PIA - Caraga Regional Office

Caraga RPOC spearheads 'Movie for Peace Project' for Mindanao Week of Peace

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 (PIA)– The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) of Caraga region with the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development is calling Caraganon student film makers for the Mindanao Week of Peace Movie contest.

Participants should be between 13 to 23 years old and officially enrolled for the school year 2016-2017.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion is requesting interested participants to join in an orientation meeting on Wednesday, September 21 at the Bishop’s House in Ampayon, this city for the complete details and mechanics of the contest.

The conduct of the activity is in partnership with the GIZ-conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) and Forum Zfd.

CCPD is the head of the Movie for Peace’s technical working group. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

DILG seeks community participation in MASA MASID program

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 (PIA) – In its bid to empower communities and fortify people’s participation in the war against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality through reliving the spirit of ‘bayanihan’ or volunteerism in the country, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga is encouraging more the locals in every barangay to help report any of these irregularities to lift the involved out from such quagmire.

By creating an umbrella organization to consolidate the efforts of the barangay-based institutions through the spirit of volunteerism, the MASA MASID (Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomaliya, Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Iligal Na Droga) program, a multi-sectoral and mass-based approach, shall mobilize and converge Ugnayan ng Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) Barangay Action Teams (BATs) with the member civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-government organizations (NGOs) of barangay-based institutions.

“The Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) and Barangay Peace and Order Council (BPOC) in particular are also tasked to advocate crime prevention, peace and order, security, and in enhancing transparency and accountability in the barangay,” said DILG-13 regional director Lilibeth Famacion.

MASA MASID is designed to enhance the conduct of advocacy and education campaigns, information gathering and reporting to reduce the supply and demand of illegal drugs, and community-based rehabilitation program to address the need for interventions of the surrendering drug personalities.

“With this strategy, we can get immediate action from the people in the barangays since the program intends to heighten community involvement y mobilizing the support of the stakeholders, volunteers, civic organization, faith-based organizations and the private sectors,” stated Famacion.

The MASA MASID, which comes from Filipino words meaning "people" and "watch," also aims to create an enabling environment to encourage collaboration among the community partners to effectively implement the Community-Based Rehabilitation Program.

As indicated in the memorandum circular regarding the implementation of MASA MASID program, the Expended UBAS city/municipal technical working group (TWG) will serve as the social facilitator. The team will be responsible in convening, organizing, training, and mobilizing the MASA MASID team at the barangay level. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

OCD, AgNor PDRRMC to hold ICT Bayanihan for Agusan del Norte

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 (PIA) – With the aim to address the concern on communications interoperability, commonality, and inter-compatibility in the province of Agusan del Norte, an ICT Bayanihan will be held on September 22 to 23 at the Almont Inland Resort, here.

According to Agusan del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PDRRM) officer Erma Suyo, the two-day Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Summit will be participated by different provincial key ICT players of the Emergency Telecommunications, information officers, and partners from the private sectors and volunteer groups of the province.

The summit will give emphasis on the unity of efforts of all ICT key players using the existing legal frameworks, guidelines, agreements and programs of the country, Suyo said.

Also, the ICT Bayanihan will help in the establishment of Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and/or Onsite Operations and Coordination Centers (OSOCC) for humanitarian response in the province, she added.

The summit will be spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga and the Agusan del Norte Provincial DRRM Office.(NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

AgNor PDRRMC to train council members on emergency response

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 20 (PIA)– The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Agusan del Norte will hold a three-day Basic Incident Command System (ICS) on October 10 to 12 at the Gazebo Pools and Restaurant in Cabadbaran City.

PDRRM officer Erma Suyo said, the three-day ICS will train selected provincial employees and council members who have directly involve in the emergency response.

Also, it aims to develop a better appreciation and understanding of ICS and will also highlight the discussions on the core principle, features and functions of ICT, Suyo said.

The ICS is held in order to have a standardized approach to the command, control, and coordination of emergency response in the entire province and to provide a common hierarchy within which responders from multiple offices/agencies can be effective. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Surigao Norte solon endorses actor Coco Martin as youth model

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 20 (PIA) – Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers commended ABS-CBN’s TV program “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” for raising crime awareness and prevention among the viewing public.

On Wednesday, September 14, 2016, Barbers filed House Resolution 358 to formally recognize "FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano" team’s effort and courage in tackling sensitive issues that are happening in real life.

“The producers, cast and crew of the TV show, FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano are doing a great job. Tila makatotohanan ang mga sitwasyon na pinapakita sa palabas,” said Barbers, who chairs the Committee on Dangerous Drugs in the House of Representatives.

“It is also important that real-life crimes are being showcased boldly, without filter, because it raises awareness amongst viewers, para maiwasan nila ang mabiktima o masangkot sa krimen,” Barbers said.

Likewise, the lawmaker recommended the endorsement of actor Coco Martin as celebrity advocate for a drug-free Philippines.

“As we continue to wage war against illegal drugs, we need an advocate who has the public’s trust, someone who has no criminal record and has never been involved in illegal drugs. I am confident that Coco Martin is perfect for the job,” Barbers expressed.

“At sa palagay ko itong si Coco Martin sinasapuso niya ang kanyang karakter bilang si Cardo Dalisay. He plays the role as if he’s a real-life cop. Mahalaga ito sapagkat dahil sa kanya, nanunumbalik na ang tiwala ng ating mga kababayan sa ating kapulisan,” Barbers added. (AG, Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Army issues new combat trucks to field units in Caraga

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA) – A newly acquired 27 KM450 and seven KM451 purchased from South Korea were recently issued to supplement the existing operational military trucks and to enhance the mobility capability of the army troops deployed at the battalion headquarters in Caraga region.

Rev. Fr. Joshue Cadorna, rector of Order of Discalced Augustinians and Fr. Catalino Mabale led the ceremonial blessing of the 34 newly-acquired military vehicles held at the Advance Command Post, Camp Bancasi, this city.

The provision of the conveyance assets also aims to upgrade the capability of the military personnel as they perform internal and external operations and to provide operation convenience of medical staff and patients.

The KM451 units, which serve as military ambulance will be utilized not only by the soldiers but also by the civilian patients. It is fully airconditioned and complete with emergency medical treatment equipment and drugs.

According to MGen Benjamin Madrigal Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Phil. Army, aside from acquisition of the new military trucks they have also improved the coordination with the hospitals through a memorandum to provide a speedy medical response in order to save more lives.

“It is part of the continuous modernization program in which these vehicles will serve as transportation equipment for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations,” said Madrigal.

Meanwhile, Lt Col Rey Pasco, commanding officer of the 4th civil-military operations battalion, Phil. Army was grateful for the additional KM units. He assured that they will see to it that the vehicles will be mobilized accordingly to really serve its purpose, and that proper maintenance and driving protocols will be observed by the personnel incharge. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

5 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA) – Five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) went back voluntarily to the folds of the government after realizing how tough and distressful the many struggles they had faced staying with the communist group.

The former rebels claimed that they were members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (Municipal Revolutionary Committee) established by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) - NPA in the outlaying localities in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

With the help of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, said former rebels had the better opportunity to return to the mainstream society. They were able to turn over to the government six M16 rifles, 22 magazines, five bandoliers and bullets in the presence of MGen. Benjamin Madrigal, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

When asked on how would they handle those former rebels who have pending cases, MGen. Madrigal bared that legal proceedings will continue to be carried out. “On the other hand, those who desire to join the army service must first qualify with the requirements and comply everything that is necessary,” said Madrigal.

As expressed by alias "Dodong," they withdrew without letting anyone from their comrades know about the plan because they were tired of the illegal and criminal operations conducted by the NPA group.

Meanwhile, 402nd brigade commander Col. Isidro Purisima also expressed that they respected the order of ceasefire. “We are in support of peace talks because as Filipinos we are here to help our fellows to transform them from being unlawfully armed,” he added.

Col. Purisima said that their peace development operations had contributed in convincing the NPA members to surrender and start a new peaceful life.

The former insurgents will be given support through the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) as they go back to their respective communities. They will receive each a P15,000 immediate cash assistance and P50,000 livelihood aid. Another P5,000 will also be given from the office of the provincial governor of Surigao del Sur. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

'Teambayayong' TWG to visit Lumad communities in Lianga town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 21 (PIA)– The "Teambayayong" Technical Working Group is set to visit Brgy. Diatagon in Lianga town on Sept. 28, 2016 to conduct consultation and dialogue with the displaced lumads who have returned to their villages after staying at the Surigao del Sur Sports Complex for a year.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO) May Navidad Salinas confirmed during their recent meeting that the TWG, composed of members from the different line agencies, provincial government of Surigao del Sur and other stakeholders, will implement its reintegration program for the lumad communities.

Plans for the rehabilitation and repair of roads and bridges, proposal to avail for the emergency shelter assistance (ESA), consultative meeting for the construction of IP school building, and the final list of the internally displaced persons were among the topics raised during the meeting.

The issue on the exact number of displaced lumads were also tackled. For the PSWDO, they have recorded a total of 473 displaced lumad families while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga Regional office has more than 700 families.

Salinas explained that the data gathered by their office was based on the actual assessment inside the Surigao del Sur Sports Complex during their relief distribution before the lumads went back to their communities on Sept. 2-3, 2016.

With this conflicting data, it was agreed that the concerned Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers are required to submit the final list duly validated and verified by the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) and endorsed by the concerned local chief executive.

The final listing of the IDPs is essential in order to proceed for the implementation of reintegration projects and programs, Salinas concluded. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Project 'Double Barrel' nets 35,911 drug pushers, users in Caraga

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA) – Since its implementation on July 1, 2016, a total of 35,911 drug personalities from various parts of the region have surrendered to police and local authorities under the intensified Project "Double Barrel" campaign of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PSupt. Joseph Boquiren, Deputy Chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division of PNP Caraga during the Regional Development Council – Development Administration Committee (RDC-DAC) third quarter meeting held on Tuesday, September 20 bared that of the 35,911 surrenderers, 11,419 were all under the watchlist submitted to the PNP, while the 24,492 are newly-identified drug personalities.

The province of Agusan del Norte PPO has 5,857 surrenderers; Agusan del Sur PPO – 8,826; Dinagat Islands PPO – 1,706; Surigao del Norte PPO – 7,481; Surigao del Sur PPO – 6,343; and Butuan City PO with 5,698.

For the period July 1, 2016 to September 12, 2016, Boquiren also reported that 304 operations have been conducted with 424 number of persons arrested and 19 killed.

Also, a total of P19,298,084 Dangerous Drug Board value of drugs (Shabu and Marijauna) were confiscated under the Project High Value Target/Low Value Target (HVT/LVT), Boquiren said. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Maritime stakeholders to celebrate National Maritime Week 2016 in Surigao Norte

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 21 (PIA) – In line with the government's efforts to recognize thousands of Filipino seafarers working here and abroad, the stakeholders of the maritime industry here are celebrating the National Maritime Week from Sept. 25-30, 2016.

The event, which is anchored on the theme: “Shipping: Indispensable to the World," is spearheaded by the provincial station of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Surigao del Norte, Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

PPA Surigao port manager Mildred J. Padilla said the celebration is aimed to give tribute to all the seafarers and stakeholders who are indispensable to the industry and had contributed much to the country’s economy.

One of the highlights of the week-long celebration is the opening of the MARINA Sattelite Office at the Port of San Jose in Dinagat Islands.

Other activities calendared for the event include thanksgiving mass, dressing of ships, blowing of horns, wreath laying, press conference, open house/ship baseport, mangrove planting, coastal clean-up, blood-letting activity, volleyball friendship game, search and rescue drill, port and shipping consultative forum, fellowship night, and closing and awarding ceremony.

The National Maritime Week is celebrated by virtue of Proclamation No. 1094, consolidating the celebration of the National Seafarers Day (NSD), National Maritime Day (NMD) and the National Maritime Week (NMW), making the celebration more significant and more inspiring. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DepEd Surigao Norte trains teachers on teaching guides making

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 21 (PIA) – Around 66 Science and Math teachers of Surigao del Norte Schools Division were recently trained on the making of teaching guides for Senior High School Grade 11 students during the Division Walk-Through of Curriculum Guides held here.

The said activity aims to revisit the K to 12 curriculum guide for Grade 11 Science and Math, and capacitiate the newly-hired teachers on the methodologies of teaching in the academic track. Likewise, the activity seeks to strengthen the skills of teachers based on their area of specialization, and prepare teaching guides to improve the learning outcomes of students.

Said activity also supports the thrust of the HEALS plus agenda of the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Sol Matugas in building the capacities of the teachers.

Outputs from the workshops such as teaching guides were presented to Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Fidela Rosas, who shared challenges and valuable insights during the culminating program. (DepEd-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

No movement in prices of basic commodities, says DTI

By Maria Lourdes Pizarro-Apego

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 21 (PIA) - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte assured the consuming public that there was no movement in the prices of basic commodities in the city since the declaration of the State of Lawlessness in the country by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

According to DTI Agusan del Norte Consumer Welfare Division Chief Wyn Palma, this was based on the result of the monitoring they conducted immediately after the declaration until this time.

Palma clarified that the DTI is only in charge of monitoring the prices of manufactured basic commodities while the Department of Agriculture monitors the agricultural products such as rice, fish and vegetables.

Palma also clarified that the current prize freeze of basic commodities due to the declaration of the state of lawlessness will be in effect for 60 days unless the president orders it lifted within the period.

"Since the declaration of state of lawlessness was signed on September 4, 2016, the prize freeze will continue until the first week of November," Palma said. (Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DOST, Winrock-PCCP, PIA intensify 'Food Safe Caraga' campaign

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 22 (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Caraga Food Safety Team (CFST), in partnership with Winrock International – Philippine Cold Chain Project (PCCP) and Philippine Information Agency is intensifying its campaign to fulfill food safety in the region.

According to DOST Caraga regional director Dominga Mallonga, their partnership with Winrock-PCCP and PIA is aimed to increase promotion of food safety awareness through a massive information, education and communication campaign called “Food Safe Caraga.”

“This campaign is in accordance to the provisions of the Republic Act Number 10611, also known as the Food Safety Act of 2013 – An Act to Strengthen the Food Safety Regulatory System in the country to protect consumer health and facilitate market access of local foods and food products,” reiterated Mallonga.

The good director further expressed her optimism that their partnership with Winrock and PIA will reach many places, as they will be doing various activities and efforts to reach out to people and inculcate the significance of ensuring food safety all the time.

The DOST is guided with the vision to uphold "a reservoir of scientific and technological know-how providing world-class solutions that empower Filipinos to attain higher productivity and better quality of life.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

6,711 drug personalities surrender in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 22 (PIA) – Since the Police Provincial Office (PPO) of Surigao del Sur launched “Operation Tokhang,” it has recorded 6,711 drug personalities who have surrendered in various police stations in the province, an updated report received from the PPO Surigao del Sur headed by PSSupt Romaldo Bayting.

The 6,711 drug personalities included 6,676 drug dependents or users and 135 pushers.

Accordingly, Barobo town recorded the highest number of drug surrenderers with a total of 736. Ten of them were pushers, while 726 are users.

The city of Bislig has recorded 659 surrenderees and Tandag City with 531.

PPO PCR assistant officer Arlene Tanzo also noted that Tandag City has the most number of PNP personnel assigned with 88 police officers including the senior officials. (FEA/NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DILG holds RS4LG orientation to LGUs

By Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 22 (PIA) - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 (Caraga) with support from the Local Government Academy (LGA) has conducted the Orientation-Workshop on Regulatory Simplification for Local Governments (RS4LG) on September 14-16, 2016 at Raquiza Hall of Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

With the recent pronouncement of President Rodrigo R. Duterte during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) relative to the ease of doing business and fast government processing time in issuing permits and licenses and other transaction, the RS4LG complements to its implementation.

Now on the third year, DILG Region 13 (Caraga) identified five new target local government units (LGUs) in the region for CY 2016. These are the Municipality of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur; Municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte; and the Municipality of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur; Municipality of Mainit, Surigao del Norte and the Municipality of San Jose, Dinagat Islands which were invited in the said activity.

In line with the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1, Series of 2016 Re: “Revised Standards in Processing Business Permits and Licenses in all Cities and Municipalities,” RS4LG seeks to improve the LGUs’ processes in starting a business. It aims to assist the target LGUs in fostering a business climate that will contribute to private sector development as well as the economic development of the LGU. It involves an exhaustive review of a LGUs’ regulatory framework with the objectives of removing unnecessary requirements in registering a business. The overall end-result is the enhancement of the LGUs’ competiveness as an investment destination complemented by a better-planned and managed urban growth.

Also, it focused on enhancing the existing business permit and licensing system (BPLS) to support the LGUs in improving their regulatory systems and processes relating to starting a business and complements the BPLS program by providing an in-depth analysis of the LGU’s regulatory framework.

Participants of the activity were the LCE, Municipal Administrators, Business Permit and Licensing Officers (BPLOs), Municipal Engineers (MEs) of the Office of the Building Official, Sanitary Inspectors/Municipal Health Officer (MHO), Municipal Treasurers, Zoning Officers/Planning and Development Coordinators and Sangguniang Bayan members.

At the end of the activity, the participants submitted their Action Plans in the implementation of the RS4LG with the commitment of the LGUs to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the DILG and LGA. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Solidifying building blocks of peace and progress

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept 23 (PIA) - The complex reality of putting the puzzle pieces together or fitting in the blocks to shape the desired approach for our nation’s lengthy road to peace, stability, and development is existent. But the Philippines sees a stronghold of progress through reinforcement of effective strategies under the leadership of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

For Tandag City Mayor Alexander T. Pimentel, he perceived the sincere intent of the President on stopping mass poverty, corruption, crime and illegal drugs.

“Thus far, he has made remarkable gains in the country's fight against illegal drugs, especially targeting the so-called narco-politicians and coddlers of drug lords,” enunciated Pimentel.

He further said that the prospects for lasting peace are rife. The Oslo round of Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) peace panel - National Democratic Front (NDF) recent talks ended in high note with the indefinite ceasefire declaration, enabling both panels now to move into the succeeding rounds.

“Likewise, plans to engage in peace talks with all the major Muslim groups have also taken shape, slowly making good on his promise to bring peace to Mindanao within his term,” mentioned Pimentel.

Citing more of his observations, Pimentel said that the President has made an indelible mark during the recent ASEAN Summit, bringing into fore the life-long issues of our people while reaffirming our country's commitment to the ideals of our Asian neighbors and the international community.

“President Digong, with his resolve, can very well steer this nation back again to where it should be,” underscored Pimentel.

In that regard, the pace and evolving tactics employed are integral to complement the constructive change that is fundamental in peacebuilding and for fulfillment of inclusive growth.

As typically heard, “peace is what we make of it,” thus, by keeping the beam sturdy to brace the undertakings in countering violent unrest, insurgencies and terrorism, the country’s sustained progress is winnable. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

PSA Caraga ready for 2015 POPCEN Reg’l Data Dissemination Forum

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) will once again spearhead the conduct of the 2015 Census of Population (POPCEN) Regional Data Dissemination Forum on September 27, 2016 at Rosario’s Seafood Restaurant and Convention Center, this city.

According to PSA Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura, the objective of said forum is to raise awareness among stakeholders and users on the importance and relevance of the data especially in the formulation of plns, policies and programs.

“The forum will cover topics such as: POPCEN 2015 population counts, population density and population counts by legislative district,” added Apura.

It was also learned that the participants of said event are representatives from the regional line agencies, local government units, academe, media, religious organizations and other private stakeholders. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Police joins clean-up drive in Surigao Norte town

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 23 (PIA) –The municipal police station (MPS) of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte joined the nationwide Clean-Up Day on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016.

According to Gigaquit MPS officer-in-charge Police Insp. Sabino M. Pagasian, some police personnel helped in collecting dried leaves and other waste materials at Doot Beach while others led the clean-up of several garbage materials in the streets of barangay Alambique and Ipil.

Insp. Pagasian said the activity aims to intensify public awareness and participation on proper solid waste management.

“We encourage everyone to make it a habit that every day is a clean-up day, so that we can have a clean and healthy environment,” said Pagasian.

This year’s observance of the National Clean-up Month is anchored on the theme, “Bayan Ko, Linis Ko.”

The said observance is mandated by virtue of Proclamation No. 244 series of 1993 declaring the month of September of every as National Clean-up Month. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

News Feature: DAR Caraga hands-over FDA's license to operate to AgSur coop

By Corine G. Munion

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 23 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has recently handed-over the License to Operate (LTO) approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) to Kaagap Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KAAGAPMUCO) for its Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) project during the Coconut Farmers Congress held at San Francisco Municipal Gymnasium, this province.

The issuance of LTO to KAAGAPMUCO is said to be the first in DAR Caraga Region. The coop took pride in becoming globally competitive being an importer, distributor, wholesaler and manufacturer of VCO products.

For KAAGAPMUCO, acquiring the said LTO was not just a walk in the park. The documentation process was tedious and the compliance to the building specifications was also very stringent. It took them eight months to finally complete the documents and submit to FDA Caraga Regional Office. Availability of funds for the renovation of production plant that conforms with the FDA specifications, schedule of laboratory testing, site inspection by FDA personnel were just some of the factors to consider in the delay.

With the assistance from the DAR Agusan del Sur thru the Program Beneficiaries Development Division in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur, the coop was able to pass the entire documents required.

“We are very happy that finally we already received what we aimed for a long time. Right now we are in the process of negotiating with prospective buyers here and abroad,” expressed Maximino Robles Jr., manager of KAAGAPMUCO.

VCO is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. Aside from its perceptible nutty aroma, it is recognized to be the purest form of coconut oil, being chemical and additive free. It is higher in vitamin content, antioxidants and minerals. Because of its wide range of market demand nowadays, the members of KAAGAPMUCO are hopeful that their VCO products will also be recognized globally. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DA Caraga monitors project to ensure proper implementation

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 23 (PIA) - Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga’s Regional Project Coordination Office (RPCO) team recently visited the farm-to-market road (FMR) project in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur to ensure that the ongoing construction abides with the requirements set by the project.

“We not only listen to your reports, but we also would like to see personally what’s happening on the ground,” said DA Caraga Regional Executive Director Renato Manantan during the second quarter PRDP coordination meeting. “I will sit with the PPMIUs in the provinces and please don’t hesitate to share your experiences with PRDP,” he added.

The visit to the P13.87 million Tag-anahaw to San Isidro Farm-to-Market Road (FMR), which was reported to have an accomplishment of 41 percent was assisted by Mayor Leonida Manpatilan of Esperanza wherein she shared both her struggles and excitement of the project.

“The concrete road will shorten the transportation of goods from the two barangays and the farmers of the community is more inspired seeing the ongoing construction of the FMR,” said Mayor Manpatilan.

Travelling from Tag-anahaw to San Isidro will take 7 kilometer. Most of the time, the goods are partly damaged when it reached the market since the long transportation passes through rough roads.

“We have been waiting for this concrete road where the transportation of our product is shortened from 7 to 1 kilometer,” said San Isidro Barangay Captain Ferdinand Lazaga. “All of the residents in the two barangays will benefit from this project especially the children coming from Tag-anahaw who would walk to and from their school,” Lazaga added.

The 1.4 km FMR that has 230 hectares influence area will benefit 728 farming individuals including the indigenous people (IP). Rice, corn, banana and other high value crops are among the commodities that are being grown in the area.

DA has been keen in monitoring its infrastructure projects. “We will always stick with the guidelines set for PRDP projects, what we are asking from the LGUs is to help us monitor these ongoing projects,” said Alternate I-BUILD Head Engr. Gilbert Ken Zaportiza.

Residents and local officials in the barangays have also been active in monitoring the project. “We are glad that we are part of this project, people from RPCO and even the contractor considers our side for its smooth implementation,” said Lazaga. (RPCO-13/PIA-Caraga)

Drug rehab center opens inside army camp in AgSur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 23 (PIA) - The 401st Infantry "Unity" Brigade, Philippine Army based here was the first camp to host a drug abuse rehabilitation center in partnership with the provincial government here.

Named as Residential Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (RTRC), the facility was opened on Sept. 22 with Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Atty. Salvador Panelo as guest of honor representing President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

The two-hectare facility inside the army camp is part of the provincial government’s Substance Use Recovery and Enlightenment (SURE) Program to give drug use victims a second chance at life and avoid them from becoming victims of the drug syndicates who are trying to cover their tracks.

It will be managed and administered by the provincial government of Agusan del Sur and can accommodate 60 patients in the meantime while waiting for new buildings to be constructed.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward “Eddiebong” Plaza took pride in the partnership with the army for supporting his program to support the anti-drug campaign of the government.

Col. Cristobal Zaragoza, the 401st Brigade Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, was also thankful to the governor for involving the brigade in their program to showcase the collaboration of stakeholders in the province.

Brigadier General Ronnie Evangelista, the Deputy Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) also graced the said activity. (401st Brigade, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DAR AgSur conducts cascading on new issuances to harmonize interpretation of laws

By Clark Howell B. Yu

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 23 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) thru the Legal Services Division conducted the cascading on the features of the latest Administrative Orders and Memorandum Circular affecting the issuance of various certificates for the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) to its personnel and beneficiaries held recently at Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Leoncio C. Bautista Jr.; PARPO I Allan Mundala, legal division chief of DAR regional office; and Atty. Marie Lou Nueva-Ruiz served as the speakers of said activity. The municipal agrarian reform program officers, and all the legal officers were also present.

“The ultimate objective for this cascading is not only for the participants to have the same interpretation of the laws but to have a concise and effective execution of the same. Minimize mistake, if there is any, however, at least to its tiniest state,” PARPO I Mundala stressed.

On the first day, Legal Officer Joven Tafalla discussed the features of Memorandum Circular (MC) 4 series 2016, also known as the “Procedure and Requirements for Issuance of Certificates of Finality for ALI, Land Use, and Cancellation Case Decisions of the DAR Secretary and Regional Directors.”

During the second day, legal officers Shelah Pal-Badiang and Adelo Estavas also discussed the guidelines on the issuance of DAR Clearance on Transfer of Agricultural Lands to Private Persons contained in A.O. 6 and the Rules and Procedures Governing the Voluntary Transfer of Ownership of Agricultural Lands covered by Certificate of Land Ownership Awards (CLOA) or an Emancipation Patent (EP) Prior to the Termination of the Holding Period in A.O. 7, respectively.

Meanwhile, Atty. Marie Lou Nueva-Ruiz, also tackled on the third day the features of A. O. 3 otherwise known as the “Guidelines and Procedures to Stabilize Ownership and Tenureship of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries with CLOA.”

“I believe that this new guidelines are products of the brilliant minds but I expect daunting tasks ahead, particularly on the provision of getting a unanimous consent from the community of collective owners or active members and I think we, along with all the MARPOs have the same wavelength on this matter. However, we will still surely give our unceasing effort to serve the stakeholders,” expressed MARPO Chito Tubin.

These guidelines were issued by then secretary Virgilio Delos Reyes before he stepped down in his office on June 30, 2016. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Surigao Norte solon appeals to private sector to donate strong signal jammers to stop drug trade in Bilibid

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 23 (PIA) - In light of the recent revelation that convicted drug lords still manage to run their “businesses” inside the New Bilibid Prison through the use of communication gadgets, Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers made an appeal before the private sector to donate state-of-the-art and high-powered signal jammers to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to end drug related activities inside the national penitentiary.

“It’s quite alarming that despite being heavily guarded by no less than the elite Special Action Force, inmates of the maximum security compound can still get away with their illicit criminal acts. Drug trade is still very much active inside and outside Bilibid as per the testimonies of the witnesses. Walang saysay ang pagpapahuli at pagpapakulong sa mga drug convicts kung sa loob mismo ng kulungan ay may pagkakataon silang maipagpatuloy ang ganitong kalakaran,” Barbers said.

“Aside from using cellular phones for drug trade, inmates use it to arrange delivery of contrabands and execute plans of retaliation. In all legality, convicted criminals have no business using communication gadgets while inside the Bilibid," Barbers said during the House investigation on the proliferation of drug syndicates at the New Bilibid Prison,” he lamented.

“This is why there is a need to install state-of-the-art and high powered signal jammers especially in buildings where hardcore drug lords are detained. Cellular phones are getting smaller and are therefor harder to detect by our already-burdened prison guards. Kaya nga kailangan ng signal jammers, para kahit may cellphones silang hawak, useless na ang mga ito,” said Barbers.

"The DOJ admitted that they have no technology to jam 3G or LTE-able mobile phones. Hence, I appeal to the private sector to donate signal jammers to be used against the commission of criminal acts by inmates. Together, let's work hand-in-hand to challenge the status quo so we, as a country, can finally welcome the change that everyone so desires,” he added. (AG, Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

News Feature: Butuanons recognize DENR's 'Oras sa Kinaiyahan' radio program

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) – The “Oras sa Kinaiyahan” (Environment Hour) radio program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga thru its anchorperson Forest Ranger Rey Joy Chavez of CENRO-Nasipit, Agusan del Norte was recognized by the listening public and Hope Radio Philippines based in the city.

In an awarding ceremony held recently at the Hope Radio FM station, Chavez received a plaque of appreciation from the management for masterfully anchoring a highly informative, beneficial, entertaining and fascinating radio program dubbed as “Oras sa Kinaiyahan,” which not only accomplishes much of DENR’s mission but also of HOPE Radio’s – that of filling its air time with contents that lift up the souls of the listeners with godly hope and love for mother earth.

Chavez expressed his overwhelming thanks to all its listeners for recognizing the “Oras sa Kinaiyahan” and taking positively the contents related to environment that he airs during his program.

“We have been informing the public on the different issues and concerns so they can help the government in its effort to maintain a clean and green environment and promote healthy living by participating in the community activities that will also contribute to the peace and development of their respective communities,” highlighted Chavez.

Chavez further emphasized that the DENR will continue to cascade relevant and useful/helpful information to the public "as we continue to promote a healthier, cleaner and greener environment to live in until the next generations to come."

The said radio program has started airing in the said station for more than a year and still hitting the airwaves at this time. The same radio program has also a timeslot at 107.8 Power FM/Advanced Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEBS) Network – PIA Caraga’s radio station in the city. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI, DOH conduct skills training to drug dependents

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept 26 (PIA)– The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with Department of Health (DOH), helped the 18 recovering drug dependents bing back their self-worth as they mingle again with the community through the conduct of several skills training.

In a recently concluded activity, the drug dependent participants were taught on soap making (liquid soap, bath soap, powder soap and beauty soap), as well as perfume and fabric conditioner production. They also learned on how to manage business money, product costing, marketing, packaging and labeling.

Provided also are starter kits for them to start engaging in business immediately after the training. “DTI will not give fish but DTI will teach them how to fish so that they will have fish all their lives. It is a challenge to all of them for them to work for it. If we can trust them in small thing, we can also trust them in bigger things,” emphasized DTI Agusan del Norte provincial director Gay Tidalgo.

All of them have their own story to tell, what is common is that they all wanted to have a normal life after experiencing the most horrible thing that they encountered in their lives which they considered themselves as victims. At the moment, they really wanted to support their family and be a productive part of the society.

Meanwhile, DOH is assisting them recover physically, mentally and spiritually and this led them to avail of the livelihood project of DTI to support their daily needs and eventually earn to financially support their family. (DTI/PIA-Caraga)

PRDP Caraga endorses P102 Million agri projects

By Emmylou Presilda

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) - After thorough deliberation, the Regional Project Advisory Board (RPAB) of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Caraga Region has recently approved and endorsed for funding a total of P102 Million worth of subprojects (SPs) from different proponent groups (PGs).

Nineteen of the SPs amounting to a total of P80 Million are under the Enterprise Development portfolio that aims to increase farmer’s individual income and benefit the various associations and cooperatives. These include project proposals on geonet production and marketing, rice processing and trading, seaweeds production and marketing, cardava production and marketing, banana consolidation and marketing, bangus production and marketing, and abaca production and marketing.

During the deliberation, Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga OIC regional executive director and RPAB chair Renato P. Manantan emphasized that PGs should have the capacity to carry out the projects and ensure its sustainability to get approval from the board.

“These projects should not only benefit its direct beneficiaries but should also become a venue to enable communities alleviate poverty that even after the Project has ended, people will continue to live and prosper,” Manantan said.

PRDP, a six-year national government platform for inclusive, value-oriented, and climate resilient agriculture and fisheries sector, has been known to have championed measures on transparency and accountability.

Following the rigorous process of coming up viable business enterprises, each project proposal went through several in depth assessment, scrutiny and revisions before finally presenting it to RPAB for approval. This, to make sure that if given the final go, will serve its purpose in line with the project’s objective that includes increasing farmers’ income, productivity, and competitiveness in the countryside.

The municipality of Cortes, Surigao del Sur which is the lone proponent for Infrastructure Component during the deliberation also received endorsement from the RPAB with four subprojects amounting to a total of P22.6 Million. These include the construction of six watch towers, nine papag dryers, five units all-weather dryer, and one warehouse with solar dryer.

“These subprojects will not only help our fishers and seaweed farmers but will also sustain the protection of our marine protected areas and fish sanctuaries and would eventually create employment for our people,” said Coastal Resource Management Officer Vincent Dueñas of Cortes.

After endorsement of the subprojects to the National Program Coordination Office (NPCO) for further evaluation, PGs will have to wait for the No Objection Letter 1 (NOL1), which signals the approval of each proposal. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor guv approves P7.3M road project in Cabadbaran

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) – Agusan del Norte provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell “Angel” M. Amante-Matba recently approved the implementation of the infrastructure project Rehab Plus/Improvement of Comagascas-del Pilar-Pirada Provincial Road in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte with a total cost of P7,337,470.27 funded under the Motor Vehicle Users Charge (MVUC).

Gov. Matba prioritized the said project to provide basic facility to the barangay through convenient road access to the city proper and neighboring sitios and barangays. It is also in line with the thrust of the provincial government of providing basic services and infrastructure development program in the province.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte authorized Gov. Matba through Sanggunian Resolution No. 028-2016, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, to sign for and in behalf of the province the Contract Agreement with Reyrose Construction and Supply for the immediate implementation of the said road project. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DAR Surigao Norte holds coordination meeting on conflicting land claims

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 26 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Surigao del Norte spearheaded a coordination meeting with other concerned government agencies on Sept. 15, 2016 at the Gateway Hotel, this city.

Other government agencies present during the meeting were representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the 30IB of the Philippine Army.

The discussion puts emphasis on conflicting claims on ancestral domain lands and timber lands that were allegedly covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program and were issued with Certificate of Land Ownership Awards in the barangays of Bunyasan, Cansayong, Hanagdong and Tinago, all of Malimono town, Surigao del Norte.

The meeting also focused on the issues regarding land tenure and security, and issues on mining activities of the identified above barangays under the Peace and Development Outreach Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Lt. Ryan D. Layug of the 30IB said he was overwhelmed with the result and stressed that the purpose of the coordination meeting between the concerned government agencies is to iron out and look for a common solution that will answer the identified issues of the concerned communities. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

AgNor LGU distributes school supplies to Las Nieves students

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte with the key persons from the Provincial Social Welfare, Population, Nutrition and Services Office led the distribution of school supplies to the students of Barangays San Roque and Subait in the municipality of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

Said activity is under the "Provision of School Supplies to Far Flung Schools" program of Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell “Angel” Amante-Matba, it was learned.

School officials of San Roque Elementary School and the barangay officials, including the students, parents and residents of the said barangays warmly welcomed the team of Gov. Angel.

Previously, the team also distributed school supplies to Barangay Simbalan in Buenavista, Barangay Bonifacio in Las Nieves, and Sitios Malahuni, Mimbahandi and Salaysayon, all of Barangay Camagong in Nasipit, all of Agusan del Norte. (LUG-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Region’s population hits 2.5 million mark

By Fryan E. Abkilan

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) - Caraga Region’s population soared to 2,596,709 in 2015, or 167,485 more than its 2010 population of 2.4 million.

Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Caraga regional director Rosalinda C. Apura revealed that the region’s population grew by 1.28 percent between 2010 and 2015 based on the August 2015 Census of Population (POPCEN 2015).

Among the five provinces comprising the region, the province of Agusan del Sur had the biggest population (700,653), which accounted for 26.98 percent of the total population of the region. This was followed by the province of Surigao del Sur with 22.81 percent (592,250), Surigao del Norte with 18.68 percent (592,250), and Agusan del Norte with 13.65 percent (354,503). The province of Dinagat Islands had the smallest population (127,152) accounted for only 4.90 percent.

Butuan City, the only highly urbanized city in the region, posted a population of 337,063 (12.98 percent).

The POPCEN 2015 count showed that country’s population stands at 100,981,437. Caraga’s total population accounted for about 2.6 percent of the country’s population.

Information on the count of the population were collected by the PSA enumerators with 12:01 a.m. of August 1, 2015, as the census reference time and date.

Republic Act 10625, also known as the Philippine Statistical Act of 2013; and Executive Order 352 stipulate the conduct of a mid-decade census, primarily to update the population count in all barangays nationwide. (FEA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Sur wants to settle boundary disputes with Surigao Norte, Agusan Sur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 27 (PIA) – The provincial government of Surigao del Sur vows to continue the series of dialogues with the province's neighbors in a bid to resolve their pending boundary issues.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Henrich Pimentel said the provincial government continues to find a solution to several issues raised by its neigboring provinces, Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Sur.

Pimentel said he is tasked to work it out in accordance with the law, as he cited Republic Act 7160 or the local government code of 1991.

Meanwhile, the official also bared that the boundary conflict between Davao Oriental involving the three villages in Lingig town is about to finish soon. They are just waiting for the completion of the provincial boundary monument.

The official said the province has lost 2,700 hectares to Davao Oriental after the dispute of almost 20 years was settled through a Compromise Agreement signed by both parties in 2015. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga region celebrates elderly Filipino week

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) – Every first week of October every year is celebrated as “Elderly Filipino Week” per Presidential Proclamation No. 470 series of 1994.

With the theme “Pagmamahal at Respeto ng Nakakabata, Nagpapaligaya sa Nakatatanda,” a simultaneous “Walk for Life” will be held on October 1 in key cities in the country.

In Caraga region, the Department of Health (DOH), PhilHealth, and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will spearhead the “Walk for Life” at Almont Inland Resort, this city.

Health services to be catered during the activity include: Nutritional Assessment, Fasting Blood Glucose, Uric Acid and Cholesterol Taking, Blood Pressure Taking, Weighing and Vaccination.

According to DOH Caraga assistant regional director Cesar C. Cassion, the activity aims to empower the health and wellness programs for the elderly and accord the celebration with more significance.

“It is a venue to raise awareness about the benefits and the updating of records of the elderly Filipinos under the Lifetime member and Senior Citizen Programs of partner agencies like Philhelath,” said Cassion.

Also, the activity will enhance cooperation with agencies incharge of implementing Republic Act 9994 of The Expanded Senior Citizens Act and to promote wellness and exercise among the elderly Filipinos, Cassion added.

“The role of the senior citizens is crucial in nation-building; and we are glad to contribute and extend the services to this sector by medical-related privileges and we hope to serve more to the sector to improve if not continue the quality of life towards longevity,” Cassion said. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

DILG Caraga chief urges LGUs to join national earthquake drill

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga region has issued a memorandum enjoining all local government units (LGUs) of the region to join the third quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Wednesday at 9:00 A.M.

In a memorandum issued by DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion dated Sept. 20, the local chief executives are enjoined to participate by conducting respective earthquake drills and identify evacuation sites.

Famacion also directed the LGUs that all information, education and communication (IEC) activities related to the conduct of the NSED shall be properly documented and be submitted to the regional office of the DILG for submission to their central office Disaster Information Coordinating Center for consolidation.

According to Famacion, the NSED is aimed to understand the command and control mechanisms in disaster management operations of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) members and to provide an opportunity for training in an actual disaster environment of all stakeholders identifying their specific roles and responsibilities on how to respond to the call of the situation.

The conduct of NSED is pursuant to DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2016-128 dated September 19, 2016 signed by Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Ismael D. Sueno and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Memorandum No. 46, Series of 2016 dated August 31, 2016 signed by USEC Ricardo B. Jalad, Executive Director of NDRRMC. (DILG/NCLM, PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte solon urges congress to fast track passage of bill creating regional or provincial rehab centers

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 27 (PIA) -Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers, chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, rallied the committee to rush up the passage of a bill seeking the establishment of regional or provincial drug rehabilitation centers in the country due to the existence of at least 680,000 drug users and pushers who surrendered but let loose by the government due to inadequacy of such facilities.

Barbers said there is a need to fast track the consolidation of 11 bills seeking the creation of drug rehabilitation centers in the country and pass them into law as soon as possible.

“In the recent briefing made before our panel by officials of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA), the PNP’s Anti-Illegal Drugs Group, and the National Bureau of Investigation, we learned that the PNP in its Oplan Tokhang campaign have managed to convince to surrender some 680,000 drug users and pushers nationwide,” he said.

“But the problem is that they were let loose because the PNP, or any other law enforcement agency like the PDEA, has no drug rehabilitation facility that can accommodate that huge number of people involved or addicted to drugs, particularly shabu,” he added.

Barbers said that this is the reason why there is a pressing need to fast track the passage of a bill calling for the creation of either regional or provincial drug rehabilitation facilities to accomodate the would-be rehab subjects as quickly as possible.

“If we would dilly-dally in the effort to create more drug rehab facilities, what would happen to the more than 680,000 drug pushers and users who surrendered to the police who are now at home or on the loose? While we can presume that some of them, say 10 percent, won’t get back to their old ways, what about the remaining 90 percent?” Barbers asked.

“Most likely, they would just take a short break until the heat on them is off and later return to their old habits – smoking, sniffing, ingesting or worse, again selling illegal drugs,” he added.

Barbers explained that there are at least 11 bills filed at the lower house, with seven of them seeking the creation of drug regional rehabilitation, while four seek the creation of such facility in every province.

The country has 18 regions (17 administrative and one autonomous) while there is a total of 81 provinces. The autonomous region is the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao while the Cordillera Administrative Region, originally intended to be autonomous, was reduced to a regular administrative region after two plebiscites failed for its establishment.

Under the measure filed by House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, it stated that while there exists some government and private drug rehabilitation facilities that offer rehab programs and services, most of them are inaccessible and definitely expensive.

“Families in the provinces cannot meet the cost of placing their drug dependent relatives in private rehab centers. Our bill seeks to broaden the coverage of drug treatment and recovery programs for drug dependents by establishing a drug rehab center in every region,” he said.

Alvarez explained that the process of rehabilitation is not just about treating the physical and mental state of the drug dependents. “It also requires emotional preparation, psychological introspection, gradual social reintegration, and a post-monitoring mechanism that will ensure permanent self-rediscovery and continued productivity.”

“With appropriate public-private sector partnerships, we can collectively help drug victims get right back on track and pursue life aspirations that temporarily took a back seat,” he said.

Other lawmakers are calling for the creation of government drug rehab facilities in all the 81 provinces so that poor families (living thereat) with drug dependents won’t be having a hard time travelling to and from the regional rehab sites.

The PDEA and the PNP are both seeking an additional P1 billion each for their anti-drug campaign for 2017, and this does not include the creation of drug rehabilitation facilities. (SDR/AG/Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

LGU-led peace caravan to be held in AgNor town

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) – As part of the 6-point peace and development agenda of the Duterte administration, the local government units of Jabonga and Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), line agencies, and other stakeholders will conduct a peace caravan on Friday, Sept. 30, 2016 in Brgy. Baleguian, Jabonga town.

The said caravan is targeted to provide services to the indigenous people (IP) communities primarily the Mamanwa tribes in the municipalities of Jabonga and Kitcharao. However, this does not exclude the non-IP residents in the community who have identified needs as well.

A total of over 500 households or 2,000 individuals are expected to receive the services offered by the government.

The caravan aims to provide an avenue for the different agencies to come together to provide services to communities, especially those affected by armed conflict. Through these efforts, it is ascertained that no community will be left behind.

At present, 24 government offices and civil society organizations have committed to support the said activity and to deliver services to the beneficiaries.

The services that will be offered will help address issues on health, poverty, grooming, poverty, livelihood, education, social, legal and land concerns. The caravan also aids in orienting the communities of services offered by government that they can avail of. (OPAPP/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur bares activities for coop month

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Sept 28 (PIA) – The province of Surigao del Sur and the city government of Tandag have lined up various activities for this year's Cooperative Month celebration this October.

This year’s theme is “Cooperatives: The Catalyst of Chage through Poverty Eradication and Social Transformation.”

In an interview, Provincial Cooperative Development Officer Angeles Canda and Tandag City Cooperative Development Officer Lorna Nova said among the identified activities include the hanging of streamers and tarpaulins, which will start on Saturday, October 1; Zumba or Hataw exercise on October 1 as kick off activity of the celebration; Regional Cooperative Month Summit to be held in Butuan City on October 4-5, 2016; National Cooperative Summit on October 24-26; and tree planting activity, which is also a culmination activity scheduled on October 29 held in Barangay Maticdum, this city. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

CENRO Lianga, partners gather 255 kgs of garbage during clean-up drive

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

LIANGA, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 28 (PIA) - Personnel of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Lianga and officials and employees of the local government units of San Agustin, Marihatag, and Barobo collected a total of 255 kilograms of garbage during the simultaneous clean-up activity held recently in several locations of the province.

Jun Mark Bernaldez of CENRO Lianga said the activity is part of the observance of the 2016 National Clean-up Month Celebration.

Anchored on the theme: “Bayan Ko, Linis Ko: Partnering Towards People’s Environmental Movement,” Bernalez said the synchronized clean-up drive was conducted in Tawnaga Creek, Terminal and Park located in Barangay Otieza, San Agustin town; Marihatag Park, Terminal and Creek located in Barangay Poblacion, Marihatag; and all barangays within the municipality of Barobo.

According to Bernalez, some of the waste materials collected were plastics, cellophanes and debris that caused pollution with adverse impact to the environment. The said waste materials were properly segregated, in accordance with Republic Act 9003 known as “Solid Waste Management Act” and transported to the sanitary landfill for proper disposition.

CENRO Lianga chief Hernan Hernandez was grateful for the active participation of the concerned partners in the local government units.

“The celebration was successfully undertaken wherein the participants are helping to mitigate the impact of global warming and climate change through proper waste management. Regular clean-up activity is very important rto all of us to ensure a balance and healthful ecology,” said Hernandez.

The simultaneous clean-up drive is the annual celebration pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 244 that declares every September as National Clean-up Month. The event aims to maintain the cleanliness of the environment particularly in the coastal, river, creek/estero and other public places that promote the way of life as well as the ecological balance of the earth. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Region shakes for #Pagyanig2016

By April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 28 (PIA) - Several local government units (LGUs) and public and private stakeholders of Caraga Region simultaneously performed the “Duck, Cover and Hold” technique on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at 9:00 A.M. in line with the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED).

Dubbed as “PAGYANIG 2016,” the nationwide drill measures the country’s readiness whenever an earthquake strikes. This is a form of raising awareness to populace on the proper actions to be done before, during and after the occurrence of earthquake.

The ceremonial site of Caraga Region is the municipality of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur where a total of 9,571 individuals participated in the drill. The provinces in the region have also identified ceremonial sites in their respective areas of responsibilities.

The drill in the region’s ceremonial site was led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga Region together with the Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Public Works and Highways and RESPOND, Inc. as pool of evaluators. Likewise, drills conducted region-wide were led and evaluated by national/regional-line agencies and local disaster risk reduction and management councils.

This tested the readiness and level of preparedness of Caraga in efficiently and effectively responding to high magnitude earthquake. Moreover, gaps, issues and lessons learned were identified during the drills. The exercise improves the ability and capacity of Caraga Region to respond to and recover from earthquake.

All drills in the region were officially terminated at 12:00 noon. (OCD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

OWWA-Caraga joins Angot festival jobs fair

By Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 28 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga participated in the Angot Festival Jobs Fair 2016 on September 26 at Brgy. Poblacion, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Said activity is part of the celebration of 15th Angot Festival and 56th Town Fiesta, it was learned.

Participating agencies who are presently offering jobs across Asia, Middle East and U.S. include: Jenerick International Manpower Inc. with 2,105 job vacancies, Al-Alama International Manpower Services with 820 vacancies, and Eastern Overseas Employment Center with 365 vacancies.

Meanwhile, several companies offering various jobs for local employment were also present: Sweetsation Inc. (Dunkin Donuts), Philsaga Mining Corporation, Timberland Security Agency and Bachelors Express.

During her talk, Provincial PESO Manager Divina Lagumbay, emphasized the importance of participating in bringing the job opportunities to the people. “Paving the way of employment for them would somehow set an encouragement for them to participate and take chance for the opportunity. The same event is encouraged to counter illegal recruitment and human trafficking,” she added.

OWWA-Caraga also catered to a number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), beneficiaries and dependents with their queries and concerns. With the help of Ronilo Maningo, OWWA-Family Welfare Officer, five individuals mostly OFWs were attended to with their respective concerns.

Reynold Monte, one of the OFWs, sought help for application in the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanap-buhay Program (BPBH). Monte expressed his thanks to OWWA upon knowing that he was qualified to apply for the program. “I feel so lucky to be assisted here. It is so convenient on my part without the need to travel to Butuan City,” stated by Monte, in local dialect. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Butuan's 3 barangays among most populated in Caraga Region

By Maria Lourdes Pizarro-Apego

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 28 (PIA) - Three barangays in the city are currently among the top ten most populated barangays in Caraga region.

These are Barangays Libertad, San Vicente and Doongan.

Based on the result of the 2015 Census of Population released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Barangay Libertad which has a population of 21,703 is second most populated barangay in the region while Barangay San Vicente, with a population of 16,187 is ranked fifth and Barangay Doongan, with a population of 13,728 is tenth most populated.

The number one most populated barangay in the region is Barangay Mangagoy in Bislig City with a population of 32,464, followed by Barangay Libertad Butuan City, Barangay Washington in Surigao City with a population of 18, 900, Barangay Taft also in Surigao City, with a population of 18,571, and fifth most populated is Poblacion Trento with a population of 18,139.

The sixth most populated barangay in Caraga region is Barangay San Vicente of Butuan City, followed by Barangay Poblacion Bayugan with a population of 16,010, Barangay San Juan in Surigao City with a population of 14,925, followed by Bayugan 3 of Rosario with a population of 13,922 and Barangay Doongan, Butuan City. (Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Rep. Barbers calls on local chief executives to mobilize anti-drug abuse council

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 28 (PIA) – Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers once again hits out at the uncooperative local government units (LGUs) for their inaction to lead the fight against illegal drugs in their respective areas.

“The challenge now is for the local government units to mobilize the anti-drug abuse council in their respective areas. There’s an existing law for this. LGUs can be penalized for gross negligence due to their passiveness,” Barbers said.

He said that according to Section 51 of R.A. 9165, LGUs shall appropriate a substantial portion of their respective annual budgets to assist in or enhance the enforcement of the Dangerous Drugs Act by giving priority to preventive or educational programs and the rehabilitation or treatment of drug dependents.

“Every Provincial Drug Abuse Council must spearhead the training and capacity-building activities of their respective Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils to enable them to effectively help in this grave war on drugs,” Barbers added. (SDR/Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Feature: First class slaughterhouse facility rises in AgNor town

By Dan Gudahl

September 22, 2016 was a momentous day in the history of the Philippine Cold Chain Project (PCCP). The morning was spent at the ribbon cutting for the now well-equipped municipal slaughterhouse in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. The new slaughterhouse is located just a few kilometers west of Butuan City.

When PCCP started working on slaughterhouse development, we made the rounds visiting local mayors that requested some assistance and wanted to collaborate. The problem faced here in the Philippines is that each mayor and local government unit has the responsibility to deal with issues of public health and sanitation in their municipalities. Part of this responsibility includes enforcement of rules and regulations regarding the slaughter of animals and assurance that this process is done in a humane and clean fashion. Backyard slaughtering in the town is not legal and should be done in a slaughterhouse.

After evaluating the situation in Buenavista, we found out that it was not unlike most other municipalities that the team visited. First of all, the mayor, his engineer and local staff involved with the public market and slaughterhouse did not possess an in-depth knowledge on how to make a new slaughterhouse work.

The existing slaughterhouse, located a short distance from the wet market could be described as a black cement slab and table with a cast iron tub for scalding pigs. All slaughtering was done on the floor of this totally inadequate facility.

To promote change and improvements, the local government unit (LGU) had built a new “slaughter” house in another location. We inspected the existing place where animals were butchered and, afterwards, visited the newly-built structure where the slaughtering will be done. On touring this new facility, it had the rudimentary design features of a pig and cattle slaughter facility. However, the overall materials used showed that the contractor was familiar with building houses but not building slaughter facilities. The floor tiles, drainage system, water system, roof, entrances for people and animals were mostly done incorrectly, if not all!

PCCP staff then proceeded to work with the LGU and mayor’s office to redesign the new facility. There were necessary design changes to turn it into a working facility. The project had been able to locate an excellent contractor based out of Manila who specializes in slaughter plant construction. This contractor had been able to take measurements, prefabricate equipment and deliver it to the site. The construction team lived on site until the installation was completed. They also worked with the LGU to initiate necessary design changes and improvements.

PCCP discovered, as well, that plans developed by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) for small-scale slaughter facilities have not been adequately vetted. One problem with the NMIS plans is in the design of the chute for the pigs when entering the plant. PCCP changed this design to be just wide enough for the pig to walk in and also walls should be made of hollow block and not rails. The ramp should also be on a gradual angle and not difficult for the animal to walk up. In this way, stress on the livestock and handler is minimized.

The Philippines has good law on the books that mandates humane treatment of animals. A properly designed facility should assure that the animal’s welfare is a primary concern. PCCP works with NMIS provincial unit to help raise awareness about what is illegal. “Zorro” marking where the pig is marked with a razor blade on its hide for identification purposes should be stopped. Stunning the pig with ineffective means that end up torturing the animal should be stopped as well. In PCCP-assisted facilities, a stunner is installed. After the pig walks up to the slaughterhouse, it is held in a specially designed chute. The butcher rinses off the pig and then uses the stunner. The stunner is a “y” shaped device that is placed behind the pig’s ears on its neck. A foot pedal is used to start and stop and electric charge which stuns the pig to the point of unconsciousness. There is no noise if this device is used correctly. The chute then has a swinging door, which allows easy access to the now stunned pig. The pig then is “stuck” so that the blood drains and is caught in a sanitary container. Pig blood is a very popular cooking ingredient here in the Philippines so it is saved. Once this process is complete, the carcass is placed in the scalding tank. This tank has been designed in such a way that it is easy to maintain the water at a scalding temperature without the presence of smoke from the fire in the slaughterhouse. Above this tank there is an electric winch. This winch, along with a stainless steel gambrel is used to pull the carcass out of the scalding tank in a way that keeps the butcher safe from the hot water and also helps him to avoid heavy lifting. The carcass is now placed on a stainless table where it is scraped of all its hair. People here like to have their pork with “skin on” unlike in the United States where the skin is usually removed. Once scraped the gambrel is attached to a hook and this hook is on a roller which is placed on a rail. This makes for easy movement of the carcass. At this stage, the butchers may choose to “flame” the carcass as well which entails using a blow torch to burn of any remaining hair or fuzz on the skin. The carcass is now open and the entrails are placed in a stainless container. These entrails and the carcass are examined by the local LGU meat inspector. The entrails are passed through an opening to a “dirty” area where they are further processed. The butchers, who are wearing boots, aprons, hair net and face mask continue their work while standing on an elevated metal platform. Once everything is clean and sorted, the carcass can be weighed, bagged in plastic or chilled (if a cooler is available). At the end of the rail, the carcass is then transferred to a meat van and taken to the local market where the meat vendor cuts the carcass up in appropriate meat cuts.

The butchers have to wear proper equipment including rubber boots and pass through a foot bath and hand wash before they can start to work. They should also have available a rest area and bathroom facility on site and be trained in proper procedures and sanitation techniques. A knife dip should be used regularly to keep knives clean and sanitary. Also the work areas should be kept clean. In order to facilitate this, the proper design includes overhead water piping with hoses and pressure nozzles available in properly spaced intervals. Outside the facility, there should be a wall with a gate, a cement “apron” around the slaughter house, and adequate water holding and water treatment facilities to handle the large amount of waste water generated by the facility.

In the case of Buenavista, there was a very nice ribbon cutting ceremony attended by all barangay captains and also members of the mayor’s management committee or SB. The facility was properly blessed by the local priest and speeches were given. This was followed by a typical meal that included roast pig. The best part for me however was being able to see a project though to implementation. It took longer than we expected but, in the end, PCCP and the LGU were able to come together and surmount all difficulties faced. There is more to do at the new facility, including installation of a cattle line, cementing for the lot outside and putting up a wall and gate. Still, Buenavista can now take pride of their 'AA' slaughter house facility where things are being done properly without any “on-floor” butchering and reduced stress for the pigs and people involved. (Winrock-PCCP/PIA-Caraga)

Sec. Panelo graces inauguration of rehab center, launching of SURE program in AgSur

By David M. Suyao

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Sept. 28 (PIA) - Chief Presidential Legal Council Atty. Salvador Panelo flew all the way from Manila to grace the inauguration of the Residential Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (RTRC) and the formal launching of the Substance Use Recovery and Enlightenment (SURE) program that will address the needs of the victims who submitted themselves at the height of the war staged by the government against illegal drugs.

The SURE program became Ordinance No. 135 series of 2016 passed by Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Santiago Cane Jr., approved on September 14, 2016 by Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza. The RTRC is one of the components of the SURE program purposely to house severely affected victims of illegal drugs, who submitted themselves for treatment during the operation “Tokhang.”

Presently, there are already patients who avail of the totally free services of the RTRC located at the 401st Infantry Brigade Headquarters in New Leyte, Awa, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

After the blessing of the RTRC, Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza and 1st District Representative Maria Valentina Plaza, with Sec. Salvador Panelo, Department of Health (DOH) Usec. Achilles Gerard Bravo, PNP 13 regional director PCSupt. Rolando Felix, BGen. Ronnie Evangelista of the Eastern Mindanao Command, Philippine Army, and other dignitaries proceeded to the Provincial Government Center for the formal launching of the SURE program at the Outreach Drop-in Center (ODIC).

“If Pres. Duterte did not win the election, will all these things about drugs be unearthed? Will there be a President as decisive as now?” BGen. Evangelista remarked.

“In all sectors of the society, drug menace is there. I would suggest that instead of barking against each other, why don’t we exhaust our resources? Why don’t we exhaust our energy into contributing to resolve this drug menace? This is no longer for us because we have been affected already. This is for the next generation and the generation to come,” BGen. Evangelista added.

In his statement, DOH Usec. Achilles Gerard Bravo said he is glad to announce that the plan to establish rehabilitation centers was decentralized at the regional level. He added that while the national government is in the process of implementing the plan nationwide, Agusan del Sur has already established its own.

According to Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, he was toying with the idea of formulating SURE program and establishing the ODIC in Agusan del Sur for a very long time until he met an International Certified Substance Abuse Therapist by the name of Mark Larry Chua two years ago.

“I believe it’s God’s blessings for the Agusanons that President Rodrigo Duterte became our President because we have one common goal: To eradicate the drug problem in the country. Now here we are, inaugurating the RTRC and launching the SURE program. Presently, there are 41 recovering persons from drug addiction in the ODIC. And I am very proud that only in Agusan del Sur that this program and project exist. I am also honored to say that the people of Agusan del Sur is my inspiration and it is my moral duty and responsibility to give better life of every Agusanon,” Gov. Plaza said.

Meanwhile, Sec. Salvador Panelo thanked Gov. Plaza for giving him the opportunity to join the activity. Panelo said he was impressed with Gov. Plaza’s sincerity and passion, which is evident in his accomplishments for several years serving as governor and with programs like the SURE. Sec. Panelo also recalled the statements made by President Rodrigo Duterte regarding the war against illegal drugs.

“Our country is facing very sensitive, very dangerous problem. The President said never in his imagination that we have such a drug menace in a magnitude that even the most visionary could not visualize – the 712,000 surrenderees. There are already 3.7 million addicted with these dangerous drugs and once already afflicted for more than a year, it is no longer reversible. We can now imagine we have 3.7 million potential killers, rapist, robbers and other criminals," he said.

"I then suggested to the President that with this kind of people, we need an island with facilities like schools and other facilities that would address the needs of the people and have these people transferred to that island in order to save them and save the society from them,” Sec. Panelo added. (PPIO-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: Ika-22 nga Siargao International Surfing Cup sa General Luna gisugdan

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

DAKBAYAN SA SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 28 (PIA)– Malampuson nga gisugdan ang ika-22 nga Siargao International Surfing Cup niadtong Septyembre 23, 2016 didto sa Cloud 9, lungsod sa General Luna, ning probinsya.

Mokabat sa 64 ka mga mahiligon sa surfing gikan sa nagkalain-laing nasod sama sa Australia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Hawaii, Hongkong, Indonesia, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, USA ug Philippines ang me partisipar sa maong kompetisyon.

Ang maong kalihukan gitambungan sa mga inilang bisita sama nila House Speaker Pantaleon D. Alvarez sa House of Representative, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea sa Office of the President, DOT Dir. Shalimar Hofer Tamano nga nagrepresentar ni DOT Sec. Wanda Corazon Teo, COMELEC Commissioner Atty. Ma. Rowena Guanzon uban sa iyang mga kauban nga mga comelec directors ug uban pang mga pinasidunggang bisita.

Ang maong tinuig nga kompetisyon gisugdan niadtong Septyembre 23 og kini mahuman sa Septyembre 29, 2016. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

RIAC-SC members to spend time with Por Cristo elders

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 29 (PIA)– In time with this year’s Filipino Elderly Week celebration, the members of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) Caraga will be spending a one-day quality time with the abandoned elders at Por Cristo Foundation Incorporated, this city.

RIAC-SC will bring sacks of rice, toiletries (including gloves, facial masks, alcohol, bandage, laundry soap, bath soap and adult diapers), vitamins and counter medicines.

Regional director Minda Brigoli of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga reiterated that said celebration is pursuant to Proclamation No. 240, declaring every October 1-7 of every year as Elderly Filipino Week.

“The committee came up with various activities including donation of goods, materials and food items to the centers and institutions operating and catering older persons in Caraga region that includes the Bureau of Corrections wherein Senior Citizens inmates were detailed,” disclosed Brigoli.

As kick-off activity on October 1, RIAC-SC in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga will be spearheading the “Walk for Life” early in the morning. It will be followed with the conduct of ‘Forever Young Zumba’ and discussion on elderly abuse to address issues and concerns faced by the sector.

Also, the following activities will be conducted within the week: Press Conference on October 3; Regional Senior Citizens Convention on October 5-6; and Orientation on Republic Act 10606 on October 7.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Pagmamahal at Pagrespeto ng Nakababata, Nagpapaligaya sa Nakatatanda.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

OPAPP set to conduct ‘Peace Caravan’ in Agusan del Norte

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept 29 (PIA)– In line with the celebration of National Peace Consciousness Month, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), in cooperation with the regional line agencies and local government units (LGUs), is set to conduct a convergence undertaking dubbed “Serbisyo Peace Caravan” on September 30, 2016 in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

“Relating to the context of the celebration’s theme, ‘Tayo ang Pagbabago, Tayo ang Kapayapaan,’ we feel dutifully bound to sustain peace building efforts by bringing the government services closer to the people living in conflict affected areas, and be able to render our services in ways and extent that will ultimately achieve the purpose of sustaining what the government has initially done in far-flung communities,” remarked OPAPP program manager Oliver Binancilan.

He further said that as agents of change, it should start from becoming peace actors. “The Peace Caravan activity is just part of the many undertakings that we have to do in advocating peace in the region. And we are truly grateful of the commitment of our partner agencies for the constant support for this endeavor,” added Binancilan.

The Serbisyo Peace Caravan is a venue for strengthened collaboration among public servants in delivering basic services such as distribution of free medicines, vaccination and legal services to the identified strategic areas.

It is also designed to serve as a platform for information campaign to present the menu of government programs and projects and an opportunity for consultations and dialogues between the community and participating government agencies on various peace, development and security concerns.

The venue for service delivery will be at the covered court of Brgy. Beleguian and Beleguian Elementary School.

According to Binancilan, the indigenous peoples (IP) community in Brgy. Can-away of the municipality of Kitcharao will be joining the Peace Caravan. Around 2,000 IPs are expected to participate in the activity. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

MARINA Caraga opens extension office in Dinagat Islands

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 29 (PIA) -The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Caraga expanded its services in Caraga region with the opening of its extension office in Dinagat Islands.

The new office, which is located at the Port of San Jose, San Jose town in Dinagat Islands was formally opened and inaugurated on Wednesday, September 28, 2106.

MARINA Caraga regional director Engr. Emmanuel D. Carpio, along with Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) port police chief PP/Supt. Froilan Caturla in behalf Surigao City PPA Manager Mildred J. Padilla led the blessing, ribbon cutting and formal opening of the satellite office.

In his mesage, Dir. Carpio said that the structure was conceived from the desire to usher in a new culture of service where people’s welfare matters most and to improve and regulate the maritime industry of the island.

“Our presence in the island is vital in carrying out the agencies thrust, which is zero accident and employing our mandate to secure the safety and seaworthiness of the all motorboat,” Carpio said.

Meanwhile, PP/Supt. Froilan Caturla congratulated the MARINA officials and all stakeholders for the new beginning and another milestone in the province.

“The new office is a big help for Dinagatnons especially the maritime industry in the island for they will no longer need to travel to Surigao City just to transact maritime permits and other related matters,” PP/Supt Caturla said.

Representatives from different national line agencies, provincial and municipal officials, motorboat operators, personnel from MARINA, PPA and the Phil. Navy witnessed the blessing and inauguration of the said office. (SDR/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

OWWA-Caraga holds IT training to 37 OFW dependents in Surigao Norte

By Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 29 (PIA) - Despite the rough distance in conducting on-site trainings, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga continues in mobilizing the initiative of bringing computer literacy to the outskirt communities especially for the dependents of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Last September 13-16,2016, an Information Technology (IT) training was held at ECE Training Center, Socorro, Surigao del Norte and enthusiastically participated in by 37 individuals mostly OFW dependents.

As the advent and the ubiquity of today’s technology became widespread, the IT training aims to give the participants the basic skills and knowledge to equip them technically for future job opportunities. Vincent Mahinay, the IT instructor, included the following specifications in the training modules: basic computer fundamentals 1 & 2, Internet Fundamentals, Word Processing, Spread Sheet, Power point Presentation and Digital Media Fundamentals. Moreover, he emphasized that the importance of the training was not just bounded by knowing the basic technicalities or to bridge the physical gap between them and their families abroad but also to promote literacy in utilizing the technology with prudence.

With heartfelt delight, the participants expressed their gratitude by saying that they are very fortunate to be part of the said training.

For those OFWs, beneficiaries and dependents that are interested on undergoing the same training, they can visit the OWWA-Caraga office. The agency also conducts the same training in the office. They may register and are required to submit the following: accomplished form with 1x1 photo, Proof of OWWA Membership (for OFWs) and Proof of Relationship to OFW (for beneficiaries and dependents). (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

‘ASEAN Showcase 2016’ forum set to unfold opportunities

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 30 (PIA) - A group of professors, school administrators, textbook authors, lecturers and trainers, in partnership with Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), have collaborated with various stakeholders and participants in the ASEAN Economic Integration to launch a forum dubbed “ASEAN Showcase: A Basket of Opportunities” which will be held on October 8, 2016 at the Diosdado Macapagal Hall, Landbank Plaza in Malate, Manila.

This forum aims to keep the people abreast with the ASEAN Economic Integration, and to explore the vast opportunities in it. Various topics and issues will be discussed by experienced speakers in the fields of academe, government and business, and at the same time present the impact of the ASEAN Economic Integration on these sectors.

“Through this forum, more Filipinos could be made aware of the possibilities, challenges and opportunities in the ASEAN community,” said Melody Grace Llona, event coordinator of Core Learning Solutions Asia Corp.

Llona elaborated further that the ASEAN Showcase focuses on the many advantages and prospects for collaboration among different sectors. As companies compete with ASEAN neighbors, they expect their employees and managers to possess the skills of effective communication, critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and cultural literacy to become trailblazers in the industry.

“These skills are not usually contextualized in schools, but those in the workplace have to possess these five Cs to survive and, more importantly, to thrive. Thus, this educational event will link stakeholders in the academe, business and government to gather insights on developing talents and future workforce in the ASEAN community, for mobility and competitiveness,” added Llona.

As a venue to get updates about the ASEAN-related programs and initiatives from private organizations and from the different line agencies of the Philippine government, credible speakers were invited to deliver a talk, to include: Chairperson of ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs’ Network Pacita Juan (Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in the ASEAN); Assistant Secretary Maria Helen De La Vega, Office of ASEAN Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs (Applying the 5Cs in Manager ASEAN Affairs); Project Manager/Information Manager André Fournier at Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation (Impact of the ASEAN Economic Integration on Disaster); Assistant Director Agnes Perpetua Legaspi, Marketing Bureau of Department of Trade and Industry (Stage of Filipino Businesses in the Midst of ASEAN), among others.

Anyone interested to join may contact the organizer at +639054776770 or email at carlit.coreasia@gmail.com . Visit also www.aseanshowcase.com for tickets and reservations. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: ‘Gender Equality Forum' ug 'Stakeholders Consultation' gipahigayon sa Siargao

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Sept. 30 (PIA)– Ang buhatan sa Commission on Elections, (COMELEC) Surigao del Norte Provincial Gender and Development malampusong mipahigayon sa usa ka 50-50 Gender Equality Forum ug Stakeholders' Consultation in Mindanao for GPB 2016-2022 niadtong Septyembre 22, 2016 didto sa Kapitolyo nan Siargao, ning probinsya.

Ang maong kalihukan gitambungan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas uban sa team capitol, mga kapitanes sa Siargao, sangguniang bayan chairman on women, municipal social worker sa probinsya ug si COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena Amelia Guanzon isip pinasidunggang mamumulong.

Si COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Geraldine Samsom maoy mipahayag sa overview sa maong forum, dayon gipresentar ni Atty. Teopisto Elnas Jr. ang Sex Disaggregated Statistical Data.

Pagkahuman sa mensahe ni Commisioner Guanzon mihatag ug mga komentaryo sa maong forum sila Vice Mayor Roculas sa lungsod sa San Benito, Brgy. Chair Mary Grace Mantong sa Brgy. Bailan, Sta. Monica ug si Rachel Ann Adriano Student Leader sa Siargao Island Institute of Technology.

Sa mensahe ni Gov. Sol Matugas iyang gipasabot ang panultihon nga "If you want something said give it to a man and if you want something done give it to a woman" diin ang boot ipasabot nga kung naa kay himoon nga gusto nimo madayon ihatag sa babaye.

Dugang sa gobernador nga dako ang mahitabang sa mga kababainhan sa kalambuan ug kauswagan sa atong lalawigan. “Ug ang Ginoo naghimo sa babaye ug lalaki nga equal alang sa maayong pagpakabuhi ug pag atiman sa iyang mga binuhat ug pagtabang sa mga nanginahanglan.” (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PSA Caraga to hold contest on Best Display of Statistical Practices via Infographics

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) – In time with the 27th National Statistics Month (NSM) celebration, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Caraga is set to hold the Best Display of Statistical Practices using information graphics (infographics) Contest this month.

According to PSA Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura, the said contest is aimed to affirm partnership with the data providers, producers and users in the enhancement of the statistical products and services.

“Judging period is from October 11-25, 2016. Announcement of winners will be on October 28, 2016 during the closing celebration of the 27th NSM,” bared Apura.

Apura elaborated that the Best Display of Statistical Practices is guided by the principles of truth and professional integrity and shall promote and maintain an efficient government statistical practices that provide adequate, accessible, consistent, reliable and timely data.

“We are also encouraging our partner agencies to promote the effective delivery of government statistical services and ensure relevance of outputs in other statistical undertakings in the region,” Apura added.

The contest conveys latest and accurate statistical information produced by the participating office. It is open to all regional line agencies whose offices are located in the city.

Apura reminded the participating agencies that display should be in a 3.5 feet by 6 feet size exhibit board. It should present statistical information produced from 2014 to present through infographics. Excellent renditions of all the necessary elements of statistical information that are highly attractive and compatible with the data presented should also be included.

The criteria for judging are the following: Content – 50 percent; Visual Appeal – 30 percent; and Mechanics – 20 percent.(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

‘Serbisyo Peace Caravan’ benefited IPs in AgNor

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA)– Some 2,000 indigenous peoples (IPs) have benefited from the joint “Serbisyo Peace Caravan” of the government agencies in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) conducted Friday in Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

OPAPP program manager Oliver Binancilan disclosed that the caravan is aimed to provide services to the localities of Jabonga, in culmination of the Peace Month celebration. “Services from government agencies are being brought here for our IP beneficiaries. We have been giving focus on the conflict-affected areas in the region, and after here in Agusan del Norte, similar activity will be conducted in the provinces of Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur,” he said.

The said peace caravan is focused on prioritizing the IP communities in the municipalities of Agusan del Norte composed mainly of the Mamanwa and Manobo tribes.

During the whole day activity, jerry cans, buntis kits, seedlings and seeds, nutri curls and baby foods, and school supplies were distributed to the IP beneficiaries. Medical consultations, distribution of cheque incentives for IP beneficiairies of PCPP, and awarding of Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) were also conducted at the same venue.

Mayor Jasmin Monton of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte expressed her warm gratitude and thanks to all the government agencies that extended their services to their municipality especially to the IP beneficiaries. She added that there were four barangays in Jabonga that have availed from the caravan. The local government unit has also made sure that the conduct of said activity will turnout successful.

Fr. Carlito Clase, representing the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development bared that they are working with the networking among stakeholders who extend government services in the ground. He added that as advocates for peace they stand by the 'Do No Harm' principle and help in bridging peace to the people.

“We are strongly supporting the activities of the OPAPP and other partners in providing basic services to the localities especially the IPs. Government agencies have been doing their best to reach out to the marginalized sector,” stressed Clase.

Also, Datu Raffy Pinao, Mamanwa chieftain of barangay Maraiging, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte underscored that their tribe was able to receive several services from the government agencies. He further expressed his overwhelming thanks to all agencies that extended assistance to them. (JPG/VLG, PIA-Caraga)

ECC holds employees’ compensation program advocacy seminar in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) – The Employees Compensation Commission (ECC), in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga has recently conducted a one-day advocacy seminar on the Employees’ Compensation Program with different government agencies held at Dottie’s Place Hotel, this city.

Ma. Cecilia Maulion, chief of Information and Public Assistance Division of ECC bared that the seminar was aimed to increase awareness of the general public through government agencies’ information officers the three major components of the EC program namely – prevention, compensation and rehabilitation services.

The Employees Compensation Program is designed to provide employees and their families with income benefits, medical, and other benefits in the event of work-connected sickness, injury or death.

“During the seminar, we discussed with the participants the recent program reforms of the ECC anchored on the '3Es'– Equalize, Enhance, and Expand strategy in response to the challenges facing the EC Program,” said Maulion.

Maulion added that participants from various private companies particularly the human resource officers, employers, company representatives and labor union officers have actively participated in the seminar.

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force have also attended the said activity. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOH to declare Agusan Norte as filarias-free province

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA)– The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga is set to declare the province of Agusan del Norte as filarias-free on October 4-5 at Almont Inland Resort, here.

Said declaration is one of the highlights in the Talakayan on “Regional Health Summit cum Colloquium.”

“After 12 years of implementing the different program strategies of the National Filariasis Elimination Program, the province of Agusan del Norte is now declared as Filariasis free province,” said DOH Caraga regional director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr.

The declaration followed the results from the Transmission Assessment Survey conducted last year, Llacuna said. For a province to be declared filariasis-free, no cases must be recorded for five consecutive years, it was learned.

The agency is on its course towards the implementation of the Service Delivery Network and the honing of local government leaders in bridging leadership and provision of health in the respective communities, Llacuna added. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Youth should help protect Earth’s ozone says PENRO SurSur chief

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 3 (PIA) - In celebration of the National Ozone Protection Month, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) chief Jose Flavio Concha called on the youth to help protect the ozone layer and fight against global warming and global climate change.

During the symposium on Ways to Mitigate Global Warming spearheaded by the Diocesan School Science Club and participated by the secondary students held at the Municipal Gymnasium in Tago town, this province, Concha, in his message read by PENRO information officer Johny Natad, urged all the students to help avert the impact of global warming and depletion of ozone layer.

“It is not enough for the youth, who are the future young scientists, to have equip with knowledge and wisdom but also have the will and consistent action to fight against global warming and global climate change,” said Concha.

"By simply planting trees, practicing best waste management, applying best practices in sustainable organic agriculture, saving energy utilization, supporting the use and adoption of alternative source of renewable energy, carpooling or reduce driving car used with fossil fuels, consuming more veggies locally harvested than processed meat are some easy ways to help reduce carbon footprints,” added Concha.

Explaining that Science needed the focus on understanding, adaptation and preparation in mitigating the global warming and climate change, Concha encouraged the youth the need to learn apply some old hard lessons on saving energy, walking, eating more veggies, and reaching out to the grassroots communities in order to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Concha also revealed that DENR Secretary Gina Lopez wanted to facilitate and motivate the youth’s inspiration, dedication, and energy in the mobilization for environmental action.

“It is the desire of DENR to partner and muster the youth in environmental initiatives to include an endeavor to protect Ozone via symposium or forum,” Concha further said, believing that the voices and actions of youth represent an international initiatives to help safeguard the ozone layer through the calls and advocacy to control the production, consumption and use of ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) among others which deplete the ozone layer and are widely used in refrigerators, airconditioners, fire extinguishers, in dry cleaning, as solvents for cleaning, electronic equipment and as agricultural fumigants like.

The National Ozone Protection Month is annually observed pursuant to Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer entered into force on January 1, 1989 and DepEd Memorandum No. 358, s. 2007. (JSN/PENRO-SDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DTI SurSur bares activities for consumer welfare month celebration

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 3 (PIA)– The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here recently bared its activities for the celebration of the consumer welfare month this October.

Romel Oribe, DTI provincial director, said the monthlong celebration kicked-off with a motorcade this morning joined by the ConsumerNet members and business establishments followed by a market inspection at the Moonglow Public Market, this city.

This will be followed by radio guesting with the ConsumerNet members focusing on consumer–related matters and updates of programs/activities of the different government agencies to be aired over Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag on October 4.

Other activities are: Consumer’s Expectation Survey with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on October 5; Briefing on Labor Laws on October 17; and the Provincial Quiz Show on October 21 - winners will represent the province for the regional level.

This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Consumer Protection: Shared Responsibility” with Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas as the lead agency, it was learned.

October was declared Consumer Month by the virtue of Proclamation number 1098 signed on September 26, 1997, by then former President Fidel V. Ramos. (FEA/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DTI Surigao Norte holds in-phasing event cum technical session

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 3 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur International Zussamenarbeit (GIZ) spearheaded a two-day in-phasing event cum technical session on green economic development held recently at Parkway Hotel, this city.

The two-day event is anchored on the theme, “Sustaining the Promotion of Green Economic Development.”

The first day of the event highlighted the gains of the Promotion of Green Economic Development (ProGED) Project in the province through the testimonies of Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) who already implemented green measures in their establishments and those from the government sector who continuously supporte3d the green initiatives of DTI.

Successful “Greened MSMEs” shared happily their stories in greening and the positive results of adopting green measures in the businesses.

They encouraged other MSMEs to green so that they too will benefit and enjoy the gains of using green sector.

The event also highlighted the commitments of other national line agencies, local government units and other stakeholders in the province to jointly pursue green economic development through the “Tree of Commitment.”

On the other hand, a technical session on green practices especially along the key environmental hotspots namely: energy, water, solid waste, natural resource, pollution, transportation, and material consumption were undertaken on the second day of the event.

Resource persons from Sheridan Marketing, Inc. for LED bulbs and solar panels, Edward Marcs Inc. for SEDNA Aircon powered by solar panels, Easy Link for Zero payment (changing of existing bulbs to LED), Barring Technologies for waste water treatment and Thehco Green Technology for green vehicles discussed their available technologies for MSMEs.

Aside from discussions, the resource persons also showcased their existing green technologies that will help MSMEs operation become sustainable and competitive.

A total of 95 participants attended the said event which was graced by Vice Governor Arturo Carlos A. Egay, Jr and facilitated by ProGED Senior Adviser Raquel Capio. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Bayugan team wins POPCOM's indie film fest

By Angie B. Antonio

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA)– A team of young talents from Bayugan City produced a winning independent film for the Regional Adolescent Health and Development Film Festival sponsored by the Commission on Population (POPCOM).

The film is dubbed as “Paglaum sa Hangin” produced by Bayugan National Comprehensive High School of Bayugan City Division pictured out the role of young people in addressing emerging health issues out of the environmental quality. The young talents made the material out of their equipment free from interferences of any professional expertise.

The best film was adjudged based on the content (40 percent), technique (40 percent) and overall impact (20 percent).

POPCOM official handed in to the winners cash prize and plaque, while the participating students who act as cinematographer and director also received a medal.

The organizer revealed that only the film entry of the 1st place will be forwarded to POPCOM Central Office as the region’s entry for the National AHD Independent Film Festival. Awarding and the national film showing is set on the early part of December, this year.

Also, awarded for the short film production as 2nd place is Caraga Regional Science High School of Surigao City Division and Jacinto P. Elpa National High School, Tandag City Division for the 3rd place.

POPCOM Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano pointed-out that the film will become property of POPCOM as communication and information materials for Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program.

Makinano further mentioned that the film festival will be the venue to create awareness on the status of today’s adolescents and young people and as one of the many approaches of the agency in helping the young people in the crucial stage of their development so that they will grow into healthy, responsible, and productive adults.

On the other hand, POPCOM also gave cash prize, plaque and medals to the winning schools/divisions who participated in to the Script Writing Contest.

The winning divisions for the Script Writing Contest are the following: 1st place: Surigao City Division; 2nd place: Bislig City Division and 3rd place: Cabdabaran City Division. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd bares 464 SHS implementers in Caraga

By Concepcion P. Vasquez

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga region has recorded a total of 464 Senior High Schools (SHS) implementers in the entire region.

As of August 31, 2016, of the 464 SHS implementers, 367 are form public, 84 private, and 13 state/universities/colleges implemented SHS.

DepEd Caraga also bared that 124 implementers came from the province of Surigao del Sur, 113 from Agusan del Sur, 106 from Agusan del Norte, 92 from Surigao del Norte, and 29 from the province of Dinagat Islands.

As to the enrolment, as of June 20, 2016, a total of 21,327 enrolled to the different four academic tracks. GAS or General Academic Strand topped with 10,490 enrollees, followed by STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics with 3,980; Humanities and Social Sciences or HUMSS track with 3,486; and Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) with 3,371 enrollees.

Of the 1,048 teachers’ items allocated by DepEd regionwide, 983 of which have already been filled-up while the remaining 64 have attributed to the lack of qualified applicants and conversion of some items. (DepEd Butuan City division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Tagalog News: 36IB pinarangalan ng TESDA Surigao Sur

Ni Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Okt. 3 (PIA)– Pinarangalan ang 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB), Philippine Army sa ginanap na “Araw ng Parangal” na idinaos kamakailan kasabay ng pagdiriwang ng ika-22 na anibersaryo ng Pangasiwaan sa Edukasyong Teknikal at Pagpaunlad ng Kasanayan (TESDA) nitong probinsya.

Ayon sa report, mismong si Lt. Colonel Randolph Rojas, ang pinakamataas na opisyal ng 36IB ang tumanggap ng plake bilang parangal at pagpapasalamat sa patuloy nitong pakikipagtulongan sa nasabing ahensya sa pamamagitan nang pagdadala at pagbibigay suporta na maihatid ang kanilang programa sa kumunidad.

Sa termino ni Rojas bilang pinuno ng nasabing batalyun, maraming ginanap na mga pagsasanay (trainings) sa iba’t-ibang klase ng pangkabuhayan ang naiparating sa mga mamayan na higit na nangangailan nito para sa kanilang pang araw-araw na pangkabuhayan. Naisakatuparan ang nasabing pagsasanay sa pamamagitan ng pakikipagtulongan nito sa TESDA.

Kabilang nito ay ang sumusunod: Small Engine repair; Ear Tapping and Nail Polishing, Nail Care and Haircut Training; Vegetable Production; Organic Farming Training; Automotive Electrical Assembly; Business Management and Vulcanizing Training; Tocino and Chorizo Making; Chicken Production; at ang Crab Production. Ginanap ang lahat nang ito dahil na rin sa hinaing ng mga sibilyan, ayon sa report.

Kasabay nito, pinasasalamatan ni Direktor Rey Cueva, ang kasalukuyang pinuno ng TESDA sa Rehiyon ng Caraga at hepe sa nasabing ahensya sa probinsya ng Surigao del Sur ang Valor Batalyon sa serbisyong ipinagkakaloob para sa mga sibilyan na nasasakupan nito.

Ang makaahon sa kahirapan sa pamamagitan ng pagbigay kaalamang edukasyong teknikal naman ang pinagkakaloob ng TESDA sa bawat mamayan na ngangailangan nito sa pakikipagtulongan na rin sa iba’t-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno, kabilang nito ang military at lokal na pamahalaan.

Sa pinalabas na mensahe ni Rojas, sinabi nya na kailangan na mabigyan ng kaukulang pansin at tulong ang mga mamayan sa pamagitan ng pagtuturo sa kanila ng kanilang pagkukunan ng pangkabuhayan.

Dagdag pa ng opisyal, “ipagpatuloy natin ang magandang relasyon ng military at ng TESDA, kasama na ang iba pang mga kaagapay mapapribado man og gobyerno (stakeholders) para sa ganitong pamamaraan mabigyan natin ng sulosyon ang problema sa kahirapan.”

Ayun na rin sa opisyal na patuloy ang kanilang suporta at pakikipagtulongan para makamit ang tunay kapayapaan at mapaunlad ang pamayanan. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

ConsumerNet sets activities for 2016 CWM celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Consumer Network (ConsumerNet) led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga has lined up activities for this year’s Consumer Welfare Month.

The Diskwento Caravan in the Province of Dinagat Islands was recently conducted on October 2-3; Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur on October 5-6; and Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur on October 27-28. The consuming public will enjoy affordable and cheaper prices of the basic commodities during these schedules.

The ConsumerNet has also set the schedule for the conduct of Quiz Bowl: October 7- Cabadbaran City and Agusan del Sur; October 12- Agusan del Norte and San Jose, Dinagat Islands; October 14 - Butuan City, Bayugan City and Siargao Islands; October 11 – Surigao del Norte; October 12 – Surigao City; October 21 – Tandag City and Surigao del Sur; October 24 – Bislig City; and October 27 – Robinsons Place, Butuan City.

Other activities will also be conducted, such as the Christmas Lights monitoring in Surigao City on October 7 and October 11 in Bislig City; Regional Fair Trade Law (FTL) Enforcement on October 12-13 in Bislig City and October 17-18 in Surigao del Norte; and Appliance Store monitoring in Bislig City.

Meanwhile, series of Consumer Education Seminars are also scheduled for the month with speakers from DTI, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and other partner agencies. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PSA Caraga bares series of activities for 2016 NSM celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Caraga has set series of activities in Caraga region for this year’s 27th National Statistics Month (NSM) celebration.

“The 27th National Statistics Month celebration highlights the importance of statistics in tracking our nation’s progress towards achieving sustainable development in line with the United Nations’ program on the Post-2015 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals,” bared PSA Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura.

Said celebration will kick-off on October 6 with an opening ceremony and Hataw exercise at Robinsons Place, this city. On the same day, the cartooning contest, essay writing contest, and statistical quiz will also be held at Don Ruben Ecleo Sr. Memorial National High School in San Jose, Province of Dinagat Islands.

The PSA will also hold the following activities on different dates and venues: slogan and poster making contest for private and public secondary schools, essay writing contest, high school oratorical contest, and high school statistics quiz show.

On October 17-21, the PSA Agusan del Norte will conduct the Basic Statistics Training (Sampling Techniques and procedures). A seminar-workshop on Statistical Modeling and Software Applications Special Applications on Statistical Methods is set on October 19-21, 2016 in Butuan City.

On October 19, the Lecture on the Role of Statistics in Good Governance and the 2015 Performance of Caraga region will be held at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Multi-Purpose Hall, Butuan City.

Other activities also include the following: PSA Lecture-Workshop on Infographics on October 24 in Butuan City; Lecture Series on Statistics Generated from Censuses and Surveys (Economic Sector and Social Sector) for PSA Employees on October 24-25 in Surigao City; Training on Data Analysis in Surigao del Sur, and Office Safety Awareness and Preparedness Training-Workshop at PSA Caraga Training Room in Butuan City on October 27.

The culmination program is set on October 28 to be held at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, Butuan City.

The 27th NSM celebration is anchored on the theme “Sustainable Development: Making Statistics Count.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

4 DPWH Caraga employees test positive for illegal drugs

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga has intensified its anti-illegal drugs campaign after four of its employees have tested positive for drugs recently.

DPWH Caraga regional director Danilo Versola said four job-order employees were among those who tested positive after a surprise mandatory drug testing was conducted on September 13 shortly after the morning flag ceremony from the first batch of the 429 public workers.

Versola recalled that all public workers that time were required inside the compound, with instruction to the security personnel to lock down the gates and no one was allowed to leave until all the employees have surrendered their specimen samples.

DPWH Caraga assistant regional director Pol Delos Santos stressed that the employment for those involved in illegal drug use will be over if they do not voluntarily surrender.

“Those involved must come and see me so that we can talk and the management may find ways to provide assistance. But this is a stern and final warning because I want a clean office under my watch,” underlined Versola.

It was learned that the drug testing in the regional office is not yet over as there are 50 permanent personnel and 192 job orders who will still undergo the test.

The department targeted to have its 632 total number of employees regionwide to undergo the drug test. The 419 of which are permanent employees and 413 job orders assigned in the regional office and all field offices around the region under its jurisdiction. (JPG/DPWH-13/PIA-Caraga)

BSP spearheads 2016 Consumer Welfare Month celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA)– The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) here is spearheading this year’s Consumer Welfare Month (CWM) celebration with the theme “Consumer Protection: A Shared Responsibility.”

According to regional director Brielgo Pagaran of the Department of Trad and Industry (DTI) Caraga and lead agency of the Consumer Network (ConsumerNet), the BSP as one of the active partners is leading this month’s celebration with various activities to be held in the city.

“The theme emphasizes the importance of working together among government agencies and business in ensuring that consumers are accorded the protection needed,” added Pagaran.

Pagaran also bared that said celebration is pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1098 declaring month of October of every year as the Consumer Welfare Month.

It was also learned that the CWM celebration kicked-off today with a briefing on Fair Trade Law (FTL) Monitoring and Enforcement at the DTI regional office, followed by a motorcade in the city thoroughfares, and actual conduct of FTL within the city.

On October 27, the conduct of Regional Consumer Quiz Bowl and ConsumerNet Help Desk is scheduled at the Robinsons Place, this city. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

ECC reiterates Employees’ Compensation Program to gov’t, private workers

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – In a press conference held recently here, officials from the Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) central office reiterated their employees compensation program (ECP) to all workers in the government offices and private companies/establishments.

According to Atty. Jonathan Villasoto, deputy executive director of ECC Manila, the ECP is designed to provide employees and their families with income benefits, medical, and other benefits in the event of work-connected sickness, injury or death.

“It is the employers contribution to their employees in times of work-related sickness, injury or death, and it is not a salary deduction. Whatever benefits employees get from their Social Security System (SSS) or Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) are separate from what they will get or benefit from the ECC,” clarified Villasoto.

It was learned that the ECP is based on Presidential Decree 626 (as amended) otherwise known as “Employees’ Compensation and State Insurance Fund” on March 17, 1975. The ECP benefits comprised the following: Medical benefits, Rehabilitation Services, Loss of Income Benefit, Carer’s Allowance, and Death benefit.

As to who are covered of the EC Program, Atty. Villasoto disclosed that all compulsory members of SSS, including seafarers, GSIS members, uniformed personnel – Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology are included. However, voluntary and self-employed members are excluded.

Atty. Villasoto further encouraged employers to properly implement the EC Program to their employees in their respective agencies/companies to avoid lawful penalties. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI Surigao Norte recognizes 'green champions'

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office has recognized the green champions of the province during the conduct of the ProGED (Promotion of Green Economic Development) In-phasing Event held recently at the Parkway Hotel, this city.

The four Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector who were recognized and were given certificate of recognition are Mt. Bagarabon Beach Resort in Barangay Mabua, Surigao City; D’Islandersville Pension Hauz in Dapa, Surigao del Norte; Ocean 101 Beach Resort and Sta. Fe Homestay in Barangay Sta. Fe, all in General Luna, Siargao Island.

According to Provincial Director Celestino L. Negapatan, as per monitoring activity conducted by the DTI, the above-mentioned MSMEs have implemented some of the best practices in greening their establishments after they have attended series of ProGED sensitization activities undertaken since February of 2015.

“They have addressed the key hotspots in business operation, which included fuel, electricity, water, solid waste, waste water and building design thereby cutting costs and generating more profits for their business and revenue for the government,” Negapatan said.

Meanwhile, a certificate of recognition was also given to Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas for her ‘Kahapsay Kalinaw Program.’ The City ENRO was also recognized for innovation and for converting plastic wrappers to pavers and planters. The Surigao City Tourism Office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) were also given recognition for their continued support to greening the tourism value chain and the environment. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Volunteers gather in SurSur town for coastal cleanup

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 4 (PIA) - Some 59 participants from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) - Surigao del Sur and Philippine Radio Organization Volunteer For Emergency, Inc. (PROVE) Mancagangi Chapter Office gathered recently at the Matho Beach in Cortes town, this province for the coastal cleanup activity in line with the celebration of the 2016 International Coastal Cleanup (ICC).

With the theme “Bayan Ko Linis Ko: Bayanihan Para sa Malinis na Karagatan,” PENRO chief Jose Flavio Concha, who led the activity, encouraged all Surigaonons to undertake cleanup activity within their surroundings.

“Surigao del Sur, known as the 'Shangri-La by the Pacific' is one of the provinces that has a longest coastline in the country with beautiful beaches served as local tourism destination. It is therefore imperative role of everyone to maintain the cleanliness from any disastrous wastes not only in our beaches and coasts but also on its tributary zones like creeks, rivers and waterways to marine ecosystem, which are natural resources and vital sources of our livelihood, food and health security,” Concha said.

Meanwhile, PENRO information officer Johny Natad said the coastal cleanup drive is also part of the agency's 116th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) celebration.

The field offices under PENRO Surigao del Sur in collaboration with the local government units are encouraged and advised to conduct cleanup activities in small group only based on the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau advisory limiting the activities within the safe environs of certain barangay, school, church, community, company or establishment, along roadsides, canals and vacant lots used as dump sites of individuals observing proper public security and safety to all participants.

Accordingly, the International Coastal Cleanup is the world's largest volunteer effort for the ocean and waterways. It is celebrated annualy every September with an aim to promote environmental consciousness among people for ocean's health and better waste management policies to protect marine ecosystem. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DepEd Caraga bares SHS classroom construction status

By Concepcion P. Vasquez

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – A total of 636 classrooms are completely constructed and now utilized by Senior High Schools (SHS) in Caraga region.

Records from the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga show that of the 1,517 classrooms allocated in the region, 636 are already completed, 765 are about to be completed or ongoing and the 116 have yet to be constructed. It was learned that the delay of the construction of the allocated classrooms was due to the following reasons: failure of soil exploration; request of additional funding; and failure of bidding due to non bidder.

The following is the allocation of SHS classrooms by division: Agusan del Norte – 158; Agusan del Sur – 335; Bayugan City – 61; Bislig City – 42; Butuan City – 144; Cabadbaran City – 16; Dinagat Islands – 110; Siargao – 88; Surigao City – 79; Surigao del Norte – 138; Surigao del Sur – 334; and Tandag City – 12.

For the SHS Technical Vocational (TecVoc) Laboratory construction, nine are already completed while two units are still to be completed. DepEd has allocated 11 TecVoc laboratories in the region. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd Butuan celebrates National Teachers’ Day

By Ana Marie P. Dultra

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division will celebrate the National Teachers' Day on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 here with the theme “Guro: Kabalikat sa Pagbabago.”

The said activity aims to honor those who are in the teaching profession; acknowledge and give emphasis on the crucial role, loyal service and dedicated commitment of teachers in developing globally-minded citizens, nurturing families, strengthening communities, and building the nation.

A school-based celebration, including the recitation of a prayer for teachers or "panalangin para sa mga guro" will be observed, it was learned.

Every year, DepEd celebrates the National Teachers’ Month from September 5 to October 5, 2016, which is also the National Teachers’ Day and World Teachers’ Day. This is pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 242 entitled “Declaring the Period from September 5 to October 5 of Every Year as National Teachers’ Month," as well as Republic Act 10743 entitled “Declaring the 5th day of October of Every Year as the National Teachers’ Day," and to the designation of the World Teachers’ Day every 5th of October by the United Nations Education and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO). (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

OWWA-Caraga holds provincial PESO conference in Dinagat Islands

By Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga conducted the Provincial PESO Conference in San Jose town, province of Dinagat Islands on September 30, 2016.

Some 29 participants mostly Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and staffs from different municipalities of the province attended the conference.

As the primary intention of keeping the PESO participants updated of the recent programs and services of OWWA, Rodel P. Deligero, Overseas Workers Welfare Officer (OWWO-III) discussed the Relief Assistance Program (RAP) together with the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay Program (BPBH).

Meanwhile, Bepu Brylle Bangcoyo, Family Welfare Officer, laid down the functions and programs of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO).

To clarify the confusion as to the difference of NRCO and OWWA, Bangcoyo emphasized that every program or assistance has its own eligibility requirements. Thus, such cases that are no longer eligible for OWWA assistance or programs shall be directly referred to NRCO for accommodation.

Several OFWs were also present during the event and were able to raise their respective concerns.

“Our OFWs finally received the answers they all wanted to hear. Thank you also for clarifying their confusions,” said Dinagat Islands PESO Manager Emma Y. Mausisa. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DepEd issues advisory to Grades 4-6 science club members, advisers for 2016 NCSIW

By Concepcion P. Vasquez

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 5 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) recently issued an advisory dated September 29, 2016 informing DepEd officials, personnel and staff for the conduct of the 2016 National Children’s Science Interactive Workshop (NCSIW).

Target participants of the said workshop are elementary school science club members from Grades 4 to 6 and its advisers from both public and private schools.

The workshop aims to provide the participants with a thorough understanding of the concepts and impact of a selected Science, Technology and Engineering (ST&E) topic, which is Robotics and its multidisciplinary fields through interaction with experts in the field.

It also provides them with a venue for the exchange of ideas and promotion of camaraderie among them and encourages them to join science clubs and to be involved with the science clubbing movement.

The workshop is slated on December 17 to 20 in Bataan with the theme, "Technosurge: Rebooting the Syndroid System," sponsored and facilitated by the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC) Inc. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DSWD Caraga prepares workers for crisis situations under Kalahi-CIDSS program

By Marko Dave D. Reyes

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 5 (PIA) – The Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Caraga recently concluded the conduct of the Crisis Communication Workshop which aims to capacitate Sub/Regional Program Management Office (S/RPMO) and field workers on how to manage crisis situations faced during the program’s implementation.

The workshop, which was held on September 27-29, 2016 at the VCDU Prince Hotel here was participated by workers from the 1st and 2nd Clusters (municipalities of Surigao del Norte, Province of Dinagat Islands, and some areas of Surigao del Sur) of Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga.

The Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that addresses the needs of barangays/communities by giving them the opportunity to identify their needs, identify the project to address their needs, and allow them to implement the project themselves.

With the dynamics of the implementation of the program, and with the inclusion of different partner-stakeholders, there is a major risk for problems/crisis to occur.

The training aims to unify the program’s messaging for the different stakeholders from the RPMO down to the Area Coordinating Teams (ACTs) on the field especially in times of crisis and capacitate the workers on crisis management, specifically on how to respond to problems based on different situations encountered in the workplace.

The remaining workers who have not undergone the training workshop will have their sessions on a series of schedules for October – November. DSWD Caraga would continue to capacitate its workers to ensure that the Department will be able to deliver responsive and compassionate services to the people of Caraga. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Mahigit 2,000 IPs nakinabang sa 'Serbisyo Peace Caravan' sa Agusan del Norte

Ni Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Okt. 5 (PIA) - Mahigit 2,000 indigenous peoples o IPs kabilang ang mga kasapi ng tribung Mamanwa at Manobo ang masayang nabiyayaan at nakinabang sa benepisyo galing sa iba’t ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan sa ginanap na ‘Serbisyo Peace Caravan’ kamakailan lang sa Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

Ayon kay Oliver Binancilan, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) program manager, layunin ng Peace Caravan na maiabot sa mga miyembro ng komunidad lalung-lalo na sa conflict-affected areas ang pagsasagawa ng health services, social welfare programs, medical/dental services, legal assistance, information/education campaign, at pamimigay ng saku-sakong bigas, school supplies, seedlings, buntis kits, jerry cans, nutri curls at baby foods.

Bukod pa sa sinserong pakikilahok ng mga regional government agencies, ito ay sinuportahan din ng Caraga Conference for Peace and Development o CCPD kung saan agrisibo nitong pinagtibay ang networking sa mga stakeholders na siyang nagkaloob ng serbisyong nakaukol sa grassroots level.

Binigyang diin din ni Fr. Carlito Clase, executive director ng CCPD, na ang kanilang partisipasyun ay naaayon sa peace and development advocacy para sa rehiyon kalakip na ang networking at bridging peace efforts alinsunod na rin sa ‘Do No Harm’ principle nito sa pagpapalaganap ng kapayapaan.

Samantala, sinabi naman ni datu Raffy Pinao, mamanwa chieftain, na malaking tulong sa kanila ang Peace Caravan dahil sa pamamagitan nito ay maaari rin nilang maipaabot sa pamahalaan ang kanilang mga hinaing.

Laking pasasalamat naman ang ipinaabot ni mayor Jasmin Monton ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Jabonga sa malasakit at pakinabang na nailaan sa apat na mga barangay na saklaw nito. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Living rosary gipahigayon sa probinsya

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

DAKBAYAN SA SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Okt. 5 (PIA) - Malampusong gipahigayon ang living rosary ug santos nga misa alang sa pag-selebrar sa bulan sa rosaryo niadtong Oktubre 3, 2016 didto sa Provincial Gym, ning syudad.

Ang maong kalihukan gimugna ug gipangulohan sa provincial government nga gipangunahan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matuga diin siya nagpasalamat gayud sa mga ahensya nga nahimomg katimbang sa pagkamalapuson sa maong kalihukan.

Nagpasalamat usab siya sa mga estudyante nga mitambong sa pag-rosaryo ug misa kay matud pa niya alang gayud kini sa mga kabatan-onan aron makaplagan nila ang pagkamaamumahon sa Birheng Maria.

Naghatag usab ug testimonya ang gobernador sa iyang mga kasinatian sa kinabuhi nga anaa kanunay nagtabang kaniya ang Mahal na Birhen Maria.

Gisaulog ang misa nga gipahitungod sa Birhen Maria ni Fr. Jun Luna, DCS. Iyang gipahimamat sa katawhan kung asa nag gikan ang Holy Rosary ug ang nahimomg "role" ni Maria sa pagkatawo sa anak sa Diyos. Gitagaan usab niya og dakong pagpasabot ang dapat nga pagkamaluluy-on ug pagkamatinabangon sa katawhan. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte to visit PNP regional office in Butuan City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 6 (PIA) - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will make his first official visit in the city on Thursday at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga Regional Office at Camp Rafael Rodriguez.

The President is expected to arrive at 1:50 p.m. and will proceed to a command conference with officials from the Police Regional Office 13.

President Duterte will personally give award and recognition to PNP personnel with notable accomplishments on the fight against illegal drugs.

After the command conference, he will meet with the police officers where he will deliver his “talk to men” speech. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PRRD to give award to best performing police office, personnel in Caraga

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 6 (PIA) - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is set to give an award to Philippine National Police (PNP) provincial police offices and personnel during his official visit to the city on Thursday afternoon.

Among the awardees include: Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office for Best Performing Police Provincial Police Office; Surigao City Police Office of the province of Surigao del Norte for Best Performing Police Station; San Francisco Municipal Police Station of the province of Agusan del Sur; CIDG 13 for Best Performing National Separate Unit; PCInsp Rommel B Villamor as Top Performer of Police Regional Office 13’s Anti-Illegal Campaign; PCInsp Christian L Rafols II for having the Most Number of Arrested Drug Personalities in the implementation of Project Double Barrel; and PSInsp Arvin E Hosmillo for the Most Number of Illegal Drugs Confiscated in the Implementation of Project Doule Barrel.

Duterte is expected to arrive at 1:50 p.m. at Camp Rafael Rodriguez, this city. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Pres. Duterte assures to protect the lives & welfare of the Filipino people

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA) - During his visit on Thursday at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga regional office, Camp Rafael Rodriguez here, President Rodrigo Duterte stressed that it is never wrong to protect the lives and welfare of the Filipino people.

According to the President, the drug menace has caused chaos in the society, it is then but proper to do something and prevent people from suffering its effects. He further bared that there are about 4,000 to 5,000 barangay officials who are involved in illegal drug trade.

The good President also highlighted that it has to be during his administration where illegal drug syndicates should be arrested. Duterte said any policeman doing his duty should also be protected and need not risk their lives against the criminals.

Scrapping out illegal drugs according to Pres. Duterte is not an easy fight, but he is stern of his objective of curbing it, and will never allow to flourish it even more in the country. Now is the time to kill a criminal correctly, he underscored.

Duterte also stressed that the Philippine government is doing the best ways to protect its people. He emphasized that the government will never compromise the safety of the citizens. No foreign organizations could dictate what the government should do, he underlined.

Amidst the great challenge of achieving the goal of ending illegal drug trade in the country, Pres. Duterte remarked that the nation will survive, and that he will be the first to die for his country, making sure that the dignity of every Filipino will never be compromised.

"All criminalities are a cycle of violence and so I urged the uniformed personnel and everyone to support the anti-illegal drug advocacy of the government," Duterte said. (JPG/VLG, PIA-Caraga)

Pres. Duterte Duterte fetes outstanding Caraga cops, units

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA) - President Rodrigo Duterte commended on Thursday the officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the region who were awarded as best performing police units and personnel during his visit at the PNP Caraga regional office, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, this city.

The awards that were given to PNP units are the following: Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office as Best Performing Police Provincial Office; Surigao City Police Office as Best Performing City Police Station; San Francisco Municipal Police Station in Agusan del Sur as Best Performing Municipal Police Station; Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Caraga as Best Performing National Separate Unit.

Leading the individual awardees is Police Chief Inspector Rommel Villamor for being the Top Performer of Caraga Police Regional Office’ Anti-Illegal Campaign; Police Chief Inspector Christian Rafols for the most number of arrested drug personalities in the implementation of Project Double Barrel; and Police Senior Inspector Arvin Hosmillo for the most number of illegal drugs confiscated in the implementation of Project Double Barrel.

Along with other awardees, the Best Performing Municipal Police Station of Caraga region, the San Francisco Municipal Station in Agusan del Sur also received a cash incentive from Pres. Duterte amounting to P250,000.

PSSupt Joseph Plaza, provincial director of PNP Agusan del Sur, said that it is a collective effort of all the PNP personnel in the province that resulted to having the highest number of illegal drug surrenderees and number of arrested illegal drug suspects.

Meanwhile, PCI Rafols of Ambago Police Station, one of the awardees, expressed his gratitude to Pres. Duterte for recognizing his efforts. He received a cash incentive amounting to P200,000. (JPG/VLG, PIA-Caraga)

2017 Nutrition Month theme writing, logo design contest now open

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA) – In line with the celebration of 2017 Nutrition Month, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) will conduct a contest for the celebration’s theme and logo design.

The contest shall run from October 1 to November 15, 2016. It is open to individual Filipino citizens (students, professionals, nutrition workers, barangay nutrition scholars, etc.) aged 15 years old and above.

The 2017 Nutrition Month celebration will focus on “Healthy Diet” that aims to promote consumption of healthier foods and discourage consumption of unhealthy diets.

According to NNC executive director and Department of Health Assistant Secretary Maria-Bernardita T. Flores, healthy diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, root crops and fat-free or low-fat milk, lean meats, poultry, fish, egg, beans, and nuts, and is low in saturated fats, trans-fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium) and added sugars.

On the other hand, an unhealthy diet is composed of foods that are energy-dense and nutrient-poor, high in saturated fat, trans-fats, refined carbohydrates, and salt, and low in consumption of vegetables and fruits and low in fiber, Flores said.

Unhealthy diet is one of the common shared risk factors to obesity and non-communicable diseases. Based on the latest data, 31.1 percent of adults are overweight and obese while among children, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has been increasing in the last two decades, Flores added.

Interested individuals shall propose the theme for the 2017 Nutrition Month celebration focusing on healthy diet. The theme shall be in Filipino or combination of English and Filipino and shall consist of eight words or less. All entries must be original. The theme should be catchy and contain a call to action towards consuming healthier diets.

For the logo contest, the proposed logo must be submitted in PDF format and must be accompanied by a brief description in less than 50 words. The logo should be simple and not contain too many elements.

Each individual can submit only one entry for each category (logo and/or theme). Entries should include the name of the contestant, age, mobile or telephone number/s, and e-mail address. The entry should be accompanied with a photocopy of a valid identification card with photo.

Entries shall be submitted via email to info@nnc.gov.ph with the subject: 2017 Nutrition Month Theme and Logo Contest. Only entries submitted via email shall be considered.

The NNC Secretariat shall notify the winner through e-mail and phone call. A cash prize of P10,000 for each winner of the logo and theme contest shall be awarded to the winner after proper identification and verification. The winner shall also be acknowledged in the NNC website, social media, Nutrition Month Talking Points and flyer. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

PPA Surigao gets highest rate nationwide on port user’s needs, satisfaction in 2015

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 7 (PIA) – The Philippine Ports Authority - Port Management Office (PPA-PMO) Surigao got the highest rate nationwide on the survey of port user’s needs and satisfaction conducted by the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) in 2015.

"The respondents of the survey are the shipping companies, cargo owners and passengers," said PPA Surigao port manager Mildred J. Padilla, in a press conference conducted recently.

“With regard to our services, I am proud to tell you that last year we got the highest rate nationwide, meaning to say, our clients were very satisfied in terms of services and facilities that we offer. Specifically, these services are the availability of our birthing facility when they arrived in our port, we have efficient cargo handling services, and processing of entry and departing clearance,” added Padilla.

She further said that the mandate of PPA is to manage, develop, administer and operate port facilities, provide reliable and responsive services in ports, sustain development of communities and the environment, and to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers who would come to the port to go on board.

“We make sure that when the shipping companies come to us and apply for a space for anchorage we have that for them. If they need services for their cargoes, we can also discharge or load cargo in a most efficient time. For passengers, if they would come to the port to go on board they have a safe passenger terminal to stay and we have porterage available to carry their goods and baggage,” said Padilla. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DAR USec graces distribution of 4.8M economic benefits to 114 ARB members in AgSur

By Rechel D. Besonia

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 7 (PIA)– Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Undersecretary for Field Operations, Atty. Marcos D. Risonar Jr. recently graced the distribution of economic benefits to 114 Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) members of NGEI Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) held at Mabe’s Savory Place here.

A total of 4.8M economic benefits earned from the oil company accumulated for seven long years since 2009 was finally released to the farmers of the Ronquillo Group. The distribution was agreed upon by the NGEI ARB MPC and FPPI MPC during the Farmer’s Dialogue on September 16, 2016 where members of Ronquillo Group were advised to affiliate to either of the two coop recognized by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

“With the commitment of the new administration as well as the strategies of the Task Force and intervention of the DAR Central Office headed by Usec. Risonar, we are able to fast track the distribution process and give what is due to our farmer beneficiaries,” said Julita A. Ragandang, regional director of DAR Caraga.

Usec. Risonar, during his message, urged the ARBs to make use of the money very well. “You come a long way before this moment came into realization. Given the struggles you faced along the way fighting for your rights as an ARB, finally you will now receive what you have dreamed of for a long time,” he said.

For Rodonia E. Alviso, the ingenuity of the DAR is very remarkable. “Ako nagpasalamat ug dako sa tabang sa atong ahensya sa DAR nga sa kadugayan nahuptan na gayod namo ang dugay ra namong gipaabot (I am very thankful to DAR for their continuous effort in helping us through this endeavor. After a long wait, we finally received what we have longed for a long time),” she gasped in excitement. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Gov't's anti-illegal drug operation successfully arrested 2 suspects in AgSur

By Cpt Joe Patrick A Martinez

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA) - Troops of 26th Infantry Battalion under 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army successfully supported the law enforcers and the Municipal Anti-Illegal Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur during the simultaneous implementation of the eight search warrants at P-1, Brgy Consuelo, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur on Thursday at around 7:20 a.m.

By virtue of the search warrants issued on September 30, 2016 by Judge Dymphna C. Gozon-Labindao of 1st Municipal Circuit Trial Court in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, the joint government operation has been launched and successfully recovered nine sealed transparent plastic sachets of shabu weighing of about 395 grams with an estimated market value of P4,661,000 and assorted drug paraphernalia.

The authorities immediately arrested the two suspects namely, Saada Cabugatan Macasalong, 23 year old, married; and Amil Sultan, age unknown, single, who are caught in the possession of these prohibited drugs during the said operation.

They were among the identified personalities who are included in the police's drug list in the said town and among the eight personalities included in the search warrant orders. The two will be facing criminal charges on violations of the Republic Act 9165 also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Commander of 4th Infantry Division lauded the smooth implementation of the said operation.

"Our increased coordination with the Philippine National Police resulted to the success of the operation. I commend all the people involved in planning and execution that led to the successful arrest of these two suspects and recovery of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia," said Madrigal.

"You have exhibited the highest form of professionalism especially on the proper implementation and execution of the search and arrest procedure. This shall serve as a stern warning to everyone who uses illegal drugs or involved in this kind of illegal activities. The government forces are more persistent and focused to hunt you down and bring you to the court of law,” added Madrigal. (4ID PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Feature: A mother’s top priority

By Mark Davey D. Reyes

Edna B. Balagulan, a laborer in the Kalahi-CIDSS believes that her simple sacrifice of labor will ensure her children’s welfare.

Her closed-knit community in Barangay Del Rosario, Tubod, Surigao del Norte has been blessed with basic services –such as their local public elementary school. However, parents are still calling for their local government to address the problem of the flowing river parallel to the school fence at the back of the school campus.

With the emergence of climate change and the unpredictable seasonal patterns, Edna is one of the first to call for action to have peace of mind during school days and even during the rainy season.

During the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan- Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) 2nd cycle implementation, the community, with a resounding voice, voted for a sub-project to put their worries aside.

The people of the said community proposed for the construction of a 105 linear meters Riverbank Protection (Flood Control) sub-project which will cover the area behind their public elementary school.

She actively participated in their community activities for the program implementation – even landing as a woman paid laborer for the construction of their sub-project.

“Dako kaayo ug tabang ang proyekto namo. Masiguro na ang safety sa among mga anak, naka-income pa mi sa among pagpanarbaho (The project has really helped us dearly. We can now ensure the safety of our children, and at the same time, help us earn a living through the employment opportunity),” Edna said. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Cebuano News: Blessing ug inagurasyon sa bag-ong buhatan sa PhilHealth malampuson

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Okt. 7 (PIA) –Malampuson nga gibendisyunan ug gi-inagurahan ang bag-ong buhatan sa Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) nga nahimutang sa 2nd floor, Primeglee Building dalan San Nicolas corner Diez., ning dakbayan.

Gihalaran ug pag-ampo alang sa paglambo ug bendisyon ang maong buhatan ni Fr. Larry Espuerta, DCS samtang ang ribbon cutting gipangunahan sa Acting President, CEO, EVP ug COO nga si Ramon F. Aristoza Jr. ug Provincial Governor Sol F. Matugas.

Gipasigarbo ni Regional Vice President Johnny Y. Sychua ang mga pasidungog nga nadawat sa Philhealth Surigao Branch diin kini mao ang pinakaunang nakapahimutang sa pinakadako nga Philhealth Express nga anaa sulod sa Gaisano Capital, ning dakbayan.

Matud pa ni Sychua nakadawat usab kini sa Seal of Excellence Award mahitungod sa ilang outstanding nga pagpanerbisyo sa katawhan sa probinsya.

Samtang sa iyang bahin, giawhag ni Gobernador Matugas ang Philhealth nga magmadasigon kanunay sa pagtabang sa mga katawhan nga nanginahanglan gayud sa supporta ug tabang sa pagpatambal hilabi na kay usa ang health o maayong panglawas sa gitagaan og dakong pagtagad sa gobernador pinaagi sa iyang HEALS PLUS Program.

Sa susamang higayon nagpasalamat og dako si Rodrigo D. Ariar ang Chief Social Insurance Officer (CSIO) ug Local Health Insurance Officer (LHIO) sa iyang mga kaubanan ug mga bank partners nga nahimo nilang katimbang sa ilang mga nakab-ot nga pasidungog ug paglambo ug iyang gisaad nga buhaton nila ang tanan aron makahatag og mas maayo pang panerbisyo sa katawhan sa probinsya. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Feature: Disaster preparedness: enabling resilience

By Venus L. Garcia

A country fraught with plethora of perils can topple over its posture for sustained and inclusive growth. These various hazards either of natural and human-caused disasters are pretexts for building a more resilient community. Thus, making several initiatives and plans to ensure resilience by strengthening disaster preparedness and response capabilities a top priority of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga through the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Council (RDRRMC).

In a positive note, as the Philippine head of state highlights the efforts for Philippine Drug War, officially named Campaign Plan Double Barrel, a campaign against illegal drugs in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte yet heeds on accentuating ways to reduce the impacts of disasters and considers community resiliency a national imperative.

With this, multiple endeavors were undertaken and others still on the row have to be done by OCD-Caraga to respond to the challenge of the national government to thoroughly formulate approaches in managing the risks and develop needed capabilities to achieve a very minimal damage and zero casualty.

“The governing law for disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) which is the R.A. 10121 stipulates that all local government units should have their own DRR office. So, being aware of the importance of the disaster planning, preparation and protocols, the need to capacitate more the DRRM officers is highly significant to reduce vulnerability through standards, regulation, resilient design, effective mitigation, and disaster risk reduction measures,” underscored OCD Caraga regional director and RDRRMC chairperson Jose Manuel Ochotorena.

Recounting its DRRM advocacy and program implementation undertakings, the Civil Defense Caraga conducted series of Incident Command System Training Courses to different municipal and provincial DRRM officers.

Also, the recently concluded Local DRRM Operations Officers Orientation has better helped the participants understand their roles and responsibilities in managing the DRRM operations center.

Ochotorena emphasized how crucial it is for them to cascade the guidelines on reporting disaster incidents and the database management system in order to establish uniformity in the templates of reports.

“We have to make sure that at the municipal and provincial levels they have their own functional local DRRM Operations Center,” said Ochotorena.

Apart from these efforts, OCD Caraga targets the upgrading of disaster communication equipment for local government units. Ochotorena bared that they have enlisted the help of ham radio amateurs in identifying the specifications of the fundamental radio equipment that every operation center should at least acquire.

“We give them specifications of the communication radios that can be utilized in the entire Caraga region. This is for inter-operability and compatibility of dual-band radios operated by adjacent localities and for them to communicate well without unnecessary interruptions in times of disaster and emergencies,” explained Ochotorena.

Driven by his candor intent to empower the community and disaster/emergency responders, the Caraga Civil Defense chief admitted without exaggeration about how far his office has done in fulfilling its agency’s mandate, but he underlined that in terms of preparedness, “we are always progressing and not regressing.”

By collectively engaging all sectors of society in framing shared responsibility, the nation can build resilient and safe communities. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

GPK evaluators start envi assessment to 19 SurSur LGUs

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 10 (PIA) – The Gawad Probinsiya sa Kapaligiran (GPK) evaluators team conducted a 10-day evaluation and assessment to two cities and 17 municipalities of this province.

The annual assessment aims to institutionalize the local communities to be more effective in the management of the environment. It also aims to inculcate to the communities that saving the environment must be their way of life.

The first four-day assessment, which started last October 3, 2016 was conducted in CarCanMadCarLanCor (Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, and Cortes) areas, Tago, and Tandag City. Other remaining LGUs will be be visited this week.

This year’s competition is categorized into three according to the income classifications: The city category; first to third class municipalities; and fourth to fifth class municipalities.

The evaluating team is composed of the representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as its team leader, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), PENRO-LGU, Provincial Health Office (PHO), Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), and Provincial Tourism Office. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DAR AgNor provides legal assistance during 'Serbisyo Caravan'

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 10 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte held legal aid services to farmer-beneficiaries during the “Peace Month Serbisyo Caravan,” spearheaded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), and local government unit of Jabonga held recently at Brgy. Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

During the event, the DAR legal team spent hours in free consultation to give legal advice to some farmer-beneficiaries in Jabonga.

The team was composed of some legal expert of DAR Regional and Provincial offices contributed to the success of the event.

DAR AgNor Attorney III Reggie Saludo said that the legal clinic was to address the increasing land conflicts of the farmers especially the indigenous community in Jabonga.

“This partnership with the national and local agencies enable us to help more farmer-beneficiaries secure their land,” Atty. Saludo said.

According to Jabonga Vice Mayor Glicerio Monton, Jr., a lot of farmer-beneficiaries face challenges on the land they tilled and many farmlands were left behind and became idle due to a major threat face by the farmer-beneficiaries and the government. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

157 Butuan school paper advisers undergo enhancement training

By Joy Carol A. Belarmino

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 10 (PIA)– The Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division conducted a four-day Division Roll-out on the Basics and Advance Courses on Campus Journalism and Digital Media to 157 school paper advisers (SPA) coming from 13 districts of the city at Provincial Capitol Training Center recently.

The training was conducted in response to the provision of Republic Act (RA) No. 7079, known as Campus Journalism Act of 1991 and in support to policy of the basic education program, which aims to orient the SPAs on the latest trend and development in Campus Journalism and in Digital Media; capacitate SPAs in journalistic writing, editing skills, and school paper page designing and lay-outing, and in TV and radio broadcasting and scriptwriting; and finalize the school’s training plans in journalism.

The activity was hosted by the Butuan City School Paper Advisers Association, Incorporated (BCSPAAI), headed by Angelie C. Alvizo as its president. The said activity is also in preparation of the incoming Division Schools Press Conference. (DepEd Butuan City division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

120 AgSur farmers finally receive economic benefits from their land after 5 years

By Joie L. Ceballos

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 10 (PIA) — Some 120 farmers here are relieved after waiting for their income from their land in the form of economic benefits, which should have been given to them five years ago.

The economic benefits consisted of lease rentals from their lands and profits earned from enterprises operated by the cooperative.

Today, the farmers of the Ronquillo group finally received their economic benefits in cash from the NGEI Multi-Purpose Cooperative. This farmer group is one of the breakaway groups from the original NGEI Multi-Purpose Cooperative formed in 1988.

“Two groups have since broken away from NGEI and formed their own,” said Agrarian Reform Undersecretary for Field Operations Marcos Risonar, Jr.

Risonar said the five-year delay was due to problems in revalidating original agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in 1988 and those who became members after 1988.

“The problem arose when the two original farmer-groups of the NGEI and the NGPI Multi-Purpose Cooperatives started encountering problems in running their respective cooperatives which resulted in some disgruntled members to resign from their cooperatives. Some of them encouraged those who resigned to join them in forming their own group,” said Risonar.

In the recent validation process conduced and identified by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), out of the 1,625 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who became members of the NGEI and NGPI cooperatives in 1988, there are still 242 ARBs who were not able to come for validation.

To reach out to these farmers, Risonar ordered the DAR in Caraga Region to publish the their names in newspapers of general circulation.

“Just like those who were validated, these 242 ARBs will have to undergo a process. We will require them to bring pertinent documents to be properly validated,” explains Risonar. (DAR/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

12 farmer-beneficiaries receive land titles during 'Serbisyo Caravan'

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 10 (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte distributed a total of 21-hectare agricultural land to 12 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) during the celebration of the “Serbisyo Peace Caravan 2016,” in line with the 2016 National Peace Consciousness Month held at Jabonga town on September 30, 2016.

Planning Officer Annelyn Chan said that the distribution of titles is part of showing support to the government various services aimed to continue peace and development in the countryside.

“We are strongly supporting the said event as part of our efforts to provide support and legal services of the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP),” Chan added.

According to Jabonga Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Vicente Magallon, the farmer-beneficiaries of Barangays Cuyago, Magsaysay and San Vicente in Jabonga are now the owners of the land awarded to them under CARP.

“The said farmer-beneficiaries were happy upon receiving their certificate of titles as their proof of ownership and they are hoping for more support services from the department to make the land productive,” Magallon added.

Rodulfo Salas, one of the beneficiaries, expressed thanks to DAR by providing land which is their basic resources for a living.

“Dako among pasalamat sa DAR sa titulo nga among nadawat (We are thankful to DAR for the land we received,” Salas said.

Jabonga Vice Mayor Hon. Glicerio Monton, Jr. reiterated that DAR played a key role in converting the land in Jabonga into Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT), whose farmer-beneficiaries are now the recipient of the delivery of peace and more development program of the government that could uplift their living condition. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Surigao Norte solon pushes for reactivation, revitalization of BADACs

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 10 (PIA) - Second district representative Robert Ace Barbers, chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, recently pushed for the re-activation and revitalization of the country’s more than 40,000 Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) to lead the government’s anti-drug campaign in the grassroots level.

“The BADACs are our first line of defense in the grassroots level, and they should spearhead the government’s fight against illegal drugs in their localities,” he said.

Barbers explained that although the DILG created the provincial, city, municipal and barangay anti-drug councils in December 1998, they are yet to be activated.

Police Director Benjamin Magalong, PNP deputy chief for operations, in a recent hearing conducted by the Dangerous Drugs Committee, said that the influx of dangerous drugs and other prohibited substances started in year 2000 but there apparently had been no serious government effort to curb it since then.

Barbers said it was only during the administration of President Duterte that all government anti-drug agencies including the military had been marshaled to put a stop in drug use and trafficking.

“When I was governor of Surigao del Norte, I created a local vice squad which raided known drug dens, rounded up drug addicts, and allotted certain amount for rehab. Noon, di pa talamak ang drugs sa amin. We relied solely on our own logistics and manpower,” he said.

“It is only now, with all the support coming from the President, the PNP and other law enforcement agencies, that the national government has embarked on a serious anti-drug campaign, particularly with the PNP’s Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel,” he added.

The Department of Health and the members of the committee that includes Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop, Pangasinan Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil, La Union Rep. Pablo Ortega and Negros Oriental Rep. Arnulfo Teves among others, have expressed strong support for the re-activation and revitalization of BADACs.

In earlier DILG memorandum circulars, the officers and men of BADACs are supposed to come up with a list of illegal drug users, pushers, financiers or protectors, in their respective LGUs to be submitted to the City or Municipal anti-drug councils which would then refer their data to the PNP for appropriate anti-drug action or operation.

Barbers said the DILG MCs warned the BADAC officials of administrative cases for dereliction of duty if they failed to comply with the directive which was anchored on Sec. 51 of RA 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act. (SDR/2nd district Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Pulis opisyal inalok ng kasal ang kasintahan sa harap ni President Rodrigo Duterte

Ni Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Okt. 10 (PIA) - Sa unang pagdalaw ni President Rodrigo Duterte sa Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters sa Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Butuan City kamakailan lang, personal na nasaksihan ng pangulo sa harap mismo nito ang paghingi sa kamay ng kanyang aide-de-camp na si Police Senior Inspector Alniza Sunshine Kinang/ mula sa kasintahan nito na si Police Senior Inspector Arvin Homillo.

Ang nasabing wedding proposal ay nagyari ilang sandali matapos ang talumpati ng Pangulong Duterte. Bago paman ito makababa sa entablado ay humingi si PSI Homillo ng tatlong minuto para opisyal na hingin ang matamis na “oo” sa hangad na pakikipag-isang dibdib sa long-time girlfriend nito.

Ang police couple ay nagkakilala sa loob ng Philippine National Police Academy at pawang mga PNPA graduates, class 2012. Sinabing magkarelasyon ang dalawa ng limang taon at sampung buwan na at balak na sanang magpakasal nitong buwan ng Oktubre.

Ayon kay Police Officer Homillo, isang perpektong pagkakataon ang pangyayari upang maipaabot ang kanyang sinserong intensyon sa pagpapakasal sa girlfriend nitong miyembro ng presidential security group (PSG).

Lubos na ikinagalak ni homillo ang hindi pagtanggi ng lady cop sa kanyang kahilingan sabay abot ng bouquet ng mga rosas at halik sa pisngi. Isa rin si PSI Homillo sa mga presidential awardees sa okasyon ding iyon bilang most number of illegal drugs confiscated in the implementation of project double barrel.

Sa ngalan ng pag ibig, si Pangulong Duterte ay tatayong ninong sa kanilang darating na kasal.

Inaasahan ni President Duterte na mas lalo pang pag-igihan ng dalawa ang pagtupad sa nakaatang na mga responsibilidad nito bilang public servants. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

TESDA Caraga sets 2016 Reg’l Consultation with Industry & TVET stakeholders

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga is set to hold this year’s Regional Consultation with Industry and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Stakesholders on October 12, 2016 at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

According to TESDA Caraga OIC-regional director Rey Cueva, this nationwide event, which aimed to gather Industry and TVET Stakeholders in the regon and discuss issues and concerns regarding TESD operations will be graced by TESDA national officials led by Director-General Sec. Guiling Mamondiong.

One of the highlights of the event is a press conference that will be conducted in the same venue.

TESDA is an agency of the Philippine government under the Department of Labor and Employment and the Office of the Cabinet Secretary responsible for managing and supervising technical education and skills development in the Philippines.

The agency was established through the enactment of Republic Act No. 7796 authored by Senator Francisco Tatad otherwise known as the "Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994", which was signed into law by President Fidel Ramos on August 25, 1994. This Act aims to encourage the full participation of and mobilize the industry, labor, local government units and technical-vocational institutions in the skills development of the country's human resources. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

CCPD to hold ‘Movie for Peace’ contest

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – In line with this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration, the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) Caraga is gathering all Caraganons from the universities and non-state actors to participate in the ‘Movie for Peace’ Contest early in December.

Butuan Bishop Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos bared that interested participants are to produce short films reflecting the conflicts in Caraga region. The Caraga Roadmap for Peace will serve as the basis for the movie content.

“The Caraga Roadmap for Peace – the document that will provide a regional direction in achieving the pursuit of an inclusive, just and lasting peace for varied conflict lines in the region is the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) Caraga’s ongoing initiative with a vision of a peaceful and progressive Caraga with diverse, empowered and culturally sensitive communities living in a sustainable environment and enjoying equal rights and opportunities,” underscored Bishop Pueblos.

Bishop Pueblos recalled that on May 24, 2016, the said document was officially launched and is now set for its region-wide implementation and dissemination. “In line with its aim to create stronger public identification, RPOC with CCPD as the head of the ‘Movie for Peace’ Technical Working Group, and in partnership with GIZ-Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management and Forum Zfd, a ‘Movie for Peace’ Contest is launched and targeted as one of the highlights during the MWOP celebration in December,” he said.

It was also learned that jurors will meet on October 17, 2016 to discuss further the criteria and mechanics of the said contest.

This year’s MWOP celebration is anchored on the theme “Addressing major conflict issues as we move forward for a peaceful and progressive Caraga.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

RIAC-SC Caraga visits senior-citizen detainees in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – In line with the Senior Citizens Week celebration, the member agencies of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee for Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga recently conducted a jail visitation to senior citizen-detainees in Barangay Ambago, this city.

The DSWD conducted profiling to some 20 senior citizen-detainees while the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga spearheaded the legal consultation at the same time. A short program was also held as a tribute to the senior citizens.

During the visit, senior citizen-detainees also received t-shirts from DSWD and food from the committee.

Jail Inspector Rienzon Roullo, assistant warden of City Jail expressed his warm thanks to all the government agencies that visited the senior citizen-detainees to assess their needs and other concerns. “We welcome any support from other agencies and organizations who wanted to give assistance to the elders inside the jail. Thank you for your time and effort, and may you help more elders not only in the city but in the region in general,” he underlined.

Christine Sabandan, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) here shared an enlightenment messages to the elders and encourage them to continue life even inside the jail. “Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be discouraged because we, your family in the government will take care of you. There is so much in life that we should all appreciate and be thankful for,” she stressed.

Also, Wilma Geralla, focal person of DSWD for RIAC-SC Caraga oriented the senior citizen-detainees on their rights and on the services that the government has provided for them.

Kenneth Po, public relations officer of Philippine Health (PhilHealth) Insurance Corporation also gave updates on the programs and services of PhilHealth for its members especially the senior citizens.

The senior citizen-detainees were encouraged to take good care of their health so they can live longer and healthier even inside the jail by practicing healthy lifestyle. They are also informed of the local government's Centenarian Program, wherein senior citizens who will reach the age of 100 will be able to receive a cash gift/incentive of P100,000. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor PDRRMC set to conduct Contingency Plan Formulation workshop

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of the province of Agusan del Norte will hold a four-day planning workshop on October 18 to 21 at Gazebo Pools and Restaurant in Cabadbaran City.

According to PDRRMO officer Erma Suyo, the four-day Contingency Planning Formulation Workshop for Typhoon will help prepare the province to natural hazards. The province’s contingency plan will serve as a tool for an effective incident response, Suyo said.

“The workshop is aimed to ensure that the province of Agusan del Norte will have an all-hazard approach contingency plan,” Suyo added.

Participants are expected to contribute in ensuring the readiness of the province to efficiently respond to calamities brought by natural hazards. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DAR AgNor conducts financial management course

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte conducted nine rounds of seminars on financial management to nine Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) from different municipalities in Agusan del Norte.

More than 300 participants consisted of several officers, coop management and operational staff and some members, actively participated and gained with practical knowledge on managing their organizations’ financial activities.

DAR Point Person Luningning Buque-Ycoy said that the resource speakers were from training partner institutions accredited by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

“The seminar aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the tool on financial analysis in order to create their own systematic financial plan, both short term and long term usage and to determine the status of their operation to come-up decision making,” Ycoy said.

“These series of workshops on basic financial management are in preparation of different social delivery services from DAR that will contribute to the growth of farmer-beneficiaries through their organizations in the province,” added Ycoy.

San Antonio Integrated Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SAIFMULCO) Manager Bienvenido Osa was grateful for the continued efforts of the department. He believed the financial management training initiated by DAR has great benefits to their organization.

Bookkeeper Perlita Madaje of Rosario Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (RSNMPC) said “as a Bookkeeper, the training contributed basic knowledge in handling our financial operation.”

“Kini makahatag og dako nga kaayohan diha sa pag-padagan sa pinansiyal nga hisgutanan sa among kapunonga (This training is a great benefit in the drive for financial matters in our organization)," Madaje added. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga partners, stakeholders feted on 22nd TESDA anniv

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – More than 40 partners and stakeholders of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Caraga Region were given recognition during the region’s celebration of the agency’s 22nd anniversary held recently.

Dubbed as “2016 Araw ng Parangal: “Pagpupugay sa Kawani at Kabalikat ng TESDA,” the ceremony was conducted at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

Highlighting the Awarding Ceremony is the presentation of this year’s Caraga Regional TESDA Idol and Regional Kabalikat Award.

Nelson B. Sereño, Academic Head of Systems Technology Institute of Technology in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur was declared Regional TESDA Idol while the Municipality of Tagana-an in the Province of Surigao del Norte won the Regional Kabalikat Award. The two were the region’s contenders in the national finals slated on September 22, 2016 at TESDA Central Office, Taguig City.

In his speech, TESDA-Caraga OIC-Regional Director Rey M. Cueva underscored the importance of the activity. He said the conduct of the awarding ceremony served as venue for TESDA Regional and Provincial Offices in Caraga to recognize the support extended by the Operating Units’ partners and stakeholders.

“In our own little way, we are able to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to our partners and stakeholders in the different provinces and cities in Caraga Region,” he said.

Awardees in the province of Agusan del Norte include: Orange Peel Plywood; and SR Metals, Inc. in the Industry Category. Under the Institutional Category, the Philippine Electronics and Communications Institute of Technology (PECIT); Candelaria Institute of Technology of Cabadbaran, Inc.; and the Northern Mindanao Colleges, Inc. received plaque of recognition.

Also, Celso B. Felipe from Butuan Doctor’s College was also recognized as the Provincial Tagsanay awardee while Mr. Arne Madarieta of Father Urios of Ampayon was awarded as Provincial TESDA Idol.

The local government units (LGUs) of this city and the Municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte were those awarded under the LGU category. The 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army was recognized for their peace and skills development contribution to the province.

Awardees in the province of Agusan del Sur are as follows: Mayor Jose T. Cuyos of the Municipality of Rosario and Mayor Jesryl E. Masendo of Talacogon were chosen to receive plaque under the LGU category, while Asis K. Toma of the Provincial Land Transportation Office received award under the Government Partner Agency category.

Sereño, the 2016 Provincial TESDA Idol and Provincial Tagsanay awardee Jason M. Equipado were also recognized by the provincial office.

Meanwhile, Remegio Remedio and Romeo Pascual, the provincial Community Training and Employment Coordinators (CTEC) of Talacogon and Loreto, respectively were also feted during the activity.

Further, the Saint Paul University (SPU)-Surigao Campus, Surigao Education Center, and the Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT) Assessment Center led the awardees in Surigao del Norte under the Institutional Category.

In the Industry Category, the Provincial Office has recognized Nickel Asia Corp. – Taganito Mining Company, and Platinum Group Metals Corp. (PGMC) for their regular support to the community training implemented.

Four LGUs in the province made it as among the awardees in the province: Municipality of Tagana-an, Municipality of Del Carmen, Barangay Cagdianao, and Barangay Hayanggabon.

Same with Agusan del Sur, the provincial CTECs were also accorded with honors. They are: Ma. Margarita L. Liquido, Janecito L. Jalbo, Jr., and Randy S. Petallo. Provincial Tagsanay Rene A. Nala also received Plaque of Recognition, while dxRS-RMN Surigao was awarded as Media Partner of the provincial office.

Surigao del Sur awardees are composed of: Tandag City Councilor Denis Tan, Provincial Engineer Asberto Evallar, PDRRMO Abel De Guzman, and Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico under the LGU category.

In the government partner category, Police Acting Provincial Director PSSupt Romaldo Bayting; 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commanding Officer LTC Randolph Rojas; and 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion, 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commanding Officer LTC Haron S Akaz were given plaque of recognition.

Meanwhile, Eduardo C. Miña of the Access for Youth Training and Employment Center in Tandag City also received plaque of recognition for being this year’s Provincial Tagsanay awardee.

Awardees in the Province of Dinagat Islands were headed by Provincial Governor Glenda B. Ecleo and Congresswoman Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao of the Lone District of Dinagat Islands, while May Marie O. Eviota of Don Jose Ecleo Memorial Foundation College of Science and Technology was recognized as the Provincial Tagsanay. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd Butuan sets 2016 division athletic selection meet

By Cecilia S. Amora

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division will hold its 2016 Division Athletic Meet on November 15-19, 2016.

This year’s athletic selection meet focuses on the theme, “Aiming High, Maximizing Skills, Achieving Excellence.”

“The activity aims to intensively select potential and tougher athletes to be able to defend the Championship title in Caraga Regional Athletic Meet we earned for the last six years and to improve our Division’s contribution to the performance of Caraga delegation in the 2017 Palarong Pambansa,” said Arsenio T. Cornites, Jr., schools division superintendent.

Sport event to be played for Elementary level include: Athletics, Arnis, Badminton, Basketball, Baseball, chess, Football, Gymnastics, Sepak Takraw, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, and Volleyball.

For the secondary level, events are Arnis, Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Baseball, Basketball, Billiards, Boxing, Chess, Football, Gymnastics, Sepak Takraw, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Volleyball, Wrestling, and Wushu. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cagdianao spearheads 7-day SAR training

By Susil D. Ragas

CAGDIANAO, Dinagat Islands, Oct. 12 (PIA)– The local government unit of Cagdianao, this province through the Municipal Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) conducts a 7-day Basic Search and Rescue (SAR) Training from October 10-16, 2016 held at the Cagdianao Cultral and Sports Center, here.

According to Public Information Officer Rodolfo L. Alipayo, the said training aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capacity of the local responders for flooding, landslide, and water incidents and basic trauma/medical emergencies.

“With the topographical location of our municipality which is surrounded by seawater, there is a high risk of natural disasters, it is imperative that the local government and local responders be prepared for any disasters,” says Alipayo.

Municipal mayor Adolfo E. Longos and MDRRMO officer Esmeralda Abeo Sendiong led the event participated by selected local responders. (SDR/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DepEd supports Global Handwashing Day on Oct 15

By Cecilia S. Amora

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The Department of Education (Deped) supports the conduct of this year’s Global Handwashing Day on October 15.

Dr. Marivic M. Cuizon, assistant principal of Obrero Central Elementary School here said that handwashing will help save millions of lives because it will help protect especially the children from virus contaminations.

Also, Dr. Cuizon encourages school children to make handwashing a habit not only in their houses but also in school before eating their snacks and meals.

Dr. Cuizon also requested teachers to monitor their pupils’ compliance inorder to have a healthy body and mind so they can concentrate in their studies.

Global Handwashing Day is an annual global advocacy day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd Butuan supports ‘One Million Lapis Campaign’

By Ana Marie P. Dultra

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division supports the advocacy campaign of the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) entitled ‘One Million Lapis Campaign.’

The DepEd Butuan City personnel and staff are inviting their partners from non-government organizations, parent-teachers associations, and other members of the community or the private sector to donate pencils for the campaign.

The donation of pencils for the campaign will be until October 26, 2016 only.

A designated drop box with the logo and details of the campaign are available in the different public schools of the city.

The One Million Lapis Campaign aims to collect one million pencils to be given to underprivileged children in elementary schools of the 4th to 6th class municipalities of the country.

The campaign is part of the celebration of the National Children’s Month this November. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd Butuan to celebrate AD/HD week

By Cecilia S. Amora

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) joins the AD/HD Society of the Philippines in celebrating the 2016 National Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (AD/HD) Awareness Week from October 16 to 22, 2016.

The theme of the celebration will focus on “Turning Disability into This Ability.”

The third week of October of every year is declared as National Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) Awareness Week in the country.

The celebration aims to increase public awareness on the effects of the characteristics and social issues faced by people with AD/HD; promote understanding and acceptance of people with AD/HD; and campaign for equal rights and access to basic services such as education, health and development which are often denied to persons with disability.

In Butuan City, DepEd encourages the Special Education (SPEd) Centers and other schools offering program for children with AD/HD in the forefront to participate in the said celebration. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: Provincial ug municipal officials dialogue gihimo sa probinsya

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

DAKBAYAN SA SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte, Okt. 12 (PIA) - Gipangunahan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas ang pinakaunang Provincial and Municipal Officials Meeting/Dialogue sulod sa ika-100 nga adlaw nga panerbisyo sa iyang pinakaulahing termino niadtong Oktubre 7, 2016 didto sa PGO Convention Hall, ning dakbayan.

Sa mensahe sa gobernador ngadto sa tanang mga mayores sa nagkalain-laing mga kalungsoran iyang gipasabot ang pagpadayon sa pagpalambo sa ilang mga lungsod pinaagi sa pag-sunod sa mga tumong ug tinguha sa HEALS PLUS Program.

Gipahinumdom usab sa gobernador ngadto sa mga mayores nga ang gobyernong probinsya andam motabang alang sa tanang katawhan labi sa nanginahanglan.

Ang gobernador mipasabot nga kinahanglan ila usab isubay ang ilang mga bag-ong proyekto sa mga plano sa bag-ong administrasyon ni President Duterte hilabi na ang pag-sulbad sa problema sa druga.

Atol sa maong okasyon mitaho usab ang matag department heads sama sa Provincial Health Office, Agriculture, Social Services Office, Engineering, PPDO ug uban pa sa ilang mga proyekto nga gilunsad sa probinsya alang sa pagtabang sa matag tagsa-tagsa ka mga munisipyo.

Gibutyag usab sa mga department heads ang mga proyekto kun diin matabangan gayud ang mga katawhan sa kada lungsod pareho sa mga paagi sa pagsugpo sa illegal na druga, pagtabang sa mga nahimong biktima sa druga, pagpanambal, programa sa mga kabatan-unan, ug uban pa. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOH Caraga declares Agusan Norte as filariasis free province

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 13 (PIA) – The province of Agusan del Norte is now declared as filariasis free province by the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region in a ceremony held recently here.

The declaration was based on the Transmission Assessment Survey by the DOH with the support and guidance of the Provincial Health Office and the cooperation of the local government units (LGUs).

During the declaration, the province also received P1,000,000 from DOH through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) citing the amount as a performance-based grant inorder to maintain its status as filariasis free province.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna, DOH is on its course towards the implementation of the Service Delivery Network and the honing of local government leaders in bridging leadership and provision of health in the respective communities.

“The program targets individuals, families and communities living in endemic municipalities in 44 provinces in 12 regions," Llacuna said.

"By year 2018, the National Filariasis Elimination Program (NFED) of DOH targeted that all of the identified municipalities will also be free from the disease," Llacuna added.

Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by an infection with roundworms. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

POPCOM Caraga gathers advocates, partners for 1st PHE confab

By May Ann O. Escobal

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 13 (PIA) - Advocates and local partners vowed to integrate Population, Health and Environment (PHE) approach into their plans during the recently concluded 1st PHE Regional Conference initiated by the Commission on Population (POPCOM).

Local leaders, partners and stakeholders developed their respective plans integrating strategic initiatives and interventions that would greatly address the prevailing issues concerning their sector. They all agreed that health is a very critical factor in sustainable development since humans need to be healthy to be productive and able to engage in environmentally-friendly practices.

POPCOM hopes that the commitments of the local planners and community leaders in promoting the integration of population, health and environment in their respective localities and areas of concerns will be put into account in programming and planning.

SP Committee Chair on Social Services, Health and Environment, Provincial/City Population Officers, Health and Environment Officer, students, regional line agencies and media partners were among the hundreds of participants.

POPCOM Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano heightened the significance of the event for it helped create concepts and practical guides on integrating PHE through strategic leadership. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

POPCOM Caraga displays model families

By May Ann O. Escobal

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 13 (PIA) - Six families representing the different provinces and cities of Caraga displayed their family values and showcased their talents during the recent “Search for Planado at Talentadong Pamilyang Pilipino 2016” with the theme: “Matatag na Pamilya, Maunlad na Bukas.”

The family contestants joyfully showed off their group talents during the talent contest and parlor games. They also proved how harmonious their family is despite of their situation in the community they live in.

The contestants are 4Ps beneficiaries and pre-selected on the basis of their maternal health and family planning practices. Couples of Surigao City, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Go bagged the 1st Place; Mr. and Mrs. Julito Espia of Surigao del Norte for the 2nd Place; and Mr. and Mrs. Ronie Yuson from Bayugan City for the 3rd Place.

Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano highlighted the impact of a well-planned family size and responsible parenting as shown among the family contestants. “Planning your family well is very important. Responsible parenting is a series of decisions of the parents to ensure the best possible life for themselves, for their children, and for the communities they belong to,” Makinano emphasized.

The Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) Component under the Philippine Population Management Program (PPMP) envisions an empowered population where parents, couples, and individuals can freely decide on and fully exercise their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Said program also aims to help couples achieve their desired spacing, timing and number of children according to their socioeconomic, emotional, and psychological capacity.

The event was spearheaded by POPCOM Caraga in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga, in close coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga and the local government units of Surigao del Norte and Surigao City. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

FNRI-DOST sets Reg’l Dissemination Forum on 2015 Updating Survey

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA)– The Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) is set to hold the Regional Dissemination Forum on the 2015 Updating Survey on October 25, 2016 at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

“The FNRI-DOST will be holding this year a series of dissemination fora on the results of the 2015 Updating on the Nutritional Status of Filipino Children and Other Population Groups. The Updating survey is a follow-up survey conducted every two to three years in between the National Nutrition Surveys (NNS). The NNS is conducted by the Institute every five years as part of its mandate to provide official statistics on food, nutrition and health status of the country,” disclosed Mario Capanzana, FNRI-DOST director.

Capanzana also highlighted that the fora aim to inform key stakeholders in the government and private sectors involved in food, nutrition and health programs on the initial results of the updating survey. “These will include sat and dissemination on 1) anthropometry; 2) adult health and nutrition; 3) food security; 4) households’ and members’ participation in selected nutrition and related government programs; 5) maternal health and nutrition; 6) socio-economic status; and 7) infant and young child feeding practices,” he said.

The fora will also provide a venue for inquiries and sharing of experiences and recommendations of possible action points for application of th survey results in local policy-making and program planning.

Capanzana further explained that each regional forum will be attended by about 50 to 130 participants including members of the Regional Development Council (RDC), Provincial Governors, Provincial Nutrition Action Officers (PNAOs), Mayors, Municipal/City Nutrition Action Officers, representatives from the non-government organizations (NGOs) in the region involved in food, nutrition, and health as well as selected media and information officers.

Also, the forum is anchored on the theme “Kumusta na ba ang kalagayang pang-nutrisyon ni Juan at Juana.” It will consist of two parts: Part I is presentation of results of the various survey components, and Part II is workshop on the formulation of an action plan and policy recommendations aimed at solving the identified nutrition problems in the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

TESDA chief bares opportunities for Caraganons

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) – In time with the Regional Consultation with Industry and TVET Stakeholders here, Sec. Guiling Mamondiong, director general of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) bared good news and opportunities for Caraganons.

With the new administration, the secretary emphasized that there is an increase in the number of scholarship grants along with other services and programs of the agency for Caraga.

“There is more opportunities for all, especially with the government’s provision of scholarship. Some 30,000 scholarship grants are ready for this year, much higher compared to the previous year’s 17,000 for Caraga region. It could possibly increase, if necessary,” disclosed Mamondiong.

TESDA will also give priority to the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) youths for the scholarship grants and other relevant skills trainings.

Sec. Mamondiong also reiterated the online registration of those who are interested to avail of the skills training in their office to ensure that those deserving applicants could really avail of the program of TESDA and will not be put to waste.

On the displaced OFWs, Mamondiong encouraged them to visit TESDA offices in their respective areas to avail of the special skills training for them as part of the reintegration program of TESDA so they can continue their livelihood.

The secretary, further stressed that a dialogue with the industry and TVET stakeholders is very important to address the needs, issues and concerns that exist in the region. This is why TESDA has gathered different sectors to really provide the immediate needs of the region in terms of employment, tourism, and agro-industrial activities, among others.

He added that they are mandating their employees to become trainers in their respective area of responsibility to cover the number of trainees who would like to avail of the skills training especially with the number of illegal drug surrenderees who are subject to be trained as part of their rehabilitation. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

SCCI receives outstanding chamber award

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 17 (PIA) - The Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (SCCI) was awarded as the 2016 Most Outstanding Chamber in Mindanao for the Provincial Level Category during the 42nd Philippine Business Conference held recently at Marriott Hotel, Pasay City.

SCCI President Concepcion “Ciony” Paqueo said the chamber was awarded for its commendable efforts in accelerating business growth in the province of Surigao del Norte and by its leadership and dynamism, strong advocacy programs, increase on its membership base, and effective delivery of services to its members.

“This award will not be possible without the full support of the officers, the board of directors, the members and the secretariat," Pacque said.

"Also, with the strong collaborative efforts with the provincial government headed by Governor Sol F. Matugas, city government headed by Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, and with our local and foreign partners in continuing the advocacy for economic development and poverty alleviation. Our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all of us,” Paqueo added.

SCCI also received a plaque of appreciation for successfully hosting the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) last August 24-26, 2016 held at Gateway Hotel, this city. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Provincial athletic meet opens in Tandag

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 17 (PIA) – Thousands of delegates from the municipalities of Surigao del Sur will be heading to the city as they vie for supremacy in the Annual Provincial Athletic Meet slated from October 17 to 21 here.

In a letter sent to Philippine Information Agency, the venue of this year’s activity will be held at the Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) Main Campus, this city. Other identified venues include Tago town and Barobo town for the swimming competition.

The week-long event will feature a number of sports disciplines, which will be held on the following venues: Futzal (girls) secondary; Softball - Elementary and Secondary; Volleyball (Boys and Girls) Secondary; and Special Games at SDSSU grounds, Tandag City; Table Tennis (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary at SDSSU Gym, Tandag City; Gymnastic (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary and Taekwondo (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary will be held at Gamut Gym, Tago; Sipa/Sepak Takraw at Victoria Basketball Court, Victoria, Tago; Tennis (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary will be at DPWH Tennis Court, Tandag City; Volleyball (Boys and Girls) Elementary – Falcon Memorial Elementary School, Tago.

The said event will culminate on Friday, October 21. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

TESDA chief assures training for drug surrenderees

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) – Sec. Guiling A. Mamondiong, Director-General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday said that the agency is willing to provide skills training to drug surrenderees.

Speaking before the local tri-media during the press conference held in one of the local convention centers here, Sec. Mamondiong said this is one of the priority programs of the agency in support to the program of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

The official explained that with the increasing number of drug surrenderees, the Duterte administration is keen on empowering them by providing skills training that will change their lifestyle. “The skills trainings that they will obtain will allow them to change their lives for the better,” the official said in Tagalog language.

When asked how this process will be undertaken, the official said those surrenderees who need to be rehabilitated must undertake the rehabilitation first. “After the period of rehabilitation and found out that they are already okay, then that’s the time that TESDA will come in and provide them the skills training according to their choice,” Sec. Mamondiong said. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Rep. Barbers says rehabilitation is key to eradicate drug problem

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 17 (PIA) – Rep. Robert Ace S. Barbers of Surigao del Norte emphasized the importance of legislating the proposed establishment of rehabilitation centers—even though there is an existing law prescribing for the construction of at least one facility in each province—due to its funding component.

“Although it is provided in Section 75 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 on the need to establish at least one treatment and rehabilitation center in each province, the cost of constructing, operating and managing these facilities must be taken into consideration. The funding needed for the implementation of the proposed bills, if passed into law, shall be included in the General Appropriations Act which Congress’ legislates,” Barbers said during the meeting of the Committee on Dangerous Drugs on the establishment of rehabilitation centers.

Barbers also supports the proposal of the Dangerous Drugs Board to prioritize the establishment and maintenance of outpatient drug treatment and rehabilitation facilities. Data from the 2015 United Nations World Drug Report shows that of the 715,699 individuals who surrendered as of September 20, 2016, only 0.6 -1 percent of them require in-patient care in treatment and rehab centers.

“The 99 percent, who may be introduced by out-patient facilities, must be given more importance because they are those individuals who require immediate medical intervention,” he said.

“Rehabilitation is better than punishment. We must treat them as patients—not criminals. We must give these individuals the opportunity for rehabilitation and eventual reintegration to the community,” Barbers added. (SDN-2nd District Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

TESDA Sec vows more scholarship slots for Caraga in 2017

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) – In line with the free education program of the present administration, Sec. Guiling A. Mamondiong of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) said the scholarship slots for Caraga region next year will double.

This development came after the local tri-media here asked the TESDA chief on what changes the Caraganons will expect from the Duterte administration.

Sec. Mamondiong said this year 11,334 slots were given to Caraga and next year, a total of 30,000 slots will be allocated in the different scholarship programs of TESDA.

The two regular scholarship programs for which the agency has been providing are the Private Education Students Financial Assistance (PESFA), and the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).

The PESFA scholarship program was established through Section 8 of Republic Act No. 8545, otherwise known as the Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) Act. PESFA offers educational grants to qualified and deserving college freshmen both in degree and non-degree courses. The program seeks to extend financial assistance to marginalized but deserving students in post-secondary non-degree courses; promote TVET; contribute to the development of a competent skilled workforce; and assist private institutions in their development efforts by assuring a steady supply of enrollees to their course offerings.

The PESFA directed the beneficiaries on the choices of careers to the critical skills requirements of in-demand jobs in the labor market. It also allows for equity distribution of the opportunities made available through government subsidies.

Meanwhile, the TWSP provides immediate interventions to meet the need for highly critical skills. The program has two-fold objectives: 1. To purposively drive TVET provision to available jobs through incentives and appropriate training programs that are directly connected to existing jobs for immediate employment, both locally and overseas and; 2. To build and strengthen the capacity and capability of TVET institutions in expanding and improving the delivery of quality, efficient and relevant training programs that meet job requirements, including programs for higher levels of technology.

The program was launched in May 2006 with funding from the Office of the President and mainstreamed in the regular budget in 2008. This program is a response to the clamor of industry to address the critical skills shortages in priority sectors, particularly the Business Process Outsourcing, metals and engineering, construction and tourism, among others.

Another scholarship, the Special Training for Empoyment Program (STEP) is a community-based specialty training program that seeks to address the specific needs of the communities and promote employment particularly through entrepreneurial, self-employment and service oriented activities. Aside from free training and competency assessment, scholars will receive starter toolkits and training allowance of P60.00 per day during the entire duration of the program. Said allowance will be released directly to the scholars at the end of the training which they may use as a seed capital to start their livelihood undertakings.

In pursuit of attaining the Philippine Development Plan’s goal of inclusive growth and poverty reduction, and promoting good governance at the local level, the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster (HDPRC), through the Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB) Oversight Agencies, shall implement the Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB). This program seeks to increase citizen’s access to local service delivery through a demand-driven budget planning process and to strengthen government accountability in local public service provision.

The BuB oversight and participating agencies are tasked to ensure the implementation of priority poverty reduction projects as identified at the city/municipal level through the BuB participatory planning and budgeting process.

It is an approach to the preparation of agency budget proposals, taking into consideration the development needs of cities/municipalities as identified in their respective local poverty action plans that shall be formulated with the strong participation of basic sector organizations and other civil society organizations. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

MinDA signs deal with PCCI to enhance trade in Mindanao

PASAY CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) – An agreement aimed to encourage investments in Mindanao was signed by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and industry (PCCI) during the recently concluded 42nd Philippine Business Conference (PBC) held at the Marriott Hotel’s Grand Ballroom here in this city.

Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, MinDA chair and PCCI President George Barcelon signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which calls for the two organizations to work together to promote investments and formulate policy agenda that will enhance trade and business in the island-region of Mindanao.

MinDA is a sub-national government agency mandated to promote, coordinate, and facilitate socioeconomic in Mindanao, while the PCCI is the country’s largest business organization.

“In carrying out our commitments for Mindanao, we will focus on the conduct of policy dialogues, the development and implementation of trade and investment promotion activities, and the implementation of training, exchange of information and other capacity-building programs,” said Secretary Alonto.

He explained that formulating the policy agenda for Mindanao, will involve the PCCI local chambers, industry and trade associations, and key business stakeholders in the island-region to ensure that prevailing concerns affecting the business sector will be thoroughly reviewed and discussed.

“We will also conduct business matching-related activities with the PCCI and the Investment Promotion Desk of Mindanao’s Local Government Units (LGUs), particularly in keeping the relevance of the Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) and the participation of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the overall trade and business development of the island-region,” said Secretary Alonto.

He added that capacity-building programs that will facilitate the exchange of information leading towards trade promotion and investment generation will be conducted as well through the signed MOU.

Secretary Alonto, who visited Makassar in Indonesia to participate in the recently concluded 3rd BIMP-EAGA and IMT-GT Trade Expo, Conference, and Business Matching said that one of the aims of the MOU is to push for the active participation of Mindanao in the BIMP-EAGA and other similar sub-regional platforms.

BIMP-EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, while IMT-GT stands for Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Growth Triangle. The BIMP-EAGA was launched in 1994 as a key strategy to accelerate social and economic development of less developed areas in participating countries. The IMT-GT on the other hand was formed in 1993 with similar goals of promoting trade, investment, and tourism in less-developed states and provinces in Sumatra, Indonesia, Peninsular Malaysia, and Southern Thailand. Both sub-regional groups aim to harness private sector leadership in initiatives to promote cross-border investments and improve connectivity.

“MinDA and the PCCI have been collaborating for so many years now, particularly the advancement of policy recommendations for Mindanao through the conduct of the MinBizCon,” said Secretary Alonto while adding, “the private sector is a strong partner of MinDA in efforts to modernize the region’s agri-based industries and accelerate development in logistics, power, infrastructure, resource management and tourism.”

In the 25th MinBizCon held in August at the Gateway Hotel in Surigao City, Barcelon acknowledged the role of Mindanao in helping the country achieve broad growth across all sectors and said that “Mindanao today day is a far-cry from the old Mindanao that we know.”

He said “all eyes are now on the region as it transformed into an economy that is ripe for the picking. It plays a significant role in the country’s economic and social development, being strategically located in the East Asian economic corridor.”

Barcelon added that Mindanao plays a key role in unlocking ASEAN’s potential as the turning point of transforming the Philippines from middle- to high-income through increased trade and investments with its nearest ASEAN neighbors – Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia.

He commended the island-region’s economy which grew by 7.4 percent in 2014 that contributed 20.7 percent to the Philippine economy in the same year, with its robust agricultural produce, supplying most of the world with banana, pineapple, and tuna. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte solon urges LGU to check if commercial buildings are complying with parking, building permit requirements

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 17 (PIA) – Second district representative Robert Ace Barbers urges local government units (LGUs) to check if owners of commercial buildings are complying with parking and building permit requirements; and to exhaust all means to alleviate traffic congestion.

The legislator notes that noncompliance contributes to the country’s horrendous traffic situation in highly-urbanized areas as clients and customers of establishments are forced to park on streets, which are supposedly dedicated for moving vehicles.

“Building owners should provide ample parking spaces for their tenants and must strictly comply with building permit and parking requirements. The problem is, as I have observed, madaming mga establisyemento ngayon ang nagsusulputan pero wala namang parking spaces, at kung meron man, it’s still not enough to cater to all their clients,” said Barbers.

In order to multiply their profit, some businesses have altered their approved structural plans and have rented out the spaces intended for parking.

“Inspect all these commercial buildings and if LGUs discover that owners refused to comply with the requirements, penalize them! Revoke their building and occupancy permits,” the Barbers expressed.

Consequently, the Surigao del Norte lawmaker also moved for the speedy passage of Sidewalks and Public Roads Use Act. House Bill 2561, which was filed in August, seeks to regulate the use of sidewalks and public roads. The city or municipal government will be responsible for the implementation of the provisions of this Act.

While awaiting enactment of the said legislation, Barbers urges all local governments to take a hardline stance on the campaign to free main and secondary roads of illegally parked vehicles, saying that the traffic problem is expected to hit new heighs at the onset of the Christmas season.

“We want to exhaust all possibilities in order to lessen our traffic woes, especially now that Christmas is fast-approaching. Local governments should take the initiative to rid streets in their respective localities of parked vehicles and other obstructions that hamper the flow of traffic. Traffic along major thoroughfares are worsening because secondary and even tertiary roads are clogged,” Barbers stated.

“Kaya naman nakiki-usap tayo sa mga lokal na pamahalaan na mahigpit na ipagbawal ang illegal parking. Gayun din, humihingi tayo ng kaunting disiplina mula sa publiko. As long as we’re helping each other, we can be sure that the road to progress will be one that will be easier to traverse.” Barbers added. (SDN-Second District Congressional Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao Norte starts medicine assistance distribution to senior citizens

By Arlene C. Tongco

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 17 (PIA) – The provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the Provincial Social Services Office (PSSO) has started its distribution of the medicine assistance for Senior Citizens ages 80 years old and above.

A total of 1,119 senior citizens in the municipalities of Siargao Island and 1,837 senior citizens in the mainland municipalities benefited the program.

The said initiative was conceptualized by Governor Sol Matugas and supported by Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr. and the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by virtue of Republic Act 9994 also known as “An Act Granting additional benefits and privileges of Senior Citizens.”

The project is also in consonance with the HEALS plus agenda of the province. (PSSO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

NCIP commemorates 19th IPRA anniv

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 18 (PIA) – The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Caraga is commemorating this year’s 19th Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) on October 27 with the theme, “Pagsasakapangyarihan ng mga Katutubo Tungo sa Pagkakakisa.”

“We believe that it is in providing the IPs with ample knowledge that they can effectively assert their rights and practice their responsibilities towards establishing a unified, peaceful and prosperous indigenous community,” underlined NCIP regional director Atty. Jose Dumagan Jr.

Dumagan added that a parade will jumpstart at 5:00 A.M. from Guingona Park going to Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city. Some 400 IPs all over the region are expected to attend the said celebration, it was learned.

The Indigenous People's Rights Act of 1997 (RA 8371) is a legislation that recognize and promote all the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/ Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor creates committee to support rehab program

By Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 18 (PIA) – The province of Agusan del Norte through its Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has created a special action committee in support to the inter-agency rehabilitation program for the drug surrenderees.

Through PPOC Resolution No. 2016-05 signed by PPOC chairperson and provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, the Special Action Committee is composed of the following: Chirman - Atty. Ramie F. Duropan, Provincial Governor’s Office Peace and Order Focal Person; Members - Director Gilbert V. Buenafe, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA); Iglucito P. Duqueza, Department of Education; Ellen Vee P. Chua, Department of the Interior and Local Government; Director Catalina O. Tacubao, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA); PSSupt Ernesto V Tendero, Police Provincial Office; Daisybiel O. Demavivas, Provincial Social Welfare and Nutrition Office; Paterno B. Olivera, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office; and Fr. Stephen M. Brongcano, Social Action Center Director.

The Special Action Committee is divided into three clusters. Cluster 1 will handle the profiling, screening, drug testing and provision support services during the identification and classification process of drug personalities while the Cluster 2 is responsible in creating committees on family care, community development, capacity development and patient/recovering drug dependent care during the rehabilitation process.

The Cluster 3 of the committee will provide programs and interventions like sustainable livelihood program, cash for work, Unlad Kabataan, National Drug Education Program, Drug Dependents Training Program, Therapuetic Community Modality Program, and Halfway House and Livelihood Training Center during the post-rehabilitation process. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

59 finish TESDA training program in SurSur town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 18 (PIA) – Some 59 individuals from Carmen town had finished their skills training program under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Of the 59 individuals, 25 beneficiaries from Sitio Gacub, Barangay Hinapuyan graduated from Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) training NC-II, 31 individuals received a certificate of Reflexology and Massage training, and three individuals availed the training for Work Scholarship Program.

According to Civil Military Operations officer Capt. Al Anthony Pueblas of 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), Phil. Army, some 25 welding machines were received by the local government unit of Carmen intended for the 25 graduates who finished the SMAW training NC-II. Eight of the 25 graduates are reportedly former rebels.

Pueblas added that the training was initiated by the 36IB in coordination with some stakeholders. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DepEd now accepts Senior High School registration

By Mariza A. Arjona

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 18 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) has set October 16 to 29, 2016 as the schedule for the early registration for the Senior High School (SHS).

In Butuan City, incoming Grade 11 students for the next school year 2017 to 2018 can now register to any schools where the specialized track of their choice is being offered.

According to Dr. Israel Reveche, SHS division coordinator, the early registration will help determine DepEd on the resources needed like the classrooms, teachers and learning materials needed in implementing SHS.

“The Grades 11 and 12 were added with the newly-implemented K to 12 Program,” Reveche said. Students are now required to go through Grades 11 and 12 before completing or graduating from high school, he added.

SHS has four academic tracks – the GAS or General Academic Strand; STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Humanities and Social Sciences or HUMSS track; and Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM). (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd Butuan chief encourages academe’s participation to 'dealing with bullying' confab

By Ana Marie P. Dultra

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 18 (PIA) – Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City schools division superintendent Arsenio Cornites, Jr., in an advisory, encourages the participation of the academe from the public, private and special education schools and institutions of the city to send participants to the 3rd Annual Conference on Dealing with Bullying.

The event is facilitated by the Autism Partnership Philippine (APP) with the aim to educate doctors, therapists, administrators, and academe about autism and strategies on how to deal with them.

Among the topics for discussion include: Prevalence of Bullying in Children with Autism; Vulnerability of Students with Autism; Psychology of Bullying and Victimization; Effects of Bullying; Traditional Approaches to Dealing with Bullying; Alternative Approaches; and Mitigating Risk of Future Victimization.

The event will be held on November 7 to 8, 2016 at the Crimson Hotel, Filinvest City, Manila. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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