The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC
VOL II NO. 11
June 1-15, 2020
DSWD EXTENDS EMERGENCY SHELTER ASSISTANCE TO TYPHOON-HIT E. SAMAR RESIDENTS By: Ninfa B. Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rolando Bautista said that the department is giving assistance through the program Emergency Shelter Assistance to those residents whose houses were damaged by typhoon Ambo. In his appearance at the Laging Handa Network Briefing with Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evar-
done, on June 12, Secretary Bautista announced this assistance to the province. Bautista said that owners of the totally damaged houses will receive P30,000 and to those partially damaged will receive P10,000. Typhoon Ambo ravaged the northern towns of Eastern Samar on May 14, 2020. Bautista told Gov. Evardone
Youths volunteer in relief operations, others, says Maasin SK head By:Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- During this time of COVID-19 global pandemic, young people in the barangays, in particular the sector under Sangguning Kabataan (SK), are helping in packaging goods for distribution, among other volunteer works. This was shared by Shane Valerie Roa, City SK Federation president, during the Independence Day episode of Laging Handa Network Briefing livestream broadcast hosted by Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). “Dito po sa city of Maasin, the federation po is extending help especially in our respective barangays in an act of voluntarism po,” Roa said. “Yung mga Sangguniang Kabataan natin is helping in the repacking and distributing the relief
packs for the barangays,” she added. Roa was asked by Andanar on what the young people are doing these days when everyone is on community quarantine, mostly staying at
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that he directed the regional director of DSWD Region 8 to consolidate the list of the families with damaged houses in the region for the Emergency Shelter Assistance. According to Josephine Titong, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management officer of Eastern Samar, as of May 20, there are 11,830 partially and 2,496 totally damaged houses in Eastern Samar after the typhoon hit the province. Bautista then thanked Evardone in the latter’s effort to complement the Social Amelioration Program of the national government. Eastern Samar Governor Evardone said that the provincial government allotted fund to give to his constituents who were not qualified to receive the SAP fund, the DOLE assistance
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June 1-15, 2020
E. Samar guv fully supports ‘Balik Probinsya’ program
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
By: Ninfa B Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- Governor Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar fully supports the Balik Probinsya program of the national government. Appearing in the Independence Day episode of Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar, the governor answered the question of RMN correspondent Jake Tatoy on his stand as regards to Balik Probinsya. The governor praised the intention of the program saying that Filipinos, including those in his hometown Eastern Samar, have dreamt of returning to their hometowns. “I think it is about time that the national government in close coordination with the local government units implements this.” Evardone said that it is high time to decongest Metro Manila and other urban centers. “We have to develop the countryside and spur economic development in these areas and usher economic stability.” However, he said that with the issue of COVID-19, the Balik Probinsya Program has been held in abeyance but the process of sending home locally stranded individuals continues. “Hindi naman natin pwedeng pigilan ang mga na-stranded sa ibang lugar na gusto nang umuwi, kawawa naman sila.” He said that he is 100 percent agreeable to the intention of the Balik Probinsya and that he supports this long-overdue step of the national government. “Mabibigyan ng ngipin dahil sa Executive Order ang Balik Probinsya at mamo-moblize lahat
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PCCI Tacloban-Leyte backs ‘Balik Probinsya’ program By: Consuelo B. Alarcon
TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -- While some sectors in the local community are apprehensive of the Balik Probinsya Bagong Pag-Asa Program of the government, businessmen in this city fully support the program as long as everything should be put in place particularly on the strict implementation of the protocols and guidelines. In a statement during the Panindugan Virtual Kapihan on Friday, June 5, hosted by PIA Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Tacloban-Leyte President Eugene Tan said they are supporting the program but expressed some concerns amid the influx of returning residents from other places due to the global pandemic. “Sang-ayon naman tayo sa programa ng gobyerno nitong pagpapauwi, we are not against about this program but ang sa amin lang na sundin at paigtingin ang mga protocols bago pauwiin dito para hindi naman tayo magkaproblema at hindi magkaroon ng another ECQ,” Tan said. Businessmen in this city
passed a resolution to the National Inter- Agency Task Force expressing their thoughts and concerns citing new COVID-19 cases in Leyte particularly from the returning residents who are beneficiaries of the program. Tan calls on responsible agencies to strictly implement the necessary processes and protocols so that returning residents would not be carriers of the dreaded virus. He further said the government has not been remiss in coming up with guidelines but he believes that everybody’s cooperation is necessary to include the beneficiaries of the program. Some local government executives who are expected to be at the receiving end of the program voiced their concerns but have expressed support with the commitment of the national government considering also that returnees are their constituents. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
COVID-19 patients avail of full financial risk protection, says PhilHealth-N. Samar official By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar -stressed that all claims and reimIn order to cover the comprehensive bursement shall be filed by the accredited health provider within management for COVID-19 and ensure equitable access to quality, 60 days upon the confinement of affordable and accessible health care the said patients. (NBQ/TBC/ PIAservices, all COVID-19 patients will Northern Samar) avail of full financial risk protection. Returning OFW is This was explained by Officer-in-Charge Ms. Evelyn first COVID-19 case in Montes of Philhealth - Northern Southern Leyte Samar during the Kapihan sa PIA By: Marcelo M. Pedalino at the PIA Provincial Information BONTOC, Southern Leyte -- An Center in Catarman on June 8. overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Ms. Montes informed resident from this town has become the local media that all Filipinos the first coronavirus 2019 (COVIDconfined for COVID-19 from the period February 1 up to the present 19) case in the province, breaking shall be deemed eligible for any ben- the province’s three-month record of efits for inpatient care with no-pay- being COVID-free. “From the 14 positive results, ment, whether in public or private one (1) is from Tacloban City (Patient facility. She added that health work- EV-77); 12 from Baybay City (Patients EV 78 to EV-89); and one (1) from ers, staff and personnel working in government health agencies, regard- Bontoc, Southern Leyte, tagged as Patient EV-90, and the first confirmed less of employment status confined for COVID-19, beginning February COVID-19 case in the Province of Southern Leyte,” the Department of 1, are eligible for the same benefits. Health in Eastern Visayas reported in Further she said that full its press release dated June 11. financial risk protection shall be In an update, the regional provided to all public and private health office posted later in the evehealth workers for medical expensning, a glimpse of the Bontocanon’s es or any work-related injury or profile was shared. disease during the duration of the “Patient EV-90 is a 23-yearNational State of Emergency. old male and an OFW (seafarer) who The officer-in-charge
June 1-15, 2020
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arrived last May 31 via Airasia Z2 0322,” the updated release said. In an official statement, the local government unit here confirmed the arrival of the resident at Bontoc new terminal quarantine area on May 31 and was isolated there. “He was asymptomatic,” the LGU statement said, adding that he was already transferred to EVRMC for proper care and treatment. “The town’s contact tracing team has been mobilized to trace people who have direct contact with the patient,” the statement, written in Bisayan dialect, also said. (ldl/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)
Eastern Visayas reports zero backlog on test results, Western Visayas adds more testing capacity By: OPAV Here’s good news on the testing capacity of both Eastern and Western Visayas. Eastern Visayas no longer has any backlog on COVID-19 test results, Regional Director Minerva Molon of the Department of Health (DOH) in Eastern Visayas reported during the Mugstoria Ta aired live Monday to Friday at 1 p.m. on the Facebook page of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas. According to Molon, Region 8 has two testing centers, one of which is the government-run Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in Tacloban City. The other testing center is located at the Divine Word Hospital also in Tacloban City. Both hospitals are capable of conducting Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
June 1-15, 2020
Lady Mayor assures LGU is in control despite 17 confirmed COVID-19 positive cases By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- All of a sudden, there are 17 confirmed COVID-19 cases from Alangalang, Leyte but Mayor Lovely Yu called on the constituents not to panic as the patients are quarantined. The lady mayor gave the assurance that the LGU is in control of the situation and called for the full cooperation of the public to strictly follow health protocols. Mayor Yu said the positive cases are at the LGU-managed isolation area and at the barangay isolation facilities. Last night, June 12, a total of 10 were placed under the LGU temporary treatment facility and today, June 13, seven will be transferred at the Provincial Government managed isolation facility. To recall, of the 27 swab specimens the LGU sent to EVRTC,
17 yielded positive results. These positive cases, Mayor Yu disclosed, are Locally Stranded Individuals, 15 from Manila and two from Samar. To correct once and for all fake news coming out in the social media, Mayor Yu said these positive cases are from Canvertudes – 4, Lukay – 1, Holy Child 1 – 2, Holy Child 2 – 1, Lingayon – 2, Milagrosa – 2, San Pedro – 1, Cambulao – 1, Dapdap – 1, San Roque – 1, and San Vicente- 1. This was part of the Mayor’s advisory for all Alangalanganons. Alangalang, is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Leyte, about 30 minutes by land trip from Tacloban City. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 55,235 people scattered in 54 barangay. (PIA-8)
DA, prov’l gov’t continue to distribute rice seeds to E. Samar farmers By: Ninfa Barcena- Quirante BORONGAN CITY -- The Department of Agriculture Field Office 8 (DA-8) and the Provincial
Government of E. Samar continue to distribute high quality rice and corn seeds.
On June 10, the group led by Gov. Ben Evardone distributed more than a thousand bags of rice and corn seeds to more than a thousand rice farmers in Balangkayan town. Evardone asked the farmers to increase their yield so that the province can attain food sufficiency. Balangkayan has some 1,383 hectares of rice fields that yield some 4.0 mt/hectare according to Alvin Gesite, municipal agriculturist. “This is some 70 bags per hectare,” said Ted Apura, provincial rice program coordinator. Evardone challenged Mayor Allan Contado to assist his farmers to increase their yield. “Importante an aton food security (Our food security is important),” the governor told the farmers. Balangkayan town ranks 4th in the largest hectarage of rice fields where Dolores town is number 1 with more than 6 thousand hectares, followed by Oras with more than 3 thousand and Taft with 1,409 hectares. Some P52-M has been set aside by the provincial government to support the “Rice Resiliency Project” of the DA and the “Food Sufficiency Program” implemented by the provincial government. Based on the records of the provincial agriculturist, Virgilio Capon, during the last cropping from November 2019 to April 2020, it was San Julian town that produced the most rice per hectare at 5.1 mt while Quinapondan town has 4.0 mt and Dolores and Borongan at 3.5 mt and 3.4 mt, respectively. “Kun tanan makaproduce hin 100 bags per hectare magiging “rice sufficient” manggud, says OPAS chief Virgilio Capon. (with Dondon Cainto/nbq/PIA E. Samar)
Returning S. Leyte LSIs ushered to quarantine units, undergo rapid tests
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
June 1-15, 2020
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By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
MAASIN CITY -- The port area of this city was transformed into a beehive of activity past midnight Tuesday, June 9, as locally stranded individuals (LSIs) from Cebu City, mostly students and workers, arrived, a moment long cherished and anticipated. As agreed, the LSIs will be subjected to rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) upon reaching their destination, so that those found reactive will have swab samples taken, otherwise they will be led to quarantine facilities of their respective local government units (LGUs), there to undergo a 14day isolation period. Their arrival, a first in an expected series, culminated over two months of intense coordination between LGUs and inter-agency task forces, in order to see to it that health protocols for travelers are followed faithfully during this time of a global pandemic. Processing of disembarking passengers proceeded like clockwork, as health personnel in full personal protective suits did the profiling and disinfection, while police cars and other LGU vehicles waited in line to fetch their compatriots. Overall, a total of 212 passengers were on board the Cokaliong ship, 41 of them Maasinhons and they will be quarantined, 30 of them at Red Cross’ COVID camp in Danao Forest Park, the rest at the city nursery in Brgy. Rizal. The others are coming from the following places: Silago - 8; Hinunangan - 8; Hinundayan - 11; Anahawan - 7; San Juan - 19; Saint Bernard - 4; Pintuyan - 3; San Francisco - 1; Liloan - 20; Libagon - 9; Sogod - 25; Bontoc - 11; Tomas Oppus - 15; Malitbog - 1; Padre Burgos - 9;
Waray News: Gov. Evardone han E. Samar nanawagan nga likayan anay an pagsalin-urog hin patron By: Samuel D. Candido
BORONGAN CITY -- Naghangyo hi Governor Ben P. Evardone han Eastern Samar nga diri la anay magtinitirok labi na ha mga patronan samtang naatubang an nasud han hulga han COVID-19. Dida hin usa nga presscon kaupod an mga local media, ginsabi ni Governor Evardone nga diri hiya nadiri han patron, ugaring dara nga damo manggud an nagkakatitirok, possible daw lugod amo ini an magdara han ginkakangirhatan nga COVID-19. “Number 1 nga spreader hiton virus iton mga katitirok, based on scientific research and studies,” pahayag han Gobernador. Macrohon - 15; and Limasawa - 2. No one from San Ricardo came, but 3 are going to Ormoc City. By mid-morning on Tuesday, Dahlia Orit of Radio Pilipinas quoted City Mayor Nacional Mercado as saying all the 41 returnees of the city were non-reactive to the rapid tests. Rapid tests from other municipalities are still being conducted as of this writing, using the kits bought by the provincial government which was just distributed to the various rural health units, a timely move with the coming of the LSIs. (ldl/mmp/ PIA 8-Southern Leyte)
Dire daw matutuman an mga health protocol sama han social distancing ngan pagkatitirok kun nagpapatron. “Lugod himua ta ini nga panahon hin pagpaharani hit at Makagarahom. “Pagpasalamat, ngan pag-ampo nga proteheran kita hini nga COVID ngan iba pa nga mga remalaso,” pulong ni Evardone. Iya gihapon ginhangyo nga diri nala anay magsinarayaw, parade, basketball labi na an burublang ngan irignom nga haros usa nga baso la an gintatagayan hin mga tawo. Gindugang pa niya nga himuon nga pinamilya la an selebrasyon. “Pero pwede man kita magsingba, magmisa, katima mangadi dida hit at mga panimalay. Katima hit singba, pinamilya nala.” “Buligi ako niyo pagsumat hit at mga kababayan. Ikansela ta la anay iton mga aktibidad, mga paisan-isan may kalabutan hiton patron.” Iya daw responsibilidad an pagproteher han panlawas han iya mga nasasakupan, pahayag han Gobernador han Eastern Samar. (NBQ/SDC/PIA E. Samar)
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June 1-15, 2020
E. Samar guv thankful for govt’s agri support By: Ninfa B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY -- Governor Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar thanked Secretary William Dar of the Department of Agriculture for sending high grade quality rice and corn seeds to Eastern Samar. Appearing at the Independence Day episode of the Laging Handa Network Briefing, Evardone said the distribution is timely with this cropping season. The governor also thanked the secretary for waiving the twobag fertilizer counterpart of the farmers in E. Samar as they are all reeling from the damages brought by Typhoon Ambo. Evardone that the department, along with some private sectors, will assist the provinces to reach a level of food sufficiency. Evardone then reported that Eastern Samar is only 65 percent rice-sufficient and he fears that the province may not be able to import rice as everyone is securing their food provisions. The Secretary replied that the department needs to assist Eastern Samar. “Yes, gov tulong-tulong talaga tayo at Eastern Samar, at tama magandang nasabi niyo na taasan ang level ng rice sufficiency sa probinsya at food sufficiency level sa palay or other commodities.” He said the department is seeking more budget “so we can assist the other provinces na hindi mabahala na kulang sa pagkain para magkaroon ng sapat na pagkain.” The governor of Eastern Samar expressed that in his province, he said he is willing to focus on food security, along with health and education.
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA EVHRDC conducts virtual meetings to ensure implementation of programs By:Gemma T. Tabao
TACLOBAN CITY -- To ensure continuity of programs and services amid COVID-19 pandemic, the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) has started the conduct of meetings among its member institutions during the months of April and May. The activities are part of the consortium’s commitment in pursuit to produce research outputs and other related concerns that would help improve the health conditions of the region’s populace. Considering that the organization is composed of different committees whose members come from various institutions all over the region, regular sharing of insights, plans and other concerns were mostly done through virtual meetings. This is among the precautionary measures imposed to avoid transmission of the disease while the country is currently experiencing the health crisis and community quarantine being implemented in Sec. Dar then reacted by saying, “Eto na yung panahon na yung suporta ng national government and with all other investors including the private sector ay napapanahon na magtulong-tulong para maiangat na ang ating minimithi na sapat na pagkain para sa lahat. To this, Sec. Andanar confirmed, “Tama kayo Gov. Evardone, aanhin pa yung napakadaming development, all this technology, kung wala namang makain ang tao.” (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
the different localities. The EVHRDC, as spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is an organization that serves as a venue for inter-agency efforts geared towards health advancement and stability. The consortium is composed of five working committees namely: Ethics Review Committee (ERC); Research Management Committee (RMC); Capacity Building Committee (CBC); Research Utilization Committee (RUC); and the Structure, Organization, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee (SOME). For the Ethics Review Committee, it has checked during the meeting on the five (5) new and continuing research protocols that required ethical clearance for the conduct of the study. The committee has also identified activities that either need to be pushed through or be cancelled based on the current COVID-19 situation, among others. The Research Management
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
June 1-15, 2020
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Parents decide on schooling of children, says PCIC-8 continues free insurance DepEd-Maasin City official By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- Amid legitimate concerns on health during these uncertain times when infection to coronavirus disease is widespread, parents have the final say on whether or not they will send their children to school. City Schools Division Superintendent Genis Murallos of the Department of Education (DepEd) here made this point clear even as preparations for new normal ways of learning are being considered for School Year 20202021, with August 24 as the target date of school opening. Having said that, however, Murallos encouraged parents to continue the education in whatever mode this shall be undertaken within his schools division. “If they (parents) value education, they take the risk. We are all fighting something invisible,” Murallos said during the media forum/kapihan sa PIA last Wednesday. Murallos said the city schools division considered the distance learning method of
teaching, not online, because not all learners have gadgets and access to internet, wifi signal, besides the slow speed. Distance learning involves the printing of learning modules using risographs, and these printed materials would be delivered by class advisers to the homes of their remotely enrolled students in coordination with barangay officials, Murallos explained. Budget for printing as well as purchase of risograph machines, including ink, newsprints, and other accessories would be sourced from the sports development fund, in which the amount of P3.2 million supposedly for the division’s participation in regional and national sports events, would be utilized, Murallos shared. He reported that there are about 16,000 learners under the city schools division, and he would be okay if those who filledup the learning enrollment and survey form can reach 20 percent of this number.
implementation for agri sector amid COVID-19 pandemic By: Gemma T. Tabao
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation in Region 8 (PCIC-8) continues the implementation of the government’s free agricultural insurance program even during the current health crisis. This was disclosed by PCIC8 Officer-in-Charge Beta Alberto during the “Suruswerte ha PIA” radio and TV program hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Regional Director Olive Tiu. According to Alberto, the free agricultural insurance is a government’s program intended for farmers and fisherfolks who are among those in the Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture (RSBSA). This is to indemnify them whenever damage are incurred. “Those registered farmers and fisherfolks in the region could avail of free insurance coverage for rice, corn, high-value crops, livestock, fishery and non-crop products,” Alberto said. She added, “Life insurance continued on page 11 for said agriculture stakeholders could likewise be availed of, however, minimal premium payment is required.” For the amount of coverage, the PCIC officer informed that rice and corn is covered with P20,000 per hectare, while the indemnity for high-value crops depends on the cost of production such as the use of fertilizers, among others. Aside from the crops, the office also insures livestock or farm animals such as carabao, cow, hog, goat and chicken. For carabaos, the government
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA 46 more OFWs from So. Borongan City Mayor asks residents to Leyte yield negative recontinue complying with health protocols 8
June 1-15, 2020
By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda asked Borongan City residents to continue complying with health protocols, he said it is the only way to stop the spread of the dreaded virus. The mayor also asked the families in the city to notify the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) if they have family members who are intending to return to the city. He did this through a radio announcement on June 2 with the local media. The Mayor’s call aims to arrange the accommodation of the returning “kababayans” to allay misconceptions and misunderstanding between and amongst frontliners, families and returning individuals. Since day one of the COVID19 response, Mayor Agda stood pat on minimum health protocols and quarantine orders, and more so presently, with the confirmed cases in some parts of Leyte and Western Samar provinces. “I thank the heavens that we do not have a COVID-19 positive
case in the city and we shall maintain it this way. “ “Let us all be vigilant particularly in spotting the location of returning individuals who do not tell the truth about their travels,” he said. Barangay Leo Angelo Encinas of Barangay Bugas shared that the city mayor executes his responsibility in imposing quarantine protocols. “This is maybe the reason why Borongan City is still COVID-19 free,” Encinas said. Mayor Agda also reminds Boronganons to wear face masks when outside. “Let us be used to wearing facemasks, as this is now a part of the “new normal”; be observant of physical distancing, and always remember the places you have been to and who you talked with. Above all, it is still best to protect our own selves and be prayerful,” Agda said. As of June 2, 2020, there are some 40 Boronganons on a 14-day quarantine at the city’s isolation facilities. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
sults for COVID-19
By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- An additional 46 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) coming from this city and three other towns -- Macrohon, Bontoc, and Libagon -- were found out negative of COVID-19, the Department of Health in Eastern Visayas (DOH8) announced Friday, June 5. This brings the total number of re-tested, in-bound individuals in Southern Leyte who are not infected with coronavirus disease to 93, the other 47 being reported earlier by the regional health agency on Wednesday, June 3. “The 182 negative sample results came from various municipalities,” the DOH-8 said in its press release issued on Friday, which also mentioned other local government units with negative results around the region. The provincial health office, through Joewil Napuli, supplied the numbers for the particular LGU in Southern Leyte, namely, Maasin City – 18, Macrohon – 9, Bontoc – 10, and Libagon – 9. These covered the “June 2, 2020 specimen sent to EVRMC, tested negative from COVID-19,” Napuli told PIA in a messenger chat. In his facebook post, City Mayor Nacional Mercado announced the good news as “Returning OFWs Update No. 20.” “As per advice by our Local Health Officials, the said returnees will still continue with their mandatory 14-day isolation in our quarantine facility,” Mercado said. (ldl/ mm/PIA 8 - Southern Leyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
June 1-15, 2020
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DAR-Eastern Samar distributes relief goods to ARBs By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Samar distributed relief goods to some 1,454 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) throughout the province. According to Engr. Gilberto A. Apilado, provincial agrarian reform program officer (PARPO), the provision of relief goods to ARBs is a nationwide activity in response to the directive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to all national agencies to pursue relief operations vigorously to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He added that the relief goods worth P500 contained 4 kilos rice, 6 cans sardines, 12 packs noodles, and 6 pieces bath soap. Mr. Celso A. Cidro, senior agrarian reform program technologist said the distribution covered Borongan City, San-Julian, Sulat, Taft, Arteche , San-Policarpo, Oras, Dolores, and Can-avid to the north. In the southern part, ARBs from Maydolong, Balangkayan, Llorente, Hernani, Gen. Mac-Arthur, Salcedo, Quinapondan, Balangiga, and Lawa-an got relief goods too. Ms. Linda Bangcaray, secretary of Malogo Farmers and Irrigators Association in Can-avid, E. Samar thanked the DAR for the provisions. “Damo nala ini nga kadimalasan, yadi in COVID-19 nga nagpupugong hit at mga buruhaton, tapos binagyo pa, salamat nala han DAR hini nga hinabang.� (We are almost cursed, with the COVID-19 and the recent typhoon, thanks to DAR for the aid). The food packs were purchased and repacked by the
Baybay City Mayor places Brgy. Pangasugan under 48-hour lockdown due to breach of quarantine protocols By: Olive P. Tiu
TACLOBAN CITY -- Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos L. Cari placed Brgy. Pangasugan under a 48-hour lockdown, effective 9 p.m., June 3, 2020 up until June 5, 2020, 9 p.m. through Executive Order No. 68. All residents in Brgy. Pangasugan are not allowed to go outside their homes and non-residents of Brgy. Pangasugan are prohibited from entering the said barangay. Liquor ban is imposed and no mass gatherings in the barangay will be allowed during the lockdown. All business establishments will also be closed, Mayor Cari said. Mayor Cari revealed via Facebook live announcement on Wednesday evening that a returnee arrived in Brgy. Pangasugan on May 23, 2020 and breached quarantine protocols in the city. DAR-Provincial Office and delivered to the Municipal Agrarian Reform Officers for the ARBs. The relief operation was conducted from May 25 to May 29, 2020. (nbq/SDC/ PIA-E. Samar)
Although he did not specify the gender of the returnee nor the place where he or she came from, Mayor Cari said the returnee had direct contact with his/ her family and had prior arrangements with the barangay officials of Brgy. Pangasugan to undergo home quarantine without notifying the city government before his/her arrival in Baybay City. This breach to quarantine protocols prevailing in the City, necessitates the imposition of a lockdown so contact tracing can be conducted, Mayor Cari said. The contact tracing team will look for those persons who had close contact with the returnee and the City Health Office conduct swabbing on the close contacts starting Thursday. The returnee, Mayor Cari said has been transferred to the City Isolation Center along Diversion Road on Monday. He/ she has been swabbed but there is no swab test result yet. Mayor Cari reminded all barangay officials to strictly follow protocols for the safety of the Baybayanons. (PIA-8)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA LGU-Naval provides PRC-S. Leyte installs tents for Red Cross 143 ‘Alayon’ services to Ormoc COVID-19 Skills Camp in Maasin City 10
June 1-15, 2020
By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY -- A total of 30 tents objective settings and house rules will be presented to the returnwere installed by the Philippine ing Maasinhons; Day 2 will be for Red Cross (PRC) -Southern Leyte Volunteer Management Orientation Chapter at the Danao Forest Park, course; Day 3 - Psycho-social this city, for the “Red Cross 143 COVID-19 Skills Camp,” according Support Program; Day 4 - Hygiene Promotion, Proper Handwashing to Chapter Administrator Jonas P. and COVID-19 Prevention; Day Maco. 5 - One Man One Tree can make Maco said that the Red a Forest Tree Planting Activity; Cross 143 COVID-19 Skills Camp is intended for the returning locally and Day 6 will be allotted for the Emergency First Aid Training. stranded individuals while on 14 On Day 7, the LSIs will day quarantine. These LSIs, who are expect- undergo Basic Life Support Training (BLS-Cardiopulmonary ed to arrive in Maasin City from Resuscitation); Day 8 - Fire Safety Cebu on June 9, on board M/V Cokaliong Shipping Lines, may opt Orientation; Day 9 - Substance Abuse Prevention Education to be brought to the venue, about Program; Day 10 - Gardening 15 kilometers away from the city Program; Day 11 - Food Security proper. Upon arrival, the LSIs, com- Orientation; Day 12 - New Normal Orientation; Day 13 - Retreat/ posed of either stranded tourists, Recollection ; and on Day 14, the students and/or workers who are from Maasin City will undergo a 14- last day of quarantine period, will be day quarantine at the skills camp in a Post Deployment Orientation and coordination with the local govern- Graduation along with the distribution of certificates for complying the ment of Maasin City, Maco said. 14-day quarantine. It was learned that Maasin Maco, together with PRC City LGU prioritized those LSIs Board Director Raul A. Inocando, who are 45 years old and below to during the press briefing with the stay at the skills camp in Danao, he added. continued on page 19 For the 14 days quarantine, PRC prepared activities that will be participated in by the LSIs. “Together with other participating agencies, we prepared daily activities until the 14th day,” Maco said. The participating agencies are composed of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), the religious sector, business group, the media group, among others. On Day 1, a leveling off,
By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz
NAVAL, Biliran -- The local government unit of Naval, through Sangguniang Bayan Member Fina Josep, informed they provide “Alayon” services to Ormoc City. The “Alayon” initiative is a free service errand for Navaleños and Biliranons as well for those who need medicines and other foods supplies for the sick, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), children, and other vulnerable groups. SB Member Josep, who is in charge of the program, is also the chairman of the Health and Sanitation Committee. Other “Alayon” services also include sending necessary items from Naval, which are not bulky and heavy, to family members in Ormoc City. Instead of personally traveling to Ormoc to buy these necessities and take other items to Ormoc, the “Alayon” will do these all for the concerned individuals. Josep advised those who wish to avail of the “Alayon” services to contact her office preferable a day before the scheduled departure. She also advised senior citizens and PWDs to include their IDs,
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Heavy equipment crushes reams of cigarettes in Maasin City By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
MAASIN CITY -- A roller truck on Monday, June 1, rendered useless an estimated 1,000 reams of confiscated cigarettes here, a first-of-itskind of show, sending a message to smokers that this Red Orchid Hall of Famer awardee LGU will not rest on its victories. Bursts of “popped” sounds were heard as the “pison” thundered over the scattered packs, rolling at least three times to ensure nothing was missed. Each pack was then opened out, with Mayor Nacional Mercado and Vice Mayor Maloney Samaco leading the city hall employees in throwing the damaged pieces to drums filled with water. The activity was held right after the regular flag-raising ceremony in front of the city hall in connection with the World No Tobacco Day observance. Mayor Mercado, in a brief talk before the “crushing show,” touted employees who still smoke in secret to grab their share before the iron-tired truck does its job,
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POPCOM-8 assesses demographic vulnerability of communities to COVID-19 By: Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- The Commission on Population and Development – Regional Office 8 (POPCOM-8) has started the assessment of demographic vulnerability of communities to COVID-19, which is aimed at providing additional information and technical guidance to national and local agencies through demographic variables. The assessment is significant in the planning, implementation and monitoring of pandemic response at various levels. During the Regional Population Executive Board (RPEB) meeting held on May 29 in Tacloban City, it was learned that the demographic vulnerability pertains to the demographic characteristics of population that may cause or enhance the exposure or possibility of individuals to be infected with the communicable disease. The vulnerability assessment used demographic tables, included key indicators such as population density, household size and density, number of senior citizens and their living arrangement and, localities with demographic vulnerability. Ms. Linsie Arteche of POPCOM
PPEs purchased by the city government of Borongan. Related story on Page 9.
said, “Through this tool, priority groups and areas for relief operations are determined, as well as the type and quantity of the needed support. Proper location of quarantine sites is likewise identified.” The undertaking, Arteched said, is premised on the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2020-01 or “Assessing the Demographic Vulnerabilities of Communities and Households to COVID-19 Infections in Planning and Implementing Efficient Pandemic Response at the Local and Community Levels.” Issued last April 17, 2020, the JMC was signed by Secretaries
continued on page 15 “Parents decide” continued from page 7
On Friday, the city division office released the partial result of the remote enrollment that covered 29 percent of the expected total enrollment, comprising of the following: kinder - 266, elementary – 2,958, junior high school – 1,071, senior high school – 221, and ALS – 78, for a total of 4,594 students. The data covered public schools only, as private schools have their own learning continuity plan, Murallos stated. “It is during this COVID crisis that the creativity, the passion of teachers can be seen,” Murallos said. Told that President Duterte was not in favor on resumption of classes unless a vaccine shall be publicly available, Murallos clarified that this referred more on face-to-face classroom instruction. (ldl/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA The police force also made sure that the family had something to eat for a few days that along with the turn-over of the house, they also handed them grocery items with rice, canned goods, noodles and coffee. But Major Cesista has more to share. “I discovered that they have no toilet, so I again appealed to some of my men and some generous stakeholders to pool an amount for their toilet construction.”
FEATURE
Eastern Samar police responds to ‘Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko’
Police work in the province While maintaining peace and order, Police Provincial Director Carlito Abriz and his men are also busy minding their less fortunate brothers by giving grocery items. Like the Dolores Police Force, the Quinapondan Police Force also built a house for an elderly with her grandchildren on May 12, 2020. Quinapondan town Police Chief Ruben Macawile and his men built a house for Lola Milagros Abejo, 78 with her grandchildren Adelaida Abejo, 18 and Joshua Abejo, 3 years old in Sitio Tayod, Barangay San Pedro, Quinapondan. It is just a humble dwelling, but a far cry from the decrepit abode they had before.
By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante he public usually discern the posacrificed in the cramped dwelling, lice as tough, seemingly heartless while an unseeing hand guided the and decisive in dealing with criminals. policemen of Dolores to take pity on Little do they know that the the family. police behind their stern-looking uni- A week after the storm, the forms are merciful and compassionate Dolores police delivered some housindividuals too. ing materials to the Docabo’ family. Numerous families were The chief of police had very left homeless when Typhoon Ambo few words to share. “Makalolo-oy an struck the northern municipalities of kabataan,” (I took pity on the kids) E. Samar on May 14, 2020. said Maj. Rommel Cesista. Freddie Docabo, a tryke driv- The Dolores Police Force er was one such victim, Docabo colthen got busy with the house buildlected pieces of lumber, torn plywood ing where they hired a carpenter and and damaged GI sheets just to ensure the rest were all ‘police work,’ Cesista that his four children will not get wet jested. PNP and Kapwa Ko Sagot Ko while the rains continuously pour. After two weeks of ‘police In a post of the PNP website, Docabo, his wife and four work’ the humble house stood. continued on page 16 children aged 7, 5, 4 and 2 years old Overwhelmed by the genlives in Sitio Boayahon, Sto Niño, erosity of the 30-member Dolores E. Samar, some 5 kilometers police force, Docabo’s wife west of Dolores poblacion. broke into tears. The father provider that he “Kami po ay is with scant materials just fashioned lubos na nagpapasalamat a makeshift shelter, locals would call sa tulong at malasakit na “handong” just to spare his family inihatid ng mga kapulisan from the rains. ng Dolores. Hindi na For Freddie it was difficult to po kami nangangamba bear the sight, but he also needs his tuwing umuulan dahil daily bread. “I cannot stop working, or sa ipinagkaloob ninyong else we will not have food to eat,” the simple, disente at ligtas na tryke driver said. tahanan sa amin,” said the Freddie Docabo and his family now claim ownership to this humble house the Dolores Police built. (Photo by So for a few days, his family head of the family.
T
Dolores Police)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA E. Visayas COVID-19 lab can now test 500700 samples a day By: Consuelo B. Alarcon
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Eastern Visayas Regional COVID-19 Testing Center has now the capacity to test 500 to 700 samples a day for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This was disclosed by Assistant Regional Director Exuperia Sabalberino of the Department of Health in Region 8 (DOH-8) in a Virtual Presser on Tuesday, June 2, with the installation of the automated extraction machine in addition to the two PCR machines at the Eastern Visayas Regional COVID-19 Testing Center (EVRCTC). “ We already have two functional PCR machines and the automated extraction machine has been installed which means that in the region we can now process more samples every day,” Sabalberino said. She added, “If the processing of samples before takes four hours, now it would only take less than an hour since it is already automated.” In the previous month, the laboratory can only process a maximum of 93 samples a day. “It’s a lot of help in terms of improving the turnaround time in releasing the laboratory
results,” Sabalberino said. Meanwhile, Sabalberino informed that while there are enough test kits at the moment ready for returning Overseas Filipino Workers, Locally Stranded Individuals, and Balik Probinsya individuals, the health department still appeals to local chief executives to help augment the testing kits for continuous and uninterrupted operations of the regional laboratory. As of June 2, DOH-8 confirmed three additional COVID19 cases which brings the total number of cases in the region to 43 with 25 recoveries and zero death. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
“E. Samar guv fully supports..” continued from page 2 ng ahensya para maayos ang programang ito.” “Noong araw pa, dapat madevelop ang coutryside, dapat magkaroon ng proportional distribution of resources and opportunities for our people,” the governor said. “I fully support this initiative of the national government and Sen. Bong Go,” he said. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
“Eastern Visayas reports..” continued from page 3
“We can still cope (with the testing demand) and we don’t have backlogs,” Molon pointed out. The EVRMC laboratory, which opened on May 11, has conducted 2,155 tests as of Friday last week, Molon revealed. On the other hand, the Divine Word Hospital could conduct two testing runs per day, ranging from 90 to 150 tests, she added. However, she added that they have to prepare for the testing requirements of all incoming residents, who have to undergo swab tests.
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They have 4,600 detection kits available but they have requested for more kits from the governors and mayors of two cities, Molon said. So far, Biliran has committed to provide 40 testing kits, she said. Western Visayas also expects to further reduce its testing backlogs with the approval of another molecular laboratory in Silay City. Regional Director Marlyn Convocar of DOH-6 said the Western Visayas Medical Center Sub-National Laboratory had close to 1,000 backlog. “As of now, there are only 300 backlog,” she said. Convocar was also one of the guests during the Monday edition of Mugstoria Ta. Convocar expects the region’s testing capacity to improve further with the opening of another molecular laboratory. The Teresita Lopez Jalandoni Provincial Hospital Molecular Laboratory in Silay City, Negros Occidental opened on June 2, she revealed. Initially, TLJPH laboratory have taken 20 samples. “This could help lessen the load of the Western Visayas Medical Center (molecular laboratory),” Convocar said. The WVMC has tested close to 14,240, she added. According to Convocar, Western Visayas has five proposed laboratories currently on the stage 3 certification with the DOHResearch Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM). She said two of these are based in government hospitals – the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital in Bacolod City and the West Visayas State University Medical Center in Iloilo City. Some provincial hospitals have also applied for accreditation of COVID-19 laboratory, Convocar added. (OPAV)
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“EVHRDC conducts” continued from page 6 Committee on the other hand has tackled possible strategies in conducting the identified activities given the current status. It has also reviewed three capsule proposals and seven terminal reports on completed funded projects. While the Capacity Building Committee has discussed the revised Work and Financial Plan, it has also dealt with the list of collaborative projects for submission to the Philippine Center for Health Research and Development or PCHRD. These include the trainings on Critiquing of Proposals for Trainer on Basic Research Methods, Basic Research Methods Training (Phase 2), and the Writeshop on the Finalization of Terminal Reports for completed research projects. On the other hand, the use and possible subscription of the Webinar platform for the conduct of identified activities, was decided during the virtual meeting of the Research Utilization Committee. These include the dissemination of completed researches, orientation on the HERDIN Plus database system, and the conduct of the regular Regional Health Research Symposium where some researchers
regionwide compete on the Oral Research Paper Presentation and Exhibit of Posters. The Structure, Organization, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee has focused on the revision of the work and financial plan as well as the plans for the mid-year and year-end assessments, among the urgent concerns Other important discussions were held at the Department of Science and Technology, while strictly observing mandated health protocols. (LDL/GTT/PIA-Leyte)
“LGU Naval..” continued from page 10
booklets, and doctors’ prescription to avail of their privileged discounts. Josep informed the LGU service vehicle that complements the “Alayon” task plies Naval-Ormoc-Naval on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The same vehicle carries dialysis patients from Naval to Ormoc City as part of the LGU’s “Hatid Sundo” Program to help ease their travel ordeal at the border checkpoints and the absence of public transportation during the quarantine period. Josep was guest at PIABiliran’s recent Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan over Radyo Natin-Naval. (nbq/mlt/PIA8 Biliran)
“Youths volunteer” continued from page 1 home. Aside from repackaging relief goods in their barangays, a still photograph showed the young people helping in a similar effort at the city gym for the city’s relief distribution operations. The SK federation leader, who served as an ex-officio member of the city council, was shown in the video garbed in Filipiniana attire, fresh from attending the flag raising ceremony at the plaza in celebration of today’s 122nd Philippine independence. She mentioned other volunteer works in which the SKs had their hands full, such as the massive information drive for the prevention and mitigation of COVID-19, distribution of face masks produced by local dressmakers, and joining with barangay tanods in their roving patrol duty at night to implement the curfew hours for minors and adults, from 8p.m. to 4 a.m. They also help in doing disinfection tasks in public places, Roa reported, her surname the same as the middle name of President Duterte, who was born in barangay Laboon, this city. Roa opened her talk by reporting the continuing tree-planting as well as the coastal clean-up drive the SK leadership in the city has been undertaking in close coordination with Rep. Roger Mercado, a regular activity held every Friday. When asked what would be her message to the young, Roa focused more on extending help and being an inspiration to others, all for the betterment of people. “We may encounter various challenges but please know that all of this will pass. Huwag po natin isaisip na wala po tayong magagawa ngayon. Always bear in mind that no effort is small as long as it is wholeheartedly done,” the City SK Federation president emphasized. (nbq/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Over 3K rice farmers in E. Samar town receive free seeds, fertilizers from DA By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- Some 3,200 rice farmers in Dolores town in Eastern Samar who are beneficiaries of the Rice Resiliency Program (RRP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) received free rice seeds and fertilizers on June 1. The Rice Resiliency Project is a project of the DA-8 in partnership with the E. Samar provincial government and the municipal LGUs. According to Mr. Teodoro Eric C. Apura, provincial rice program coordinator of the Office of the Provincial Agricultural Services (OPAS), some 1,200 farmer-beneficiaries received each a bag of hybrid rice seeds while the other 2,000 farmer-beneficiaries received 2,000 inbred rice seeds in Dolores town alone. Apura added that each farmer received one bag or 20 kilos of hybrid rice seeds and three sacks of urea fertilizer or one bag of 40 kilos of inbred rice seeds and two sacks of urea fertilizer per hectare. RPP farmer-recipients receive rice seeds and fertilizers according to the size of their farmland, Apura said. Mr. Danilo Alota from Brgy. Villahermosa, a farmer beneficiary, thanked the officials as they understand the situation of farmers in this COVID-19 pandemic crisis. “I am very thankful for the free rice seeds and fertilizers because most farmers cannot afford to buy the seeds and fertilizers in our barangay,” Alota said. In Villahermosa, farmers borrow money to buy rice seeds and
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“POPCOM 8 assesses..” continued from page 11 Francisco Duque of the Department of Health (DOH), Eduardo An~o of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Ernesto Pernia of the Socio-Economic Planning and the Executive Director of the Commission on Population and Development, Juan Antonio Perez III. In the Eastern Visayas region, said activity was already piloted in Taranganan, Samar where local community transmission of COVID-19 has been noted. The data obtained from the said community would help track the spread of cases over time and evaluate the effectivity of precautionary measures specifically social distancing. Through the database, the local government unit could also consider the working age population and the employment rate in the areas as a means to reduce demographic vulnerabilities should quarantine restrictions be lifted. The database obtained from the Tarangnan case will be shared to other local government units for adoption during calamities or pandemics. Meanwhile, POPCOM 8 has set-up and operationalized the Responsible Parenthood and
Family Planning (RPFP)/COVID19 Helpline, according to its Information Officer Ryan Arinto. This, he said, is to ensure continuous access and provision of family planning information and services. The helpline will serve as a link for clients who seek information on family planning concerns, as well as information related to COVID-19. The helpline is operational at least eight hours a day, and hotlines are posted in conspicuous places for public awareness. “The helpline was conceptualized since the delivery of family planning information and services were interrupted due to the declaration of national health emergency and the implementation of community quarantine in almost all the localities of the country because of COVID-19. Said situation could result to higher unmet need for modern family planning and subsequently, unintended pregnancies,” he added. (LDL/GTT/PIA-Leyte)
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“FEATURE: Eastern Samar police..” continued from page 12 it admitted that the PNP leads “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko” Adopt a Family Program which enjoins all well-off families to help the poor sustain stricter lockdown measures for the country to finally win its war against COVID-19. The 205,000 strong PNP led by PNP Chief, Police General Archie F. Gamboa, calls on all police officers to adopt an indigent family in their areas of responsibility by providing them with food packs and financial assistance at least for a week. And the PNP Dolores and Quinapondan police stations did obey and delivered more. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
Lola Milagros and grandchildren Adelaida and Joshua are now in their new home built by sheer police work in Brgy. San Pedro, Quinapondan town in E. Samar. (Photo Quinapondan Police)
“Over 3K..” continued from page 15 fertilizers. Gov. Ben P. Evardone in his message said that with Dolores being the biggest rice producer in the province, he expects that Dolores rice production will complete the needed rice from other towns to make the province 100 percent rice sufficient. Dolores has 6,488 hectares of rice land with 1,200 hectares of irrigated rice fields. “In other municipalities, they have less rice production because these are coastal areas and the main source of income is fishing,” the governor said. Evardone said that his administration prioritizes agriculture. “I will focus on rice production. Eastern Samar is not yet sufficient in terms of rice production,” he added. According to Mr. Virgilio Capon, provincial agriculturist, Eastern Samar is only 63% rice sufficient. Capon said his office aims for at least 73% rice sufficiency so farmers could earn more.
The DA reiterated its call for farmers to register in the Registry System for the Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) through their City and Municipal Agricultural Officer to benefit from the programs. (nbq/sdc/PIA E. Samar)
LGUs are flexible, says Maasin Mayor Mercado
By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
MAASIN CITY -- Local government units (LGUs) have exercised certain degrees of flexibility in managing the series of arrivals and receiving returning locals amid the fear that Coronavirus Disease - 2019 (COVID-19) may spread, City Mayor Nacional Mercado, voiced out. “We are flexible,” the city mayor declared in a pep talk after the regular flag-raising rites on Monday, June 1, shortly before destroying the reams of seized cigarettes, a ceremony held in connection with the city’s observance of World No Tobacco Day.
He announced another batch of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) coming home that will be fetched in Tacloban by the city LGU’s resources like personnel and vehicles, to be placed in quarantine areas already identified upon arriving, while exerting efforts to look for other possible isolation units to cope up with expected more arrivals. He wondered how other LGUs in the province without similar resources may have copped, yet remained flexible and compliant enough to act, to make do, to respond to the call of the moment so as to accommodate the continued homecoming of their constituents. Last week, surveillance teams of the city, province, and other municipalities scrambled doing contact tracing of those who travelled in the plane with an OFW from Hilongos, Leyte, who was found out as COVID-19 positive. Co-travellers in the city had been identified, their swab samples taken, then submitted to the testing facility in Tacloban, Mayor Mercado said, hoping the results would turn out negative. The city and the 18 municipalities are now operating under Executive Order Number 30 that extends the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status for the third time starting June 1 until June 15. Simplified basic health protocols in handling inbound and outbound residents are spelled out in the latest provincial EO. As this developed, Cokaliong shipping lines announced the resumption of its commercial trips from Cebu to ports in Mindanao and the Visayas, including Maasin City, starting June 1. The shipping company was
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “PCIC-8 continues..” continued from page 7 offers P15,000 insurance per head, while hogs for fattening get P7,000 but with at least 45 days of age. Hogs for breeding get P10,000 per head from 6 months to one year. Goats on the other hand are entitled to P2,500 to P6,000 per head, depending on the type or breed. Alberto also said that fish ponds with area of at least 2,500 square meters are likewise covered by the insurance, same as fish cages with maximum area of 1 sq. m. Seaweed farm is also included but depends on the cost of production inputs. She added that fishing boats for a maximum of three units also get the coverage, provided owners are registered at their respective municipalities and that boats are licensed to operate. Fiber glass fishing boats are covered with P40,000 per unit, motorized at P15,000 and non-motorized ones at P5,000. For the agency’s accident and dismemberment security scheme, a farmer or fisherman 15-70 years old and in good health, may pay P50 for one year P50,000 coverage, or may double the premium should he wants the P100,000 insurance value. Another program the agency has been offering is the Agricultural Stakeholders Protection (ASP) Plan that covers accident, murder, assault and nature-caused damage, where they may pay a P375 premium in one year. In the Eastern Visayas region, PCIC disclosed that there are about P1.04 million registered farmers and fisherfolks, however, only 60,667 have
availed of the program. Meanwhile, as of May 2020, PCIC has already released P11.6 million worth of checks to more than 3,000 farmers, specifically in Northern and Eastern Samar provinces. This is to indemnify damage caused by Typhoon Ursula last December 2019. However, per information, the office is still in progress of processing an amount of P10.3-M for distribution to more than 2,600 farmers. For Typhoon Ambo that was experienced recently, there were already 1,800 individuals who have filed for damage and the office is set to pay more or less P17-M. The PCIC official encouraged all farmers and fisherfolks to avail of the program in order to be protected in case something bad will happen to the agricultural products. “I hope all farmers and fishermen will avail of our program, and that the government should continue with the premium subsidy for all farmers and fishermen, as the free insurance program has only started after the Yolanda tragedy. In the previous years, farmers were paying for the premiums,” Alberto said. PIA Director Olive Tiu is also optimistic farmers would realize the importance and need for insurance, considering that agriculture stakeholders are the ones who provide food for the people, as proven during the quarantine times. (LDL/ GTT-PIA-Leyte)
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“Heavy equipment..” continued from page 11 an “invitation” that was met with demurred smiles. Originally placed in several big cartoon boxes, the stocks were raided on May 8 by a combined team of the city’s policemen led by P/Col. Mark Nalda, chief of police, and Healthy City Initiative enforcers headed by Christopher Plateros. In February this year, before the height of the COVID crisis, the same store which is located within the heart of the city and very near a private school was raided, with Mayor Mercado personally serving the closure order. City Vice Mayor Maloney Samaco said the establishment is closed for good for violating the anti-smoking national law and smoking ban city ordinance. A case of smuggling has been considered, as the seized items lacked BIR seals, Samaco also said. (ldl/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
“LGUs are flexible..” continued from page 16
assigned by the provincial IATF in previous meetings as the main ship to ferry returning Southern Leyteños, with this city as the preferred port of call. For locally-stranded individuals (LSIs), mostly students and workers coming from Cebu, Mayor Mercado said he had requested Cokaliong management to defer until June 8 the Cebu-Maasin trip with returning Southern Leyteño passengers. (ldl/mmp/PIA8Southern Leyte)
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Basey MTF-ELCAC sends off RCSP teams to 8 barangays TACLOBAN CITY -- Municipal Task Force -ELCAC’s Retooled Community Service Program is welcomed by the eight barangay chairpersons in Basey, Samar namely, Barangays Loog, Mabini, Cogon, Cancaiyas, Guirang, Burgos, Bulao and Manlilinab. In a simple send-off rites held on June 1, the barangay chairpersons warmly welcomed the RCSP teams from the 63rd Infantry Battalion assigned in their respective barangays. Mr. Balbino Estorninos, the Municipal Administrator who represented Mayor Luz Ponferrada, delivered the message in her behalf. He highlighted the positive impact of the program to the locals and communities as he experienced and seen from other recipient municipalities like Calbiga, Samar. In his message, Estorninos reiterated the need to unite the efforts of all stakeholders in addressing the root causes of the of the long-drawn insurgency problem. He then enjoined the Punong Barangays to support the program and continue to collaborate with other government agencies
for the development of Basey. Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Orbito, the Commanding Officer, extended his appreciation for the presence of and for signing the Certificate of Acceptance by the barangay chairpersons. He gave them the assurance of the support of 63IB in bridging their concerns to the different government agencies of the province for the program’s implementation success. He added that MTF-ELCAC through the RCSP Teams will play an important role in finally ending the communist armed conflict. By immersing in the conflict-affected areas (CAAs), it is hoped that the people’s sentiments and issues will be addressed through the RCSP, with the LGU as lead, Orbito said. As part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Whole-of-Nation Approach, RCSP aims to address the identified issues of the community by closing the governance and development gaps, providing the community their needs, and ensuring that development is sustained and peace is promoted. (PIA-8)
Top CTG leader, 2 others apprehended in Northern Samar
By: CMO, 20IB, 8ID, PA LAS NAVAS, Northern Samar -- Some three personalities of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Northern Samar were apprehended by the operating troops of Team Peacemaker at the outskirt of Brgy. Epaw, this town, on June 1, 2020. Combined elements under the 803rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade was conducting patrol in response to the report that the locals have been the subject of threats and intimidation by the NPA who were collecting foodstuffs and cash to support their atrocious activities. This led to the apprehension of Carlos Baluyot @Ka Kris, Alvino Lucapa @Ka Ebin, and a minor @ Ka Anda, who were caught laying landmines/improvised explosive device (IED) along the route. Before becoming a full time NPA, @Ka Kris was an active leader of the White Area being the Chairman of Alyansa san mga Parag-uma Kontra Kagutom san Las Navasnon (APKLAS), a subsidiary of the Northern Samar Small Farmers Association (NSSFA) which serve as conduit of the Red Area (NPA) in Northern Samar. Carlos Baluyot @Ka Kris was among the White Area personalities who accompanied Cong. Ferdinand Gaite of Bayan Muna during their “Fault Finding Mission” in Las Navas on November 11, 2019. The event was conducted to discredit the government after the FA50 fighter jets conducted air strike on an NPA bomb-making camp in Brgy. Capotuan, Las Navas, Northern Samar on October 26, 2019. Seized from their possession
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“ PRC-S. Leyte installs...” continued from page 10 local media here on Friday disclosed some of the reasons behind the putting up of tents. “This is in compliance with the Department of Health protocols to let them stay safe in a quarantine facility, for the LSIs not to be bored, enjoying while staying safe and so with their family, and to be physically active within the 14-day quarantine period,” he said. Among other reasons include promoting a healthy lifestyle, maximizing the opportunities with the different stakeholders in making a difference, and changing minds and saving lives. (ldl/rgc/ PIA-SoLeyte)
LGUs Basey, Marabut in Samar tag CPP-NPANDF persona non grata
By: PIA-8 TACLOBAN CITY -- In two sepaCommunist Party of the Philippines rate occasions on June 2, 2020, the - New People’s Army and National Municipal Task Forces- ELCAC in Democratic Front (CNN) as unwelBasey and Marabut, both in Samar, come in their area and persona non “Top CTG...” continued from declared the Communist Party of the grata. page 18 Philippines - New People’s Army and The decision and pronouncewere: One (1) Cal .45 pistol; two (2) National Democratic Front (CNN) as ment transpired during the meeting IED; and subversive documents. unwelcome and persona non grata in that was held at the municipality on Also recovered from @ their respective areas. June 2, after discussing of the adverse Ka Kris an amount of Php25,000, In a Municipal Task Force impact of the CNN’s presence in their which the apprehended persons ELCAC meeting through a joint community. voluntarily revealed, will be used meeting of the Municipal Peace Earlier that day, the for the procurement of IED compo- and Order Council, Municipal Sangguniang Bayan members of nents upon the instruction of @Ka Development Council, Sangguniang Marabut also signed a resolution Martin. Bayan Members and Punong declaring the CNN as persona non The apprehended personal- Barangays of Basey, the members grata. ities were turned over to Northern unanimously agreed to declare the The 63rd Infantry Battalion of the Samar Provincial Police Office for 8th Infantry Division, Philippine documentation and filing of appro- this time of crisis where the nation Army, welcomed these significant and priate charge(s). pivotal decisions of the Local Chief is battling against the spread of Lieutenant Colonel Juan Executives, Council members and COVID-19 pandemic, the CTGs Gullem, 20th Infantry Battalion Chairpersons including their respechave disregarded the well-being of commander is appealing to the NPA their members just to push their evil tive Punong Barangays. personalities in Northern Samar to In a statement, Lt. Col. Edgar intent. be discerning in their actions. He Allan Orbito said, “The people have “I call on the remaining said, the NPA must not allow them- NPA members in Northern Samar spoken. Communism and terrorism selves to be trapped by the sweet to surface and free themselves from are unwanted in Basey and Marabut.” lies of their cadres whose intent is “I therefore ask those active and still the bondage of fear. The provincial to create chaos at the expense of deceived members of the CNN to government and the Philippine ordinary Filipinos. instead cooperate and help build a Army will help them start a Colonel Lowell Tan, peaceful community, Orbito added. new life through the Enhanced commander of the Army’s 803rd “Our government is opening its doors Comprehensive Local Integration Infantry Brigade, is saddened by the Program (E-CLIP),” he said. (CMO, for those who wanted to go back, plight of the apprehended NPA. In 20IB, 8ID, PA) continued on page 19
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June 1-15, 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “LGUs Basey ..” continued mareños that he will exert all his effort from page 19
“DSWD extends ..” continued from page 1 and the SAP for farmers. His own version of SAP budget is undergoing the final stages of validation, the governor told Bautista. “125 thousand families yata yung di nabigyan ng SAP,” the governor said in the Independence Day episode of Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar. The governor in his final statement assured the Eastern Sa-
to ensure that with his close coordination with the national government, his constituents will not go hungry. “I assure our kababayan na gagawin natin ang lahat with the national government agencies para makabangon at maging makabuluhan ang Independence Day celebration ngayon.” (Reden D. Tangara and nbq/ PIA 8 E. Samar)
On first confirmed COVID positive case, Hilongos mayor says everything is under control By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- With Hilongos, Unfortunately, the result of Leyte having its first COVID one OFW returnee’s swab test the day confirmed case, Mayor Albert after his arrival (which was released Villahermosa assured that everyhing and confirmed by DOH Region VIII is under control. He said the LGU has three days later) was positive. enforced coordinated and heightened Since the first confirmed case, Mayor efforts on precautionary measures Villahermosa has informed the and MGCQ protocols and restrictions public that the LGU to contain the situation. investigated every He called on his fellow thing, did rigorous Hilongosnons to help the town as contact tracing, and he encouraged everybody to remain has already quaranvigilant. tined and isolated all He also called on the pubthe personnel who lic to always observe proper hand fetched the asympwashing and social distancing. Wear tomatic patient. face masks when in public places, At present, and cooperate with stricter morning the OFW, who has and evening checkpoint protocols by not even seen his the PNP, BFP, Traffic Management family since he arEnforcers and MDRRMC. rived, is now placed To recall, the LGU, with at the Municipal the PNP and the MDRRMC offiIsolation Facility cers, personally fetched returning and is being closely Hilongosnons on May 25, 2020. monitored by the These returning OFWs arrived in Municipal Health town at 2 a.m. Office, after he was Following Standard transferred from Operation Procedure (SOP), the his former equally, trained and skilled Municipal Swab closely supervised Test Team took swab tests of the isolation facility in returnees at 9 a.m. of May 26 and his barangay. (PIA-8) immediately sent the samples to EVRMC.
otherwise they will face the full force of the law if they opted to continue terrorizing the locals,” Orbito concluded. Last year, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70 which institutionalized the Whole-Of-Nation Approach wherein government agencies will work in a holistic and integrated manner to deliver much-needed services to remote, conflict-affected communities. In particular, the approach will utilize localized peace engagements wherein LGUs and other stakeholders in the community will take the lead in finding solutions to resolve the decades-long communist insurgency in the country. (opt/ PIA-8)