The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC
VOL II NO. 5
March 1-15, 2020
2 NPAS KILLED, HIGH POWERED FIREARM SEIZED IN PINABACDAO, SAMAR By: PIA-8 and NICA-8 PINABACDAO, Samar -- Two members of the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) died in a 25-minute firefight with the troops of the 46th Infantry (Peacemakers) Battalion, Philippine Army in Brgy. Canlobo, Pinabacdao, Samar at around 8:15 in the morning of March 11, 2020. The Focused Military Operation (FMO) was in response to the report of the locals on the presence of more or less 10 members of the terrorist group under alias DALTON who were foraging and extorting in the area. The firefight resulted to the death of two members of the NPA and seizure of war materials including one M16A1 rifle, one bandolier with magazines, one backpack, electrical wires, one battery, solar panels and two cellular phones.
The fatalities were identified as Joel Encinas 50 yrs old, So Bagte, Brgy Mabini, Basey, Samar and Noli Rafales 45 yrs old, Brgy Canlobo, Pinabacdao, Samar. Unfortunately, one military personnel sustained a gunshot wound that caused his death. To recall, on March 6, 2020, Salvador Nordan alias Badok, a notorious Communist NPA Terrorist Leader, was killed at Brgy. Guba, Catarman, Northern Samar. On March 5 and 7, 2020, the 78th Infantry Battalion had a series of encounters with remnants of Front 42, Sub-Regional Committee, under Communist NPA Terrorist Leader Roberto Opo alias Resty/ Migo/Lowie in Brgy. Pancho Villa, Sogod, Southern Leyte. The series of encounters
resulted to the recovery of one M1 Garand rifle, ammunition and food stuff. “We will continue to con-
continued on page 20
Northern Samar organizes 232 Barangay TF ELCAC By: Teresita B. Cardenas
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The Northern Samar Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) organized 232 Barangay Task Forces in the towns of Allen, Catarman, Gamay, Laoang, Mondragon, Rosarion, San Roque, Victoria, Lope de Vega, and San Isidro. This is according to DILG OIC Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan during the Kapihan sa PIA on March 3. He said that the government through EO 70 or the institutionalization of the whole-of-nation approach is sincere in its effort for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace. He added that local armed conflict is not only a military concern but everybody’s concern, thus, a retooled community support program was formulated in order to strengthen the community support program initiatives of the military and making the effort Local Government Units
continued on page 20
2
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Communist NPA Terrorist leader neutralized in N. Samar encounter By: Teresita B. Cardenas TACLOBAN CITY -- An alleged notorious Communist NPA Terrorist leader was killed during a joint AFP-PNP operation at Brgy. Guba, Catarman, Northern Samar on Friday, March 6 at about 10:10 a.m. The operating troops of the 803rd Infantry Brigade and Northern Samar Police Provincial Office were confirming a report from the populace on the presence of an armed group conducting extortion activities at the said barangay, when they chanced upon the said group. A firefight ensued and resulted in the killing of Salvador Nordan alias Badok/Gahi, Communist NPA Leader, SubRegional Operational Command (SROC) EMPORIUM. Recovered from said NPA were one (1) Cal .45 pistol with ammunition and subversive documents with high intelligence value which includes lists containing names of individuals providing support to the terrorist CPP-NPA in Northern Samar. Nordan was facing a string of criminal charges, mostly murder and robbery cases in Northern Samar. “We are thankful for the trust and confidence of the communities for the information to locate the hideouts of Salvador Nordan in Brgy Malvar, Salvacion, Guba, and San Julian, all of Catarman, Northern Samar. This only shows that they were already tired of the terroristic activities these NPA members have caused not only to
the military but also to the helpless civilians,” Col. Zosimo A. Oliveros, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, declared.
Maj. Gen. Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, PA, lauded the operating
continued on page 13
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA March 1-15, 2020 the precautionary measures. Eastern Visayas remains COVID 19-free By: Rey S. Perosa
PALO, Leyte -- The Department of Health in Eastern Visayas (DOH-8) on Friday, Mar. 13, has reported seven new Patients Under Investigation (PUIs) who have travel history from different countries making the total PUIs to 25 in Eastern Visayas. This was announced by Dr. Minerva P. Molon, DOH-8 regional director during the press conference held at the DOH-8 Conference Room. Of the seven PUIs, three were admitted to the hospital while four are on home quarantine depending on the severity of the symptoms. Meanwhile, DOH-8 has reported 23 Persons Under Monitoring (PUM) who are currently on home quarantine. Said PUMs are distributed as follows: Leyte (9), Tacloban City (5), Biliran (2), Southern Leyte (2), Northern Samar (2), Ormoc City (1), Samar (1), and Eastern Samar (1). To avoid local transmission of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID19) in the region, DOH-8, being the lead agency of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on COVID-19, declared during the 2nd Inter-Agency Coordination Meeting that those people coming in to Eastern Visayas from Metro Manila will be considered PUM and are advised to do precautionary measures like home quarantine for 14 days and do social distancing.
According to Dr. Molon, though the numbers of PUIs and PUMs are increasing in the region, Eastern Visayas remains COVID 19-free. As the number of PUIs is increasing, DOH-8 is now extensively coordinating with the Local Government Units (LGUs) through the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) on monitoring and reporting of possible PUIs and PUMs in the community. Member agencies of Task Force on COVID-19 are in full gear as the code alert was raised to Code Red Sublevel 2 on March 11. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police – Regional Office VIII (PRO-8) has warned the public to refrain from spreading fake news on social media. Instead, public are encouraged to refer to DOH and World Health Organization (WHO) on COVID-19 for regular updates. Individuals who are posting unverified and false information will be facing criminal charges and can be penalized from six months to six years imprisonment and P40,000 to P200,000 charges. On the other side, the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) is restricting all vessels carrying passengers with symptoms of COVID-19 to dike in any local ports in the region as part of
3
The health department appeals to the public that fighting the spread of the virus is not the fight of DOH alone but it’s everybody’s concern. “Let’s us be an advocate that people have to really understand that this fight is not by DOH alone but the fight of the entire community,” Molon said adding that utmost cooperation in terms of complying with all the advisories is important,” Director Molon said. (ldl/opt/rsp/PIA8)
Price freeze imposed in Eastern Visayas By: Rey S. Perosa PALO, Leyte -- The prices of all basic necessities are frozen for 60 days following the Proclamation No. 922 declaring a State of Public Health Emergency throughout the Philippines due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Department of Trade and Industry encourages consumers to be vigilant in purchasing goods at its prevailing prices and avoid patronizing retailers selling overpriced medical supplies such as alcohol and masks. The Department remains committed to regularly monitor and exert efforts in ensuring that supplies are available for the public. According to Trade Secretary Mon Lopez, a local manufacturer has committed to making 1.6 million masks per month and frontline services in the health sector are given priority in distributing supply. Based from the latest monitoring of DTI Region 8 Provincial Offices last March 10, there is still adequate supply of alcohols but N95 and surgical masks are already out of stock. The public is advised to refrain from panic buying and hoarding of alcohols, tissues, masks and other consumer goods. (DTI-8)
4
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Maasin City Mayor reassures public of precautionary measures for COVID-19
By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos updates from credible sources and advised everyone to practice good personal hygiene and to follow and cooperate with the national and local government authorities’ health advisory for COVID-19. Relative to this, the city mayor issued Memorandum Order No. 106 addressed to all banks, hotels resorts, restaurants, hospitals, places of worships, bus/ jeepney terminals, recreational centers, parlors, markets, among other places where people frequently gather to follow the health MAASIN CITY -- In light of the advisory for COVID-19. declaration of the Department Among the health advisoof Health’s (DOH) confirmaries include the practice of pertion of local transmission for sonal protective measures such as the Coronavirus Disease 2019 hand hygiene, social distancing, (COVID-19) in the national capiand proper cough etiquette; avoid tal region, the city government of mass gathering; report immediMaasin through Mayor Nacional ately to proper authorities if there V. Mercado reassured the general will be individuals/group with public its continuous preparations history from a COVID-19 infected and commitment to prevent the area, to mention a few. possible threat. In another memorandum In a joint meeting on addressed to city hall officials and March 10, 2020 with the Local employees, Health Board, School Board, all are also Disaster Risk Reduction and instructed Management Office and the Interto clean and Agency Task Force on Emerging disinfect their Infectious Diseases, Mercado station/desks has strengthened the implemenregularly intation of planned response on side the office COVID-19. and minimize “I called the four commitvisitation tees in order to discuss the process of relatives and procedures and to address the and friends COVID-19 situation which is now and avoid considered as a national public unnecessary health emergency,” he said during transactions the convergence meeting held at from family the Mayor’s Boardroom in Maasin members. City. continued He said the city government will continue to monitor on page 16
EO 70 institutionalizes government policy to attain peace By: Teresita B. Cardenas
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- In an effort to address the root cause of local armed conflict, the government through EO 70 orders the institutionalization of the whole-of-nation approach as a government policy for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace. DILG OIC Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan said the program is the government’s resolve to end the local communist rebellion by bringing the government services closer to the people with the end-in-view of ushering inclusive development to attain peace during the Kapihan sa PIA on March 3. The officer-in-charge explained that the local government units shall champion the implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) and spearhead initiatives
continued on page 14
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
PCWWI Fun Run supports zero waste campaign By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY -- The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Southern Leyte Office is now preparing for the Census of Population this coming May 2020. In a meeting held with the members of the Provincial Census Coordinating Board, Provincial Chief Statistical Specialist Eutemio Llevado Jr. said that the statistics department will be hiring more than six hundred teachers as enumerators. “We will be conducting an orientation this April 2020 for the teacher-enumerators in preparation for the coming national census which will start on May 4, this year, “ Llevado disclosed during the meeting held recently at the Provincial Boardroom here. Though, there will be additional enumerators that will also be hired, he said. “More than one hundred enumerators will also be hired that are non-teachers.” Southern Leyte has a total of five hundred barangays, those bigger barangays will have more
Roads to 8 tourism sites in South Leyte receive P151-M appropriation By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- Some eight (8) road projects that lead to identified tourist sites in different locations in the province are now being improved to make these sites accessible and more visitor-friendly. In a press statement, the Southern Leyte District Engineering Office - Department of Public Works and Highways (SLDEO-DPWH), the implementing agency, detailed the specific locations and the corresponding project cost as follows. Taglinao Falls in San Francisco, P12.86 million Anas View Deck, Padre Burgos, P22.6 million Bird Sanctuary and than one enumerator, Llevado added. Llevado reported that in 2015, the province of Southern Leyte has a total of 421,750; Eastern Visayas has a total population of 4,440,150 while the Philippines has 100,981,437 total population of the same year. (ldl/ esg/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
March 1-15, 2020
5
Mangrove Site, Saint Bernard, P10 million Crater Lake, San Juan, P24 million Fatima Hills, Macrohon, P11.74 million Guinsaugon Lake, Saint Bernard, P10 million Ollies Wall Dive, Liloan, P10 million Limasawa Circumferential Road, P50 million “The tourism access roads will not only attract more tourists and travelers but will also provide our locals easier transportation of their goods and farm products to commercial districts,” District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia was quoted in the statement as saying. “Hopefully, these projects will unlock economic opportunities in rural communities,” she added. Identification of these roadto-tour-sites projects, which are now up and running as of this writing, was conducted through a convergence between DPWH and DOT, it was learned. Construction of covered canals and installation of slope protection are among the scope of the projects, targeted to be completed within the year. “Southern Leyte province is known for world-class dive sites, caves, extreme adventure sites, waterfalls, safari, river trekking, crater lake trekking, fish feeding, rain forest tramping, scuba diving and whale shark interaction, island escapades, beach fun, and religious journeys,” the SLDEO press statement further said. (ldl/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
6
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
‘Balay Silangan’ to serve as temporary shelter for drug offenders in SoLeyte By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY -- With the objective of reforming drug offenders in Southern Leyte province into self-sufficient and law-abiding members of society, the Balay Silangan Reformatory and Rehabilitation Center was built in Barangay Libas of Hinunangan town. Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Feliciano John Maitbag said the Center will accommodate drug personalities who surrendered and who will undergo reformation program, during the recent joint Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Drug Abuse Council meeting at DPWH conference Hall. Matibag said that the existing P5 million Balay Silangan Reformatory and Rehabilitation Center building was realized with funding from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Matibag added that that there are legal basis why the province of Southern Leyte came up with the community based- center. “It is because of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) guidelines for the community to be involved in reforming drug offenders into self-sufficient and law abiding members of society,” he said.
Another treat for women is the Wellness for Women featuring TESDA trained Masseurs and Cosmetologists. (Photo by Reden Tangara)
E.Samar LGU and Terre des Hommes celebrate Women’s Month By: Samuel D. Candido
BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar -- The Provincial government in coordination with Terre des Hommes celebrated Women’s Month to bats for change for women on March 11, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium, Borongan City. This is nchored on this year’s theme for the Women’s Month of March, “We Make Change Work for Women.” Mr. Nelson F. Cortez, Provincial Administrator, in his welcome remarks on behalf of Gov. Ben P. Evardone, said that during his college days, he is one of the advocates for women’s rights. He added, in the provincial government, most of the provincial heads are women, in the administration of Gov. Ben P. Evardone, there is already women empowerment. Ms. Febie Palines, Provincial continued on page 14 Link of the 4P’s Program, DSWD – E. Samar emphasized the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in her message. “Show me and I will forget, tell me and I will remember, engage me and I will learn. Let us all be an agent for positive change. Let us make
others engage and with that advocacy will spread wider. The more of us engaged in this advocacy, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment will be achieved,” Palines said. Dr. Josephine C. Marasigan, ESSU Professor/Women’s Champion in her inspirational message said that she is one of believer of women empowerment- women empowerment through Women’s Rights. She said that the theme emphasizes that women should be active drivers in bringing about positive changes, and that they also reap from fruits of development efforts. She also said that this can be made possible by empowering women, enabling them to meaningfully engage with other development stakeholders. She is also ushing for the full implementation of the Magna Carta for Women (MCW). Marasigan further said that Women’s Month Celebration aims to give recognition to every woman, and to remind the women that “we are capable of becoming the better version of ourselves.”
continued on page 15
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Maasin schoolkids experience firefighters’ job on BFP’s Open House Day By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY -- Elementary pupils from different schools in Maasin City were given a chance to experience on how to wear firefighter’s gear during the Open House set by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) spearheaded by Fire Officer III Raul A. Inocando. “The BFP-Maasin City Fire Station accommodates two schools each day, starting March 9 until Friday March 13,” Inocando said. Inocando said they are targeting around 50-100 students per session, where the students will learn how to put on fire fighter’s gear such as the hard hat and fire suit, how to hold the fire hose, and how to operate a fire extinguisher. “The schoolkids were taught the proper way of handling these gears and the basics on riding a fire truck and an ambulance. Proper handling of other firefighting apparatus and
equipment were also taught to the pupils,” Inocando said. The students were also given lectures on the importance of fire safety awareness and preventive measures that should start at home and in their respective schools. He said that the open house aims to orient the students the kind of job of firefighters. “We inspire students to open and expand their minds about our job and how we work, while preparing them if they choose to be a firefighter someday,” Inocando said. Among other activities for the monthlong observance of Fire Prevention Month include essay and poster making contest for secondary students, fire drills in selected institutions, and lectures in schools. This year’s theme is, “Matuto Ka: Sunog ay Iwasan Na.” (ldl/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
March 1-15, 2020
7
Waray News: Pagsurapo han COVID-19 ginmitingan han E. Samar Task Force By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante BORONGAN CITY -Iginpasamwak ni Provincial Health Office – Technical Chief Dr. Rodel Delgado nga ha pagkayana negatibo an Eastern Samar hin Persons under Monitoring (PUM) and Persons under Investigation (PUI) or COVID-19 free. Han Mierkoles, nag-meeting an Inter-agency Task Force basi makita an pangandaman ngan matagan solusyon in pira nga problema han probinsya ha pagsurapo han sakit. Gin-tugon ni Delgado an katawhan nga dire mag-panic komo waray naman local transmission, ugaring kinahanglan la gud mag-andam. Sabon ngan tubig daw an pinaka-epektibo nga proteksyon, sama han pirmi panhunaw gamit an sabon ngan tubig. Puyde daw gihapon gumamit hin alcohol or hand sanitizer basta 70% an alcohol content. Ha pagkayana, gin-aagahat la anay hin social distancing, paglikay hin kadam-an nga tawo ngan katitirok, close contact sama hit shake hands, beso-beso ngan pag-amen. Sugad man, ginpapahinumdom an Cough Etiquette nga kun uubuhon or sisingahon kinahanglan takpan hin tisyu kay iton kagaw in puyde umabot hin hirayo. Kinahanglan maghunaw kay amo ini an makakapugong han paglarab han sakit. Segun naman kan Provincial
continued on page 13
8
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
2 big events in Biliran cancelled due to COVID-19
By: Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran -- As a precau(PCWWI) in Biliran, said tionary measure and with the PCWWI and the WORD KALIPI imminent threat on COVID-19 are also in concurrence with due to its increasing cases in the the cancellation of the Women’s country, two upcoming big events Congress. in Biliran province were cancelled. “It is better safe than be Naval Mayor Gerard sorry later,” the PCWWI president Roger M. Espina in his Facebook said emphasizing the protection account post on Friday, said the of the women member-partici2020 Higatangan Island Summer pants on the possibility of conFestival (HISF) was cancelled due tracting illnesses referring to the to “imminent threat of COVIDCOVID-19. 19,” and the facts and circum “The Provincial Women’s stances surrounding therein. 2020 Congress is cancelled (or HISF is a crowd-drawing probably postponed indefinitely),” annual summer festival led by Dr. Espina said despite the fact LGU-Naval held in the famous that preparations are all set for the Higatangan Island known for its event, municipalities have preshifting sandbar. pared, and the participants are all The 2019 summer fest set. (ldl/rsv/PIA Biliran) introduced new activities such as Cliff Jumping, Manta Tow, Dive at PPOC SoLeyte sets new Capella Del Mar, and other funpriorities in 2020 filled activities. Also, the Provincial By: Erna S. Gorne Women’s Congress Celebration in MAASIN CITY -- The Provincial Biliran was cancelled. Peace and Order Council (PPOC) “Wala munang Women’s in Southern Leyte sets new priCongress Celebration tayo this ority programs in its pursuit of a March 17,” Biliran Governor more peaceful and orderly comRogelio J. Espina posted in his munity in 2020. Facebook account. Led by Provincial The announcement of Governor Damian G. Mercado, Governor Espina on the cancelwho is also the Provincial Peace lation of the provincial women’s and Order Council chaircongress came after the DOH man, eight priority programs confirmed a local transmission were presented during the first case of COVID-19 in the country on March 6. He said the recent news on COVID-19 will definitely affect future activities in the whole country and in our province. Dr. Cecil M. Espina, wife of Governor Espina, and the president of the Provincial Council for Women’s Welfare Incorporated
PPOC quarterly meeting held March 3, 2020 at Congressional Convergence Office, old DPWH Function Hall, Maasin City. The PPOC body shall work on a total of P15 M funds to be distributed with the following priority programs for their implementations this year, it was learned. Under the Crime and Disorder category, funds were provided for the Insurance for Barangay Tanods (Give A Card, Save A Life Program), wherein the barangay tanods across the province will be recipients to accident insurance in close coordination with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), celebration of National Crime Prevention Week and support to secretariat services. The body, as well, provided enough funds to encourage the 500 barangay justice systems across the province thru its Katarungang Pambarangay program to perform harder. The funds will be used to provide incentives for Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentive Awards (LTIA) provincial winners in different categories such as city, first – third and fourth – sixth class municipalities. The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit in Philippine National Police- Southern Leyte Provincial Police Office (SLPPO) will receive funds amounting to P6.9 M as presented.
continued on page 15
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Rice Tariffication Law 1st Anniversary in EV unfolds a convergence of efforts to improve farmers’ lives TACLOBAN CITY -- A year after the Rice Tarriffication Law took effect on March 5, 2019, what becomes apparent is that in the implementation of this landmark law, the whole of nation approach, a convergence of efforts among government agencies has been taking place in order to make the birthing pains bearable to the farmers. This veritable fact was observed during the 1st Anniversary Celebration of Republic Act 11203 also known as the Rice Tariffication Law. Spearheaded by by the regional offices of the Department of Agriculture and government agencies, namely: PhilRice, PhilMech, LandBank, Agricultural Training Institute, NFA, TESDA, PIA, including the representative of Senator Cynthia Villar, a little more than 200 farmers and other key stakeholders showed up and openly expressed their gratitude that finally, the end-goal of the RTL is slowly but surely gaining ground in providing great impact to the rice farmers.
In the commemoration of the first year implementation of RTL, held at Brgy. Pagsang-an, Abuyog, Leyte, Ricardo Caintoy, President of the Pagsang-an Rice Farmers Association profusely thanked the current administration for the strong “political will” in effecting significant reform in the history of the country’s agriculture sector. It was learned that there were two big farmers associations in Abuyog, Leyte that qualified as recipients of various farm mechanization and facilities which included high-end combined harvester, transplanter, and even rice processing center. Ms. Rommelie M. Hermoso of Philmech said currently, there are at least 30 combined harvesters that have been given to farmers groups in Abuyog, Leyte. With the fullblast implementation of RTL, PhilMech has committed to pour in more farm machineries and equipment in this first class municipality. Another farmer who showed up and talked about RTL was Ms Ma.
March 1-15, 2020
9
Patria Quilantang, former teacher, now a farmer of Ormoc City who have good praises for the passage of Tarrification Law which according to her “paved way for the implementation of RCEP that provides farmers with seeds, credit, machineries, among others.” Philrice Bicol Director Victoria Lapitan disclosed that Philrice has been distributing certified rice to farmers in order to increase their yield and their competitiveness. Todate, 98,264 sacks have been delived to farmer groups in the four provinces of Eastern Visayas - Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran and Samar. Ms. Hazel Taganas of ATI Region 8 disclosed that the agency has been conducting trainings to improve the competitiveness of farmers. This festive event was led by no less than DA-RFO 8 Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez who in her keynote address, underscored the need for the farmers to continue showing the way forward to leveling up the country’s agriculture sector through modernization and industrialization as espoused by DA Secretary William D. Dar. “For the first year RTL implementation, our government has set aside PhP10Billion so that we can just level up the sector,” RED Enriquez pointed out. “Through this, we are optimistic that we can truly raise the level of competitiveness of our ricefarmers as we align and follow the new thinking strategy and the paradigm shifts in attaining a food-secure Philippines and prosperous farmers and fisherfolk. Together, let us be united and persistent in attaining “Masaganang
continued on page 15
10
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Air Southern Leyte opens Maasin-Manila- ESAMELCO Maasin flight opens 10 MVA By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
airport in barangay Panan-awan. Two planes will service the Maasin-Manila-Maasin route, vice-versa, one in the morning, the other in the afternoon, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday as a start, Cadingan stated. Told that a previous airline, Air Juan, ceased operation in just about a year for lack of passengers, Cadingan said she was aware about it but maintained that it depends on the aircraft, especially the Manila
continued on page 19
MAASIN CITY -- A commercial airplane that carries the name of the province will be making history once it provides air transportation that bridges the great atmospheric divide between this city and the nation’s capital, Manila. This development cropped up during the provincial development council (PDC) meeting held at the former DPWH function hall here yesterday, when Gov. Damian Mercado announced the possibility of such a flight either last week this month, or first week April, next month. The governor’s announcement was confirmed by Mayor Elisa Cadingan, chief executive of Hinundayan municipality, one of the six towns located in the pacific area of the province. “We’re still requesting for the slotting, for the regular slot of the flight,” Cadingan said in a video interview by members of the Associated Media of Southern Leyte (AMSL). The aircraft and the company, Cadingan said, is called Air Southern Leyte, a 30-seater Donier plane which fits the present technical requirements of the Maasin City
power substation in Nato, Taft By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante BORONGAN CITY -- Esamelco, opened its 10 MVA power substation in Brgy. Nato, Taft, Eastern Samar on March 9 to better serve the northern municipalities of the province. “Etong 10 MVA plus genset will provide more power to northern municipalities, “ said Gen. Manager Atty. Jose Michael Edwin Amancio. As of the present, low voltage maybe experienced with the old set-up but once they connect to NGCP, all the loads will be transferred, many will experience voltage increase, explained Amancio. He added that this 10 MVA is a preparation for summer as people will be needing more power to use cooling equipment like electric fans and air conditioners. Esamelco, he said is taking
continued on page 14
ESAMELCO General Manager Atty. Jose Michael Edwin Amancio, Institutional Services Department Head Imelda Ladera and other executives cut the ribbon of the 10 MVA power substation in Brgy. Nato, Taft, Eastern Samar on March 9, 2020. (Photo by Pen Pomida)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
March 1-15, 2020
11
Bilecoryente Balita brings Bileco infonews BFP-Catarman By: Rodrigo S. Victoria partners commit NAVAL, Biliran, -- The Biliran support on fire Electric Cooperative is now levelprevention efforts ling up in the delivery of news and By: Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- Partners of the Bureau of Fire Protection – Catarman committed and expressed support to the efforts of the bureau to keep Catarman safe from fire. Six barangay chairmen and representatives expressed their statement of commitment during the kick off activity of Fire Prevention Month on March 1, 2020 at Catarman Fire Station. “The six (6) barangays identified are located within the town proper namely, Dalakit, Jose Abad Santos, Baybay, Yakal, Ipil ipil and Narra which were considered fire prone because of the number of houses built in light materials having very narrow passages and streets,” said BFP-Catarman Municipal Fire Marshall, Inspector Darwin Orsolino.
continued on page 17
information to its member-consumer-owners (MCOs) with the introduction of the new platform through social media television dubbed “Bilecoryente Balita.” Bileco Institutional Services Division (ISD) Manager Allan Joseph Borrinaga, the one who produced the social media TV news format, said people browse on social media for information aside from using the traditional one like
reading news in print. “In fact, no less than the NEA Administrator Edgardo Rama Masongsong praised and recognized Bileco for introducing the ingenuity,” Borrinaga said referring to NEA’s Monday convocation where the Administrator himself presented Bilecoryente Balita. The first Bilecoryente episode lasted for about five minutes while the second episode lasted for about eight minutes as more news and information about the projects, programs and activities of the electric cooperative were reported, he said. The first episode was launched on February 14 with Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, the cooperative’s information officer anchoring the news. A few weeks later the first episode, Bileco came-up with a more improved episode with a pair of news host, Balondo paired with a Leo Lastimosa-like voice Engr. Paul Resty Letran. He added that Bileco spent not less than P100,000 for the procurement of equipment and other devices that will be used in the mini-studio housed at the Board Room of the cooperative. Recently, personnel from Leyeco V and other electric cooperatives in Region 8 expressed their interest to visit BILECO’s new media facility as their benchmarking activity to be able to
continued on page 19
March 1-15, 2020
12
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
FEATURE:
Jeffrey saves a baby W
By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
hen he trained for his town’s emergency response team, Jeffrey Patron had no idea that his training would help him save the life of a newborn child. As fate would have it, an ambulance transporting a newborn child described to have no pulse and no breathing, had engine trouble near Patron’s residence in Brgy. Pangudtan, Oras town. Patron, 50 was taking a bath when he noticed the ambulance that stopped, like his other neighbors he came near to check what happened. Due to his haste, he forgot to wear a t-shirt, as he saw the child laying almost lifeless, his heart was tugged and he made his way near the child, introduced himself to the gathered health officers and asked if he could help. They just nodded in assent and Patron then performed CPR, the baby whimpered and he called on his neighbors to contact the police to transport the baby to the nearest hospital. He narrated that he joined the party that brought the baby to
Mr. Estor,” Jeffrey said referring to a nurse turned fireman, Aaron Estor from Guiuan BFP. “Ginamit lang ako ng nasa itaas,” he told PIA over the phone. Jeffrey, a tryke driver lives with his wife Emily and their children. As Christians, Emily said they never miss an opportunity to extend help to their neighbors who are in need. But the baby episode was one very unforgettable moment for her husband Jeffrey. The BFP conducts training on emergency response as rescue multipliers, the latest they did in Oras town will be one for the books, said Stev Paniza, a fireman from Oras town. The training that lasted five days include Basic First Aid, Basic Life Support, Care and Transit of the Sick and Injured, Basic Life Rescue Technique and Basic Fire fighting Technique. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)
the Oras Doctors Hospital where a lady doctor met them. Her words, “maganda ginawa mo, humihinga na si baby,” were the nicest words he heard ever since, said Patron. That meant the baby was alive. “What the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Oras, Guiuan and Borongan did, training us to save lives immediately became readily productive,” said Patron. As a Christian, he hailed the Lord above who just made him the instrument to resuscitate the baby. “I felt blessed, I could not forget my instructors, the training they gave us, helped me save a baby,” he excitedly shared. FO3 Aaron Estor instructs Jeffrey Patron and his classmates at the Barangay Emergency Response Team Training, little did he “Naalala know that Patron would be using the life skill to save a dying ko yung turo ni baby. (Photo by Stev Paniza/BFP Oras)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
“Communist NPA terrorits...” continued from page 2 troops for a job well done. In his statement, the 8ID Commander said, “Ito na ang resulta ng pagtutulungan ng lokal na pamahalaan, security forces at ng taumbayan na matigil na ang pananakot at pangingikil ng mga teroristang NPA. Sawa at galit na ang taumbayan sa kanila. Bilang patunay dito ay ang pagtatag ng Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTF-ELCAC) at ang pagdeklara
sa mga teroristang NPA bilang persona non-grata.” “Bagkus inaanyayahan pa rin natin ang mga kapatid natin na nalihis ng landas na magbalik-loob sa gobyerno para muling makapiling ang kanilang mga mahal sa buhay. Bukas palad kayong tatanggapin ng gobyerno at may nakalaang programa para sa inyo,” Diñoso added. (RTF8ELCAC Stratcom)
March 1-15, 2020
13
“Waray News: Pagsurapo...” continued from page 7 administrator Nelson Cortez, nanmalit na daw an probinsya hin mga kinahanglanon sama han alcohol, N95 facemasks ngan may -ada daw upat nga isolation units an Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
14
March 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
“EO 70” continued from page 4 by engaging the community to collaborate and co-create with their local government developments and solutions to local issues. Laguitan pointed out that RCSP is a convergence mechanism for LGUs particularly in the barangay for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. He then explained that the program is anchored on the empowerment framework geared to provide needed government services to the community, open and access available platform for democratic participation where everyone is involved. The LCE will serve as the head of the municipal task force, and being the head, he is in-charge of the deployment of the team to the target barangay for immersion, ensure that development initiatives are properly delivered, immediate needs properly addressed, and long-term needs are properly programmed for funding and implementation, he said. As of this writing, the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict
(PTF-ELCAC) was able to organize 232 Barangay Task Force in the towns of Allen, Catarman, Gamay, Laoang, Mondragon, Rosario, San Roque, Victoria, Lope de Vega, and San Isidro. Of the 4 identified pilot municipalities in the province, only two municipalities finished with their Serbisyo Caravan and barangay development planning, as the other two towns still await the clearing operations to ensure perimeter security of the target barangays during the entire duration of the immersion is safe. (TBC/PIA NSamar)
“ESAMELCO opens ..” continued from page 10 steps to serve the public better. He added that since development is taking place fast, there is a need to upgrade the facilities of the only electric cooperative in the province. “We want best service and support the economic activities of the northern municipalities starting from Sulat to Jipapad and Maslog.” The upgraded power transformer will now remove “load shedding.” (nbq/ PIA-E. Samar)
“Balay Silangan...” continued from page 6 The “Balay Silangan” reformation program is an alternative intervention for drug personalities who are not eligible to undergo medical treatment and rehabilitation in facilities supervised by the Department of Health, it was learned. As of this writing, the province of Southern Leyte is now working to operationalize the Balay Silangan Reformatory and Rehabilitation Center. Aside from the daily operations that need to be addressed, there are other factors to consider, particularly the manpower, furniture and fixtures, Matibag said. “We have to work handin-hand so that the community-based rehab center will be operational,” he said, referring to the local government units’ support to include the provincial government. The reformatory program also provides general interventions like continuing education and health awareness, psychological, spiritual, and physical activities such as counselling, moral recovery, values formation, personal and life skills, among others. Livelihood and skills training programs which include soap making, massage training, basic carpentry, welding, and hair cutting will also be provided to give them employment opportunities through inter-agency collaboration. (LDL/RGC/PIA8-SoLeyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
March 1-15, 2020
15
“Eastern Samar LGU..” continued from page 6 “It is the proper time to recognize the vital role of women and not only in community – building but most specifically in nation – building,” Marasigan said. After the program, followed the opening of Women’s Bazaar participated by LGU-Salcedo, LGU – Gen. Mac-Arthur, LGU-Can-avid, MINSAC of Llorente, and Gold Tap of Borongan City. The women sold food processed such as: peanut butter, pastillas and pineapple jam, buko pie, buko tart, coffee, dried fish, cassava chips, cassava crackers, banana chips, banana crackers, seaweed crackers, seaweed noodles, tuba, vinegar, kinunot alimasag, sweet and sour alimasag, and turmeric. Another treat for women is the Wellness for Women featuring TESDA trained Masseurs and Cosmetologists, AVON and Personal Collection –Borongan. Some 60 women availed free manicure and pedicure, 55 women for massage, and 33 men and women for haircut. ThesaidactivityisinpartnershipwiththeProvincialInter-Agency CouncilAgainstTrafficking(PIACAT) withpartneragenciessuchas: Department ofSocialWelfareandDevelopment (DSWD),DepartmentofInteriorand LocalGovernment(DILG),Departmentof Education(DepEd),DepartmentofLabor andEmployment(DOLE),andDepartment ofJustice(DOJ). Othermembersinclude,PhilippineNational Police(PNP), TechnicalEducationalSkills DevelopmentAuthority(TESDA),Girl ScoutofthePhilippines(GSP),Radyo Pilipinas-DYES,DYVW,andthePhilippine InformationAgency(PIA). RepublicAct(RA-6949)seriesof1990 declareMarch8ofeveryyearasNational Women’sDay. (SDC/PIA-E.Samar)
“Rice Tarriffication Law..” continued from page 9
“PPOC So Leyte..” continued from page 8
Ani at Mataas na Kita.” The entire celebration was covered live by Philippine Information Agency with no less than Regional Director Erlinda Olive Tiu saying that the proceeding is being simulcast live thru PIA’s Suruswerte over DYVL Aksyon Radyo-Tacloban and on live streaming thru Facebook. Also in attendance were ARD for Operations Larry U. Sultan who presented a briefer on the enactment of the Rice Tariffication Law - and how rice liberalization came about from the Marcos Era up to the present. Other heads of partner-agencies also took turn in giving update reports on the different components of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program (RCEP). Ms Nenita Sultan, who represented the OIC-Provincial Agriculturist of Leyte gave the closing remarks and urged the audience to give importance to the various interventions that the government is providing them.” As expressed by Dir. Tiu in her Impressions, government programs are always intended for the good of the people. These are not done by one agency alone but through a convergence of efforts, including the beneficiaries. (PIA-8)
According to PNP- SLPPO Provincial Director PCol Nelson DC Eucogco, the local police forces here shall be trained in crisis management operations such as handling hostage-taking incidents, honing their skills as sharp shooters, on sniping, some knowledge on bomb detection, among other special operations skills. For Anti-illegal Drugs campaign, funds were also allocated for the construction of a recovery clinic in Pintuyan District Hospital and establishment of Balay Silangan Reformatory and Rehabilitation Center in Barangay Libas, Hinunangan, it was learned. While the Confidential Funds dedicated for the sustained anti- illegal operations were among those new priorities being pushed. (esg/PIA-8 SoLeyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Southern Leyte to be transformed as R and D hub for coconut
16
March 1-15, 2020
By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- Efforts are now underway to make the province a base of research and development (R and D) on anything pertaining to the coconut industry, and the hub of operations is to be centered in this city. And playing a crucial role to make this happen would be a constant, close coordination with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), to be paralleled with the establishment of an economic zone somewhere in barangay Guadalupe, a coastal village, due to its nearness
to the airport and seaport. The emerging site of the Southern Leyte State University – Maasin City campus (SLSU-MCC) in barangay Tam-is will also play an important part, as a laboratory in the creation of various coconut-based products, said Cong. Roger Mercado, the prime mover behind the idea. “I will get in touch with PCA, for we will make Southern Leyte a hub for research and development for coconut, specific on coconut only,” Cong. Mercado said
in a casual chat with local media. “This will be supported by an eco-zone, so that whatever products (developed out of R and D) will be industrialized via the eco-zone,” the lone district lawmaker added. The huge undertaking would have to go through a lot of technical work, feasibility study, long-term planning, and may take years to realize, but the overall direction remains the same, and that is to make the province a center, a hub, for coconut R and D, Mercado explained. Meanwhile, on the 499th First Mass celebration in Limasawa town at the end of this month, Mercado said he planned to invite as guests cabinet secretaries involved in his TEA program - - Tourism, Environment, and Agriculture. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
“ Maasin City Mayor..” continued from page 4
“Provided that there will be no obstruction in the delivery of any government services,” the memorandum stated as read by Legal Officer Atty. Brenjune Bliss G. Calapre. The memorandum which laid precautionary measures to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in Maasin City also stated that hand sanitizers or alcohol should also be available within their area to be used by their clients coming in and out the offic e. The emergency meeting which was presided by Mayor Mercado was attended by the different members of the four mentioned committees, including the local media. (nbq/rgc/ PIA8-SoLeyte)
“ BFP Catarman..” continued from page 11 The previous years’ data recorded top causes of fire incidents and these are electrical – overloading and short circuit, open flames (gaslight, candle and mosquito coil) and cigarette butts,” Orsolino further informed. Officials of the barangays unanimously agree to be of help and share resources and personnel to the programs and projects being implemented by BFP particularly in its efforts in preventing fire anchored on the goal of BFP-Catarman for a firesafe catarman, fire-safe province. BFP- Catarman is pushing for its plan to formulate Community Fire Protection Plan and organization of Community Fire Auxiliary Group, house to house survey and lectures, drills and demonstration, training of CFAG and simultaneous drill exercises and house to house survey of red zone areas, lecture, drills and demonstration. Also recognized during the kick-off activity was the presence of other groups such as Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Catarman Chapter, Catarman MDRRMO, Bankers Association, and other sectors supporting the BFP Catarman fire prevention efforts. (ADiazPIA/Northern Samar)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
March 1-15, 2020
17
Rice Tariffication Law brings hope to farmers By: Rey S. Perosa Magtanim ay ‘di biro, maghapong nakayuko ‘Di naman makaupo, ‘di naman makatayo. The said lines of the famous folk song ‘Magtanim ay Di Biro’ tells about how hard it is to produce rice so Filipinos can have rice to eat. Ricardo P. Caintoy, 72 years old, farmer, native of Brgy. Pagsang-An, Abuyog, Leyte, the president of Pagsang-An Farming Community Farmer Association (PAFACOFA), used to prepare ricefield for planting in a traditional way. He said that the preparation would take time before the first bud of rice can be planted. However, with the use of technology and assistance from the government to farmers, planting rice is now easier than ever. During the 1st Anniversary Celebration of Rice Tariffication Law, which was held simultaneously nationwwide last March 5, 2020, Ricardo attended the event at Abuyog Rice Processing Center, Brgy. PagsangAn, Abuyog, Leyte. He attentively listened to the
distinguished resource speakers from the Department of Agriculture. Ricardo is one of the beneficiaries of Rice Tariffication Law, where the attached agency of Department of Agriculture, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), provided free seeds for planting with the goal to have a high yield rice harvest. According to him, they received 80 kilos of inbred rice seeds for every hectare of more or less 80 hectares ricefield. “I am grateful to the government that we were given seeds for free,” Ricardo said. Distribution of free seeds to qualified beneficiaries is one of the components of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), under the Rice Tariffication Law, where 67 members of PAFACOFA, where Ricardo is the president, are recipients. The RCEF has annual budget of P10 billion; 50 percent is allocated to rice farm machineries and equipment; 30 percent for
continued on page 19
18
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
March 1-15, 2020
Waray News: Nag-aandam na an probinsya han COVID-19, PA Nelson Cortez By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY – Ginkompirma ni Nelson Cortez, Eastern Samar provincial administrator, nga bisan pa waray kaso hin COVID-19 dinhi ha Eastern Samar nag-aandam na an probinsya. Ini in iya ginkompirma duranti han usa nga Press Conference nga ginbuhat han Marso 13 ha Provincial Capitol, Borongan City. Ha pagkayana, may-ada ginbubuhat nga mga pitad an probinsya agud malikayan ngan masurapo an pagsulod hini nga nasabi nga sakit. Magbubutang hin checkpoints han tulo nga mga entry ngan exit points ha Brgy. Bulosao, Lawaan, Brgy. San Rafael ha Taft ngan ha Arteche, E. Samar, dugang ni Cortez. Didto magkakamay-ada thermal scanning han mga motorista nga masulod han aton probinsya. Ma fill-up hin COVID-19
health form an mga pasaheros ngan maghatag hin iksakto nga detalye para agud mapadali an “contact tracing” ngan ine nga lista en kaulangan ig surrender ha kada checkpoints. “Diri na tutugutan an dagko nga mga katitirok o social gatherings para malikayan ini nga nasabi nga sakit,” siring pa ni Cortez. Ha pagkayana, nakikipag iristorya na liwat hira han buhatan han DTI para malikayan an ‘hoarding’ ngan masigurado nga mayda iksakto nga stocks an mga tindahan labi na gud an mga kinahanglanon han mga tawo nga pagkaon ha kada adlaw. Sumala pa kan Cortez, gin-aktibar gihapon an Barangay Health Emergency Response Team (BHERT) ha ngatanan nga mga Barangay ha Eastern Samar, basi ma-monitor an mga bag-o nga mga nagkakadatong tikang ha Manila. In kaso may-ada hira mga
The provincial government bans large gatherings due to COVID-19, says Provincial Administrator Nelson Cortez. Photo by Penelope Pomida
sintomas hin COVID-19, hira in temporary la anay ibubutang han sinisiring nga Barangay Isolation Unit (BIU), samtang waray pa aabot an ambulance nga madara ha igo nga pasilidad han pasyente. Ginsasagda an mga mulopyo nga tikang ha Metro Manila ngan mga lugar nga apektado hini nga COVID-19 nga hira mismo in mag self-quarantine hin katorse diyas para diri magsarang an sakit. Mayda naman daw maabot hin 12,500 food packs an probinsya nga ipanhahatag kun maging grabe na an sitwasyon. “Ayaw kita pagpanic, una waray kita kaso hin COVID-19 dinhi ha Eastern Samar ngan ginhihimo ngatanan han Provincial Government an tanan para malikayan ini nga sakit.” “Gin-aaghat ko an mga negosyante nga ayaw kita pagsingabot hini nga sitwasyon, magburugto la kita ayaw kita pagi tarutalumpigos hit aton igkasi tawo,” ha katapusan nga pulong ni Cortez. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
March 1-15, 2020
19
“ Bilecoryente.” continued from page 11 gain insights of how Bileco was able to produce such remarkable achievement and feat in the aspect of information dissemination. Borrinaga, who loves producing music videos and his own music recording said this initiative is not confined with Bileco, but it can be shared and replicated by other offices as a way of helping in the effective delivery of news and information to the clients their offices served. The video music enthusiast produced the winning entry of the cooperative entitled ‘Gintong Liwanag’ in NEA’s Dagitab competition last year. (nbq/rsv/PIA Biliran)
“ Air Southern Leyte.” continued from page 11 route, unlike the Cebu-Maasin flight of the other company. Cadingan said that Air Southern Leyte has no other places served except the city and province, to give commuters a chance for easier access without having to go to Tacloban for air travel needs. “My husband is a pilot. Our business is aviation. Our business in Manila is flying school and chartered flights,” the mayor revealed as a backgrounder on how it all came about. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
“ Rice Tarriffication Law.” continued from page 17 rice seed development, propagation, and promotion; 10 percent for expanded rice credit assistance; and 10 percent for rice extension services. PAFACOFA submitted its proposal to the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) to avail machineries to be used in farming. The association proposed to have a 4-wheel tractor for plowing, ‘kubot,a, and combined harvester. To have all these machineries would be a great help to Ricardo, to every member of the association. “We are hoping and praying that our proposal
will be granted. Having such equipment is a great help for us farmers,” said Ricardo. He said further that with the use of those machines, 30 percent of P40,000 estimated cost in farming can be reduced. Ricardo is thankful that the government has helped them to improve their harvest and still hopeful that their requests for machineries be granted. He also urged his co-members to be supportive in order to sustain and maintain the association. He also said that farmers should not hesitate to ask help from the concerned agencies of the government because they are there to extend assistance. (ldl/ opt/rsp/PIA-8)
20
March 1-15, 2020
“2 NPAs killed...” continued from page 1
duct focused military pursuit operations through legitimate use of force against these CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) that threaten the safety and well-being of the populace. The residents of Pinabacdao are already tired of the lies, abuse, deceptions, and extortions of these terrorists. It is unfortunate that the CNTs continue to endanger the lives of the locals causing injury to the utmost peace and living conditions of the whole community.” Lt. Col. Rhomel R. Langcauon, Commanding Officer of 46IB, remarked. Maj. Gen. Pio Q. Diñoso III AFP, Commander, 8ID stated that “Tuloy-tuloy na ang pasok ng mga impormasyon galing sa ating mga kababayan na sawa na sa mga pangingikil, pananakot at karahasan ng mga teroristang NPA.
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Ang dati nilang tinuturing na ligtas na pinagtataguan ay pinagtuturo na ng dati nilang mga kasamahan at mismong mamamayan.” “Ipagpatuloy lang natin ang pagtutulungan ng lokal na pamahalaan, mamamayan, pulis at kasundalohan. Sa pamamagitan ng Executive Order 70, tuluyan na nating mawawakasan ang Local Communist Armed Conflict dito sa Silangang Bisayas.” “Aming pinapaabot ang taos-pusong pakikiramay sa pamilya at pagsaludo sa kabayanihan ng ating magiting na Stormtrooper na nag-alay ng buhay sa ngalan ng serbisyo para sa ating mga kababayang Samareño.” Diñoso added. (RTF8ELCAC Stratcom)
“Northern Samar...” continued from page 1 (LGU) driven. Part of the strategy of the task force is for local government units, with the use of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) to engage the community to collaborate and co-create with their local government developments and solutions to local issues. Of the four identified pilot municipalities in the province, only two municipalities finished with their Serbisyo Caravan and barangay development planning. The other towns still await the clearing operations to ensure perimeter security of the target barangays during the entire duration of the immersion is safe. He then explained that the program is anchored on the empowerment framework geared to provide needed government services to the community, open and access available platform for democratic participation where everyone is involved. The LCE will serve as the head of the municipal task force. Being the head, he is in-charge of the deployment of the team to the target barangay for immersion. He should also ensure that development initiatives are properly delivered, immediate needs are properly programmed for funding and implementation, the DILG official said. (nbq/ tbc/pia8-northernsamar)