The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC
VOL II NO. 8
April 16-30, 2020
STORMTROOPERS: WINNING VS COVID-19, INSURGENCY TACLOBAN CITY -- The Stormtroopers, the elements of the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army as active members of the Region 8 Task Force ELCAC and the Task Force COVID-19, have their hands full in helping save lives from the dreaded Novel Coronavirus and helping prevent lives from being ruined by insurgency. Take the case of the elements of the 14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion who conduct Loudspeaker Operation to intensify efforts in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in Leyte and Southern Leyte. The Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Team of 14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Roberto B. Obaob conducted loud-
speaker operations or “Budjong” to continue awareness drive to the populace in order to frequently remind the latter of their duties and responsibilities during this COVID-19 Crisis. The CMO Team emphasized the practice of staying at home, usage of face mask at all times, frequent washing of hands with soap and water, social/physical distancing and avoidance of physical gestures requiring close contact. In addition, the team also rigidly implements the observance of curfew. As Lt. Col. Obaob said, “This unit will untiringly remind the general public of their responsibilities as individuals in addressing COVID-19.“ This, in addition to its sustained effort to end local communist
armed conflict in the area as members of the PLEDS cluster. With these daunting tasks, Lt. Col. Obaob calls for the continued cooperation and support of the populace saying, “We cannot win these fights without you.”
continued on page 20 PCCI Tacloban-Leyte donates P2-M worth PPEs to EV hospitals, DOH-8 By: Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN, CITY, Leyte -- The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Tacloban-Leyte on Tuesday has distributed sets of personal protective equipment (PPEs) worth P2 million to various hospitals in the city. In a simple turnover ceremony held in this city, PCCI TaclobanLeyte President Eugene Tan said the business sector acquired said PPEs to recognize the efforts of the frontliners who are manning the hospitals, quarantine control points, among others. “These are all intended for our frontliners which the members of the business sector is very thankful of. We always appreciate those in the hospitals, in the streets manning the checkpoints, our doctors, nurses, the health professionals and of course the DOH. We really thank you and recognize the efforts that you are doing to flatten the curve,” Tan said. Among the hospital-recipients are the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center, Divine
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Social Amelioration Program benefits 6,925 Biliran province launches KADIWA Market PUV drivers in Eastern Visayas 2
April 15-30, 2020
By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region 8 has submitted 6,925 names of public utility vehicle drivers from all over the region for the Social Amelioration Program for drivers. Regional Director Gualberto Gualberto intimated this during the PIA Panindugan Virtual Kapihan on Friday. Gualberto bared the breakdown per province, to wit: Leyte 4933; Biliran - 143; Sothern Leyte – 470; Eatern Samar - 502; Samar - 552 ; Northern Samar - 308 and those with address outside Region 8 (Bohol, Davao, Cebu, Manila.. etc) – 17. Gualberto said the SAP for Drivers is a program of the National Government being implemented by DSWD, pursuant to Republic Act No. 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, to provide financial assistance to low-income families who are affected in order to mitigate the impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the country. Beneficiaries of the program include families of drivers of all Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) except for TH, he added. LTFRB and DSWD, with
the help of LBP, will begin the distribution of cash assistance as soon as the DSWD is done with the validation of names and has issued to LTFRB the final list of Drivers who can claim the cash assistance at the LBP branch nearest to them. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reminds drivers who will receive aid under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to make sure their name is on the list released by LTFRB, before heading to Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) branch nearest them. In going to LBP, they must bring the complete requirements such as Driver’s License and photocopy of Driver’s License with two signatures. LTFRB said every branch of LBP has a cut-off of 500 benefits given aid per day. The drivers may return the next day if they are not in the first 500 recipients of the day. For questions and concerns like the wrong name on the list, wrong driver’s license number, etc, please call the regional office at (053) 632-4416.
NAVAL, Biliran -- The provincial government of Biliran, headed by Governor Rogelio Espina, launched on Thursday, Apr. 16, the “KADIWA ni Ani at Kita” market outlet at the provincial capitol grounds in this municipality amid the COVID-19 crisis and enhanced border closure in the entire province of Biliran. The initiative is in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and Capiñahan Rural Improvement Club, a farmers’ organization. DA-8 Regional Executive Director Angel Enriquez attended the launching activity along with the municipal agricultural officers of the eight municipalities of Biliran and key personnel of the Office of the Provincial Agricultural Services (OPAS). Francis Rosaroso, chief of the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section of DA-8 said, the KADIWA market in Naval is the first KADIWA outlet launched in the entire Eastern Visayas region. KADIWA stands for KAtuwang sa DIwa at GaWA Para sa Masaganang Ani at Mataas na Kita for farmers and fisherfolks. The KADIWA market outlet aims at providing a venue to help farmers sell their products amid the present crisis situation.
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Moreover, if their names are not on the list yet, just wait for the next announcements, for another batch of drivers to be given aid. (PIA-8)
Leyte IATF steps up efforts in fight vs COVID-19 By: Consuelo B. Alarcon PALO, Leyte -- The Leyte Provincial Inter-Agency Task Force for COVID-19 has intensified its efforts to combat COVID-19. This, after the Department of Health in Eastern in Region 8 (DOH-8) reported the second positive case of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in Burauen, Leyte. Leyte Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Lesmes Lumen said, local health workers in the province in coordination with DOH in the region have stepped up the contact tracing to individuals who had close contact with confirmed COVID-19 patients in the said municipality and nearby areas. The task force sought an expanded testing to individuals who belong to patients under investigation (PUIs) now classified as suspect cases for COVID-19 and those with flu-like symptoms to immediately detect the infection and respond to the threat of COVID-19. “Actually it’s not mass testing, it’s an expanded testing. Ibig sabihin tenetest namin ang mga tao na na-belong sa PUI at saka yung may mga flu-like symptoms na inirereport sa amin,” Lumen said. Lumen said the task force went to Burauen where they zeroed-in on two barangays and in Tanauan Leyte. It was reported that the COVID-19 patients from Burauen had contacts with some individuals before they tested positive for COVID-19. Samples of some 70
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA April 15-30, 2020 DTI-Samar, Catbalogan City hold Diskwento Caravan cum B-Market
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By: Golda Meir T. Tabao
CATBALOGAN CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Samar (DTI-Samar) together with the City of Catbalogan held a Diskwento Caravan cum Barangay Market (B-market) at Barangay 01, Brgy. Mercedes, and Brgy. Maulong, this city on April 23. The purpose of which is to provide residents especially those from far-flung barangays to avail of discounted prices of basic necessities and prime commodities. DTI Provincial Director Araceli D. Larraga shared, “This Diskwento Caravan has been organized due to the suggestion of the City Joint Inspection Team to put up a caravan when a Barangay Market is in place.” “The caravan and B-Market will decongest the Catbalogan Public Market and other stores at the downtown area” PD Larraga added. “Retailers and sari-sari store owners can also buy their goods here without violating the mandate on anti-hoarding as there is a distributor sale here,” she said. Mr. Randy R. Alava, account specialist of San Miguel Foods Inc. assured that they have enough supplies continued on page 11 for those local residents who visit the
Diskwento Caravan. “Our products are 5-6 percent cheaper compared to the prices at grocery stores as they are sold at a distributor’s price,” Alava shared “Our dressed chicken is sold at P115 per kilo compared to P140 per kilo price at the public market,” he added. Residents of the barangays can also buy fruits, vegetables, seafoods, fish and processed foods in the Diskwento Caravan thu the B-Market. Ms. Mikee Vencio, resident of Barangay Mercedes, chose to buy at the B-Market since there are no public transportation available. She has to wait for the P2P bus to pass by their barangay which consumes a lot of time.“This B Market is way nearer in our barangay and the products are cheaper than those in the public market,” she said. The barangay captains of these three barangays lauded the effort of the DTI-Samar and LGUCatbalogan for having this initiative in their respective barangays which will also benefit other nearby barangays. “People are safer from the spread of COVID-19 because they don’t need to go to crowded places like the public
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April 15-30, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Catbalogan City starts 5 DAR-assisted farmer organizations are town’s food supplier amidst COVID-19 crisis Social Amelioration By: Gabriel Mark Ocenar/DAR-8
CALBIGA, Samar -- Some five farmer organizations assisted by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) used to supply vegetables and other farm products for the feeding program in Day Care centers throughout this town. Samar Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Celsa Mabutin disclosed that now, the local government unit (LGU) is buying all the agricultural products of these five DAR-assisted farmer organizations here to feed its residents during this global crisis due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic Mabutin further disclosed that the five agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) are the Calbiga Vegetable Growers Association, Panayuran Upland Farmers Association, Brgy. Bulao Farmers Association, Canbagtic Farmers Association, and Borong Active Farmers Association. The farmers’ products will give variation to the canned goods commonly provided during relief assistance distribution. With this move, the LGU is incorporating nutritious foods to every household. According to Municipal Nutrition Action Officer and member of the Municipal COVID Task Force, Evelyn Jabonete, in a Facebook post by the National Nutrition Council Region VIII, available sources of foods
in the locality during the quarantine period is very important. “Instead of transporting our agricultural products to other areas, let us serve these to our local households,” she added. With the temporary suspension of holding “tabo” or flea market pursuant to Executive Order No. 10, series of 2020, issued by Mayor Melchor Nacario, as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the LGU buy and pickup all the farmers’ harvests in their respective areas. Among the ARBOs’ products purchased by the concerned LGU include: string beans, upo, eggplant, bitter gourd, banana, sweet potato, cassava, corn, sweet pepper, gabi, pineapple, loofah, Baguio beans, tomato, okra, hot pepper, ginger and papaya. Based on the sales record of the five ARBOs, they earned a combined amount of more than P288,000 from April 3 to 8 and April 13 to 17, or during the quarantine period. Though the town is now under enhanced community quarantine effective April 15 to 30 this year, pursuant to Executive Order No. 11, series of 2020, issued by Nacario on April 14, farmers and fisherfolks will be given exemption passes by the Municipal Agriculture Office to
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Program payout
By: Golda Meir T. Tabao
CATBALOGAN -- The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) here starts payout for the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) in the city. On April 24, the funds for the program were downloaded to the city. Immediately thereafter, the CSWDO processed the release to its beneficiaries. As of April 27,1759 families from Barangay 1, 5, 6, 8, 12, Cabugawan, Cawayan, Estaka, San Pablo, New Mahayag, Old Mahayag, San Vicente, Iguid, Pupua, Payao, Palaniyogan, Bangon and Cagutian already received their P5,000 cash assistance. City Social Welfare and Development Officer Ms. Nida Aroza shared, “Today, we will be having a payout for Barangay 9, Socorro, Ibol, Darahuway Dako, Darahuway Guti, Lagundi, San Roque and Silanga.” Ms. Aroza also said that there are barangays wherein the validation and the processing of the Social Amelioration Card are still on-going. “Should someone feel that his or her family should be included in the program, they can file for a grievance by reason of exclusion so our office can check their status,” Ms. Aroza added. In total, there are 13,196 beneficiaries for the City of Catbalogan with a total of P65,980,000 budget. (GMT/ PIA-Samar)
E. Samar fisherfolks to venture into baking
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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By: Reden D. Tangara
BORONGAN CITY -Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) granted a livelihood assistance worth P317,000 to Pangudtan Fisheries Aquatic and Resource Management Association of Oras, Eastern Samar. The livelihood assistance is sourced from DOLE regional office 8 through DOLE-Eastern Samar field office with some counterpart from LGU-Oras. The project turnover was held at the Oras Municipal lobby on April 25, 2020. The 26 members of the Pangudtan Fisheries Aquatic and Resource Management Association proposed a project that will provide them with a livelihood through baking and will lead some member to a new field of work, from fishing to baking, said the new Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) Maria Eugene Montallana. “Since two of their members are master bakers and have experience, the association will venture into a Fisherman’s Bakery.” She added. According to Mayor Viviane Alvarez, “Livelihood is a timely intervention, not relief operations. The province of Eastern Samar needs to prepare for a long term intervention. Government funds are scarce; there should be value for money for every disbursement due to COVID19 crisis.” “If you give your people fish, you will feed them for a moment. Teach your people how to fish and you will feed them a lifetime,” Alvarez added. The project of the association was achieved with the help of
S. Leyte town embarks on barangay communal gardening to combat COVID-19
By: Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY -- Mayor Imelda let us not totally depend since our Tan of Sogod, Southern Leyte has nation is not that rich) she said in urged her constituents to cultivate her FB post. She urged her constituents land and plant through barangay to act and plant in order to survive communal gardening in a way to combat COVID-19. amid the COVID-19 crisis. Mayor Tan in her FB post “Good for us that we live said the LGU will implement food near the sea for fishing and we production campaign dubbed have abundant mountains and flats as “Sogod Self-Sustaining Food where we can plant at our advanSecurity Program,” in response to tage,” she further said. the crisis brought about by COVID- Tan said a lot of idle lands 19 pandemic. could be converted into barangay Mayor Tan surmised nocommunal gardens through the body knows when the pandemic cooperation of several landowners will end unless a vaccine can be allowing the farmers to cultivate for produced, hence, she urged her free. constituents to plant. These communal gardens “Tinuod adunay hinabang were established in the following ang atong gobyerno pero dili kita barangays of San Miguel, Pandan, magsalig kay dili ingana ka dato ang Concepcion I and II, Olisihan, atong nasud,” (It’s true that there are Kanangkaan ang Hibod-hibod, all assistance from the government but of Sogod, she added. Farmers were further former PES designate, Erika Dulfo instructed to approach respective and the, Maria Eugene Montallana. barangay officials and the Municipal DOLE is known as a naAgricultures Office as the vegetable tional government agency that seeks seeds, corn seeds, organic fertilizers, to contribute to poverty reduction tractors and technical assistance are through their livelihood proreadily available, Tan said. (ldl/esg/ grams. (nbq/ RTD/PIA E. Samar) PIA SoLeyte)
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April 15-30, 2020
Governor Evardone urges LCEs to prepare barangay isolation areas By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- Governor Ben P. Evardone of Eastern Samar urged the local chief executives (LCEs) in the province to prepare isolation areas in their respective municipalities especially in the barangays in the event that some of their constituents return home from other places. “In case Pres. Rodrigo R. Duterte lifts or relaxes the lockdown in Metro Manila and Luzon, I am sure there will be a sudden influx of provincemates going home,” Evardone said. Evardone said any person who arrives from a COVID-19 positive area in the province should be held for a 14-day quarantine period in an isolation facility, and strictly monitored by local health personnel. “This action is one major step to prevent the spread of virus, which is a big possibility,” he said. “I am thankful that Eastern Samar province, remains COVID19free, but the problem is when a sudden influx of our constituents happens, and we are not prepared,”
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Gov. Evardone further said. Evardone added that he requested all LCEs to prepare isolation or quarantine areas in their respective barangays and immediately direct every arriving individual to the barangay isolation without having reached his house nor interact with his family upon arrival. “We don’t know, who among those arriving individuals is a COVID-19 carrier, but at the same time, we cannot prevent them from coming home,” Evardone said. The Governor suggested that public structures, like school buildings, evacuation centers and gymnasium may be refurbished to somehow fit as a healthy place for a person under quarantine. Meanwhile, Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda, said that the City of Borongan is already prepared and has already an isolation facility for the purpose and is planning to construct more in strategic locations. He likewise, revealed that in the event that the influx of returning residents spike, the LGU-Borongan is also prepared to rent existing lodging facilities in the city. Mayor Agda immediately issued a Public Advisory that starting May 1, 2020, all returning Boronganon residents from other places should be able to present a certification from their Rural Health Units (RHUs) of origin that they are not COVID-19 suspects and will be subject to a 14-day quarantine at the City Isolation Facility located at the Borongan People’s Center. Gov. Evardone and the Provincial Inter-Agency Task Force of COVID-19 agreed to extend another 30 days of the Modified General Community Quarantine in the province with stringent border control measures until May 30, 2020. (nbq/ SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
Silago town in S. Leyte completes cash aid distribution under SAP By: Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY -- The local government of Silago has completed its cash aid distribution to over a thousand beneficiaries of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) Bayanihan Fund: Laban sa COVID-19. According to Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Krisha Gerong, the payout was finally completed in its second day of distribution of the cash aid since Thursday, April 23, 2020 right at their respective barangay halls. Gerong reported of some 1,095 SAP beneficiaries that received their subsidies as allocated by DSWD 8 Regional Office in their town. Each beneficiary received P5,000 based on the provincial minimum wage rate which is pegged at P325 per day. “Those target beneficiaries of the SAP are low-income families or those low-income workers in the informal economy, and with members belonging to the vulnerable sector, assessed to be the most affected by COVID-19 crisis among our people, “Gerong added. However, those equally needy families who could not be accommodated with SAP were endorsed to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for financial assistance, Gerong disclosed. “ During the distribution, health protocols were religiously observed such as going through thermal guns to determine body
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Apply for CAMP, S. Leyte PESO appeals to non-compliant employers
By: Marcelo M. Pedalino the office where he heads. MAASIN CITY -- Owners of Meanwhile, as to the assisstores or other establishments, tance for the informal sector, some who have violated certain rules of the checks for municipalities were from the Department of Labor already in, but not yet distributed as and Employment (DOLE), can the personal protective equipment still apply for financial assistance (PPEs) have not yet arrived. under the government’s COVID Under the Tulong 19 Adjustment Measures Program Panghanapbuhay for Displaced/ (CAMP) through DOLE. Disadvantaged Workers Program, “Don’t worry, the governBarangay Ko, Bahay Ko Project, ment won’t run after you,” Norman those qualified will clean their Ordiz, provincial public employhomes for 10 days using the disment services officer (PESO), said infectants and PPEs provided by during the media briefing Tuesday, DOLE for a daily wage based on adding that the violation is another the minimum in the locality, for the story. province its P325 per day, Ordiz CAMP is the labor agenreported. cy’s response to workers in the Identification for those formal sector who ran out of work belonging to the informal sector as the businesses they are in have who are also badly affected by the closed due to enhanced or heightcurrent quarantine was coursed ened quarantine orders strictly through the barangay officials in implemented in their localities as close coordination with the municia precaution to prevent the spread pal, city public employment service of Coronavirus Disease 2019 officers, Ordiz said. (COVID-19). Informal workers include The process is still ongoing, food vendors, trike, pot-pot drivers, where employers can directly submit their vouchers or other necessary documents to DOLE, including those businesses that have violations of DOLE’s rules can avail in behalf of their employees, Ordiz said. “I’m sure most of the CAMP beneficiaries have received, as the money goes directly to their account,” Ordiz said, referring to the P5,000 cash assistance due each worker. When asked if the employers, especially those non-compliant to DOLE rules, will not avail of CAMP but the workers want to, Ordiz assured that the concerned workers can come and see him in his office at the provincial assessor,
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April 15-30, 2020
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DOH-8 starts targeted testing next week
TACLOBAN CITY, Apr. 26 (PIA) -- Targeted testing of suspected COVID-19 cases from four areas in Eastern Visayas will commence next week. This was disclosed by Department of Health Regional Director Minerva Molon during the PIA Panindugan Virtual Kapihan on Friday. Molon said the regional health office is eyeing Catarman in Northern Samar, Calbayog City and Tarangnan in Samar and Burauen in Leyte, where there are confirmed COVID-19 patients. To recall, since March, seven people in the region have tested positive for the highly contagious disease. Molon said DOH-8 has identified 138 people who will undergo the targeted testing using throat or oropharyngeal and nose or nasopharyngeal swabbing. This number does not yet include those listed by local governments from their contact tracing efforts, Molon added. Those who are included
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April 15-30, 2020
Crime incidence decline in E. Samar as it faces COVID-19
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA DOH-8 confirms 6 additional COVID-19 cases in EV By: DOH-8
PALO, Leyte -- Regional Director Minerva P. Molon of the By: Ninfa Barcena- Quirante Department of Health in Region 8 BORONGAN CITY -- Crime in(DOH-8) has confirmed Monday cidence in Eastern Samar declined afternoon six new positive cases of as the province faces COVID-19. COVID-19 in Eastern Visayas. These were the words of Provincial In a virtual presser, Dr. Director P/Col. Carlito Abriz as Molon said their office received the he guested at the PIA Hour along results included in the 132 samples with his deputy P/Lt.Col Jonathan sent to Vicente Memorial Medical Momo on Friday. Center in Cebu City last Friday, He announced that despite April 24. the additional task of assisting The 132 samples include barangays and municipalities in specimens of the close contacts the checkpoints, the PNP recorded of Patient EV 6 from Tarangnan, only seven crime incidents from Samar; sample of Patient EV 2; and March 17 to April 20, 2020, as other COVID-19 suspects in the compared to 19 crime incidents region. during the same period last year. From the 92 samples collect “There really is a signified in Tarangnan, six turned positive cant decline of recorded crimes,” for COVID-19 tagged as Patients confirmed Deputy Provincial EV 8 to EV 13 with the following Director Jonathan Momo. details: Patient EV-8, a 28-year-old “An pinakadako nga umu- male; Patient EV-9, a 45-year-old bos is the crime against property; female; Patient EV-10, a 29-year-old theft and robbery declined,” said female; Patient EV-11, a 72-year-old Abriz. female; Patient EV-12, a 27-year-old The police officers attribut- male; and Patient EV-13, a 30-yeared the decline in the crime inciold male. dents to strict enforcement of the Patients EV 8 to EV 11 are all curfew and police visibility. close contacts of Patient EV 6 in Abriz also hinted that one reason the community while Patients EV could be the LGUs distribution of 12 and EV 13 are co-workers and relief goods. close contacts also of Patient EV6 in The PNP also claimed that Tarangnan Community Hospital. they still pursue violators of spe All new confirmed cases cial laws like illegal drugs, illegal fishing, and illegal gambling. Abriz said they have apprehended rural folks in the hinterlands of Dolores, Oras, Borongan, Giporlos, Hernani, Sulat, and Guiuan doing tupada or illegal cockfighting. But they also are still active in their regular and traditional peacekeeping missions, he said. Speaking in the dialect, he urged
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except Patient EV 11 will be admitted and isolated at Tarangnan Community Hospital. Patient EV 11 will be brought to EVRMC Magsaysay in Tacloban City as she belongs to the vulnerable group and needs tertiary care. On the other hand, the third sample taken from Patient EV 2 from Calbayog City turned negative. He has already completed his 14-day home quarantine observation after being discharged and is now ‘fully recovered’ from the said virus, and may now reintegrate into the community. “Arrangement has already been raised to the Provincial Government of Samar on the use of Tarangnan Community Hospital as the isolation facility of the new confirmed cases in their locality since the category of the patients are mild, aymptomatic and does not belong to vulnerable groups,” Molon stressed. As of April 27, there is a total of 13 confirmed cases in Eastern Visayas, 10 of which came from Tarangnan, Samar. Meanwhile, DOH-8 continue to receive a lot of donations such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), swab booths, face masks and wifi routers coming from private and public organizations/ offices. (ldl/PIA8/DOH-8)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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Truckloads of live hogs from GenSan arrive in Tacloban Port By: Francis Rosaroso, DA-8
Treat COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms in prov’l hospitals, Mayor Romualdez appeals to DOH By: Consuelo B. Alarcon
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -- Tacloban city Mayor Alfred Romualdez will request to Secretary Francisco Duque of the Department of Health not to bring COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms to Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in this city but treat them instead in the nearest provincial hospital. Romualdez emphasized this in an FB live press briefing on Wednesday afternoon after noting that COVID-19 positive cases from the provinces in the region are being brought to EVRMC, a DOH referral hospital in Tacloban. The mayor said he does not see the logic why COVID-19 positive patients should be brought to EVRMC in Tacloban that can be handled by the provincial hospitals except for those in critical condition. “For humanitarian considerations, if the patient is suffering from serious symptoms, the city will accept with open arms,” he said. “We are trying to communicate with the Department of Health, to Secretary Duque because there are some policies na tinitingnan
namin dito na hopefully maiba nila, para maintindihan nila ang situation in Region 8,” Romualdez said. The mayor explained that he deemed it proper to let COVID-19 patients recover in their provincial hospitals, in their homes or in their localities instead of exposing themselves to other people in the hospital which is risky. “We are not saying that we will not accept patients in Tacloban. I am saying if they are positive but they are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms, if they can remain in their respective municipality, doon na lang po pagalingin or sa pinakamalapit na provincial hospital para dito mabukasan ang airport at mga facilities natin,” the mayor said adding that the city is the center of the economic activities in the region. Much as the local chief executive would want to partially open the city after April 28, however, he has reservations not to open saying, “If this is the existing policy with the national government, we will have a hard time, it is too dangerous and risky.” “If magbago ‘yan, then
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TACLOBAN CITY -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) through its Regulatory Division and the Veterinary Quarantine Service (VQS) of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) said six trucks carrying a total of 670 heads of live hogs with corresponding legal documents recently arrived at the Tacloban Port. These truckloads of live hogs for slaughter came from General Santos City in Region 12 which is declared and as African Swine Fever (ASF)-free area by the BAI and the DA-RFO-12. The initiative of transporting these animals via Tacloban Port as a port of entry was by itself, requested by the City Government of Tacloban, following what seemed to be an unshakable stand of the provincial government of Southern Leyte in imposing a ban on the entry of pork and other pork products coming from Mindanao. In a report submitted to Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez of the DA-RFO 8, Dr. Leo D. Mira, Regional Veterinary Quarantine Officer, VQS-Region 8, informed that the transshipment originated from Region 12 through a land trip to CARAGA Region up to the port of Lipata in Surigao City. From there, the carrier trucks boarded MV “King Frederick” of Santa Clara Shipping Corporation bound for Tacloban Port. Accordingly, it took almost forty (40) hours before this shipment of animals reached its
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Inflation Rate in EV rises to 2.2% in March 2020 DA offers three By: PSA-RSSO 8 programs in E. Samar for food sufficiency TACLOBAN CITY -- Inflation Rate and water supply and miscellaneous (IR) in Eastern Visayas rose to 2.2 per- services relating tothedwellingindex this COVID-19 cent in March 2020. This IR is 0.3 per- (0.1 percent) in March 2020. The period centage point higher compared with double-digit deflationrate of 11.0 10
April 15-30, 2020
the 1.9 percent IR in February 2020. This is also higher by 0.1 percentage point than the recorded 2.1 percent IR in the same period last year. The regional IR is 0.3 percentage point lower than the 2.5 percent national average inflation rate in March 2020. Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Biliran and Leyte registered higher inflation rates in March 2020 compared with their figures in February 2020. Eastern Samar recorded the highest increase of 0.8 percentage point. It rose to 3.1 percent IR in March 2020 from 2.3 percent IR in February 2020. On the other hand, Samar registered a 0.8 percentage point decrease in IR.It dropped to 2.3 percent in March 2020 from 3.1 percent in February 2020. Northern Samar eased down to 3.5 percent in March 2020 from 3.6 percent in February 2020 but still recorded the highest IR among the provinces in the region.Southern Leyte, meanwhile, posted the lowest IR among the provinces during the month in review at 1.4 percent. Majority of the commodity groups in the region exhibited higher IRs in March 2020 compared with their rates in February 2020. Housing, water, gas, electricity and other fuels commodity group registered the biggest increase of 1.0 percentage point, from 0.9 percent deflation in February 2020 to 0.1 percent inflation in March 2020. This increase can be attributed to the inflation recorded in the actual rentals for housing index (7.5 percent); maintenance and repair of the dwelling index (2.6 percent);
By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
percent in electricity, gas and other fuels, however, eased the impact of those increases to the overall IR of the commodity group. The IR of the commodity group of alcoholic beverages and tobacco increased by 0.6 percentage point, pushing its IR to 9.1 percent in March 2020. Restaurants and miscellaneous goods and services commodity group, and health commodity group both registered 0.4 percentage point increases in their IRs, posted at 5.4 percent and 1.6 percent, respectively, during the reference month. The IR of heavily weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages commodity group increased to 1.8 percent in March 2020 from 1.6 percent in February 2020. Higher IRs were noted in majority of the food items. Fruits index registered the highest increase of 1.1 percentage points, from 5.9 percent in February 2020 to 7.0 percent in March 2020. Fish index continued to register a double-digit IR during the reference month at 12.4 percent, the highest
BORONGAN CITY -- The Department of Agriculture offered three projects for Eastern Samar in this COVID-19 pandemic period. In a meeting with the Provincial Inter-agency Task Force Assistant Regional Director Elvira Torres offered the three projects that the DA 8 can assist. She said that first in the list is the Rice Resiliency Program. This program gave additional funds for implementation as support to LGUs. The regional office gives free hybrid and certified seeds. In the province, Torres said that there are some 9, 225 hectares of productive rice lands. She said that the LGUs can request for additional assistance, but she appealed that this May, the crop should be planted. She assured the mayors and other provincial leaders that the seeds and fertilizers are ready. The lady just requested that famers should be ready to give their
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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Northern Samar has enough rice supply amid COVID-19 crisis, guv says By: Consuelo B. Alarcon
PCOO Sec. Andanar appreciates low number of COVID-19 cases in N. Samar By: Ailene N. Diaz
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar expressed appreciation to Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan on the report of cases of COVID-19 which is zero in the province as of today. The latest report shows zero COVID-19 positive case as the first confirmed case has recovered and twice tested negative. Currently, no probable case, only one suspect admitted, 15 discharged but still in home isolation. Further, there are 10 with mild symptoms under home isolation, and six placed in the community isolation unit. Governor Ongchuan informed though, the province is still under General Community Quarantine as there’s still a need to discipline the constituents particularly on social distancing. On the supply of goods, the Governor happily reported, as it is still harvest time, rice supply in the area is enough for the province, and those who came home before the
Luzon lockdown also worked in the farms to harvest palay. On the issue of Social Amelioration Program, Governor Ongchuan said some municipalities have yet to receive the funds but noted two towns, Biri and Allen to have excess funds to be turned over to the government. The governor expressed gratitude to PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar and to PIA8 for the opportunity given in reporting the situation of the province to the nation through the live Network Briefing. (nbq/ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)
“Leyte IATF...” continued from page 3 individuals were sent to Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu for confirmatory testing, Lumen said. As of April 30, DOH-8 Regional Director informed in a virtual presser that they are expecting on May 1 the results of the recent batch of sample specimens sent to VSMMC in Cebu. (ldl/cba/PIA-8)
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -Governor Edwin Ongchuan of Northern Samar has assured that there is enough supply of rice in the province amid the COVID-19 crisis and the implementation of the general community quarantine (GCQ). Governor Ongchuan made the assurance during the Laging Handa Network Briefing Wednesday morning hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar with Elena Lim at the remote site of Radyo Pilipinas-DYOG Calbayog. Ongchuan said Northern Samar is lucky enough to have sufficient supply of rice this year compared to the previous year. “Pinalad kami na timing po na panahon ng ani ngayon, so noong nag-enhanced community quarantine ang Luzon, nagsibalikan po dito galing NCR. Noong nandito na po sila, nag-ani na po sila, so marami po kaming supply ng bigas ngayong panahon compared po noong nakaraang taon,” the governor said. The governor sought also the support of the Department of Agriculture to provide seeds and other agri-related assistance to potential farmers with the expected increase of Nortehanons who will go home to the province once the ECQ in Luzon will be lifted. Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes said ‘urban agriculture’ would be suitable with the support of
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April 15-30, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
E. Samar purchases new ambulances to contain COVID-19 By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar through the leadership of Governor Ben P. Evardone, purchased eight new ambulances which is a great help to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and were turned-over to different District Hospitals, on April 21, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol grounds, Borongan City. The eight ambulances with complete accessories were turnedover to Arteche District Hospital, Oras District Hospital, Taft District Hospital, Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital (ESPH), Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital (FAMH) in Guiuan, E. Samar, Albino Duran Memorial Hospital (ADMH) in Balangiga, and the Provincial Government Office (PGO). According to Gov. Ben P. Evardone, these ambulances have been accredited by DOH with a total cost of P20-M or P2.5-M per unit. “I want the people of Eastern Samar to feel that they
have a government they can rely on,” Evardone said. Evardone disclosed that these ambulances will help in intensifying emergency medical response to transport patients to the medical facilities, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Governor reminded the Chiefs of Hospital that these ambulances must be exclusive for patients’ use only. “There is no need for payment for the driver and nurses, and fuel,” Gov. Evardone said. He also added that there is a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Chief of Hospital and the driver, that whatever happens to the ambulance and the accessories, the driver will be the one responsible. “So I appeal to the driver, to take good care of this ambulance,” he further said. Dr. Yolanda Obon, chief of hospital of Oras District Hospital said that she is very happy with the new ambulance. “This is a great help to our
hospital, especially patients in the far-flung barangays,” Dr. Obon said. The eight ambulances are complete with accessories such as communication equipment with two (2) pieces. Cellular phone; one for the ambulance and one for the hospital base or emergency room. There are also medical devices such as: ambulance wheeled cot with fastening system, thermal scanner, automatic external defibrillator, compressor nebulizer,
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“DA offers...” continued from page 9 counterpart, if the DA gives them two bags of urea, the farmer should also prepare two bags of urea. Torres also gave Governor Ben Evardone five kilograms of vegetable seeds as her second proposed project. She added that as of April 14 the LGUs have been given 5 kilos each. “Request lang ho, sa isang bahay, maski maliit na area, magtanim na para may makain as they cannot always go to the market for these.” She proposed that the LGU or barangay also decides for a community gardening for a sustainable vegetable production Listed as her third proposed intervention is native chicken production. She said that they already have cooperators in Eastern Samar given 120-260 heads of native chicken. The DA just requested that the proponents have a sufficient area that they can validate, and that the proponent can give the chicken some kind of housing and an area to plant the needed feeds. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA WARAY NEWS
April 15-30, 2020
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“E. Samar procures...” pa daw ngani sobra han panginaSupisyente an pagka- hanglan han Oras amo nga igin- continued from page 12 babaligya ini han mga para uma examining light, aneroid sphygon ha Oras ha pagta- ha bungto han Can-avid ngan momanometer, folding stretchTaft kun Lunes, Mierkoles ngan er, scoop stretcher, heavy duty po han COVID-19 Biyernes nga adlaw. stethoscopes, and non-contact By: Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante Magpapadayon daw an thermometer. sugad nga pananom han mga Others are blood-glucose BORONGAN CITY -- Supisyente Orasnon basi masiguro nga bisan meter with strip, manual resusan pagkaon ha bungto han Oras pa humalawig an panahon hini citators for adult, pediatric, and yana nga mga adlaw ha luyo han nga kakurian, mayda la gihapon infant, portable suction machine, COVID-19 nga hulga. kakaunon an mga Orasnon. oxygen cylinder with oxygen Ini in hinbaruan tikang Ha natad naman han pathearaphy set, fire extinguisher, han Municipal Agriculturist nga nagat ngan iba nga pagkaon tikang heavy duty LED flashlight, larynhi Salvador Dalosa dida hin phone ha dagat, naparay daw gihapon goscopes set, endotracheal tubes interview, han Martes nga adlaw. segun kan Alvarez an kaisdaan for adults and pedia, delivery set Segun kan Dalosa, han Pebrero pala, komo maupay an panahon para and dash camera. (nbq/SDCpagbuto han hulga han COVIDpanagat. (nbq/PIA E. Samar) PIA/E. Samar) 19, nagmando na hi Oras Mayor Viviane Alvarez nga “go na an vege“DOH starts...” continued from page 7 table production.” in the targeted testing are suspected equipment remains a challenge. Komo mayda na nira COVID-19 patients who are either “Ang aming challenge sa ngayon ay ang natagamtaman nga mga liso tikang hospitalized or at home isolation, health aming provision ng personal protective han Dept. of Agriculture, ginduganworkers and other vulnerable groups equipment dahil talangang kulang kami gan nala ini han LGU Oras. like the elderly and those with comorat hindi pa dumarating ‘yung supply Usa hi Kagawad Ildefonso bidities and pregnant women who live namin. Iaasa namin ito sa ating local Guray han Brgy. Dalid ha maduin areas with confirmed cases, Molon government units na siyang gagawa ng ruto nga nagtinanom didi han iya said. Village frontliners ating targeted testing,” Molon said. baragay. in places with confirmed COVID-19She also admitted that DOH-8 also Ha pagkayana, nanmumunpositive patients are also included in the need more personnel to do the swab ga na an upo, okra, sitaw, pepino, targeted testing. testing, which they will try to address ampalaya, karubasa ngan mahihimo The patients’ samples will be by doing online training using online na gihapon utanon an mga pechay sent to the Vicente Sotto Memorial application. ngan mga dahon nga utanon tikang Medical Center in Cebu. At present, Molon said, there are only ha Barangay Dalid ngan Sabang. However, Molon intimated 38 trained personnel for the task for the Dugang naman ni Dalosa, supisythat the lack of personal protective entire Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8) ente gihapon an ira humay nga kalooy sa Diyos daw in dire upahon, ngani natamnan daw haros in 20 mil ka ektarya han bug-os nga bungto ugaring daw 61% pala an datos nga ira nakuha. Nakakabari daw hira hin humay ha average nga 60 bags per hectare. Ha natad naman han karne, komo usa nga nakatagamtam an Brgy. Sabang han Special Areas for Agriculture (SAAD) swine fattening, amo daw ini an na supply ha bungto han Oras han karne. Ha utanon naman, mayda
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April 15-30, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “DTI-Samar...” continued from page 3
“KADIWA” continued from page 2
The KADIWA market also helps public to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meat products of high quality aside from canned goods for the duration of the enhanced border closure and community quarantine. The KADIWA market is also intended to open not only during this health crisis but to be sustained for the benefit of both farmers and consumers. Jaime Casas, OPAS chief, informed that the KADIWA market outlet at the capitol grounds in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Farmers and local producers from other municipalities of the province are also welcome to sell their products not only this quarantine period but as long as the market outlet operates. In a separate interview at the PIA’s radio program, Rosaroso said all eight municipalities in the province of Biliran were also given bags of high quality rice and assorted vegetable seeds for distribution at their respective municipalities to encourage residents to do backyard and communal gardening to attain self-food sufficiency and
food-secured community. “The province of Biliran is 180 percent rice sufficient. Thus, if more people are encouraged to grow their own foods, Biliranons will met the national government’s thrust of making foods available, accessible, and affordable within the area,” Rosaroso added. (ldl/mlt/ PIA8 Biliran)
“Treat COVID-19.” continued from page 9 makakabukas talaga tayo, partially, gradually, and eventually in a week or so, then we will back to operation,” he added. The restrictive community quarantine in Tacloban takes effect until April 28, 2020. As of this writing, there is no reported COVID-19 positive case yet from Tacloban City. DOH-8 has reported seven positive COVID-19 cases in Eastern Visayas with four recoveries and already discharged from the hospital. Two are currently admitted at EVRMC while one new positive case from Burauen, Leyte is now at the Municipal Isolation Unit for possible transfer to the LGUmanaged district hospital. (ldl/cba/ PIA8)
market where you will encounter a lot of people from other barangays,” Romeo P. Tilles, baranga captain of Brgy. Maulong said. On the other hand, Manuel Mythor D. Cuenso III, barangay captain of Brgy. 01 said, “This is a big help for our residents who wish to refill their supplies at home.” “Those from other barangays are also welcome here as long as they will wear mask and practice social distancing,” he added. The DTI-Samar assures the Catbaloganons that the City of Catbalogan has enough supplies for the basic necessities and prime commodities to prevent hoarding of supplies. The office is also planning to conduct another Diskwento Caravan cum B-Market in other barangays in the city. The City Joint Inspection Team together with the City Economic Enterprise and Public Utility Office (CEEPUO), Philippine Army (PA), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) helped in the site preparations. Moreover, the barangay officials with the help of other civic organizations such as REACT, KABALIKAT & UNITED KABALIKAT provided assistance in crowd control, traffic, and security. (nbq/gmt/rr/PIA-Samar)
“Silago town.” continued from page 6
temperatures, wearing of facial mask, washing of hands upon entering the hall and social distancing, “ she said. These families were urged to stay at home as their cash assistance has finally been received to ensure that they have their daily food during this time of public health emergency, she added. (esg/ PIA SoLeyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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PRC: Blood donors needed in fight vs. COVID-19 By: Reden D. Tangara
BORONGAN CITY -- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Eastern Samar Chapter is calling all eligible Estehanons to donate blood. PRC through its Chapter Administrator Ma. Celsa Dala announced the need for blood donors now that the country is facing the threat of COVID-19. On April 21, PRC E. Samar chapter started its first bloodletting series. This aims to add and maintain the supply of safe blood in Eastern Samar as it faces the COVID-19 crisis, said Chapter Administrator Ma. Celsa Dala said. “We are calling on all Estehanons who can, to join us, save lives and be a blood donor.” The donated blood will be stocked in the hospitals with blood bank facility in the province. The said activity was done with safety measures such as social distancing and wearing of PPE’s for the safety of the blood donors from COVID-19 disease. “We ask the people of Eastern Samar to donate blood for our fellow Estehanons who are in need,” said Dala. In today’s bloodletting, only 12 bags were collected. Qualified to donate are those in good health, between 16 and 65 years old (those aged 16 and 17 need parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, have a blood pressure between 90 and 160 mmHg (systolic), 60 and 100 mmHg (diastolic), pass
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“Crime incidence..” continued “Inflation Rate..” continued from page 8 from page 10 the people to uphold the law. “We are facing an unknown enemy, the COVID-19, and staying at home is one best option so that we will not be infected and we won’t be able to infect others,” he appealed to the listeners of the radio station. He assured them that the police will continue maintaining peace and order until the COVID-19 season passes through. But he also warned them that the police will not give any more warning to those who will be caught breaking the law like staying out and loitering without any clear purpose, not wearing a mask and other prohibited acts in these difficult times. The police officer echoed the usual reminders of health workers who would advise people to wear masks, stay at home, practice social distancing when out, and to observe hygiene. He also thanked the civilians who provide them information on real time that they can readily respond. “We will always be here to protect you, please just stay at home,” he assured the people of Eastern Samar. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
among all items. These increases were slowed down by the continued deflation in rice and bread and cereals indices, at 5.1 percent and 3.6 percent, respectively. IRs for clothing and footwear commodity group and communication commodity group inched up by 0.1 percentage point, registering 2.9 percent and 1.3 percent IRs in March 2020, respectively. On the other hand, IR for transport commodity group declined by 4.0 percentage points.It went down to 0.9 percent in March 2020from 4.9 percent in February 2020. This can be attributed to the 5.0 percent deflation recorded in the index for operation of personal transport equipment. The commodity group of furnishings, household equipment and routine maintenance of the house eased down to 4.3 percent in March 2020 from 4.5 percent in February 2020. The Purchasing Power of Peso (PPP) of the region was recorded at P0.79 in March 2020. This PPP implies that the goods and services worth P79 in 2012 is worth P100 in March 2020. All provinces in the region sustained their PPP last month. Biliran, Leyte and Southern Leyte recorded the strongest PPP at P0.81, followed by Eastern Samar at P0.76 and Samar at P0.74. Northern Samar posted the weakest PPP at P0.73. (PSA-RSSO VIII)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA PCSO donates P1-M to LGU-Northern Samar for Health Workers Program ng
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April 15-30, 2020
By: Teresita B. Cardenas
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -The Philippine Charity Sweepstake Office donated P1 Million financial assistance to the Provincial Government of Northern Samar through Gov. Edwin Marino Ongchuan at the Governor’s Office, Capitol Building, Catarman on April 20, 2020. PCSO Catarman Branch Head Lester Trongcoso said the assistance will be utilized for the procurement of testing kits, medical/diagnostic equipment, personal protective equipment, and medicines to be used for the management of COVID-19 cases. Further he said, the cost will also cover the laboratory and diagnostic procedures and confinement of COVID-19 patients except room charges and professional fees. On the other hand, Governor Edwin Ongchuan expressed his appreciation to PCSO for reaching out and helping the province in this time of health emergency. “The financial assistance worth P1 Milllion will go a long way in our fight against
COVID-19,” the governor said. With the limited resources of the provincial government, the amount is certainly of great support to our COVID-19 response efforts, primarily for the purchase of medicines for the management of COVID-19 cases, PPEs, medical equipment, diagnostic procedures, among others, he added. PCSO financial assistance is intended to prevent and control the spread of the coronavirus disease known as COVID-19. (nbq/tbc/ PIA-8 Northern Samar)
Free Ride for Health Workers ipinapatupad sa Eastern Visayas By: PIA-8 and LTO-8
Free Ride for Health Workers ipinapatupad sa Eastern Visayas By PIA-8 and LTO-8 TACLOBAN CITY -- Bilang tulong sa mga health workers na mga frontliners sa laban kontra COVID-19, ipinapatupad na dito sa Silangang Bisayas ang Free Ride
Department of Transportation. Simula noong Marso 31, 2020, dalawang ruta ang binabaybay ng Department of Transportation (DOTr) Free Ride for Health Workers Program sa Tacloban. At simula noong April 4, 2020 nadagdagan ng apat na ruta ang binabaybay ng programa na ito sa buong Rehiyon 8. Mas marami nang lugar at medical communities sa Calbayog City, Catarman, Northern Samar, Borongan City at Burauen, Leyte ang naseserbisyuhan. Ito ay sa tulong ng management ng STAR 8 E-JEEPS at sa mga lokal na ehekutibo ng Pamahalaan ng Calbayog City, Catarman, Northern Samar, Borongan City, katuwang ang DPWH, at sa Burauen, Leyte katuwang ang RHU sa pamumuno nila Mr. Jay Rojas, Operations Manager of STAR-8, at ang ibat-ibang Mayors sa nabanggit na mga LGUs, at mga pribadong indibiduwal na nagalok ng kanilang mga sasakyan para sa programang ito. Narito ang mga listahan ng mga ruta: Route 1: EVRMC (Cabalawan), Saint Paul’s Hospital at Mother of Mercy Hospital. Route 2: City Hospital (Marasbaras), Ace Medical Center (Marasbaras), at RTR Hopital (Calanipawan) Route 3: City Hall Compound, Calbayog City to and from the residence of beneficiaries served. Route 4: Municipal Building Compound of Catarma, Northern Samar to and from the residence of the beneficiaries served. Route 5: Borongan City Hall Compound to and from the residence of the beneficiaries served Route 6: Burauen Municipal
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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“PCCI Tacloban...” continued from page 1 Word Hospital, Mother of Mercy Hospital, Ace Medical Center, Tacloban City Hospital, Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR) Hospital, all in Tacloban City and the Leyte Provincial Hospital and the Schistosomiasis Hospital, both in Palo, Leyte. The Department of Health in Eastern Visayas was also a recipient of the PPEs. Each PPE set consists of a pair of googles, mask, shoe cover, face shields, suits, etc. This is the third initiative of the businessmen in the city since the start of the community quarantine. First was the disinfection of the city’s streets for three weeks in coordination with the city government of Tacloban and the Bureau of Fire Protection followed by the relief distribution to pedicab drivers who belong to the vulnerable sectors. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
“ Northern Samar has ..” continued from page 11 regional offices of DA and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Eastern Visayas and enhance ongoing partnership with the provincial government of Northern Samar, Asec Reyes added. “DA Secretary William Dar has already instructed all regional directors to refocus, reprogram their budgets to attain a higher productivity in the next three months,” Reyes said. Aside from copra and coconut, palay is also a major contributor to the economic output of Northern Samar. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
“Truckloads...” continued from page 1 destination. A very daunting task for the shippers/traders and moreover, the long journey can take a toll on the health condition of the animals which is taboo on animal rights under the Animal Welfare Act. “This shipment is a test run and a big challenge for us,” said Dr. Mira in his two-page report to DA-RFO8. It may be recalled that since the news on the ASF outbreak in Davao Region late last year, Southern Leyte Governor Damian Mercado imposed a ban or restrictions on the entry of pork and other pork products in the province. Two ports in the towns of San Ricardo and Liloan, are the main entry and exit points for travelers from Mindanao to Visayas or Luzon and vice-versa. However, reports reaching both BAI and the agriculture department stated that the ASF in Region 11 (Davao) had been contained and controlled through compliance of proper quarantine measures “But most importantly, they should give us the chance to show that we are working
responsibly in protecting our region from ASF incursion,” Dr. Mira added. Meanwhile, DA reiterates its appeal to local chief executives (LCEs) to reconsider policies that run counter to the efforts of the national government to ensure continuous transport and trade aimed at preventing supply disruptions and price spikes during this period of a national state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. DA-8 officials headed by RED Enriquez also made some representations with the LCEs, especially the provincial governors assuring them that livestock experts from NMIS, BAI, and DA are working round the clock in strictly enforcing requirements before any issuance of meat inspection certificate and Veterinary Shipping Permit for both live hogs as well as locally produced and imported pork. Consistent with the directives of DA Secretary Wiliam Dar, Enriquez had been persistently requesting the LCEs to allow live hogs and other pork products to enter the province upon complying with veterinary quarantine requirements. (DA-8)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
Biliran province readies isolation facility for PUIs at BIPSU-Biliran Campus By: Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran -- An isolation facility for PUIs in this province will be established at the BIPSU Upper Biliran Campus in Biliran, Biliran after it was unanimously approved in a meeting with the municipal mayors, municipal health officers and key members of the Province of Biliran COVID-19 Task Force. The meeting held Monday, April 20, at the Provincial Capitol Civic Center was led by Biliran Governor Rogelio J. Espina with Biliran Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Edgar T. Veloso. Dexter Narrido, municipal local government operations officer (MLGOO) VI of the DILG Biliran and the MLGOO of LGU-Naval, presented the location map, location assessment, sanitent, booth construction manual, location requirements per DOH Guidelines, decontamination facility, proposed staffing for the isolation facility, contribution per municipality, and the location checklist. Narrido said the proposed P2.56-M isolation facility is located 300 meters away from the residential area. Narrido illustrated that the following buildings of the BIPSU
Upper Biliran Campus will be used with the corresponding purposes: Building A1 with 2 rooms, A2 with 3 rooms, and 1 nurse station (all classrooms) can accommodate 20 persons intended for severe PUIs holding rooms; Building B (medical, dental, canteen, and alumni office rooms) consisting of four rooms and 1 CR are intended as PUI holding room for about nine persons; Building C (library with 2nd floor) consisting of 1st and 2nd floors with three rooms per floor intended as PUI holding room which can accommodate 32 persons; Building D (Gymnasium) is intended as Triage area, contaminated/buffer/sterile zones; Building E (maritime & training center) consisting of four large rooms intended as lab room to be used as stock room and for surge capacity can accommodate 12 persons; Building F (Forestry) with no intended purpose yet; Building G (Administration) intended for doctors on duty, billeting, admin and canteen; Building H (Animal Science) with three rooms intended for health
care lodging can accommodate 18 persons; Building I (Fruit crop nursery and poultry house) no purpose yet; and Building J (PAGASA Facility) with two large rooms intended for confirmed COVID-19 cases. He also presented that physical improvements will be done within the proposed facility like the construction of road network from buildings C to J and D to J; construction of Sani tents at the entrance and triage area and sewerage system; installation of decontamination facility preferably at the basketball court, waste disposal management facility, laundry area, disinfection facility at the entrance, and water system/supply; and provision of transportation of health workers within the isolation facility, generator, public address system, and stable internet connectivity. He also asked the assistance
continued on page 19 “5 DAR-assisted...” continued from page 16
go about their daily routine for food security considerations. Furthermore, DAR-8 Regional Director Stephen Leonidas ordered the field implementers to provide the agrarian reform beneficiaries and ARBOs throughout the region the agency-issued quarantine accreditation pass, as authorized by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID), for the continuous supply of agricultural products. These five ARBOs, Mabutin said, are recipients of DAR’s Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (PAHP) program, which is in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the LGU. Under this collaboration, the LGU purchases farm products from the ARBOs for the feeding program in Day Care Centers of the DSWD. (DAR-8)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
April 15-30, 2020
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“ Free ride...” continued from page 16 Building Compound to and from the residence of the beneficiaries served. Ang libreng sakay ay nag-ooperate simula 4:30 ng umaga, hanggang alas-7 ng gabi, araw-araw sa siyudad ng Tacloban, at simula alas 8 ng umaga hanggang alas 6 ng hapon sa mga nabanggit na ruta sa Rehiyon 8. Katuwang ang Land Transportation Office (LTO), at Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Local Government Units, ang DOTr Free Ride for Health Workers Program ay nagbibigay-serbisyo rin sa iba’t ibang lugar sa rehiyon: SAMAR AREA sa Calbayog City, Catarman, Northern Samar, at Borongan City LEYTE AREA ay sa Burauen, Leyte Ayon sa tala ng kagawaran, umabot sa 12 vehicle units ang nadeploy sa buong rehiyon para sa libreng sakay habang tinatayang nasa 888 medical workers na ang napaglingkuran ng program mula nang magsimula ito. Ang nasabing programa ay sa pakikipagtulungan ng DOTr sa Office of the President, House of Representatives, Supreme Court, Office of the Solicitor General, Court of Appeals, Sandiganbayan, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Commission on Audit (COA), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), at Inter-Agency Council for Traffic (I-ACT).
Kasama rin sa mga nagbibigay ng kanilang walang-patid na suporta ang mga sumusunod : Para sa Tacloban City: Mr. Jay A. Tojas, Operations Manager, SOLAR / STAR 8 - E JEEPNEY, Brgy. Cogon, San Jose, Tacloban City. Para sa Calbayog City, Samar: City Mayor Ronaldo P. Aquino, City Mayor, City Hall Compound, J.D. Avelino St., Calbayog City, Samar (LGU-owned vehicles); Engr. Alvin A. Ignacio, District Engineer, DPWHSamar First District Engineering Office, Brgy. San Policarpo, Calbayog City (Gov’t-owned vehicles). Para sa Borongan City: City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda, Borongan City (Gov’t-owned vehicle); Gov. Ben P. Evardone, Province of Eastern Samar, Capitol Building, Brgy. Alang-Alang, Borongan City (Gov’t-owned vehicle); Engr. Manolo Rojas, District Engineer, DPWH-1st Engineering District, Brgy. AlangAlang, Borongan City (Gov’t-owned vehicle). Para sa Catarman, Northern Samar: Ms. Neri S. Turbanada, D’Turbanada /DTTI Trans Inc., Brgy. Lapu-Lapu, Catarman, Northern Samar (UV-Hire); Benjamin Asuncion, President, AMOEC MPC, Brgy. Sampaguita, Catarman, Northern Samar (UV-Hire). Para sa bayan ng Burauen: Mayor Juanito E. Renomeron,
Municipality of Burauen, Burauen, Leyte; Dr. Leonita Azores, Rural Health Unit, Burauen, Leyte, (Gov’towned vehicle). (PIA8/LTO)
“ Northern Samar has ..” continued from page 18
of the Bureau of Fire Protection to conduct water rationing for the provision of free-flowing water for at least 72 hours at the facility. For her part, Biliran Mayor Grace Casil said during the meeting that she has no problem with the establishment of the Isolation Facility in her town, but suggested that the people of Biliran town shall also be consulted whether they are amenable to the proposal or not for a consensus. “There are residents of the town who came to my house expressing negative comments and some expressed their disagreements on the proposal,” however, she said that she will abide with what is agreed by the majority. Processing of documents is a work in progress like the submission of the approved resolution and a letter from Governor Espina to be forwarded to BIPSU President Victor C. Canezo, Jr., for endorsement and approval by the BIPSU Board of Regent, and ultimately all of these required documents will be submitted to CHED for final approval. (ldl/rsv/ PIA-8 Biliran)
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April 15-30, 2020
“Stormtroopers...” continued from page 1 Meanwhile, as a component of the Peace Law Enforcement Development Support Cluster, Task Force-ELCAC in the 2nd District of Northern Samar, elements of the Army’s 20th Infantry (WE LEAD) Battalion led by Lt. Col. Juan Gullem, are actively providing security to the frontliners in the fight against COVID-19. In accordance with the protocols set forth by the LGUs and the Provincial Health Office, the Battalion personnel together with the PNP are providing security to the health workers and barangay officials deployed in the Quarantine Control Points. Border patrol is also conducted in the eastern front of Lapinig town that connects North-
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA 31 ern Samar with Eastern Samar. The 20th IB, enjoying the support of the community who are tired of the deceits, lies and atrocities of the CNTs, continues to pursue its task of ending local communist armed conflict in Northern Samar. Then there is the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion that persuades Estehanon to observe DOH protocol on COVID-19. The 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Oliver C. Alvior conducts also Loudspeaker Operation (Budjong) as one of its contributions to the prevention of the spread of the COVID-19 in the province of Eastern Samar. The residents in the municipalities of Can-avid, Dolores and Oras, all of Eastern Samar, are persuaded to abide by the DOH protocol to prevent the spread of corona virus. The unit remains to be supportive to the provincial government in maintaining a “ZERO COVID-19” case for Eastern Samar coupled with the continuous task of ending insurgency in this part of Eastern Visayas. Further, the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Teams of 46th Infantry (PEACEMAKERS) Battalion under the leadership of LTC Rhomel R. Lang-
cauon, distributed food packs to 226 families of five (5) RCSP barangays, namely; Brgy Antol, Brgy Caamlongan, Brgy. Hindang and Brgy. Daligan, all of Calbiga, Samar and Brgy. Layo of Pinabacdao, Samar on April 23-26, 2020.The barangay officials of the said barangays helped the teams during the distribution. The activity is a way of showing the Battalion’s effort in helping people thwart the threat of this pandemic and the threat brought about by insurgency. To the valiant Stormtroopers, Maj. Gen. Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander, 8ID, PA has this to say, “Huwag tayong mapagod at manawa kasama ng iba pang frontliners at ng lokal na pamahalaan sa pagpapaalala at pagpapatupad ng Enhanced Community Quarantine para lang masiguro ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan. May God help us get over this crisis.” To the CNTs, he said, “Sincere po ang ating gobyerno, si Presidente, sila governor, sila mayor, mga kapulisan at kasundaluhan, para tulungan kayong magbagong buhay.” (PIA8)
“PRC: Blood donors..” continued from page 15
the physical and health history assessments. “Perhaps they do not know about this, that is why we will do this weekly at the Philippine Red Cross - Eastern Samar Chapter, Brgy. Alang-alang, Borongan City,” said Dala in an interview with PIA. (nbq/RDT/ PIA E. Samar)
“Apply for CAMP...” continued from page 7 fishers, and farmers, among others. Ordiz also said Rep. Roger Mercado extended P8 million on top of DOLE’s regular funds for the cash assistance to workers in the informal sector. (ldl/mmp/PIA8Southern Leyte)