The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC
VOL II NO. 13
July 1-15, 2020
RTF-ELCAC VIII REVITALIZES EFFORTS TO ADDRESS ROOT CAUSES OF INSURGENCIES By:Olive P. Tiu
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) - Region VIII convened here on July 7 to tackle revitalized efforts to address the root causes of insurgencies and other armed conflicts and threats in Eastern Visayas. The renewed vigor came as the newly elected Technical Working Group Chairperson, Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III, who was elected on July 2, presided over the joint meeting of the RTF8-ELCAC TWG and Cluster Leads. MGen Diñoso reiterated that the government is serious in solving the communist insurgency problem, the biggest peace and development spoiler in the region and in the country. He then urged the members to demonstrate good governance, always remember the whole-of-nation
approach to bring more hope to and regain the trust of the people. Diñoso said the RTF8-ELCAC is on the right track. There are major strategies that have been set in place for the fulfillment of the Task Force’s objectives. For starters, the new TWG Chair thanked the clusters for making and submitting their first semester accomplishment reports based on the format given by the NTF for consolidation and preview. He also reminded the members of the required daily and monthly reports. Diñoso also pushed for the full operationalization of the RTF8ELCAC operations Center with the TWG Core Group completing the details. This will facilitate action faster coordination and resolutions of issues and concerns pertaining to the Task
Force. He also called for the activation of all TFs in the Region and the setting up of Operations Center in all
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RTF8-ELCAC PRLEC projects benefit FRs in Leyte Islands By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- The Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the Region 8 Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF8 ELCAC) continues to implement projects that will enhance the capabilities of former rebels as they integrate into the mainstream society. During the recent meeting of the Technical Working Group and Cluster Leads of RTF8-ELCAC, the Cluster, led by TESDA 8 called for the endorsement of the body for the proposed Agrikultura at Kabuhayan tungo sa Kaunlaran at Pangkapayapaan (AKKAP) projects in Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran provinces. The endorsement is a prerequisite for the approval of the project by TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña. TESDA-8 Regional Director Dante Navarro said that the AKKAP project is patterned after the concept of Integrated Organic Farming System. Navarro said for Leyte, the project
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Gov’t continues to provide sustainable livelihood MTF-ELCAC continues to pursue RCSP in for former rebels, farmers in Leyte 7 barangays, 3 sitios in By: PIA-8 and 93IB SAN ISIDRO, Leyte -- The Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) Basey, Samar 2
July 1-15, 2020
Provincial Government of Leyte headed by Gov. Leopoldo Dominico “MIC” Petilla, together with the 93IB under the leadership of Lt. Col. Roberto Beatisula Jr. , continues to implement livelihood programs in the 3rd District of Leyte to strengthen the community as part of the reintegration of former rebels and sustainment of achieved peace and development in the area. On July 3, 2020, the office of the Provincial Agriculture of Leyte started the implementation of More Income in the Countryside (MIC) Seaweed Farming in Barangay Taglawigan, San Isidro, Leyte. This is part of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) jointly funded by the national government and the local government. To recall, in the later part of June, a total of 55 former rebels and members of farmers organization who were organized and formerly influenced by the
in Barangay Jubay, Calubian, Leyte successfully completed the skills training (Cookery and Food Processing) provided by TESDA Leyte and granted them with NC II Certification and also received Tool Kits and Financial Assistance. “We are investing in this to make sure that they will not be influenced by insurgents again. The people are the greatest resource so we must build nation-loving people,” Governor Petilla said. Among the first beneficiaries of this project are some of the 262 former rebels and Militia ng Bayan (MB) members in Leyte who received on January 24 the E-CLIP benefits. President Rodrigo Duterte who led the turnover of financial aid to former rebels renewed his call to rebels to lay down their arms and avail of land distribution and other government assistance. “We can’t solve the problem in the Philippines by revolution, it has to be evolution,” he said. (PIA-8/93IB)
TACLOBAN CITY -- “We are going to continue with the RCSP together with the MTF-ELCAC members and the People’s Caravan to address the issues and concerns in the barangays,” said Basey Mayor Luz Ponferrada, the chairperson of the Municipal Task Force-ELCAC. Currently ongoing in seven barangays and three sitios of Basey, Samar is the conduct of Retooled Community Support Program, a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units particularly in the barangay, for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. On July 7, 2020, Mayor Ponferrada presided over a meeting of the MTF-ELCAC core group to give and to get updates on the ongoing RCSP in the municipality. The Core Team is composed of Mr. Zino Llarenas, MLGOO; PMaj Michael Oraller, Chief of Police of Basey; and Lt. Col. Edgar Allan Orbito, 63rd IB commanding officer, represented by Capt. Narciso Braga, Battalion operations officer. During the meeting, the 63rd IB and the Philippine National Police reiterated their commitment to end the local
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA July 1-15, 2020 NPA purge executioner in Leyte arrested By 802nd Infantry Brigade
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Army conducts ELCAC info awareness campaign in Basey By: PIA 8 and 63IB, 8ID BASEY, Samar -- As part of the ongoing mission to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) in order to achieve peace and development in this part of the country, the 63rd Infantry Battalion and the 83rd CMO Company kicked off a series of information campaign using loudspeaker operation and leaflets distribution to residents of the different barangays of Basey, Samar. The team of Sgt Adelfo Douglas J. Dulfo (Inf) PA of the 63IB and SSg Jerry A Reli (Inf) PA of the 83rd CMO Coy on June 28-30, 2020 visited the sitios of Wespal and Rawis of Barangay Guirang where they disclosed the NPA’s system of infiltration to the barangay affecting its farmers, youth and women sector. The team also visited barangays Inuntan, Burgos, Cancaiyas, Bulao and Cogon in coordination with the Punong Barangays and informed the residents about the NPA’s deceptive system. The team also informed the locals on the protocols and health procedures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Ltc Edgar Allan Orbito, the Battalion Commander of 63IB said the information awareness activity will continue in support to EO 70 which created the Task Force to Eliminate Local
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in its commitment to provide training assistance to qualified individuals, continues with the implementation of its training programs and livelihood assistance, amid COVID-19 pandemic. In an interview with TESDA 8 Regional Director Dante Navarro during the Suruswerte ha PIA hosted by Philippine Information Agency 8 Regional Director Olive Tiu, he said, “We still continue with our skills development programs in the region despite some restrictions. We will also be inspecting all our vocational schools so as to know whether or not the students will pursue with their vocational studies should this be possible.” He said that the agency’s most recognized program on top of the other vocational courses is the Isuzu-sponsored scholarship program. This 2-year Japan-packaged scholarship course with free meals Communist Armed Conflict, maintaining peace, safety and human security for the Municipality. (PIA 8 with 63IB, 8ID)
and accommodation, started in 2008 and can only be availed of in Region 8, among the 17 regions nationwide. “This 2-year course which is only offered in Region 8, has been recognized all over the world. This offers four national certificates from NC I to NC IV, which means that once a beneficiary finishes the course, he becomes a holder of NC I to NC IV eligibilities,” he said adding that graduates of this program are assured of employment locally and abroad. Navarro disclosed that at present, there is a total of 69 Isuzu scholars composed of two batches – Batch 17 and 18 -- from the three Visayas regions. He also said that though classes have been temporarily suspended, still they were given learning materials and sometimes have practical exposures to be able to sustain the learnings, precautionary measures being imposed though. Aside from regular training programs, TESDA office also leads in the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the government’s Whole-ofNation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
Sta. Rita MTF-ELCAC in Samar deploys Another Eastern Samar town dispatches its RCSP RCSP teams to identified barangays By: PIA8 with 63IB TACLOBAN CITY -- The Municipal Task Force - ELCAC of Sta. Rita, Samar deployed Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Teams to several barangays of the municipality. The RSCP teams composed of Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Cluster personnel from the PPO-Samar, 63IB, BFP, BJMP, and LGAs converged for the Send-Off Ceremony at the Sta Rita Municipal Gym on June 13, 2020. The teams deployed to the different barangays will identify the primary and secondary issues that will be addressed by the LGUs and LGAs to bring the government closer to the people. It was graced with the presence of Hon. Governor Reynolds Michael Tan of Samar, Dir. Karl Caezar Rimando of DILG8, PBGen Bernabe Balba, RD of PRO8 and MGen Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of 8ID. In his message, Mayor Joven P. Tiu committed the LGU’s full support for the program and the giving of 100 percent effort to end the insurgency in the area. Governor Reynolds Michael Tan expressed his appreciation to the initiative of the
Municipality in supporting the EO 70 and the PTF-ELCAC of Samar. RCSP is a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units particularly in the barangay, for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. The RCSP is anchored on the government framework that intends to develop people’s capability to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition. The targeting of barangays for RCSP is based on the identification and prioritization of targets set by the National Task Force’s Focused Geographical Areas (FGDs). Some eight (8) threatened barangays in the municipality of Sta. Rita are included in the proposed 437 focused areas in Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8 with 63IB)
teams to conflict-stricken barangays By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- The local government unit of Maydolong has dispatched its Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) also known as peace and development teams to the distant barangays Canloterio and Patag. This is according to Mayor Godofredo Garado of Maydolong town in a phone interview, Monday. The deployment of the team is in compliance with the Executive Order Number 70 or under the National Task Force–End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Garado said the 78th (Warrior) Battalion under Lt. Col. Oliver C. Alvior with the officials of the LGU sent-off the team early this July. The RCSP team will immerse in the community for some time to identify the development gaps and the needed government
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
Sta. Rita MTF-ELCAC in Samar
PNP-Biliran’s ‘Adopt-a-family’ program benefits 309 families
By: Mary Lailani P. Tupas NAVAL, Biliran -- A total of 309 The Naval Police force families comprising 1,394 memfacilitated the house construction bers have benefited from the at Brgy. Atipolo for Luciana Daguil, Adopt-a-family (Kapwa Ko, Sagot a blind female senior citizen who Ko) program of the Philippine is living with her married daughNational Police (PNP)-Biliran Police ter and grandchildren also benefit Provincial Office. from the food supplies and house Police Major Lilibeth wares provided by the Naval police Morillo, BPPO Police Community personnel. Relations (PCR) chief, said that Meanwhile, the Maripipi from April 2 until June 30, this year, MPS also made possible the coall the eight police stations in Biliran struction of a decent house to one of province, have distributed grocery their selected adopted family. items and kitchen utencils to the PNP-Biliran’s 309 adopt309 identified needy families . ed families comprising of 1,394 The food items helped all members is part of the 16,860 famthe 1,394 family members especially ilies with 83,119 members of the during this COVID-19 pandemic Adopt-a-Family (Kapwa ko, Sagot that is almost four months now. ko) Program of the Police Regional At least three fortunate families Office 8. receive a weekly supply of basic The PRO Eastern Visayas foods, according to Police Captain data covers from March 17 until June Chamberline B. Ludevise of Naval 26, 2020. (ldl/mlt/PIA8 Biliran) Municipal Police Station. Aside from the distribution of food items and housewares, the Naval Municipal Police Station and Maripipi Police Station made possible the construction of houses to their most deprived adopted families living in shanties.
July 1-15, 2020
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Sta. Rita MTF-ELCAC in Samar sends off RCSP teams to five barangays TACLOBAN CITY -- The Municipal Task Force - ELCAC of Sta. Rita, Samar is set to send off teams to five barangays for the conduct of Retooled Community Support Program, a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units particularly in the barangay, for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. The Send-off Ceremony for the PNP RCSP Teams will be held on July 13, 2020, at 8 o’clock in the morning at the Municipal Hall for those who will be deployed in the five barangays. Mayor Joven P. Tiu presided over the MTF-ELCAC meeting on July 6, 2020, 1 o’clock in the afternoon at Municipal Mayor’s Office to plan for the training of its members on the RCSP. They also disscussed the RCSP process, procedures and organizational strucure. Mayor Tiu said, “We are going to support the RCSP and together in this journey we will continue to provide the basic services to the people through our “Barangayan” in order to make them feel government care and efforts.” The RCSP is anchored on the government framework that intends to develop people’s capability to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition. The targeting of barangays for RCSP is based on the identification and prioritization of targets set by the National Task Force’s Focused Geographical Areas (FGDs). Some eight (8) threatened barangays in the municipality of Basey are included in the proposed 437 focused areas in Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
TESDA-Leyte, TESDA-RTC Tacloban ink MOC with 546th ECB By: TESDA-Leyte
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) - Leyte Provincial Office with TESDA Regional Training Center Tacloban (RTC) signed a memorandum of convergence (MOC) with the 546th Engineering Construction Brigade of the Philippine Army as a partner for training and assessment in various heavy equipment operations. The partnership was initiated to support the goal of increasing more skilled workforce of the country under its “Build Build Build” program. “Our goal of this partnership is to train and certify skilled workers to support the government’s thrust in the construction sector. With this, TESDA also prioritizes its scholarship funds to construction-related programs such
as heavy equipment operation,” said TESDA-Leyte Provincial Director Loreta D. Banario. Under the MOC, the 546th ECB allows the use of materials, tools, and equipment required for trainings to proceed as needed by TESDA RTC Tacloban’s trainees and candidates for assessment. “I would like to assure you that the “Barrier Breakers” Battalion will do whatever it can in order to provide a successful implementation of this memorandum of convergence,” said Lt.Col. Ricnon U. Carolasan of 546th Engineering Brigade. TESDA RTC Tacloban’s Acting Center Administrator stated that the said convergence signifies its continued commitment to serve the Filipinos. Meantime, the institution intends to initially register Heavy Equipment Operation – Hydraulic Excavator NC II, Heavy Equipment Operation (Wheel Loader) NC II and Heavy Equipment Operation – On Highway Dump Truck (Rigid) NC II for training and assessment aspects. (TESDA-Leyte)
3 more E. Samar families get new houses from PNP’s ‘Pabahay Program’ By:Reden D. Tangara BORONGAN CITY -- Three more indigent families from Eastern Samar got new houses on July 8 under the “Pabahay Program” of the Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko Porgram of the PNP. The Family of Pablito and Mary Ann Calvintos is one of the beneficiaries from the municipality of Hernani, Eastern Samar. The husband is only a laborer and a fish vendor, while his wife, Mrs. Marry Calvintos takes care of the children. They have three children who are still studying while the other four (4) are out of school youth, doing odd jobs in the neighborhood, helping their parents in their daily needs. The youngest child is a 2year old boy. What the family earns is just enough for their basic needs that building a new house seems out of the question. PLt Bermodo Gullo-II, chief of police of PNP Hernani said the family sleeps on a worn-out linoleum that lines the earth, no flooring of concrete nor wood. Another beneficiary is from the municipality of Llorente, Eastern Samar. Mrs. Sarah Borja of Brgy. Tabok was teary-eyed while thanking the PNP for the assistance that her family received. Mrs. Borja said her children will now be able to review their lessons properly since their roof will not leak anymore once it rains. Mrs. Borja has six children and their house was destroyed by Typhoon Ursula.
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
PNP-N. Samar start off ‘Disiplina Muna’ campaign
Remains of another NPA member found in Northern Samar town
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The Philippine National Police -, Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO) ushered the launching of “Disiplina Muna,” a nationwide advocacy campaign during its Monday Flag Raising ceremony held at NSPPO grounds here. “Today, we will officially launch the Disiplina Muna Advocacy Campaign to rebuild the culture of discipline among Nortehanons, especially the youth. This is a whole-of-nation approach to a sustainable solution to the greatest challenge of this time,” said DILG Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan. As initiated by DILG, the campaign, which aimed to increase consciousness among Filipinos of their critical role and responsibility in sustainable development and maintenance of law and order, is but an open source which could be adopted by all organizations across the national and local government, private sector, civil society and the media. DILG sets the seven main programs under the Disiplina Muna concept and these are on Road Clearing, Oplan Listo, AntiSmoking, Ease of Doing Business or the Anti-Red Tape, Liquor Ban, Tourists spots clean up and Functional Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADACs). Before the PNP officers, PD Laguitan stressed that change must start within one self. For the people to continue to look up to the police as their protectors, each should strive to embody the concept of discipline so as to properly present the whole organization to the public.
LOPE DE VEGA, Northern Samar -- The troops of Charlie Company of the 43rd Infantry (We Search) Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, while conducting perimeter patrol to search the reported remains of a CPP- PATerrorist (CNT) member, discovered skeletal remains at the vicinity of Brgy. E. Duran, Bobon, Northern Samar at 7 a.m. on Friday, July 17. The troops immediately secured the location, documented the same and turned-over the said remains to PNP SOCO of Catarman, Northern Samar for proper disposition. Per initial information, the said remains is that of a CNT member who was killed during the series of encounter by this unit in Brgy. Cag-amesarag, Lope de Vega,
By: Ailene N. Diaz
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By: 43IB, 8ID
It also means, not condoning the wrongdoing of others, but to correct it if possible. The launching ended with the signing of #Disiplina Muna Pledge. (NBQ/ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)
Northern Samar on August 3 and August 4, 2019. To recall, the remains of certain Emma Termo, CNT member, who died in an encounter sometime in 2009 was also found in Brgy E. Duran on July 10, 2020. Lieutenant Colonel Raymundo Picut Jr., Ccmmanding officer of the 43rd IB, extended his deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the CNT members who were abandoned by their comrades while struggling for their lives. “Your government forces will continue to pursue its commitment to serve justice to the CNT victims so as to attain peace and development in Northern Samar,” Picut reassured. (43IB, 8ID)
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July 1-15, 2020
RIATF-8 on COVID-19 approves protocol on proper management of APOR By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- Authorized Person Outside of Residence (APOR) on official business who will travel from one place to another within Eastern Visayas shall be exempted from mandatory 14-day quarantine by receiving LGUs so that services will not be hampered. This is among the protocols on proper management of Authorized Persons Outside Residence approved by the Region 8 Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID 19 during the joint RTF and IATF meeting on July 10 at the Leyte Park Hotel. The resolution was proposed by the Health Cluster led by the Department of Health Region 8. Also, among the protocols is that “Concerned Agency/ies of APOR who belong to uniformed personnel that require them to go on duty for 14 days or more are also advised to provide temporary quarantine house for all Off-Duty Personnel. Another, is that all APOR coming from outside Eastern Visayas shall be allowed entry depending on the purpose of travel as reflected in the Travel Order. In approving the protocol, the IATF and TF of Region 8 took into consideration that on June
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA There are enough isolation facilities in the province, Leyte guv assures By: Gemma T. Tabao
TACLOBAN CITY -- Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla assured Leyteños that there are enough isolation centers in the different municipalities of the Leyte province that are ready for use should there be confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases. Petilla even said in an interview that the quarantine facility identified by the province has not even been used, considering that Leyte towns have their own isolation facilities for their respective constituents. However, the governor assured that the Leyte Provincial Quarantine Facility located at the Leyte Academic Gymnasium in Pawing, Palo, Leyte, is anytime ready to accept Persons Under Isolation (PUIs) and Persons Under Monitoring (PUMs), should there be such identified cases. “We have enough quarantine facilities in the province. In fact, we have not even used the identified provincial isolation center at the Leyte Academic Center, considering that all municipalities have their own facilities,” he said. He added, “This isolation center is always ready anytime needed, though.”
According to Petillla, his office is regularly coordinating with the national government and has been assured of support, especially in these trying times of pandemic. “We are constantly communicating with the national government through the National Inter-Agency Task Force, and they are always there to support us,” he said. The Leyte governor likewise stressed that the provincial government has committed to provide all the medical needs of the health workers in the province, in their battle against the disease. “The province will shoulder all the medical needs of health workers in their efforts to manage the health crisis,” he said. He also disclosed that as an assistance, he had transferred his office, as former office has been designated as medical quarters for the health workers while on duty. The governor informed he is confident that local government units, the municipal health workers and other frontliners have enough preparations and resources in adhering to
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
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3 EV cops test positive for COVID-19, one recovers By: Consuelo Alarcon
DOT crafts guidelines for re-opening of hotels, tourism sites By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- The Tourism department is now preparing its response and recovery plan at the community level, so those in this industry sector can bounce back and regain their livelihood that was badly affected by the raging coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) disease. Furthermore, Department of tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Benito “Bong” Benzon said guidelines for tourism establishments to re-open in various destinations are now being worked out. “I-implement na natin itong tourism response and recovery plan para makatulong sa recovery ng ating tourism industry and more importantly maibalik yung livelihood ng ating mga kababayan especially at the community level,” Bengzon said during the Laging Handa Network Briefing (LHNB) Friday, July 3. “Unti-unti na po nating ginagawan ng guidelines itong tourism establishments para makapaghanda na, makapagbubukas doon sa mga tourist destinations natin,” he added in the LHNB
interview hosted by Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). Benzon emphasized that the gradual springing to life of domestic destinations should be carried out only in areas already classified as under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ). In such areas, tourism-related businesses can start to operate at 60 percent capacity, Bengzon stressed, in answer to a question by Matt Manaog of Bombo RadyoTacloban, co-host of LHNB on that day, on how the tourism industry in the region can be up and about once again. “Ito po ang advise ni tourism secretary Puyat dito sa pagbubukas ng atong tourism destination, siyempre, unang una kailangan yong destination ay under MGCQ, under which we can operate 60 percent,” Bengzon reported. He added, “Yung isa pa naming advise for these establishments particularly itong mga hotels,
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TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Eastern Visayas (DOH-8) on Wednesday, July 15, confirmed that three police officers in Eastern Visayas have tested positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In a Virtual Presser, DOH-8 Regional Director Minerva P. Molon tagged the three police officers as Patient EV-434, a newly-assigned police officer in Region 8 but a resident of Cebu City; Patient EV-646 who is assigned at the Leyte Police Provincial Office and Patient EV629 who is assigned at the Samar Police Provincial Mobile Force Company and a resident of San Sebastian, Samar. Lt. Col. Ma. Bella Rentuaya, spokesperson of the Police regional Office 8 said, the first case has already recovered but on extended quarantine based on health protocols. Said police officer was previously assigned in Mindanao before he was assigned in Region 8. He tested negative on his reswab conducted on July 1 while the remaining two remained isolated even if asymptomatic. Patient-EV 646 is recuperating while being quarantined at Guindapunan Quarantine Facility in Palo, Leyte while Patient
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA NNC-8 encourages Tourism, PCOO officials vow support for LGUs to help address Southern Leyte airport completion
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July 1-15, 2020
By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- A top official from the Department of Tourism (DOT) will get in touch with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to relay the long felt need of having a functional airport in Southern Leyte. Another top official, from the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), also signified his intention to help the province finish the airport. DOT Usec Benito “Bong” Bengzon, spoke about his move in an interview at the Laging Handa Network Briefing program on Friday, July 3, hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar. It was Bengzon’s response to a request by Gov. Damian Mercado, one of the guests, when he was given opportunity by Andanar to say something for the tourism official. “I-request lang namin sana Usec Bengzon, if possible sir matapos na ang airport namin dito sa Southern Leyte, para magamit sa mga magpunta dito na local and foreign tourists, yan ang problema natin. Konti na lang ang kulang sa runaway, 500 meters na lang,” the governor said. The province was the birthplace of President Duterte and was declared by the PNP as the most peaceful in the country, he added. Mercado said the need for direct flights will help tourists to visit the many destinations in the province like dive sites, and also those who intend to come for the 500th First Mass anniversary in Limasawa next year, March 31,
2021. “Imbitahin kita sir next year, for the 500 years celebration sa First Mass,” Mercado said, extending the invitation to Usec Bengzon. Bengzon acknowledged the tourist attractions in the province, saying he had been in the province many times already. “Siyempre ‘pag nag-expand pa itong airport natin, dadami pa ang mga tourista. Kakausapin ho namin ang CAAP at saka DOTr para malaman kung paano natin mapapabilis ang development ng airport po dyan ninyo,” Bengzon declared. Andanar himself, obviously touched by Mercado’s statement that the airport offers a sure
child stunting
By: Gemma T. Tabao
TACLOBAN CITY -- While Eastern Visayas records 30 percent or 53,000 stunted children aged 0-59 months old, the National Nutrition Council or NNC Regional Office 8 has committed to address the health issue, encouraging local government units to make concrete and budgeted activities in response to the said problem. With the same focus, the 2020 July Nutrition Month celebration has the theme, “Batang Pinoy, SANA TALL... Iwas Stunting, SAMA ALL! Iwas ALL din sa Covid-19.” This is to promote awareness and mobilize actions to address child stunting. “We have to be aware continued on page 15 of the negative impact of child stunting and give evidence-based solutions for the benefit of our children,” NNC 8 Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator, Catalino Dotollo Jr. said during the “Suruswerte ha PIA” radio
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
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Southern Leyte guv maintains stand for two-week gap in receiving LSIs By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
Eastern Samar Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Sallie Jabinal faces the local media at the PIA Information Center, Borongan City advocating ways and means to prevent stunting, as the nation observes the 46th Nutrition Month this July. (RDT/PIA E. Samar)
Stunting is a disease, says E. Samar nutrition officer By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- The provincial nutrition action officer in Eastern Samar, Sallie Jabinal said that stunting or being too short for one’s age is malnutrition and should be treated as a disease. This he said during a press conference held at PIA Eastern Samar, this city on Friday as the whole nation observes the 46th Nutrition Month. As she addressed the families, she said mothers should focus on their nutrition and their babies in the first 1000 days of life. “Stunting is largely an irreversible outcome of inadequate nutrition and repeated bouts of infection during the first 1000 days of a child’s life.” The implications could be reduced intellectual capacity and poor school performance and later in life-low productivity, the nutrition expert added. Mothers are then asked to have at least four pre-natal checkups at the rural health centers. The pregnant mom is also asked to eat nutritious food. When the child is out of the mother’s womb, the mother must practice
exclusive breastfeeding until the child is six months old. Later, the mother should introduce other food but should continue breastfeeding until the child is two years old. Mothers should also bring their babies to the health center to have immunization, deworming and other essential health services that the child needs. In Eastern Samar, stunting incidence has declined, said the nutrition officer. “With the holding of Buntis Congress, the effect is seen, mothers are now more conscious of the nutrition requirements especially breastfeeding.” Jabinal urged the local governments to ensure that government interventions are done to prevent stunting. (NBQ/PIA E. Samar)
MAASIN CITY -- Governor Damian Mercado of Southern Leyte has maintained his position for a two-week space of time in between allowing locally stranded individuals (LSIs), who are mostly coming from COVID-hit Cebu City, to return to the province. The gap of time was meant for existing occupants of quarantine or isolation facilities to leave after having completed the mandatory 14-day period, and thus let in new arrivals, the governor said during the Laging Handa Network Briefing on Friday morning, July 3, hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar. Mercado disclosed his stand in response to a question posed by Matt Froilan Manaog of Bombo Radyo-Tacloban, co-host for today’s episode, on the readiness of facilities in the province once the deadline for the suspension of returning locals shall have lapsed on July 9. He said he had instructed mayors to put up isolation facilities that can accommodate returning locals, and this has been duly complied over time. During the initial return of the LSIs, problem cropped up with the overwhelming turn-out, which was more than 200 persons in the first batch (June 8) and again more than 200 persons in the second batch (June 15), Mercado recalled. “Nag request kami if possible . . . kasi ang problema namin dito . . . almost 90 percent LSIs from Cebu . . . every two weeks . . . pumayag din naman ang Cebu,
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July 1-15, 2020
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NNC-8 calls on stakeholders to scaleup nutrition actions vs. stunting
By: Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY -- As the nation Dotollo said it is likely that celebrates the 46th National Nutrition COVID-19 pandemic will have an Month this July, the government impact on nutrition since the health through the National Nutrition system is focused on responding to Council (NNC) leads the month-long health emergency which may affect the celebration highlighting the theme delivery of nutrition and related services “Batang Pinoy, SANA TALL…Iwas and reduced people’s access to food. Stunting, SAMA ALL! Iwas ALL din sa Dotollo urged all stakeholders COVID-19!” particularly the local government units In Eastern Visayas, the celebra- (LGUs) to carry out the nutrition protion kicks-off on Wednesday with a mo- grams in their localities and give prefertorcade as part of promoting awareness ential attention to the first 1000 days on among Filipino families the importance the life of a person which refers to the of proper nutrition and to generate time of pregnancy until the first 2 years commitment from various stakeholders of the child so that the existing stunting to scale-up nutrition actions in the midst problem will not become worse. of the pandemic. Actions of the National In a mini presscon held on Nutrition Council are always geared into Wednesday at the Ritz Tower de Leyte, sustaining the campaign even beyond NNC Regional Nutrition Program July 31, Dotollo said. Coordinator Dr. Catalino Dotollo called This include exerting all efforts on all stakeholders for a collective effort to reduce stunting through the formuin order to address the high prevalence lation of the Philippine Plan of Action of stunting among children in the for Nutrition (PPAN) 2017-2020 which region. will serve as the overall framework to “With this celebration, let us address malnutrition including stunting all help in our fight to prevent stunting and its underlying factors. especially among Eastern Visayan chil Among provinces in Region 8, dren since stunting is indeed a problem Samar has the most number of stunted in our region and even globally,” Dotollo children, Dotollo said. (ldl/cba/PIA8) said.
DPWH-SLDEO starts construction of health workers’ shelter in S. Leyte By: Marcelo M. Pedalino
MAASIN CITY -- The Southern Leyte District Engineering Office (SLDEO) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has started working on an accommodation facility intended to house medical frontline personnel in the on-going fight against COVID-19. “The four single-storey buildings with a total allocation of P15 Million are now being built in Salvacion Oppus Yniguez Memorial Provincial Hospital (SOYMPH) compound in Dongon village, this city,” the provincial DPWH office said in a report emailed to PIA. Each one of the four buildings accommodates eight beds -each bed representing one occupant -- separated by wooden partitions that are equipped with air-conditioning units, with a kitchen area, dining hall, and toilet facilities common for one building. In this location, a total of 32 individuals, all health workers, can be housed as their quarantine facility immediately right after their tour of duty. “These facilities are solely for use by doctors, nurses, and other medical professional here in Southern Leyte,” District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia declared. “It is also important that we
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Cebuano News: PLGU S. “MTF-ELCAC..” continued Leyte magtukod og PCR from page 2 Testing Laboratory alang communist armed conflict in the municipality relentlessly and sa COVID-19 By: Erna S. Gorne
MAASIN CITY -- Usa ka Polymerase Chain Reaction kon (PCR) Laboratory Testing Center alang sa COVID-19 pagatukoron sa probinsiya, mao kini ang tahu ni Governor Damian Mercado atol sa pagpahigayon sa ika-60 nga founding anniversary sa Southern Leyte, dili pa lang dugay. Sumala kang Gov. Mercado, kini human ang Department of Health 8 (DOH-8) naghatag og pagtugot alang sa pagtukod og kaugalingon nga Southern Leyte PCR Testing Laboratory alang sa COVID-19. “Ang P15 Milyones nga kantidad sa laboratorio dili ordinaryo nga edipisyo nga tukoron. Diin ang Department of Health mismo ang nagdesinyo sa mga features sama sa presensya sa negative pressure, walay mga bentana og uban pa,” dugang niyang pahayag. Gipasabot ni Gov. Mercado nga mokabat og 45 ngadto sa 60 ka mga adlaw ang gitumbok nga matukod ang maong edipisyo sugod karon nga bulan sa Hulyo 2020. Matud niya ang mga health workers sama sa mga doktor, medical technologists, nurses nga magdumala sa maong mga kahimanan gi-andam na usab sumala sa tahu ni Dr. Ionne Castillones, ang chief of hospital sa Salvacion Oppus Yniquez Memorial Provincial Hospital (SOYMPH). Sa kasamtangan, ang probinsiya sa Southern Leyte nakapalit na og 5,000 ka buok nga swab test kits agig mga lakang aron sa pagkigbugno batok sa paglaganap sa COVID-19 nga probinsiya, matud
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purposively. The RCSP is anchored on the government framework that intends to develop people’s capability to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition. The targeting of barangays for RCSP is based on the identification and prioritization of targets set by the National Task Force’s Focused Geographical Areas (FGDs). Some 19 barangays in the municipality of Basey are included in the proposed 437 focused areas in Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8)
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“RTF-8 ELCAC...” continued from page 1 the Provincial Task Force ELCAC. He called on the secretariat particularly the DILG to communicate with the PTFs. It is the responsibility of all levels of government - national, regional, provincial, highly-urbanized cities, component cities, and municipalities, down to the barangays, to solve and provide solutions to the causes of conflict, dissent, and unrest, Diñoso said. “With the creation of the local task forces on ELCAC, we hope to empower communities and local constituents to participate in developing a culture of peace so that everyone has ownership of the process and result,” he added. It was learned that all the municipalities in the region except for San Sebastian, Samar (because of problem as to who the Mayor is) have to be organized. The meeting tackled the accomplishments from January to June of 2020 of the 12 Lines of Efforts Task Groups or 12 clusters, their respective innovations, issues and concerns and their Action Plan for the second semester of 2020 based on the timeline presented by the PLEDS cluster. (PIA-8) The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force, together with the Inter-Agency Task Force 8, assisted the arrival of 55 repatriated OFWs from Manila returning to Eastern Visayas via Philippine Airlines at DZR Airport, Tacloban City at 2:10 a.m. of July 12.
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Army conducts ELCAC info awareness campaign in Basey (Story on page 3)
“NPA purge executioner..” continued from page 3 ELCAC. “Even before the coronavirus pandemic, we were giving livelihood assistance especially to rebel returnees. “However, we provide them first with two to three months training, for them to be capacitated and be assured of productive endeavors,” he added. Navarro also informed that with the assistance of other partner agencies particularly the provincial government of Leyte. TESDA has also catered its services to 262 former rebels in San Isidro, Leyte. He likewise informed that the office just recently gave training toolkits and allowances to some 18 former rebels in Northern Samar. Same training assistance was likewise given to Eastern Samar municipality where the beneficiaries were already able to make facemasks which are very useful in this time of pandemic. The director disclosed that there are about 300 former rebels in the region who were provided with skills trainings and livelihood assistance. In response to the pandemic the country is currently
experiencing, TESDA has committed to prioritize its attention to the Balik-Probinsya Program. “We will be providing training programs to these BalikProbinsya beneficiaries. “We were already able to get their profiles, even before they left Manila or other areas,” he said. “We know their preferred training courses, although others were still undecided. “Hence, we took the responsibility to help them decide on the courses suitable for them,” Navarro added. Among the training courses the office has suggested are organic agriculture production and animal production for an integrated farming system, considering that food production is the most identified solution during this health crisis and some people find difficulty in looking for means to meet their basic needs. “We are inspired by our TESDA Secretary who is very hard-working and determined. In partnership with the Department of Agriculture, he wants communities to be oriented and trained on food security, especially on backyard gardening. With this, hunger and poverty will be minimized,” Navarro said. (LDL/GTT/PIA-Leyte)
“3 more Eastern Samar..” continued from page 6 For the Municipality of Maydolong, Mrs. Liza Bajado of Brgy. 1, Poblacion, did not expect that the PNP will solve their housing problem to accommodate all eight members. Earlier, the Dolores MPS and Quinapondan MPS built houses for the Docabo and Abejo families, respectively. The ESPPO “Pabahay Program” was launched to assist and provide housing assistance to those less fortunate families especially during this COVID-19 crisis. The said program is funded by the officer’s own pocket and sometimes assisted by the LGU and some private individuals that believe in the noble cause of the said program. (nbq/rdt PIA-E.Samar)
“RIATF-8 on COVID..” continued from page 8 30, 2020, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte made an announcement placing the following areas in Eastern Visayas under General Community Quarantine, Leyte, Southern Leyte and Ormoc City and the rest of the provinces including Tacloban City under Modified General Community Quarantine. It also took into consideration that a list of updated Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APOR) under GCQ and MGCQ was provided in IATF Omnibus Guidelines dated July 2, 2020. (PIA-8)
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“Another Eastern Samar town..” continued from page 4 intervention in the hard-to-reach areas in the country. In the development planning, the team from the LGU and the uniformed men, the locals especially the barangay leaders will be consulted and their opinions and comments considered for the government to genuinely address the development gaps, Garado said. These areas are economically challenged being distant, said Garado. “The main products of the barangays are root crops and coconuts,” Garado said. Brgy. Canloterio and Patag are located along the Suribao River, across the conflict-stricken barangays of the city of Borongan. Said barangays are considered “rebel highways” (or aragian) and reportedly frequented by armed men believed to be rebels. Alvior said that when the government becomes successful in cascading development to the barangays, the locals will have no more reason to entertain the communists. The activity, said Alvior shows the “shared commitment of the stakeholders in addressing the long standing security, social and economic problems in the communities.” “The RCSP team serves as the convergence mechanism of the NTF-ELCAC,” the commander of the 78th IB said. The LGU and army officials are confident that the unresolved issues will be addressed once the RCSP team reaches its implementing phase. (nbq with reports from the 78th IB)
Southern Leyte Governor Damian Mercado (PIA File Photo)
“Tourism, PCOO.” continued from page 10 advantage for the progress of the province, asked for documents so he could personally hand it over to DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade. “Governor, I heard your plea na kailangan ay mapaspasan ang trabaho sa airport dyan sa Southern Leyte. If you can send me governor sa inyong resolution iparating sa aking tanggapan para ma bring up ko ito kay Sec. Art tugade,” Andanar said. He added, “The same way na natulungan po natin ang airport nang Surigao City na mabuksan o matapos ang kanilang 1,400-meter runway para makapag-landing po ang ating mga eroplano mula Maynila hanggang Surigao City.” “Tutulong po ako sa inyo governor, huwag po kayong mag-alala,” the PCOO chief vowed to a grateful Gov. Mercado, who likewise invited Andanar to come as guest for the 500th First Mass rites next year. During the interview, Gov. Mercado shared that with the global COVID pandemic, the airport served as the holding area for returning Overseas Filipino Workers who were subjected to the health
protocols before being dispatched to the quarantine facilities of concerned local government units. In recent calamities that befell the region, the province’s airport located in Brgy. Panan-awan, this city, played a crucial role in delivering relief goods as it became the landing site of C-130 planes due to its closeness with the neighboring province of Leyte, Mercado also reported. (ldl/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
“There are enough...” continued from page 8
the health protocols and systems. He only advised the public not to panic, instead cooperate and follow the protocols set by the Department of Health and its partner agencies. “We must cooperate and strictly observe the protocols. Let us focus on our responsibilities and help one another as we fight against this disease.” (LDL/GTT/PIA-Leyte)
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“DOT crafts...” continued from page 9 kapag nakuha na ang accreditation ninyo kailangan rin po kayong kumuha sa regional office namin ng certificate of authority to operate. Ito po kasi ang nagpapatunay na nasundan na ninyo or na satisfy na ninyo yung ating guidelines on health and safety for accommodation establishments.” “Bakit po mahalaga ito, kasi po itong certificate of authority to operate, ito po yung assurance ng ating mga domestic travelers na andyan yung mga safety protocols natin, siyempre, kapag may safety protocols panatag ang loob ng ating domestic travelers madali na silang pumunta dyan,” the tourism official explained. The expected compliance of hotels will be matched with resumption of airline flights in coordination with the Department of Transportation, Benzon also said. Many people observed that tourism-based services suffered deep revenue losses over the past three months as travel restrictions were strictly imposed, at a time when the summer season would have been a great opportunity for people to go on trips anywhere on vacation. (ldl/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA problema, contained sila sa isolation, quarantine facilities of the respective LGUs,” Mercado said. Last month, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire remarked in one of her daily presser that Southern Leyte along with three other LGUs in Region 8 have become “emerging hotspots” of the COVID-19 pandemic because of the sudden rise in confirmed cases. Consequently, during the recent visit of DILG Secretary Eduardo Año in the region, the collective requests of the local executives through a joint resolution by the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease and the Regional Task Force for COVID-19 to suspend the return of LSIs was approved, from June 28 to July 9, a welcome development for Southern Leyte province, which is now under extended GCQ until July 15. (ldl/ mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force, in coordination with Task Force 8 on COVID-19, provided personnel to assist the arrival of 37 repatriated OFs from Manila returning to Region 8 via commercial flight Philippine Airlines at DZR Airport Tacloban City on July 3. Immediately, they were processed and facilitated by OWWA and properly turned-over to their respective LGUs where they will undergo 14 days quarantine.
“Southern Leyte guv...” continued from page 11 Cokaliong ship, every 15 days . . . para bigyan kami ng konting time, two weeks, to discharge previous batch,” Mercado shared. In the early part of interview Mercado recapped that the province enjoyed a COVID-free status since the start of the pandemic in March until the time President Duterte instructed LGUs to accept returning individuals in the month of May. “So now we have 70 confirmed positive . . . so far walang
The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force, in coordination with the Inter-Agency Task Force 8, provided personnel to assist the arrival of 80 repatriated OFWs from Manila returning to Region 8 via Philippine Airlines at DZR Airport, Tacloban City, at 4:17 a.m. of July 15. The said passengers were processed and facilitated by OWWA and successfully turned-over to their respected LGUs.
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “RTF-8 ELCAC...” continued from page 1 will be in partnership with the 93rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army under its commanding officer Lt. Col. Roberto Beatisula Jr. It will be implemented at the FR resettlement area at Barangay Daja Daku in San Isidro, Leyte, and will benefit 464 former rebels and farmers who will reside at the Leyte Peace and Prosperity Village in said barangay. For the cultivation of available vacant lots to agricultural farms, PRLEC will continue to provide trainings in Organic Vegetable Production NC II, Agricultural Crop Production NC II, Animal Production (Swine) NC II, Animal Production (Ruminants) NC II, Animal Production (Poultry/Chicken) NC II, Production of High Quality Inbred Rice and Seed Certification and Farm Mechanization Rice Machinery Operation NC II, Service Motorcycle/ Small Engine System. Moreover, Navarro said trainings on Food Processing NC II, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, Cookery NC II, and Barangay Health Services NC II, will be provided for the processing of farm produce to be marketable. Navarro disclosed that in keeping with the whole-of-nation approach, the partner agencies are DA for Seeds and Poultry/Swine, DOLE for Toolkits, DOST for Technology Transfer of Greenhouse, DSWD for Social Preparation and Financial Assistance, NIA for Irrigation, DTI for Entrepreneurship and LBP for Financial Literacy and Opening of ATM Accounts. SOUTHERN LEYTE For Southern Leyte, Director Navarro said in partnership with the 14th Infantry Battalion under its commanding officer Lt. Col. Roberto Obaob, PRLEC will implement the project in Barangay Milagroso, Sogod town. The more than P1 million project will benefit 75 former rebels and
farmers. To be conducted are trainings on Organic Chicken (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II)/ Produce Organic Vegetable (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II), the skills needed for cultivation of available vacant lots to farms (vegetable and animals). The agencies converging for this project in Southern Leyte include DA for Seed and Poultry/Swine, DTI for Entrepreneurship and Simplified Bookkeeping training, LGU Sogod for Social Preparation and Food for Trainees, LBP for Financial Literacy and Opening of ATM Accounts, and AFP’s 14IB for the RCSP and Security. BILIRAN Furthermore, for the province of Biliran, the target Barangay is Barangay Cabungaan at Naval town. The project amounting to P684,665 targets to benefit 50 farmers. The
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trainings include Organic Agriculture Production NC II/ and Masonry NCII for the cultivation of available vacant lots to vegetable and animal farms and for the construction of fishponds. Converging for this project are DA for Seed and Poultry/Swine, DTI for Entrepreneurship, DSWD for Social Preparation and Financial Assistance, BFAR for Fingerlings, LBP for Financial Literacy and Opening of ATM Accounts, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist for Provision of Vermi and Molasses and Naval Livelihood Skills Training Center for Training on HighValue Crops. The project duration is August to December 2020. (PIA-8)
The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force, in partnership with Executive Officer, Lt. Col. Sergio B. Sabiano Jr. (QMS) PA, 8th Forward Service Support Unit (8FSSU) of the Philippine Army, donated one (1) Portable Hand Washing equipment at Daniel Z Romualdez Airport, Tacloban City on July 8, 2020. The said hand washing equipment was received by Mr. Deorico G. Ellema Jr., Airport Manager 8. This will be utilized at the arrival area of the said airport which is a mandatory requirement imposed by DOH.
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Southern Leyte launches COVID-19 recovery program 18
July 1-15, 2020
By:Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos
MAASIN CITY -- The Provincial Government of Southern Leyte on Friday, July 10, launched a COVID-19 recovery program dubbed “Pangandam sa Bag-ong Panahon” (Preparing for the New Normal), due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting different sectors of society in the province including locally stranded individuals (LSIs) and returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs). Provincial Planning and Development Officer Ida Sy-Monzon in her report said the program is designed to spur the local economy, strengthen food sufficiency and will serve as a stopgap measure for displaced workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs presented during the launching activity include the Emergency Employment, Food Security, Food Sufficiency and Manpower Re-engineering programs. Under the Emergency Employment Program, the provincial government include local roads maintenance project with an estimated cost of P42 million; fruit tree growing project costing P26,961,000; afforestation project costing P390,000; and Community Tilapia Production with a total cost of P325,000. The Food Security Program entails the development of 580 hectares of land for the establishment of high value crops plantation throughout the province with an estimated cost of P65,362,400 for the intensive agriculture production, hogstel and bangus in fish cage projects. The Manpower and Reengineering Program, Bag-ong Abilidad sa Bag-ong Normal Project with a total cost of P4 million was conceptualized to allow displaced individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic acquire new skills to gain employment and to provide technical assistance for any TESDA-related
certification. The Food Sufficiency Program, which includes Kitchen Garden Project, supports the Plant, Plant, Plant Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) aimed to help ensure food sufficiency for all Southern Leyteños. Sy-Monzon said that the recovery plan of the province aims to provide emergency and temporary employment to target beneficiaries, provide income and enable them to attain employable skills and attain food security. The launching activity was led by Gov. Damian G. Mercado with DA-8 Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez. The activity was also participated in by some municipal mayors, provincial and local officials, and the local media. (ldl/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
S. Leyte guv seeks village officials’ help to monitor ‘uncoordinated’ returning residents MAASIN CITY -- Governor Damian Mercado of Southern Leyte is seeking the support of barangay officials in monitoring any uncoordinated returning residents in the province amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I call on the help of our barangay officials to monitor uncoordinated return of LSIs and OFWs in their respective barangays,” Mercado reiterating his call recently. They knew best what is happening within their barangay, who these local residents are that come in and out in their area of responsibility, he added. “All these barangay officials need to do is to report to their rural health unit personnel and local officials of returning residents who go directly to their homes when they are supposed to undergo 14-day quarantine upon arrival,” he said. Mercado underscored that this is the only chance for these returning residents to properly observe the health protocols to avoid local transmission of COVID-19. The province’s Executive Order No. 33, series of 2020, Repatriated Overseas Filipino (ROFs) will present completion of the 14-day quarantine and certificate of negative confirmatory test
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COVID-19 patients are covered with health insurance -- PhilHealth 8 By:Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- “As a financial risk protection agency, the Philippine health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) provides health insurance benefits for all COVID-19 patients, regardless of their premium payment status,” said PhilHealth 8 Regional Vice-President for Eastern Visayas, Michael Jibson Hernandez. According to Hernandez in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Regional Director Olive Tiu during the “Suruswerte ha PIA” radio program, this health benefit is on top of the existing PhilHealth insurance coverages for other health problems. “During the time when the pandemic was emerging in the country, we issued PhilHealth Advisory No. 022 which provided that PhilHealth will pay all hospitalization costs to all COVID patients admitted from February to April 14, 2020,” he
said. He added that from April 15 onwards, they issued another circular classifying COVID patients into four categories. For patients with mild pneumonia and confined at levels 1-3 hospitals, they can avail of P43,997 health coverage. For moderate pneumonia caused by COVID complications, P143,326 is the entitlement benefit. Severe pneumonia at level 2 or 3 hospitals on the other hand, a maximum of P333,519 can be availed of, and P786,384 for critical cases. In the region, there were claims already pending documentary requirements, particularly at the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center or EVRMC and Divine Word (DWU) Hospital as identified COVID facilities. The PhilHealth official also disclosed that in efforts to sustain the operations of the hospitals, the office has implemented the Interim Reimbursement Mechanism where the office gives advance payment to the hospitals with an average computed amount of the last three months. This is to ensure that medical needs are well provided. He said a total of
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P150-M was released to EVRMC and P35-M for DWU Hospital. Another intervention the PhilHealth has offered according to its official, is the Community Isolation Benefit Package where they give P22,449 to isolation facilities with quarantined asymptomtic COVIDpositive or suspected individuals. This is to help unburden local government units. However, the health insurance office stressed that only isolation facilities certified by the Department of Health and accredited by PhilHealth can avail of the said package. “As of today, we have already 11 COVID isolation units all over the region with approved accreditation from PhilHealth, to include the provincial hospitals and isolation centers in the municipalities”, Hernandez said. He added, “We are encouraging LGUs to have their identified isolation units certified by DOH, so as to avail of this package, though many have already submitted for accreditation”. As to COVID testing processes, health insurance coverage is also being offered but only for those with mild symptoms, history of travel, exposure or contact to COVID-positive cases. Health workers exposed to COVID patients are also entitled to this benefit. Covered rates, however, varies. Per PhilHealth, for services, machines and test kits subsidized by the government, an amount of P3,409 will be paid per test. If test kit is donated, the amount to be paid by the office is P2,077. For test kit and laboratory sponsored by the national government, PhilHealth will pay P901, but if all services and supplies are procured by the testing laboratory, a coverage of P3,409 is provided. Hernandez likewise informed public that their office had offered premium moratorium to all members and employers for the months
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“COVD-19 patients.” continued from page 19
of March, April and May, without penalties and interests. “For employers who have closed shops during the lockdown, no collection of premiums will be imposed, however, they have to inform us through required documents with forms downloadable from the Philhealth website,” Hernandez added. “Same is applicable to member employees who have not paid their premiums for reason of losing jobs. They have to inform the office also by filling-up PhilHealth forms and secure certificates of no employment from their employers. For voluntary members with no income during the health crisis, a certificate of indigency from the social welfare office maybe presented,” according to Hernandez. (LDL/GTT/ PIA-Leyte)
“Cebuano news.” continued from page 13
niya. “Ang mga specimen gikan sa Southern Leyte pagadalhon ngadto sa buhatan sa Eastern Visayas Regional COVID-19 Testing Center og kinahanglan nga maka-abot kini sa dili pa ang cut-off nga oras sa matag ala-una sa palis,” matud niya. Sumala sa eskedyul sa DOH8, aduna lamang duha ka adlaw, Lunes og Huwebes ang pag proseso sa mga specimen sa COVID-19 swab tests ang gitagana alang sa Southern Leyte didto sa regional testing center, hinungdan nga dugay ang panahon sa paghulat sa mga resulta, dugang pahayag ni Gov. Mercado. (esg/PIA8 Soleyte)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA THE RETURNEES’ PORTFOLIO: Isang sulyap sa mga nagbalik-loob By: Olive P. Tiu
Dalawang batang babaeng Amasona ang na-rescue ng mga tauhan ng 14th Infantry Battalion noong ika- 12 ng Hunyo, ika-122 na Anibersaryo ng Araw ng Kalayaan. Hindi na makayanan ang matinding pagod at hirap ng walang kabuluhang pakikibaka sa kagubatan, sina AKA Ermie, 19 na taong gulang na babaeng kasapi ng NPA at ang kanyang 17 na taong gulang na kapatid na babae, si Shane, isa ring kasapi ng NPA, ay nagpasyang tumakas. Sa gitna ng malalim at madilim na gabi, mabilis na tumakas ang dalawa, papalayo sa mga kasamahan nila sa bundok, iniwan ang kanilang mga magulang na parehong kasapi din sa mapang-abusong NPA. Nakarating sila sa Barangay Pinamunuan, Mahaplag, Leyte kung saan, sa kabutihang palad, sila ay na rescue ng mga elemento ng 14th Infantry Battalion sa ilalim ng 8th Infantry Division ng Philippine Army, na pinamumunuan ni Lt. Col. Roberto Obaob. Ang mga batang amasona ay nagsurender ng isang 1911
caliber .45 na baril, isang magazine at pitong (7) ammunition. Sa panayam ng Philippine Information Agency sa dalawang rebel returnees, sinabi nila na sila ay na-recruit noong sila ay mga menor de edad pa lamang, pinangakuang papag-aaralin hanggang makatapos ng kurso, pangakong napako at lip service lamang. ng nakababatang si Shane ay sa Naval sumali samantalang si Ermie ay sa Hindang sumali. Si Shane ay nakasali sa medikal at si Ermie ay sa politikal na trabaho. Mahirap daw ang pagkain sa bundok at kagubatan, umaasa lang sila sa masa. Wala din daw silang pera. Wala din silang permanenteng tirahan dahil takbo lang sila ng takbo. Takot na maabutan ng mga sundalo ng gobyerno. Nag-usap daw sila ng kanilang mga magulang. Kinumbinse nila ang mga ito na umalis na sa kilusan, subalit hindi pumayag ang kanilang tatay. Itatakwil daw niya sila kung sila ay umalis. Pero iniisip nila ang kanilang kinabukasan. Tinakot daw sila na
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Eastern Samar tourist site opens for Estehanon tourists only By: Reden D. Tangara
BORONGAN CITY --The Minasangay Island Ecological Park of Balangkayan, Eastern Samar is now open for the people of Eastern Samar, Mayor Allan Contado said in an interview with the Borongan City Press club on July 4, 2020. The said tourist destination has been opened since May 16, 2020 after the National IATF guidelines (Section 7, paragraph 5) was issued. The IATF stated that the LGU is given the power to regulate the tourism industry. The Department of Tourism (DOT) also respects IATF rules. “We believe na ang beach kailangan yan ng tao, para lumakas ang immune system,” Mayor Contado said. “Our biggest income comes from Minasangay Island, we cannot afford to close this one,” Contado added. There are 30 employees that maintain the eco-park. Based on the 2019 record, there were 100 thousand tourist arrival with P4-M income. “We are so happy about it, this resort is family-friendly, kahit low tide or high tide puede maligo, ‘yung mga bata safe dito. May mga natural rock-formations dito na hindi ka mapupunta sa
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “S. Leyte guv.” continued from page 18
from accredited DOH testing center while LSIs (locally stranded individuals) need to comply with Medical Health Certificate from the City/ Municipal Health Officer and Travel Authority from the place of origin. Upon arrival in the province, both ROFs and LSIs shall be subjected to 14-day quarantine at the designated municipal or barangay isolation units where LSIs will be subjected to Rapid Diagnostic Test. The EO further stated that the concerned local government unit shall provide food and basic necessities of these OFWs while on quarantine period. Regular health monitoring shall be strictly conducted. The uncoordinated ROFs/ LSIs physically stranded at provincial borders shall be assisted by the checkpoints’ health personnel to coordinate with the LGU concerned. The LGU shall accept and place them in quarantine area and be subjected to RDT/PCR test. (ldl/ esg/PIA 8 - S. Leyte) The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force headed by its Group Commander, Lt. Col. Ann Marie T. Gerodiaz, participated in the live streaming of PAF Anniversary Mass on July 1, 2020.
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address not only the need of quarantine facilities for the COVID-19 patients, returning overseas Filipino workers and locally stranded individuals but also the need for accommodation facilities of our medical frontliners,” she added. During the recent provincial inter-agency task force meeting, Gov. Damian Mercado announced that Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Romualdez, through the office of Roger Mercado, had donated 10 units quarantine buildings designed for medical practitioners. The same information was aired by the governor in his remarks during the 60th anniversary celebration of the province, noting that the remaining six (6) other units would be geographically distributed in other locations to serve clusters of municipalities. Meanwhile, construction of the four concrete structures at the SOYMPH compound in barangay Dongon is being fast-tracked and targeted to be completed on August 30, 2020. Once completed, the facility will be operated by SOYMPH and personnel from the Department of Health (DOH), the DPWH-SLDEO report further said. (ldl/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 1-15, 2020
LGU Catarman launches Agri Fair 2020 By: Ailene N. Diaz
CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The province’s capital town, Catarman, launched its Agri Fair 2020 on Saturday, July 11, at the Bagsakan Market, Organic Agriculture Center, Catarman Land Transport Terminal. “These products came from the farms in the barangays of Catarman. The Bagsakan Center is an answered plea of the farmers where they can display their produce and share their harvest, the fruit of their toil, sweat and hard work,” said Municipal Agriculturist Myrna Lucero. Speaking before the vendor-farmers and marketers, Vice Mayor Butch Bonsol in her message encouraged Nortehanons, Catarmananons in particular, to buy and promote local products as a way of helping local farmers and fisherfolks sustain their livelihood amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The products in the agri fair are all organic and fresh from the farm, from green leafy vegetables to livestocks and marine products, available at a very low and affordable prices. Ms. Rachel Arnaiz,
“NNC-8 encourages.” continued from page 10
program with Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Regional Director Olive Tiu. Dotollo added there is a need to stimulate the communities in the region and emphasize the issue on child stunting as one of the indicators for child malnutrition. “We have to encourage our local government units and other stakeholders from the regional down to the barangay level, to invest on concrete and budgeted activities with proper monitoring, in order to minimize, if not totally eradicate DepEd extends enrollthis health issue. This is among the ment period until July 15 global health problems that need proper intervention,” the NNC-8 By: Olive P. Tiu chief added. PALO, Leyte -- The Department of It was also learned during Education (DepEd) has extended the discussions that of Region 8’s the enrollment period for public total record for child stunting, and elementary schools until July 30 percent or 1 out of 3 children 15. below five years old are stunted, This is to accommodate a number closer to the national students who were not able to data which is 33 percent based on enroll via online enrolment. the Expanded National Nutrition Leyte DepEd Division Survey conducted in 2018. Superintendent Manuel Albaño, In the region, Dotollo said during the Province of Leyte Inter- that the province of Samar has Agency Task Force on COVID-19 the most number of cases, which meeting said enrollment period maybe attributed to the terrain or continued on page 23 geographical location of the area, with Southern Leyte having the least recorded cases. During the program, Dotollo likewise stressed the importance of the first 1000 days of children, enjoining public especially information officer of LGU Catarman said the Agri Fair 2020 will be open every weekend, Saturdays and Sundays, from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. The agri fair is anchored on the theme, “Paghatag Pasidungog san mga Parag-uma ngan Paragpangisda. Bisan Pandemya diri nababaraka kay an uma puno sin tanom, ngan lamesa permi puno san pagkaon.” (LDL/ ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “THE RETURNEES’” continued from page 20
capacity.) Contado said. Medical certificate is not required. “Para sa amin sa local papatayin sila ng mga sundalo. IATF, kahit mag-present ng medi Hindi naman daw totoo, cal certificate, hindi namin mamababait daw ang mga sundalo. gagamit ‘yan , unless the person Hindi kagaya ng NPA na mabait is swabbed, na hindi siya positive,” lang sa umpisa. Contado added. Ang kanilang dasal na sana Mayor Contado believes bumaba na rin ang kanilang mga that the province is free from this magulang para magsama-sama sila virus, but should not be the reason na buong pamilya. to be complacent. The mayor Sa ngayon, si Ermie at Shane believes that, Eastern Samar is a ay tinutulungan para maka-avail sila low-risk area, based on available sa E-CLIP na programa ng gobyerdata. no para sa mga rebel returnees. “We can beat this virus Kinundena naman ng 14IB through self-discipline,” said ang teroristang NPA sa pang-aabuso Mayor Contado. (RDT/with at pagsira sa kinabukasan ng mga Borongan City Press Club) kabataan. Ang mensahe in Lt. Col. “DepEd extends” continued Obaob sa mga magulang nila Ermie from page 22 at Shane: Bumaba na rin sila at sumuko para magbagong buhay was supposed to have ended on kasama ng mga anak nila. Sa ibang June 30. mga magulang, “Protektahan ninyo From July 1-15, enrolment ang inyong mga anak laban sa will be done with the help of the exploytasyon at mapanlinlang na barangays. Enrolment forms will recruitment ng mga NPA,” dagdag be delivered to the barangays and pa ni Obaob. (PIA-8) the barangay officials will deliver the forms to the students, Dr. “Eastern Samar tourists’” Albaño said. continued from page 20 Citing the latest data, the malayong lugar,” Contado stated. DepEd Leyte head said that of the Contado said that even if the country is facing this COVID-19 health issue, the socio-economic issue should also be considered. The local IATF also agreed to open the Minasangay for the people of Eastern Samar only, provided health protocols are being followed once inside the park. “Pagsumulod ka, kinahanglan naka-facemask, ngan mag observe social distancing. Then capacity lang ng resort dapat ang papapasukin, hindi yung puno talaga,” (Once inside, one must wear facemask and observe social distancing. Then we only allow just enough tourists, not more than its
July 1-15, 2020
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total 383,628 enrollees for elementary and high school last year, only 223,796 are currently enrolled as of June 15, 2020. For Elementary, only 122,045 have enrolled compared to that of last year’s 219,787. Meanwhile, for High School level, only 101,751 have enrolled compared to last year’s 163,841 enrollees. The threat of Covid-19 prompted the DepEd to shift to distance learning, where students do not have to go to school to avoid getting the virus. The Education department has proposed blended learning, like online and modular learning, and tapping radio and television networks to ensure the delivery of lessons for the coming school year that begins on Aug. 24. Face-to-face classes will not be held until a COVID-19 vaccine is available. (PIA-8)
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July 1-15, 2020
“3 EV cops...” continued from page 9 EV-629 is being quarantined at Maulong Quarantine facility, Catbalogan, Samar. As of 7 p.m. on July 15, DOH-8 reported a total of 656 COVID-19 cases in the region, of which, 610 or 93 percent have recovered with and three deaths. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
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parents to give focus on this, as this is a very crucial period for the children’s growth and development. “The first 1000 days is very important. This is considered a critical window of opportunity because the services intended for them are already
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA in place even before birth,” he said. “It is also during the first three months of these children where their development should be taken cared of and there are services needed especially for brain development,” he added. In addition, Dotollo also gave recognition to the Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) for their active role in ensuring good health not only for children, but for the general populace, as well. “These BNSs are our local heroes and health warriors in the field. They do the technical and administrative work just to promote good health and balanced nutrition among our people. From weight and height taking up to home visits and administration of health services, they can surely be trusted,” he said. According to Dr. Dotollo, there are at least 4,290 active barangay health workers in the region, with at least one per barangay. “These health workers are trained on basic health courses. Our office likewise offer them financial support such as 100 pesos per month, P5,000 medical assistance and P20,000 survivorship benefit. This is on top of the honorarium
the barangay is giving them of which amount depends on the budget of the barangay itself, or the support provided by the municipality or province,” according to Dotollo. He also informed that at present, the office is coordinating with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in institutionalizing the training needs of these health workers. “TESDA will now be the one to train them so that they could gain national competencies like NC I or NC II, which they could use if ever they land in other related jobs,” he said. Meanwhile, PIA through the initiative of Director Olive Tiu, has launched the “Kusina ha PIA” during the “Suruswerte ha PIA” program. This is a series of cooking demonstrations with food cooked by Director Tiu herself, considering that July marks the Nutrition Month and the cooking events are being done to recognize NNC’s efforts in promoting proper nutrition. “We believe in the NNC’s advocacy for good nutrition. As a humble gesture of recognition, we are launching the “Kusina ha PIA”, where we can help promote nutritious foods with minimal budget,” Director Tiu said. NNC Director Catalino Dotollo assured public that the government is implementing priority programs for the health and nutrition of the people, such as food security and provision of health services. (LDL/GTT/PIA-Leyte)