welfare of the Filipino family and the children, hence, they will establish a rolling work plan for 2022-2025.
 
“We are always thankful for the active support of our partner stakeholders in the implementation and monitoring of the programs and services intended for the two sectors,” Jamen said. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgSur LGU revives Abaca industry, expands production

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) -- As Sibagat, Agusan del Sur envisions to become an organic agricultural land municipality, Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista also wanted to revive the Abaca production and has plans to expand it.

She added that currently, the municipality has a little more than 6,000 hectares of Abaca. “We really want to revive it and really expand production. We are the capital in terms of Abaca. We also give support to the women who used to weave 'sinamay' products, and produce fine fabrics called Abaca Pinukpok,” she said.

“Our vision is for Sibagat to be an organic municipality. Since we started our advocacy in 2017, the feedback from farmers has been positive. As of now, we have 4,000 hectares of agri land and this is what we are targeting to be converted into an organic agricultural land,” elaborated Evangelista.

The mayor further said that since 2016, they studied the assets of Sibagat to identify what they could show to the rest of the country. “We are rich in natural resources so we drafted the Municipal Tourism Development Plan. We've identified two waterfalls with eco-tourism potential, and hopefully, the construction of the road leading up to them will start this year. We're also giving out capability building on what can be manufactured here, and we're targeting to have it developed by 2023 or 2024,” she underscored.

The economy of Sibagat in the province of Agusan del Sur is dependent heavily on subsistence agriculture. Its major agricultural products are coconut, corn, coffee, cacao, fruits, vegetables, and root crops. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Public urged to be cautious vs COVID-19

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA)– As she shared how Sibagatnons strive to survive from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur during the Network Briefing News aired on Friday urged everyone to be cautious and follow the minimum health standards to prevent further spread of the deadly virus.

“With this ongoing health crisis, let us help and protect each other. We have 36 COVID-19 positive cases; 2 are active; and 1 death case. We should always be cautious in everything that we do and help ourselves. We reinforce the information dissemination, education and we institutionalized through a local ordinance the minimum health protocols like using face masks, face shield, and social distancing,” she said.

The municipality of Sibagat is a 1st class municipality in the province of Agusan del Sur, Philippines. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 30,442 people. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

OWWA-NRCO opens Business Plan Competition for Seafarers 2021

BUTUAN CITY, May 24– The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – National Reintegration for OFWs (OWWA-NRCO) Caraga invites Caraganons to join the special edition of this year’s contest which was renamed as The OWWA-NRCO Business Plan Competition. The Competition is open to all interested seafarers and their families intending to venture into start-up business while staying for good in the country.

Prizes will be the following: a) Top 1 : Php 150,000.00; b) Top 2-6 : Php 100,000.00 x 5 = Php 500,000.00; c) Consolation Prizes (Ranks 7-11): Php 20,000.00 x 5 = Php 100,000.00. Special Awards are the: d) Viewer’s Choice Award: 10,000.00 (Poster), and e) Bagong Tuklas Award: 10,000.00.

There should be one contestant, one entry. All submissions must be sent to nrco.bpc2021@gmail.com on or before June 30, 2021. Confirmed contestants will undergo the Mentoring Round through an online platform. Seafarers can join solo, pair or group (3-5 members). Active or inactive (maximum of 5 years) seafarers are welcome to join.

For the seafarers who are currently on duty and are unable to attend presentation and coordination activities related to the Competition, including attendance to the mentoring session, must have at least one official representative, (must be an immediate family member) who will handle all the tasks and activities required in the Competition.

The public, through the NRCO Facebook page, can also participate in the voting who among the contestants has the most “catchy poster”. The contestant with the most number of votes shall win the Voter’s Choice Award. The freshest and most innovative business idea will be awarded the Bagong Tuklas Award. Each will be given 20 minutes: 10 minutes for the pitching, and 10 minutes for the Question and Answer.

Meanwhile, winners will be announced thereafter. Certificates and/or cheques will be forwarded to the RWOs. RWOs will award them to their winners. A post-evaluation activity will be conducted by the RWOs, including the monitoring of businesses of the winners. The Top 11 are expected to pursue their business plan proposals. An agreement will be signed between the OWWA and finalists regarding this matter.

To register click the link below:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/.../_2021OWWANRCOBUSINESSPLA...

For more information, the OWWA can be reached at telephone number (085) 815-1894  and cellphone numbers 09503057533 (TNT) / 09551884858 (TM). (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Focal persons update regional plan for RCDA, RIAC-SC Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 24 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) being the chair of the Regional Committee on Disability Affairs (RCDA) and Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Senior Citizen (RIAC-SC) will convene its members from the different government agencies, private sector, academe and non-government organizations for the two-day Capacity Building and Strategic Planning activity scheduled on May 25-26, 2021 at Amontay Beach Resort, this city.

This meeting is in time with its 2nd quarterly meeting and participants are divided into two – those at the venue physically and other via Zoom platform. This is to ensure that health protocols are observed during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to DSWD-Caraga regional director Ramel Jamen, this activity aims to capacitate members on the committee functions; map the committee’s concerns, existing responses, and resources in the regional context; establish committee rolling work plan for 2022-2025; and discuss issues and concerns and update the plan of activities of RCDA and RIAC-SC for the 2nd quarter.

“The committee members wanted to ensure that our regional plan is relevant and timely of the needed responses and intervention that would continually promote the welfare of the persons with disability and the older person amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jamen. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

POPCOM pushes reliable database against COVID-19

By Matt Joe Ian F. Gonzaga

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, May 24 -- The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) of Caraga advances the Registry of Barangay Inhabitants and Migrants, or RBIM, to the barangays in the region as a baseline of managing responses against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in household level.

POPCOM is offering help to create community-based information and profile system for each barangay in the region through the RBIM. POPCOM developed RBIM and the Demographic Vulnerability Tool to assist Local Government Units in managing their responses to any pandemic, including COVID-19.

The Registry of Barangay Inhabitants and Migrants is also a tool for monitoring internal migration for growth planning and policy formulation purposes. During the profiling process, basic information such as migration data, health indicators, employment variables, and household information is gathered.

As of press time, 86 barangays of Butuan City, 25 barangays of Buenavista, and for a few barangays in the region have already after the agency’s face-to-face and online workshop forwarded by POPCOM Caraga.

Lately, the municipalities of Bacuag and Sison in the province of Surigao del Norte have submitted a letter of intent to the Commission for the conduct of training and seminars on the Barangay Inhabitants and Migrants Registry. (POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Population program addresses local population issues

By Matt Joe Ian F. Gonzaga

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, May 24 -- The Commission on Population and Development Caraga (POPCOM) came out with the 2020-2022 thrust of the Philippine Population Management or PPMP to primarily address key population issues in their locality.

In the full implementation of Supreme Court Mandanas-Garcia Ruling, POPCOM Caraga took the lead in preparing the necessary financial and logistical assistance to LGUs to ensure the long-term implementation of its key strategies, particularly at the grassroots level.

POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano expresses his gratitude to local government units that took the initiative in ensuring the agency's program mandate has a solid foundation and encourages all local chief executives and population officers to continue their duties and responsibilities in promoting empowered families and communities.

The Philippine Population Management Program enables couples to achieve their desired number and spacing of children while adhering to the demands of responsible parenthood. POPCOM is campaigning that If every Filipino family becomes well-planned, they will have a greater opportunity and capacity to innovate for each family member's well-being and development. Each Filipino becomes a more empowered human resource as a result.

The PPMP will be pursued through the main program components of: Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RP-FP), Adolescent Health and Development, and Population and Development (POPDEV) Integration. (POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Mahahalagang pamana ng Surigaonon tampok sa exhibit sa Surigao City

By Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Mayo 24 (PIA) -- Tampok sa pagdiriwang ng National Heritage Month sa Surigao City ang cultural display na pagbabalik tanaw sa mga mahahalagang pamana ng Surigaonon.

Nais ipabatid ng Surigao City Tourism and Cultural Affairs sa publiko ang kahalagahan ng mga lumang kagamitan na naging malaking parte noon ng buhay ng mga Surigaonon.

Layunin ding palakasin at palawakin ang kamalayan sa pangangalaga at promosyon ng kultura ng Surigao, at pagkakakilanlan ng kulturang Pilipino.

“We make it a point that people, especially the Surigaonons will become more aware of our heritage. We do encourgae them to preserve our heritage that’s why we intend to showcase or display some of the Surigaonon cultural properties which we have discovered during our cultural mapping in the different barangays of the city,” sabi ni Roselyn Armida B. Merlin, hepe ng Surigao City Tourism Office.

Kabilang sa cultural display ang ‘tadjaw,’ mga banga, at iba pang heritage properties at items na iniingatan at nai-preserve ng mga Surigaonon sa mahigit limampung taon na.

“This has become a treasure of Surigaonons. So, we do encourage people to come and visit these display at the Luneta Park at the ground floor of Surigao Reading Hub Center,” ani Merlin.

Bahagi ng selebrasyon ng heritage month ang kumpetisyon sa pagpinta para sa mga high school students.

Ang “Pintal Surigaonon” ay sinalihan ng mga contender galing sa Canlanipa National High School, Taft National High School, Surigao City National High School, at Caraga Regional Science High School.

Samantala, isang online songwriting competition naman para sa mga elementary students na sinalihan ng mga kalahok ng Navarro Memorial Central Elementary School, B. Vasquez Memorial Central Elementay School, Talisay Elementary School, Special Science Elementary School, Surigao City Pilot School, at Mariano Memorial Elementary School.

Sa gitna nitong pandemya, pinapaalalahanan muli ng lokal na pamahalaan ng surigao ang publiko na patuloy pa rin sa pagsunod sa health protocols. (VLG/Susil D. Ragas/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

36 ka personahe sa kapitolyo, migradwar sa Psychological First Aid

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Mayo 24 -- Katloan og unom ka personahe sa probinsyal nga panggamhan sa Agusan del Norte ang migradwar sa tulo ka adlaw nga Psychological First Aid Training and Coping Strategies on COVID-19 pandemic nga gihimo sa syudad sa Butuan.

Gitambongan usab kini ni Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo isip representante ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera.

Tumong sa maong pagbansay nga naay mga tawo sa kapitolyo nga naay katakus pagtabang nga mahupay ang kahingawa sa mga pasyente sa COVID-19. Ang ideya mao nga mokontak sila sa mga natakbuyan sa maong sakit, naka-quarantne man o wala, pinaagi sa cellular phone o digital phone aron pangutan-on sa ilang mga nasinati ug makatambag aron makasugakod sila sa posibleng anxiety disorder o depresyon.

“Dakung tabang ug additional knowledge sa amo na nakaapil sa training para makatabang sa mga tao nga nag-need og help labi na pag naa silay bation nga mental disorders,” sumala pa ni Nibika May Calixtro, personahe sa AGUSAN UP! Coordinating Center nga partisipante sa maong pagbansay. (Shena Mae Pabia, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

3,000 families in Carles, Iloilo given free housing - Nograles

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles led officials from the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the beneficiary LGU in turning over additional 2,957 free housing units in Carles, Iloilo last May 21, 2021 as part of a series of turnovers in the province for victims of Typhoon Yolanda, in fulfillment of the Duterte administration's commitment "to give affected families a new lease on life and an opportunity to rebuild." 

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles

Since assuming the chairmanship of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Unified Implementation and Monitoring of Rehabilitation and Recovery Projects and Programs in Yolanda-affected Areas, Nograles has turned over 39,263 units to different cities and municipalities in Western Visayas.

These Yolanda Permanent Housing Projects can be found in the following areas in Region 6: Ajuy, Iloilo (4,215 units); Carles, Iloilo (13,665 units); Culasi, Antique (1,974 units); Altavas, Aklan (393 units); Panit-an, Capiz (572 units); Estancia, Iloilo (3,562 units); Laua-an, Antique (1,267 units); Ivisan, Capiz (672 units); Concepcion, Iloilo (1,000 units); Jamindan, Capiz (535 units); Dumangas, Iloilo (1,993 units); Pilar, Capiz (1,354 units); Pontevedra, Capiz (1,168 units); Pandan, Antique (1,000 units); Panay, Capiz (1,543 units); Barotac Viejo, Iloilo (822 units); Roxas City, Capiz (1,533 units); Anilao, Iloilo (364 units); and Banate, Iloilo (1,631 units).

In his keynote message, Nograles thanked the local government unit leaders, led by Mayor Siegfredo Betita, Vice Mayor Arnold Betita III and municipal officials and staff who all contributed to the effort of ensuring the smooth turnover of the housing units to the beneficiaries.

The latest distribution adds to earlier units turned over by IATF-Yolanda and the NHA: 2,500 units in November 2019; 3,208 units in October 2020; and 5,000 units last March 17, 2021.

The Cab Sec added, “we likewise recognize the dedication of the NHA, particularly General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr., together with Regional Manager Engr. Antonio Del Rosario and District Manager Fe Jamoyot for the project's timely completion. The NHA officers and staff worked as a team, finishing the job despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic."

Nograles, who likewise heads the government's Zero Hunger Task Force, assured the beneficiaries that the houses and the community are complete in basic amenities and facilities. Community gardens are being set up to help families earn and learn how to be productive.

According to the Malacañang official, these steps are in line with his personal and the Task Force's advocacy to fight hunger and poverty in Yolanda-affected areas. 

“Kailangan natin magtulungan. We have engaged the participation of the private sector and concerned individuals for the creation of livelihood and nutritional opportunities in the resettlement sites."

Mayor Betita, for his part, spoke on behalf of the LGU and thanked President Rodrigo Duterte, Nograles and the NHA for "the precious gift of housing. We're proud that CabSec Nograles has prioritized our repeated requests for assistance. We would forever be grateful for this effort to address our housing needs here in Carles."