An Rehiyon Ocho Yana September 16-30, 2020

The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC

VOL II NO. 18

September 16-30, 2020

BFAR-8 CONTINUES SUPPORT TO FISHERFOLKS, ENCOURAGESAQUACULTURE PRODUCTION By: Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 8 (BFAR-8) during its celebration of the Fish Conservation Week on September 14-18, 2020, has emphasized its support to the fisherfolks, and likewise encouraged fishery enthusiasts to go into aquaculture production.

BFAR-8 OIC-Regional Director Norberto Berida in an interview with Regional Director Olive Tiu of the Philippine Information Agency during the Suruswerte ha PIA radio program, said the celebration which was mandated through Presidential Proclamation No. 316, was in consonance with the National Maritime Day also celebrated every month of September, so with the awareness and consciousness on maritime and archipelagic issues, and likewise on the concerns along with the International Clean-up Day.

With this year’s theme,

“Karagatan ay Pangalagaan, Upang Makalmit ang Ani at Kita Kahit Nasa Gitna ng Pandemang Hamon ng Bayan,” the activities conducted for the week started with the video message of BFAR Secretary William Dar. Other activities according to Director Berida included the zoom and facebook live presentations on fisheries management in the region, seaweeds farming and technology, illegal undocumented and unrecorded fishing, and mammal stranding, which were aired every afternoon on a daily basis.

The office has also conducted the e-Kadiwa fish selling known as “Isdalivery,” wherein fish products were sold online and delivered free of charge. However, said type of fish selling has been limited for home consumption with buyers allowed only up to five kilos of fish products, and likewise intended for Tacloban residents only.

“We were just helping our fisherfolks who were mostly from the provinces of Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran and Southern Leyte, considering the difficulty in transporting and selling their products due to some protocols set to avoid the spread of Covid-19,” Director Berida said.

Fish products sold according to the Director, were boneless bangus,

continued on page 12

Borongan CTF-ELCAC’s ‘Cum Dul-ong Serbisyo’ reaches Benowangan, Hebacong villages By: PIA-8 w/ 801 IB, PA TACLOBAN CITY -- The Borongan City Task Force ELCAC in partnership with the 78th Infantry Battalion recently conducted Grand Pulong-Pulong and Serbisyo Caravan in the conflict-affected areas in Borongan City.

The City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (CTF-ELCAC) of Borongan led

by Honorable Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda, delivered essential government programs and services to the people of hinterland barangays of Benowangan and Hebacong both of Borongan City.

The City Task Force-ELCAC was ably supported by the 801st

continued on page 17

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA LGU-Matuguinao, 19IB Silago MTF-ELCAC leads Serbisyo Caravan, grand pulong-pulong for 3 upland barangays coin new meaning for By: Marcelo Pedalino COVID-19 2

September 16-30, 2020

By: PIA-8 with 19th IB, PA

MATUGUINAO, Samar -Counter-Operation against Violence and Insurgency towards Development together with the 19th IB or COVID-19. This is the meaning of COVID-19 as coined by the Local Government of Matuguinao and the 19th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

Through this program, the Local Government of Matuguinao, Samar led by Mayor Arandela Cruz Boller and the 19th Infantry Battalion led by acting commanding officer, Lt. Col. Jasper Justito M. Pecson, conduct series of barangay visitations to far-flung areas of the municipality.

Per information from the 19th IB, after almost two decades, the geographically isolated and depressed areas (GIDAs) of barangay San Isidro, Sta. Cruz, Salvacion, Nagpapacao and Libertad were among the first sets of barangays visited in August and early September of this year by the LGU through the program dubbed as “Kamurayawan: Ugnayan sa Barangay,” one of the LGU’s Counter-Operation against Violence and Insurgency towards Development together with 19IB (COVID-19) strategies.

The visiting team included members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Department Heads, personnel from Matuguinao Municipal Police Station, 1st Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company of Samar Provincial Police, PRO8 and 19IB.

The program aims to conduct visitation to all GIDAs in order to listen to the residents and see first-hand the situation of

BRGY. CATMON, Silago, Southern Leyte -- The Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) spearheaded a gathering of various government agencies in this remote village, delivering basic health services, then listening and responding to issues the people raised.

The convergence effort held on Friday, Sept. 25 was called “Serbisyo Caravan and Grand conflict-affected areas due to the presence of communist terrorist group, conduct information awareness on the government programs, and solicit issues/concerns and recommendations to improve their living conditions.Dialogues and consultations were conducted with the local leaders and populace to solicit pressing issues in their community. Simultaneous with the activity, a feeding program and parlor games were also participated by the children of the community. (PIA-8 with 19th IB, PA)

Pulong-Pulong,” and it was participated by several national line agencies like TESDA, DOLE, DTI, BFAR, DOST, PCA, DENR, DA, PhilFIDA, NICA, DILG, DOH, representatives from the academe, and PIA.

Also present were officials and heads of offices of Silago LGU headed by Mayor Pacita Almine, chair of the MTF-ELCAC, and provincial offices such as the Provincial Agriculture Services Office (PAgSO) and the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Office (PENRMO).

Elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army were also around, the former headed by PLt. Col Paulito Sabulao of the PNP’s community affairs unit, and the latter led by BGen. Zosimo Oliveros, commander, 802nd Brigade, and Lt. Col. Roberto Obaob, commanding officer, 14IB, 8ID.

People from the neighboring barangays of Imelda and Katipunan, and the host barangay of Catmon, along with their respective officials, availed of the free medical consultation with free medicines, dental, tooth extraction services, tuli or circumcision, the rites to

continued on page 14

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Borongan TF ELCAC sails to distant barangay to usher through ‘Dul-ong Serbisyo’ caravan By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The Borongan City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) on Sunday sailed to Brgy. Pinanag-an, a distant barangay in the Suribao River, to bring a truckload of services through a “Dul-ong Serbisyo” caravan.

The activity was led by Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda which also ushered a dialogue or pulong-pulong consultation.

According to Mayor Agda, the activity aims to bring the government closer to the people.

“This Dul-ong Serbisyo” caravan is one of the program of the city government to deliver the basic services to the people in the far-flung barangays by bringing the city government to barangays and to hear the sentiments or the issues and concerns of a particular barangay,” Mayor Agda said.

He disclosed that the said activity was conducted with free services like medical and dental consultation, mass wedding, haircut and circumsition.

In response to the mandate, other national government agencies attended the said activity such as DTI, DepEd, DENRPENRO/CENRO, and TESDA which also brought various services of the government.

DTI brought information on business entrepreneurship, DepEd talked on free education and psychological first aid to the grade school pupils and relayed the mechanics of distant learning.

The DENR-PENROCENRO talked about the free land titling, while TESDA talked on livelihood training and the different TESDA NC-II courses.

Brgy. Pinanag-an is considered a hotspot where communist rebel movement and activities have been reported.

September 16-30, 2020

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4 ELCAC priority barangays in S. Leyte get P20-M each to fund local projects By: Erna S. Gorne

MAASIN CITY -- Some four ELCAC priority barangays based in Bontoc, Southern Leyte will benefit from the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) funds next year.

The four upland barangays – Pamigsi-an, Olisihan, Hitawos and Hila-an – are recipients of P20 million each to fund projects for implementation in 2021, said Provincial RCSP Focal Person Jhonel Anavesa during the Barangay Development Planning held at the Bontoc Municipal Hall on September 21.

Assisted by personnel from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Office, who joined via virtual meeting, the continued on page 13 groups were guided in the analysis of priority projects according to the RCSP menu of projects set

by DILG Central Office.

During the planning-workshop, the respective members of the barangay development and barangay peace and order councils were made to analyze and prioritize local projects that are responsive to the needs of their localities.

As an off-shoot, the participants identified common local projects like the construction of farm-to-market roads and bridge, rehabilitation of dilapidated concrete roads, opening of new roads, expanding to Level III water systems, rehabilitation of abaca plantations, construction of classrooms, among others.

continued on page 13

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September 16-30, 2020

Alleged NPA member nabbed in Anahawan By: Samuel D. Candido

TACLOBAN CITY -- An alleged NPA member was nabbed in Anahawan, Southern Leyte in the morning of September 23, 2020.

Report coming from the 802nd Infantry Brigade said that a certain Renato Rodriguez was apprehended in Brgy. Calintaan, Anahawan, Southern Leyte after a joint AFP-PNP Task Force operation.

The arrest was conducted by the combined elements of the Southern Leyte Police Mobile Force Company, Anahawan Municipal Police Office, and the 14th Infantry Battalion by virtue of two (2) Warrants of Arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in San Juan, Southern Leyte for the crime of murder and frustrated murder.

Rodriguez aka ALEX/MAO was a member of the Southern Leyte Front Committee, a CPP-NPA unit operating in Leyte and Southern Leyte Provinces. He was allegedly involved in the different atrocities perpetrated by the NPA in the ‘90s against innocent civilians and government forces in the area.

Captured from his possession during the arrest were: one (1) homemade shotgun with four (4) live ammunition; and one (1) long bladed weapon. (PIA-8/802IB)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

LGU Borongan ushers ‘Serbisyo Caravan’ By: Samuel D. Candido

BORONGAN CITY -- The Local Government Unit of Borongan through the leadership of Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda complied with Executive Order No, 70 through the “Serbisyo Caravan” which delivered the basic services to far-flung barangays in Benowangan and Hebacong.

Executive Order No. 70 institutionalizes the ‘whole-of-nation’ approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace through the creation of the national task force to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC). It was President Duterte who directed the creation of TF ELCAC. This aims to prioritize and harmonize the delivery of basic services and social development package of the government.

According to Mayor Agda, this is the second of a series caravan which highlighted the medical and dental mission in the priority barangays.

“The first of a series of caravan was held in Barangay Pinanagan,“ Mayor Agda said

The Mayor disclosed that the team’s effort to visit and consult the people of Barangay Benowangan and Hebacong is a by-product of some discussions made earlier between and amongst government officials, some military personnel who performed immersion activities called the retooled community support program (CRSP) in these remote barangays, from which some common problems were raised.

“Asya hin amon pagkanhi ha

iyo, para iduhol namon hin personal an mga kabatonan, por lo menus an mga impormasyon o direksyon kun papatiunan-on namon matatagan hin solusyon an mga panguna niyo nga mga problema,” (This is why we came here to extend the social services and information that may address your concerns.) Mayor Agda explained.

The Chief Executive also noted that government programs are said and promised to be delivered to rural areas only during election campaigns, such that theirs’ “become land of promise” and whenever winners are declared, they barely return to fulfill their promises.

“These unfulfilled promises sometimes become the root cause of unending poverty and insurgency,” Mayor Agda stressed.

He, however, vowed to end the problem and give a solution to it.

He announced that a road opening from Barangay Canyupay to Hebacong area will take effect

by October this year, and this will pave the road towards Barangay Benowangan and by 2022, the road will be in place from Hebacong to Benowangan.

The Mayor also acknowledged the sincerity to the sworn duties of the men in uniform, the military, and the PNP who “walk the talk” with him in the campaign to eliminate poverty in the barangays in the city and establish the long-term peace and order through peaceful means.

In the “Serbisyo Caravan” BGen. Camilo Z. Ligayo, Brigade Commander of the 81st Brigade; Lt. Col. Oliver C. Alvior, Commanding Officer of the 78IB, 8ID; and P/ Lt. Douglas Antonio B. Eloja, PNP Chief of Borongan City,

continued on page 23

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020

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Usa ka bakery natukod sa ELCAC priority barangay sa Southern Leyte By: Erna S. Gorne

International women peace group highlights Peace thru virtual conduct of Women’s Peace Network Forum

MAASIN CITY -- Human sa pagpailalom og pagbansay-bansay sa buhatan sa Technical By: Olive P Tiu Education and Skills Development TACLOBAN CITY -- The Culture of Peace. She challenged the Authority (TESDA) – Southern International Women’s Peace Group women leaders to consider creating Leyte Provincial Office, usa ka commemorated the National Peace a women communicators network bakery ang natukod sa prayoridad Consciousness Month & International who would advocate peace, truth nga mga barangay sa Pamigsi-an Day of Peace, through the conduct and never share misinformation and og Olisihan, pulos sa lungsod sa of a virtual Women Peace Forum disinformation.

Bontoc, Southern Leyte. on September 19 from 2 o’clock to 4

Meanwhile, Mayor Elizabeth

Sumala kang TESDA o’clock in the afternoon.

Mangudadatu Tayuan of the town of Provincial Director Elizabeth

Ms. April Otadoy, the execMangudadatu, Maguindanao, disGarcia atol sa Media Briefing utive director of IWPG Philippines cussed Enhancing the Role of Women kaniadtong Miyerkules, Septembre said that peace forum via Zoom was Promoting the Culture of Peace and 16, 2020, ang mga lumulopyo sa dubbed as “Enhancing the Role of Women’s Rights. maong mga barangay una nga Women in Promoting a Culture of

In her welcome remarks, Ms. nagtumbok sa Bread and Pastry og Peace.”

Otadoy said “We are women! We have mga construction related nga mga

Participated in by women an important role and responsibility skills trainings ang gipangayo nila. peace advocates from all over the to make this world a better place.”

Ang maong duha ka bacountry, the Women Peace Forum

The participants who are all rangay maoy prayoridad nga mga featured three women leaders who women leaders believe that in its small barangay ubos sa pagpatuman sa talked on various issues surrounding way, IWPG will achieve world peace Executive Order 70 kon Whole of Peace. through the hearts of all mothers.

Nation Approach sa pakig-bugno

Ms. Sholai Lim, the chair IWPG is the gathering of batok sa insurhensiya kon End person of Provincial Women women who embrace the world with Local Communist Armed Conflict Development Council of Davao De maternal hearts to make peace. They (ELCAC), ang programa nga Oro talked about the Role of Women all have a mutual goal of leaving Peace gi-umol ni Presidente Rodrigo in Promoting a Culture of Peace. as a legacy to the future generation.

Roa Duterte, dugang pahayag ni

The second speaker was Ms.

The IWPG is working with Garcia.

Erlinda Olivia “Olive” Tiu, director of 200 branches around the globe and

Dugang pasabot niya the Philippine Information Agency 100 affiliated groups to ensure peace nga ang maong pagkatukod og in Eastern Visayas and secretary of and security of all women around the usa ka bakery gi-abagan usab sa the National Federation of Women’s world. buhatan sa Department of Labor Clubs of the Philippines, who talked

The IWPG has been holding and Employment (DOLE), kinsa about the Role of Women Media/ seminars, conferences, walk festivals continued on page 13 Communicators in Promoting a continued on page 15

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September 16-30, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Gov’t troops capture 3 NPA terrorists, seize ID cards of Anakpawis Partylist and TabangSinirangan Bisayas in Leyte By: 802nd IB, 8ID KANANGA, Leyte -- Acting on the tip provided by a concerned citizen, government troops belonging to the 93rd Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division encountered about 10 NPA terrorists led by communist terrorist Juanito Selleza Jr. a.k.a.

TIBOR at Sitio Kawayan, Brgy. Rizal, Kananga, Leyte on September 13, 2020 around 7 p.m.

The NPA terrorists were seen speaking to a group of people, and children as the government troops were closing in, the terrorists open fire prompting the former to seek cover and maneuver as they cannot immediately return fire for fear that the children will be caught in crossfire. Exchange of fire ensued after the government troops saw a window of opportunity. The NPA terrorists retreated towards the northern mountainous portion of the barangay using the children as the human shield.

In the course of pursuing the CNTs, government troops captured three communist terrorists who were left behind by their comrades. Two were males while one was a newly recruited 14-year-old female.

Recovered from their position are: one (1) caliber .45 pistol with magazine and live ammunitions, oral lady contraceptives, Anakpawis Partylist ID cards, Tabang Sinirangan Bisayas personal ID, subversive documents and other personal belongings.

The government forces, on the other hand, incurred one casualty who was immediately brought to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.

Brigadier General Zosimmo A. Oliveros, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, condemns in the strongest terms the act of treachery by left-leaning partylist organizations

who continue to assist and condone the terroristic acts of the New People’s Army and the utter disregard on the welfare of children. Brigadier General Oliveros further calls for the unity of all sectors of the society in this part of Leyte, including the Makabayan Bloc to once and for all put an end to the horrors of insurgency and contribute to the peace and development of the country. (802nd IB, 8ID)

PCOO chief lauds Tacloban’s efforts in fight against Covid-19 By: Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) congratulated Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez for the city’s notable efforts in the fight against Covid-19 during the September 21 episode of Laging Handa Network Briefing.

According to Secretary Andanar, Tacloban has seen a sharp decline in the number of daily confirmed Covid-19 cases from the first week of September up to the present.

“Aside from placing the city under the General Community Quarantine status from September 1-30, we have also noticed the good practices implemented in the city such as the utilization of hotels as isolation centers, the implementation of the Tacloban Safe City Application using the QR codes, and the empowering of barangay officials through the establishment of the Hyper Local Measures Kontra Covid,” Secretary Andanar said.

Grateful for the acknowledgement, Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez said during the program that hotels are suitable for isolation as these are complete with the needed facilities.

According to him, this is also a sort of hitting two birds with one stone, considering the use of the entire hotel at a very large discount for isolating Covidprobabale individuals, and at the same time helping the business community.

“When certain individuals

continued on page 15

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Catbalogan City’s ‘Chatbalogan’ offers innovative talk show By: Golda Meir T. Tabao

CATBALOGAN CITY -- The City Government of Catbalogan has

Gov’t troops capture 3 NPA terrorists, seize ID cards of Anakpawis Partylist and TabangSinirangan Bisayas in Leyte By: 802nd IB, 8ID KANANGA, Leyte -- Acting on the tip provided by a concerned citizen, government troops belonging to the 93rd Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division encountered about 10 NPA terrorists led by communist terrorist Juanito Selleza Jr. a.k.a. TIBOR at Sitio Kawayan, Brgy. Rizal, Kananga, Leyte on September 13, 2020 around 7 p.m.

The NPA terrorists were seen speaking to a group of people, and children as the government troops were closing in, the terrorists open fire prompting the former to seek cover and maneuver as they cannot immediately return fire for fear that the children will be caught in crossfire.

Exchange of fire ensued after the government troops saw a window of opportunity. The NPA terrorists retreated towards the

northern mountainous portion of the barangay using the children as the human shield.

In the course of pursuing the CNTs, government troops captured three communist terrorists who were left behind by their comrades. Two were males while one was a newly recruited 14-yearold female.

Recovered from their position are: one (1) caliber .45 pistol with magazine and live ammunitions, oral lady contraceptives, Anakpawis Partylist ID cards, Tabang Sinirangan Bisayas personal ID, subversive documents and other personal belongings.

The government forces, on the other hand, incurred one casualty who was immediately brought to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.

continued on page 15

September 16-30, 2020

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offered a Chatbalogan Program, an innovative talk show, as disclosed by Mr. Michael Tuazon, SK Federation President of the city during the September 21 episode of Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar.

“With Chatbalogan, guests are being invited to discuss on the updates of the different programs and projects of the government,” the SK Federation Chair said.

Chatbalogan is a talk show program which is not only informative but entertaining, as well.

The LGU has partnered with radio and cable television stations in the city for the simultaneous airing of the said program.

Through the different traditional media, Catbaloganons, whose areas have poor internet connection, may still keep themselves abreast of what is happening in the city.

Chatbalogan is also streamed online through its Facebook Page, Chatbalogan, which also aims to appeal the younger generation who are mostly using social media.

“The City likewise partnered with the Department of Education for the Chatbalogan Program,” Tuazon said.

In one of the Chatbalogan’s episode, Mayor Dexter Uy discussed that the city allocated funds for radio-based, television-based and modular instructions, to help the Department of Education and the students pursue learning in this time of pandemic.

As of the moment, Chatbalogan has temporarily halted the airing of its episodes due to the increasing number of COVID19 cases in the city but will resume once the virus is contained. (ldl/ gmt/PIA-Samar)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA DILG enjoins LGUs Frontliners, pandemic benefactors honored at to review Ordinances, Naval’s 160th Pueblo Day celeb By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz Executive Orders on Bilirann -- The local govwere among the national government movement of APORs NAVAL, ernment unit of Naval celebrated agencies honored for its remarkable 8

September 16-30, 2020

By: DILG-8

TACLOBAN CITY -- In response to reports of Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APORs) being hampered in the performance of their duties, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has released an Advisory from Undersecretary Epimaco V. Densing III, as well as issued a Regional Memorandum Circular 2020-035, to remind local government units (LGUs) to exercise prudence in implementing local policies to combat COVID-19.

DILG-8 Regional Director Karl Caesar R. Rimando said that the advisory dated September 11, 2020 reiterates the guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) particularly on the movement of cargoes, their drivers and helpers, and APORs under Executive Order 112 series of 2020, or the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine.

Dir. Rimando said the advisory reminds that movement of cargoes placed under any quarantine shall be unhampered. Workers shall be allowed to transit across areas placed under any form of community quarantine. All LGUs are directed to abide by the national

continued on page 20

its 160th Pueblo Day on September 26 with a simple program honoring frontliners and benefactors who helped ease the COVID-19 pandemic in the municipality.

In compliance to the InterAgency Task Force and DOH health protocols, attendance to the activity was limited to observe enough distance of participants at the municipal grounds where the program was held.

The highlight of the program was the awarding and recognition of individuals, groups and organizations which made commendable contributions to the municipality during this COVID-19 pandemic.

The honored awardees in the frontline included the Biliran Provincial Hospital, Naval Municipal Health Office, DOH-Human Resource for Health, Naval Rescue Unit (NAVRU), Naval Police Station, Naval Fire Protection Service, and all the 26 Barangay Health Emergency Teams (BHETs) of Naval.

The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), the Department of Education (DepEd)-Division of Biliran and its four districts in Naval, the Naval Central School and SPED Center, and Public Attorney’s Office

contributions.

Private sectors, and organizations recognized and awarded during the celebration were the MKB Construction, Balik Biliran Network, Fragoch Tourist Inn, Tingog Partylist, An Waray Partylist, Brotherhood of Catholic Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP), Knights of Columbus, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Alpha Phi Omega, Tau Gamma Phi, Alpha Kappa Rho, BNL Construction, Marian Store, NAP’S Game Farm, PCMC Family, Chona’s Boarding House, Danna’s Poultry, White Rose Commercial, FOGE Federation, Brgy. P. I. Garcia SK Federation and Naval Youth Club, Integrated Bar of the Philippines (Province of Biliran), Symon’s Bakeshop, Rosary and Tom’s Catering Services, Mount Panamao Bikers Association, N2Y Enterprises, and Sure Meds Pharmacy.

Twenty-three more individuals were recognized for their continuous support to Navaleños in cash and in kind throughout the pandemic.

The Pueblo Day has been for years, the kick-off for all the civic

continued on page 14

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

PNP pushes buy-bust operations against illegal drugs amid COVID-19 By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- Even as the Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to implement health protocols in the fight against the unseen enemy, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19), the fight against the “seen enemy” on illegal drugs goes on.

Police Colonel Dante Novicio, the new provincial PNP director, emphasized this point in a media briefing/Kapihan interview.

“Seventy (70) percent of the crimes committed are drugs-related,” PCol. Novicio said.

He reported that in his two months stay as the new PNP chief in the province, there were already 10 buy-bust operations conducted, two of which were bloody that resulted in the killing of the two high value individuals (HVI).

Novicio, who came from the Police Regional Office 8, assumed as provincial PNP director on July 22, taking the place of PCol. Nelson Eucogco, who was likewise transferred to PRO-8.

He said he was aware the Philippine Drugs Enforcement Agency (PDEA) had declared the whole province drug-cleared, but

September 16-30, 2020

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According to ASec Encabo, he will still need some information from the family for the coordination with the PMS and for the requirements needed for the returning LSIs to their provinces.

Meanwhile, Oras Mayor Viviane Alvarez said that Board Member Neil Alvarez will give Peter a Help from government job order contract and his family will pour to Peter, the viral be given livelihood. biker

LGU Oras will also provide a lot for Peter’s family at a relocation By: Reden D. Tangara site in Barangay Calauit, Oras while BORONGAN CITY -- Help from Sen. Bong Go will assist in the house Senator Bong Go, Presidential construction.

Management Staff through Asec

Peter Roncales, the viral biker Joseph Encabo, Oras Mayor Viviane who made waves when he biked from Alvarez, and Board Member Neil San Pedro, Laguna to E. Samar said Alvarez will be extended to Peter that he is also thankful to the people Roncales. who helped him make his travel easier

This is according to the PTV from Laguna to Matnog. segment Malasakit @ Work host According to Peter, some riders from Angelique Lazo on September 25, Luzon provided him help, the riders 2020. let him hitch a ride from their pick-up

PMS Asec Encabo will help truck at some point in his travel to Peter for the transportation of his Matnog. family from Laguna to E. Samar.

Peter is thankful for the riders whom he identified as Jay Katigbak, new players come in, so the police Jay also sought the help of his bikwent on conducting surveillance of er-friends to help Peter along the way. suspected drug dealers and users.

As he was to cross Matnog to Allen,

Meanwhile, Novicio expressed support to a bill introduced an army private whom Peter could not even identify asked a truck owner

by Senator Bato De La Rosa, the to give Peter a ride to cross to Samar. equal footing bill, which reduced Frontliners at the Taft border in the minimum height requirements Eastern Samar reported the situafor those wanting to join the ranks tion of the biker, whereupon Mayor of the PNP. Viviane Alvarez welcomed the

“Bigyan chance yung mga LSI who did not even possess any hindi pinagpala sa height,” the document.

Tagalog-speaking Novicio said of

“For humanitarian reasons, the proposed legislation, saying we accepted him, but we had to ask performance on the job cannot be measured by height but by the right people around if really Peter is from Oras,” Alvarez said. work attitude.

Presently, LGU Oras is doing

Once approved, the new some groundwork to accommodate height requirement will only be at the family of Peter in Oras, Peter least 5 feet and 2 inches for men meanwhile remains at the Quarantine from the previous 5 feet and 4 inches, and 5 feet for women, down Facility where he awaits the 14-day continued on page 13 quarantine period. (Reden D. Tangara PIA/E. Samar)

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September 16-30, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

DPWH-S. Leyte completes road leading to trade Use technology to better serve the public, says center By: Marcelo M. Pedalino CSC-Biliran chief HINUNANGAN, Southern Leyte -- The Department of Public Works and Highways – Southern Leyte District Engineering Office has finished construction of a vital road link in this municipality that connects agricultural producers to potential buyers.

In a report, the SLDEO stated that it completed construction of the P17 million, 1.2 kilometer access road that traversed the barangays Patong, Ilaya, Nava, and San Juan of this municipality.

Specifically, the road aims to link these communities to raw material consolidators of coconut oil producer SC Global and agribusiness firm Kennemer Foods International in Sogod town, the report said.

With the project finished, “we expect residents living along the alternative route to have a faster and easier way of transporting their agricultural goods to trade centers,” District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia was quoted as saying.

She added that her office had a convergence with the Department

of Trade and Industry (DTI) and identified sites that need access roads which, hopefully, can spur development in the communities and eventually contribute to the holistic increase of the provincial income.

The Hinunangan road link project began in February, its civil works regularly monitored to ensure on-time completion, DE Junia also said.

It was funded through the approved finance road projects leading to different industry and economic zones, also known as Roads Leveraging Linkages for Industry and Trade (ROLL IT) Program, a convergence of DTI and DPWH agencies, a scheme patterned after that of DOT-DPWH convergence program.

Hinunangan is a second class municipality, whose residents are dependent primarily on agricultural production, fisheries, coconut industry, rice production, livestock, and poultry. (ldl/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte, with SLDEO report)

By: Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, BILIRAN -- An official of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in Biliran province has called on the civil servants to deliver public service with the use of technology in the new normal as he guested at the PIA’s Pulong-pulong ng Bayan radio program over DYRN Naval on Friday, Sept. 18.

“Use technology to better serve the public,” said Rey Albert B. Uy, Director II of CSC-Biliran Field Office.

The call of the CSC Biliran chief was made in line with the 120th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary celebration this month of September with the theme, “Philippine Civil Service@120: Public Sector in the Age of Digital Transformation.”

Uy underscored the use of emerging technologies in the pursuit of efficient public service delivery and reminded civil servants to adopt and embrace these technologies.

Uy also said that the weekly sub-themes of the 120th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary celebration, which serve as guide for other government agencies, partners and stakeholders joining the celebration, are as follows: Week

continued on page 22

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020

11

Biliran guv expresses full support on antirabies program implementation By: Rodrigo S. Victoria

NAVAL, Biliran -- “Kung gusto nyo ng dog leash, bibigyan ko kayo. Kung gusto nyo nga dog collar, bibigyan ko kayo (If you want dog leash, I will provide you. If you want dog collar, I will provide you), said Biliran Governor Rogelio J. Espina in his message during the World Rabies Day Celebration held at the Naval Gymnasium on September 17.

Governor Espina made the statement after he was dismayed over the continuing incidence of positive canine rabies cases in the province since 2016 up to the present.

Based on the record of the Provincial Statistical Update on Rabies Program, the Province of Biliran was declared as RabiesFree Zone in 2012.

The status as a Rabies -Free Zone was not maintained when two positive canine rabies cases were recorded in 2016 in Almeria, Biliran on September 8, 2016 and in Kawayan, Biliran on October 9, 2016.

Two positive rabies cases were recorded each in 2017 and 2018, one in 2019, and six for 2020 with the last recorded positive rabies case in Atipolo, Naval on August 24.

Dialysis Center to bring new hope to kidney patients in Eastern Samar

By: Ninfa B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY -- Dialysis patients need not go to Tacloban patients will soon undergo their City where their exposure to the dialysis treatment at the Eastern virus is greater. Then they will not Samar Provincial Hospital before have to spend for food, transport the year ends. and other expenses.

This was disclosed by

“I feel their burden and ESPH Chief of Hospital, Dr. concern,” said Sabalberino menJessica Sabalberino, in a presscon tioning that she too had to accomon Sept. 28, 2020 at the ESPH pany her mom, a dialysis patient Malasakit Center. two to three times a week for the

The provincial government treatment. through the ESPH entered into an The doctor also informed agreement with a service provider the press people present that in the that can bring 20 dialysis macountry, there are more Dialysis chines to the government hospital. patients in the region.

Sabalberino said that

She then asked the media’s Philhealth will sponsor the dialyhelp to propagate proactive measis treatment and if funds are still sures to prevent kidney diseases. needed, the Malasakit Center.

According to Unilab, the Presently, the doctor said that best way is to live a healthy and

Eastern Samar has 156 active lifestyle. Avoid foods that dialysis patients going to Tacloban are high in sodium and cut out City, the nearest area that has excess sugar in your diet.

Dialysis Clinics.

It also mentioned other

The chief of hospital said ways to care for the kidneys such that if there will be 20 machines as, avoid processed food and meat, wih patients using the dialysis avoid soda and sugary treats, quit machine for four hours, the 20 smoking, avoid drinking alcohol, machines can treat at least some exercise regularly, to avoid taking 40 patients a day. supplements and other medication

Sabalberino expressed without consulting a doctor. hope that at least these Dialysis continued on page 16 continued on page 16

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September 16-30, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

DOLE releases P2-M livelihood aid to four farmers’ and fisherfolks’ groups in Catarman By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- In order to capacitate and create opportunities among poor and the marginalized sector in the municipality of Catarman, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) under its DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) released P2 million livelihood assistance to LGU-Catarman through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO) on September 9.

According to PESOCatarman Manager Ms. Arielyn L. Hernandez, the fund is intended for the procurement of jigs and materials for the proposed projects of the four farmers and fisherfolks organization, namely: Rice

Retailing Livelihood Project for Washington Farmer’s Association; Rice Retailing Livelihood Project for Mckinley Integrated Diversified Organic Farming System Farmer Association; Rice Retailing Livelihood Project for Libjo Farmers and Entrepreneurs Association; and Egg Cooking Oil and Rice Retailing Livelihood Enhancement Project for Baybay Fishermen’s Association.

The PESO Manager said that each association will receive P500,000 worth of jigs and materials as starting capital for their proposed projects which aimed at providing them additional source of income especially during this time of pandemic.

He added that Brgy. Baybay Fishermen Association has qualified for the enhancement assistance or received the second time livelihood assistance from DOLE due to their successful implementation of the livelihood start up assistance.

She said the checks were released through a ceremonial handover by DOLE Northern Samar Field Office Head Ms. Patria A. Bigcas to Ms. Arielyn Hernandez on September 9, 2020.

The Local Government Unit through its Public Employment Service Office will facilitate the turnover of the jigs and materials to the beneficiaries once the procurement process will be completed. (ldl/tbc/PIA Northern Samar)

“BFAR 8...” continued from page 1

matang baka, squid and yellow fin tuna, among others.

“With the success of the isdalivery project, BFAR has planned to have it on a monthly basis even only for one week per month,” he added.

The BFAR official added that during the onset of the health crisis, they were into their usual livelihood support to their fisherfolks such as aquaculture production, aside from helping in the Hatid-Tulong Program for the Locally Stranded Individuals, where they spent about P1.4-M for the food needs of some 2,000 LSIs both in Tacloban City and in Northern Samar.

“For the aquaculture production, we have the clustering of areas having backyard fishpond in some municipalities of the region like in Baybay City, where the office supplies tilapia fingerlings and likewise offers technical assistance, while the local government unit takes charge of the feeds,” Berida said, adding that the office was able to supply some 64,000 fingerlings last July and these will be harvested after three months with at least 3 pieces per kilo.

The office has also promoted the Tilapia in tank project of which models are available at BFAR Provincial Fishery Offices and at the Department of Agriculture, for those who would want to venture in this type of aquaculture production in urban areas. Further, BFAR is in the process of profiling Overseas Filipino Workers and LSIs who would be willing to go into fisheries activities, particularly those registered fisherfolks.

The fishery office has also its upland aquaculture and the rice-fish culture projects in upland or remote barangays of the three provinces of Samar, in Leyte and in Southern Leyte. This is to provide barangay folks the access to food production, as among the office’s contributions to the government’s program in Ending Local Armed Conflict (ELCAC). (ldl/ gtt/PIA Leyte)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020

13

“Borongan TF ELCAC...” continued from page 3

DILG Gemma Amit said that it is the mandate of the TF-ELCAC to go to the community and talked about how the rural folks can help the government end the protracted war on communism.

She said that this caravan is the answer to the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 “Institutionalizing the Wholeof-Nation approach in attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), and Directing the Adoption of a National Framework.

The LGU said that the City government will be bringing some more government interventions in the barangay. (nbq/ SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

“4 ELCAC...” continued from page 3

“Usa ka bakery..” continued from page 5

Said barangays were assisted by the 8IB Philippine Army last year in the identification of their common primary needs such as the lack of livelihood projects, low price of copra and other farm outputs.

While the secondary issues identified like improvement of water systems, lack of barangay facilities to include school buildings, need to construct farm-to-market roads should be addressed to support the primary needs, PA Lt Christopher Tataro reported during the workshop.

Anavesa further informed the group that the final list of projects shall be incorporated to the Barangay Annual Investment Plan and finally to the Municipal Annual Investment Plans (AIPs). (ldl/esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)

mao ang magtunol sa mga kahimanan sa usa ka bakery sama sa oven para mapadayon ang maong prohekto.

Matud ni Garcia, ang ilang buhatan mao ang naghatag og pagbansay-bansay samtang ang buhatan sa DOLE mao ang motabang sa pag-apod-apod og mga kahimanan aron maahimong makasugod na og panginabuhi-an ang mga katawhan.

Ang maong bakery mao pa ang labing una nga bakery nga natukod sa halayong mga barangay sa Bontoc.

Ang maong mga dapit bisan og walay presensya sa mga NPAs apan natumbok nga na-ilalom sa Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) nga programa sa gobierno diin halos dili na nila naatagamtaman ang mga kalihokan sa gobierno tungod sa ilang halayo nga kahimtang.

Og pinaagi sa Task Force -End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF- ELCAC) nga gitahasan ni PRRD sa pagdala sa mga programa og prohekto sa gobierno ngadto sa maong matang sa mga barangay. (esg/PIA-Southern Leyte)

“PNP pushes...” continued from page 9 from 5 feet and 2 inches.

The PNP is continually hiring every year to offset those who are retiring, so any interested individuals may just visit the PRO-8 website for details, Novicio advised. (ldl/mmp/PIA-Southern Leyte)

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September 16-30, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Naabot ha P24-B an stimulus package ha Agrikultura ha ilarum han Bayanihan Act 2 -- Sec. Dar By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -Iginpasamwak ni Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar nga maabot hin P24Bilyones an kaparte han stimulus package ha natad han kanan On September 23, 2020, the Philippine Air Force thru the Tactical Operations Group 8 nasud agricultura in gin-apruin coordination with the Regional Task Force 8 vs COVID-19 assisted the arrival of 56 bahan ha ilarum han Bayanihan Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) from Manila to Region 8 via PAL at DZR Airport, Act 2.

Tacloban City.

May-ada daw hini tulo “Silago MTF..” continued from in her call for assistance, especially in nga project areas, ha ilarum han “bringing the government closer to page 2 productivity enhancement projthe people in the three barangays.” manhood of young children, and free

She also thanked all the peo- ects may-ada daw P8.7-B; para haircut for the young and old. naman han income enhancement ple “for coming here, for your coopDuring the dialogue, questions aired eration and support, and for believing projects may-ada P8.7-B; ngan by leaders of the youth, women, and para han social protection ngan in our government.” (ldl/mmp/PIAfarmers’ organizations in the three social amelioration projects, an Southern Leyte) barangays mostly centered on more pondo in P6.5-B. “Frontliners, pandemic..” opportunities for livelihood, skills

Para han social protection training, small irrigation project, and continued from page 8 ngan social amelioration project, higher market price for swine. activities for the town’s religious fiesta gin–expand daw an SURE Aid.

In response, DOLE shared in honor of its Patroness, the Our Mag-oopreser daw hira hin pauupdates on upcoming livelihood Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (Berhin tang ha gudti nga parauma ngan with the Bayanihan 2 law, TESDA Del Rosario), held every first Saturday parapangisda hin P25 mil nga announced upcoming courses on of October. With the restrictions waray interest ngan babaydan ha electrical installation and farm field and imposed new normal among sakob hin 10 anyos, dugang ni school, while provincial agriculture communities to prevent spread of the Sec. Dar. personnel vowed to coordinate with COVID-19, the 2020 Naval Town

Usa pa nga proyekto a regional or provincial buyer for Fiesta Executive Committee ruled out nga makakabulig amo an cash higher price of live pigs, and to help the conduct of civic activities and limit and food subsidy para ha mga follow-up a resolution for a water-im- instead to religious activities. Naval kablas nga parauma ngan parapounding project.

Mayor Gerard Roger Espina even pangisda nga nabalor hin P4-B.

In her closing remarks, issued Executive Order No. 029 Para ini han iba nga parauma Mayor Pacita Almine thanked the “An order implementing preventive ngan diri rice-farmer ugarvarious agencies for their swift action measures in the celebration of Naval ing apektado han COVID-19, town fiesta due to the imminent sumat ni Sec. William Dar ha threat of COVID-19 infection” iya pag-guest han Laging Handa which prohibits non-Biliranon to Network Briefing han ika-18 han enter the borders of Barangays P. Setyembre. (nbq/PIA E. Samar) Inocentes Garcia, and Smo. Rosario from Oct. 1-3, 2020. (ldl/mlt/ PIA-Biliran)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020 15

“International....” continued from page 5 and campaigns to promote the culture of peace. It also conducts constant activities for human rights and highlights the importance of women’s rights. (PIA-8)

“PCOO chief....” continued from page 6

have been determined by the contact tracers to be close contacts of a Covid positive patient, we immediately isolate them. We just do the swabbing at the hotel and once tested negative, we send them home. For those with positive results, the quarantine continues,” the Mayor said.

On the QR Code policy, Mayor Romualdez said that Tacloban, being the capital city of the region, this system has been a big help in identifying and monitoring the movements of the people in the city. The QR Code bearing the name and address of the person, is a mandatory requirement before being entertained in any business establishment. He also said that this is the best way of controlling people because when a person is an LSI or has just came from a place under ECQ, the code automatically signals alarm, hence, an immediate attention is given.

The Mayor added, “We have also empowered our barangay officials through the establishment of a certain protocol known as the Hyper Local Measures Kontra Covid, in coordination with the city health centers. This is to easily monitor the barangay constituents particularly those returning residents and likewise the fisherfolks who are going in and out of their residents for livelihood reasons. These are all the measures we found helpful in the reduction of Covid cases in the city.”

Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez

The Tacloban chief likewise cited the housing projects at the northen barangays of the city as a contributing factor in mitigating Covid, considering that high density areas were decongested and transmission minimized. The 11,000 housing units situated 20 kilometers away from the city proper, are being occupied by the Typhoon Yolanda survivors.

Being a Highly Urbanized City and the center of all business transactions, Romualdez has suggested for a separate protocol for HUCs, considering the number of people entering the city which is quite difficult to manage. He added that movements of people in areas under ECQ should be strictly regulated so as not to affect the city’s economy.

He also prefers to welcome returning residents as long as it is announced, monitored and regulated, as stopping their trips back home might have a reverse effect, making them go into unmonitored entries using the back doors.

Romualdez expressed his appreciation to the national government and other partner agencies through Secretary Martin Andanar and to DILG Usec.

Jonathan Malaya who also guested during the program, for the good

coordination and continuous support given to the city, while assuring public the best efforts the city could extend in coping with the health crisis. (ldl/gtt/PIA-Leyte)

“Gov’t troops....” continued from page 7

Brigadier General Zosimmo A. Oliveros, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, condemns in the strongest terms the act of treachery by left-leaning partylist organizations who continue to assist and condone the terroristic acts of the New People’s Army and the utter disregard on the welfare of children.

Brigadier General Oliveros further calls for the unity of all sectors of the society in this part of Leyte, including the Makabayan Bloc to once and for all put an end to the horrors of insurgency and contribute to the peace and development of the country. (802nd IB, 8ID)

16

September 16-30, 2020

“Dialysis center.” continued from page 11

Other healthy tips included drinking at least eight glasses a day and maintaining blood pressure.

Dialysis is a treatment that filters and purifies the blood using a machine. This helps keep the patient’s fluids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys cannot do their job according to healthline. (nbq/PIA 8 E. Samar)

“Biliran guv” continued from page 11

Governor Espina also vowed to provide incentives to trained barangay dog vaccinators who complemented the LGU personnel in the dog vaccination at the barangay level.

Part of the support he mentioned is the provision of five kilos commercial rice to dog owners who submit their dogs for castration.

He also assured the availability of anti-rabies vaccines by next year even at the barangay level so that vaccination of dogs will be done right in the 132 barangays of the province.

Governor Espina also called on the barangay officials to do their part in the effective, efficient and sustainable implementation of the rabies prevention and control program of the province to contain the continuous incidence of positive canine rabies cases.

He informed the audience who attended the World Rabies Day Celebration that a new provincial anti-rabies ordinance will be enforced in the next few days to give more teeth for an effective and efficient implementation of the rabies prevention and control program. (ldl/rsv/PIA-Biliran)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Canhugas Nature Park in Hernani reopens after six months of closure By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The creating general health and safety Canhugas Nature Park (CNP) in guidelines governing the operation Hernani, Eastern Samar has reof tourism sites, activities and acopened to local tourists of the prov- commodation establishments under ince after six months of closure due the new normal in the municipality to the COVID-19 pandemic. of Hernani.”

According to Mr. Carlo B.

Yabora further said because Yabora, municipal tourism offiof this Executive Order, the guests cer, on March 14, 2020, the CNP must follow the CNP new normal was temporarily closed relative to operational guidelines such as only the growing threat of COVID-19 residents of the Province of Eastern and its propensity to infect large Samar are allowed to enter the tournumbers of people through crowds ist sites, only day visitors are allowed and gatherings and to safeguard all from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Overnight stay Hernaninhons from this virus. shall not be permitted inside the

Yabora disclosed that the tourist site. said opening was mandated by the

Strict social distancing and National Inter-Agency Task Force hygiene requirements will accompawherein the Local Government of ny the reopening of CNP. Hernani was given the authority Guests whose ages range from 22 and discretion to reopen the tourcontinued on page 18 ism site, provided that with special arrangements in place or extra precautions because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anent to this, the Municipal Mayor of Hernani, Amado L. Candido, issued an Executive Order No. 68, series of 2020, “An order

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020

17

TESDA-S. Leyte cooks up barangay health service, contact tracing trainings By: Marcelo M. Pedalino

“Borongan CTF-ELCAC...” continued from page 1

Infantry (Bantay at Gabay) Brigade and the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion of the Philippine Army.

The activity dubbed “Cum Dul-ong Serbisyo” held on September 18, 2020, at the covered court of Brgy. Benowangan, Borongan City, highlighted the break-out sessions and consultations of the barangay folks with the different local departments of the city government and the response of the City Mayor on the previously identified primary and secondary issues.

During the activity, the barangay resident availed of the different medical and social services: 305 for the medical check-up, 42 recipients for the dental consultation, 47 children were circumcised, 46 had their haircut, and 55 pairs of couple

MAASIN CITY -- The Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) is offering a special kind of training course that responds to the needs and demands of the time especially during this pandemic caused by Covid-19.

Added to its list of shorttime training courses is the for the mass wedding. The distribu- Barangay Health Services NC II, where the subject on contact traction of food packs for the residents of the two (2) barangays culminated ing is incorporated, said Elizabeth Garcia, TESDA Southern Leyte the activity.The gracious attenprovincial director. dance of BGen. Camilo Z. Ligayo,

But a memorandum Brigade commander of the 801st of agreement (MOA) between Infantry (Bantay at Gabay) Brigade, TESDA and the Rural Health Unit 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) (RHU) of Tomas Oppus town Division, Philippine Army doubly is still being worked out, Garcia made the activity meaningful and said in an interview at the Media significant to the residents of Brgy.

Benowangan. As the Borongan City Briefing/Kapihan forum at PIA mayor said, “BGen Ligayo is the first office last week.

In a follow-up text query active army General Officer who on how Tomas Oppus LGU came has visited Brgy. Benowangan. to be chosen for the MOA, Garcia

The success of the activity called back and explained the with the active participation of the town was selected as a start due to populace signifies the return of the people’s trust and confidence to the its readiness, but surely the course will be cascaded to other municigovernment and the AFP. palities and city.

The series of NPA terror

Besides, the provincial ofacts in Borongan City and the fice is still waiting for the number Suribao complex last year, and the of slots allocated for the province recent encounter in the adjacent barangay of Pinanag-an did not dis- before the actual training can start courage the locals from taking a step as soon as possible, Garcia pointed towards the attainment of a peaceful out.

As to contact tracing, this and progressive community, that may develop into a separate modis free from NPA intimidation and ule, because for now this is part of exploitation. (PIA w/ 801 IB, PA) the Barangay Health Services NC

continued on page 20

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September 16-30, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

“Canhugas...’” continued from page 16 years old to 59 years old are the only ones allowed. Implementation of the 50 percent carrying capacity is observed. Only 300 tourists will then be allowed. Guests who plan to visit the CNP must have booked through the internet first so that the implementation of the 50 percent carrying capacity will be observed.

Guests have also to secure the following documents before entry: confirmed booking (to be done online), registration form to be filled-out, body temperature checking using thermal scanner, health declaration form (to be fill-out for each guest), barangay certification, municipal health clearance, and mayor’s travel pass.

Lacking one of the documentary requirements means No Entry, and ‘No Facemask, No Entry’ policy.

Entrance fee: Children - P5, Resident – P10, Non-resident – P20, and Foreign national P50.

Rental of the cottage - P400 each, Umbrella – P75 each, table – P50 each, and chair – P10 each.

The CNP is one of the favorite tourist destinations of Region 8 because of its natural beauty.

Netizens’ online review reveals that the tourist site displays gigantic waves crashing onto large rock formations which they consider an impressive spectacle.

CNP also offers rock climbing the walls of the hefty rocks believed to give the tourists a phenomenal setting, and a beautiful backdrop.

DOH N. Samar chief reiterates observance of minimum health protocol By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar Francisco, the Provincial Head -- With the increasing number of DOH Northern Samar reof COVID-19 positive cases iterated his call to the general in the province, Dr. Rommel public to observe the minimum health protocol such as wear “Fresh from the sea! Just ing of face mask, face shield, in every rock formation is a natuone-meter social distancing, ral-made pool. Water comes from and frequent washing of hands the strong ocean waves hammering with soap and water. the rocks, flowing to the pool ter This, he said in a post at races,” the provincial tourism officer, the Northern Samar Provincial Neil Pinarok said.

Information Office FB page.

Another tourist, Nicolle As of Sept. 16, Northern Samar Samonte from Masbate commented, recorded 145 COVID-19 pos“Salty blue falls! Sturdy waves create itive cases, 84 though have waterfalls that flow into a deep hole recovered but 61 are still conwhere waves also came crushing sidered active. through, crafting a view of natural

In August 29, the provfeatures that is ‘bluish-ly exquisite.’ ince recorded some 90 cases

Hernani is a three-hour land only, but in time, it increased. trip by van from Tacloban City, the Dr. Francisco noted that the center of Trade of Leyte and Samar. recent surge of COVID positive

Hernani is a fifth class mucases were among the attendnicipality in the province of Eastern ees of an event and eventually Samar. According to the 2015 infected some other people. census, it has a population of 8,573

That is why, he reitpeople with 13 barangays. (nbq/ erated his call to avoid gathSDC/PIA-E. Samar) erings, parties, and minimize face-to-face interactions that may cause possible COVID-19

continued on page 19

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

First treaty of friendship takes place in Limasawa, says Mayor Petracorta By: Marcelo M. Pedalino LIMASAWA, Southern Leyte -- Aside from the first Easter Sunday Mass, the first treaty of friendship between the east and the west also happened here almost 500 years ago.

The significance of such a treaty, as well as the religious service accompanying it, averted war and divisions, but fostered brotherhood and Christianity, according to Mayor Melchor Petracorta of this historic island-town.

In a short talk during ceremonies marking the 200 days countdown for the approaching quincentennial celebrations Saturday, September 12, Petracorta rallied everyone “to embrace the spirit of unity and cooperation as we ardently keep pace towards March 31, 2021.”

“Let this celebration lead us to remember that the coming of Magellan in our island recorded the first treaty of friendship between the east and the west, and brought significance, not war and divisions, but

brotherhood and Christianity,” the mayor said.

He expressed gratitude to the government, including local, provincial, and national agencies, and Church leaders for always supporting the approaching event, saying that as the days are trimmed down to 200 days to March 31, 2021, “may our hearts be rekindled on the true faith that Ferdinand Magellan and his men laid on upon this island.”

“Let us then unite in prayers that our plans be laid congruous and in the consonance of the Lord’s will and guidance,” Petracorta said.

He added that the Covid19 pandemic had not prevented the observance of the 200 days countdown date, even as participants inside the Limasawa Shrine atop a hill in barangay Magallanes were limited to only 50 individuals in keeping with health protocols on conduct of mass gatherings.

In a brief chat with the local media after the activities,

September 16-30, 2020 19 Petracorta said the 200 days countdown, and the next 100 days countdown on December 21, served as a dry-run for the expected big event on March 31 next year.

If the pandemic will still be around by then, the celebration will go on but outside guests from the government and the church cannot come, and everybody will continue doing the minimum health standards on wearing facemasks and face shields, hand washing, registration, and social distancing, Petracorta declared. (ldl/mmp/ PIA 8-Southern Leyte)

“DOH N. Samar...” continued from page 10 transmission.

Further, he advised that only those who will buy essentials and report for work may go outside of their homes to avoid interaction to individuals who might be exposed to confirmed COVID positive case.

At the workplace, he said, all employees and workers must have face masks and face shields, and it must be worn at all times and remove the same only when eating or drinking, and avoid face to face conversation while the face mask is down.

The Provincial DOH head said if everyone will follow all the health safety protocols, the province will succeed in its fight against COVID. (TBC-PIA Northern Samar)

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September 16-30, 2020

“DILG enjoins.’” continued from page 8 policy.

It likewise enjoins LGUs not to issue orders contrary to the Omnibus Guidelines such as but not limited to, requiring asymptomatic drivers and crew of cargos or service vehicles to undergo mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Among the persons enumerated by Usec. Densing as permitted to move within and across areas placed under any form of quarantine are the following: Health and emergency frontline services personnel; Government officials and frontline personnel; Duly-authorized humanitarian assistance actors; Persons travelling for medical or humanitarian reasons; Persons going to airport for travel abroad; Returning or repatriated Overseas Filipinos returning to their places of residence; Other persons transported through the efforts of the national government upon observance of the necessary quarantine protocols and with the concurrence of the receiving LGUs; and anyone crossing zones for work permitted in the zone of destination, and going back home.

Further, RMC 2020-035 calls the LGUs’ attention to the following:

APORS are free to conduct any legitimate business or undertaking as authorized by the IATF and Regional IATF within, between and among, to and from LGUs; APORs should not be discriminated upon by LGUs nor

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA be subject to more stringent restrictions and conditions different from those imposed by the IATF and RIATF.

LGUs are mandated to allow persons permitted to travel outside their residences so that they could avail of basic and essential goods and services as provided under Sections 4 and 5 of the Omnibus Guidelines.

LGUs cannot prohibit, hamper, or hinder or impose additional restrictions in the transit, or transport of cargoes / goods, including the related work and travel of transport and logistics of personnel of business entities, without any regard as to their place of origin and/or destination, and nor can the LGU subject these persons to any confinement in any isolation facility, unless such persons are known to be probable, suspected, or confirmed cases of COVID-19.

LGUs either through ordinances or executive orders, cannot impose additional conditions or restrictions beyond that or more than what the laws and/or policies of the IATF and RIATF provide.

LGUs have no authority to overrule or substitute their judgment over the propriety of the authority of legal orders, such as travel

authorities issued by authorized national government officials.

APORs recognized by the IATF and RIATF belonging to the private/business sector, including their authorized employees, and those practicing their respective professions or occupations as authorized by the IATF, must be given recognition and fair treatment by LGUs.

Dir. Rimando enjoined LGUs to revisit and review their enacted ordinances and executive orders to ensure these conform to the Constitution as well as policies of the IATF. (DILG-8)

“TESDA S-Leyte’” continued from page 17 II course, Garcia said, adding that her office is again waiting for the number of slots on this one.

Under the new law, the Bayanihan 2 We Recover As One Act, some 50,000 contact tracers are slated to be hired to help LGUs trace people with close contacts to positive cases, the hiring assigned to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). (ldl/ mmp/PIA-Southern Leyte)

The Philippine Air Force thru the Tactical Operations Group 8 in coordination with the regional Task Force 8 vs COVID-19 provided personnel to assist in the arrival of 125 Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) from Manila to Region 8 via Air Asia at DZR Airport, Tacloban City on Sept. 3, 2020.

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA September 16-30, 2020 21 Call for Scholarship to PNP Northern Samar recovers P3.5-M worth the DICT DigitaljobsPH of explosives in a village in San Antonio By:Ailene N. Diaz

CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The Northern Samar Philippine National Police recovered P3.5 million worth of explosives and other raw materials on September 20, 2020 in Brgy. Burabod of the island town of San Antonio, Northern Samar.

This was learned from a press release received by PIA Northern Samar.

The conduct of intelligence operation and investigation to the explosion incident happened in the town of San Antonio last September 17, 2020 led to the recovery of that explosives.

Seized and recovered were 34 kilos of tri-Nitro Toluene (TNT), 25,000 pieces blasting caps and 3.5 meters of detonating cord summed up to an estimated value of P3.5M.

“The recovered items are the primary components in making improvised dynamite allegedly used in illegal fishing,” said PNP Provincial Director Arnel J. Apud.

Apud further said, “what is more significant is, we were able to seize P3.5 million worth explosives

that could be possibly used in destructing our marine ecosystem, and worst, human lives.”

“Our investigation will continue, and we ensure that those found liable will face appropriate charges,” Apud said.

The immediate action to penetrate the mountainous area was taken by the team composed of PNP Provincial Team headed by the Provincial Director PCol Arnel Apud, San Antonio Municipal Police Station, 1st Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company, Explosive Ordinance and Canine Unit, Northern Samar Crime Laboratory Office and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The explosives and raw materials recovered were brought to San Antonio Municipal Police Station for documentation and afterwards turned-over to Northern Samar Provincial Explosive Ordinance and Canine Unit (PECU) for safekeeping and proper disposition. (ldl/ADiaz/PIANorthern Samar)

Training Project

By: DICT-8 TACLOBAN CITY -- The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is implementing the digitaljobsPH Program which is intended to create meaningful ICTenabled jobs in socio-economically disadvantaged areas in the country.

The project specifically focuses on areas where there is high population but low employment due to lack of investors. It also aims to promote ICT-enabled jobs as a high-value economic activity in rural communities that are not yet ready to host Information Technology – Business Process Management (IT-BPM) operations.

Even before the pandemic, the DICT has been implementing the digitaljobsPH Training (DJT) to be able to help address unemployment in the country and support more Filipinos in the countryside to gain employment through the online freelancing industry. The training primarily aims to increase people’s hireability by focusing on the development and improvement of their ICT skills and utilize it for employment opportunities.

This project is in partnership with the Local Government Units and is still accepting applicants for its upcoming training.

Please check out the selected locations in your area and the details on the link provided below to see if you

continued on page 24

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

September 16-30, 2020

“Use technology...” continued from page 10

1 (September 1-6) - Linggo ng Lingkod Bayani; Week 2 (September 7-11) - Linggo ng Yamang Tao; Week 3 (September 14-18) - Linggo ng Malasakit; and Week 4 (September 2130) - Linggo ng Pasasalamat.

Activities for Week 1 include the conduct of press conferences, Search for Outstanding Government Workers, and promotional campaign of the celebration; Week 2 activities include conduct of Public Sector and HR Forum and Online Photography Contest; Week 3 activities include Government Online Career Fair and Online Wellness Program for Government; and Week 4 activities include Commendation for Service in Times of Calamities and Virtual Agency Family Day. Uy also announced that all scheduled civil service examinations for the year were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Holding of the examinations at this time of pandemic where a big public gathering is present is a violation of IATF resolution,” he said. (ldl/rsv/ PIA-Biliran)

Tacloban environment office guides public on disposal of infectious wastes By: Gemma T. Tabao

TACLOBAN CITY -- The Tacloban City Environment Office has reminded the public to dispose infectious wastes properly, to avoid the spread of diseases.

City Environment Officer Jonathan Hijada in his facebook message, said that these type of wastes which are also known as special wastes such as masks, gloves and other equipment, were used to prevent the transmission of diseases. These then must be disposed separately as these may possibly be the source of contagion and could be harmful to the public.

“We have to be mindful in segregating our garbage.

These kind of infectious wastes must be separated from the ordinary wastes. They must be properly enclosed and labeled, as these may pose risk of transmitting the disease, particularly the Covid-19 which is highly contagious,” Hijada said.

Balik Probinsya Program demystified in DA’s virtual meeting By: DA-8

TACLOBAN CITY -- More than 100,000 city dwellers or individuals from the National Capital Region (NCR) are itching to go back to their provinces through the “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pagasa Program” (BP2) of the current administration.

This was emphasized and highlighted during the Department of Agriculture’s Virtual Meeting on Friday, September 25, participated

in by over a hundred key program implementers from the national down to the regional level.

Among others, the meeting was held to introduce the program’s salient features through a webinar type of presentations made by the group of Dr. Alicia Ilaga, the designated Director-Coordinator of Convergence and Balik Probinsya

continued on page 24

He added, “There is a special management for this type of garbage especially those coming from the Covid isolation facilities. They are being separated and are not allowed for collection by ordinary garbage collectors.”

The city official also said that the office has placed three big garbage bins in the designated isolation centers, and these were labeled with tarpaulin so as to guide the collectors as to where these must be temporarily deposited.

This practice, according to Hijada, is also applicable to hotels and lodging houses that are being rented and used as isolation centers, where they were oriented on how to properly manage infectious wastes.

The environment officer likewise enjoins the general public to observe the same practice in their respective households, particularly the disposal of their used masks.

He also advised to wait for the separate scheduled collection of these particular wastes, as this manner of infectious waste disposal is among the health protocols mandated, in efforts to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 and other diseases. (ldl/gtt/PIA-Leyte)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA September 16-30, 2020 23 LGU Borongan City creates Public Health and by the department heads of the city government.

Safety Task Force

The “Serbisyo Caravan” was By: Samuel D. Candido

BORONGAN CITY -- The City Government of Borongan through the leadership of Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda has created the Public Health and Safety Task Force (PHSTF) for COVID-19 response.

According to Mayor Agda, the said task force aims to facilitate inter-sectoral collaboration, establish preparedness, and ensure efficient government response to assess, monitor, contain, control, and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Agda said that the task force is headed by Atty. Romeo Alexis B. Devora of the city legal office as Chairman with Reginald James Lorico as his Co-Chairman while the members are health professionals.

Atty. Devora said he is happy that the city government has created a task force and has expressed confidence in the capabilities of all its members

to strengthen its existing COVID-19 response and protocols.

“It can be noted that so far, I can personally say also, that Borongan City is still COVID-19 free, and this can be attributed to the prompt and efficient implementation of health protocols of personnel involved, under the mandate and supervision of Mayor Agda, who is vigorous in his actions to maintain the health and wellness of his people,” Atty. Devora said.

Dr. Raul Villanueva is assigned as border control czar who supervises the monitoring of individuals entering the city.

Dr. Kelly B. Cainday leads the contact tracing team, he records all possible contacts of positive cases, assesses exposure levels as to, who is low-risk and high-risk contact, and recommends to limit exposure in order to prevent the entire Borongan community from any risk.

Dr. Bernadette Galacan supervises the needs of the different designated Health Isolation Facilities.

Hans Noel Basada and Rodrigo Duzon are assigned as Operations Monitoring Heads and also oversee the compliance of business establishment to minimum health protocols.

The Task Force will be the implementing arm of COVID-19 Inter-Agency Task Force. (with the Borongan City IO/ SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

“LGU Borongan...’” continued from page 4 accompanied Agda.

Some problems were also raised by barangay folks which were addressed by the agency concerned like DTI, TESDA, PENRO-CENRO, and DepEd. Other issues were answered

also highlighted with wedding ceremonies wherein some 53 unwed couples benefited from barangays Pinanag-an, Benowangan, and Hebacong and they were also given wedding gifts by the Mayor.

Meanwhile, some 315 people were given a free medical check-up by the team of the city’s medical doctors, namely: Dr. Daisy Sacmar, Dr. Patricia Bernadette Apita, Dr. Bernadette Galacan, Dr. John Kelly Cainday, Dr. Katrina Rapada, and Dr. Rommel Amos.

Following the consultation and prescription from the city doctors, free medicines were given to the patients through the City Pharmacist Anda Lacorte.

Also, some 45 individuals from Benowangan took the opportunity to have their ailing teeth/tooth extracted free of charge by mother-daughter tandem, Dr. Ann Ocfemia, and Dr. Jessa Marie Ocfemia.

Merlita Demdem thanked the team, according to her, she need not go to the city anymore to have her tooth extracted, she has saved money for the supposed transport fare.

Moreover, some 47 young boys became ‘full-fledged men” because of circumcision by army doctors and health workers, and 40 young adults received gentleman’s haircut from the skilled-barbers of the military men.

Before the team pulled-out, Mayor Agda distributed food packs to the barangay folks, the pack contained three kilos of rice and canned goods.

The said barangays are far-flung barangays that needed intervention because they are very poor and with a few opportunities for livelihood. (nbq/SDC/PIA-E. Samar with reports from Borongan City Information Office)

24

September 16-30, 2020

“Call for scholarship...” continued from page 21

may qualify.

Here is the list of 2020 Training LGU Partners that are still accepting applications for training: Dolores and the Province of Eastern Samar for Social Media Marketing and Advertising course; Hinunangan, Southern Leyte for Social Media Marketing and Advertising course; Province of Northern Samar for Search Engine Marketing and Advertising course; Municipality of Tolosa for Virtual Assistance Course and Search Engine Optimization Course. For more information, please visit the DICT Visayas Cluster 2 page here: https://www.facebook.com/ DICTFOOVC2. (DICT-8)

“Balik Probinsya...” continued from page 22 Program (BP2).

Accordingly, BP2 is geared not

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA only towards addressing Metro Manila’s congested urban areas by encouraging people to return to their home provinces, but to assist them in their quest for better opportunities by venturing or engaging themselves in small, micro, and medium businesses related to agriculture, fishery, and food production.

Of the top provinces with highest number of interested BP2 applicants, four provinces of preference by the applicants are in Region 8, namely: Leyte with 11,411 applicants; Samar – 5,096; Northern Samar – 3,311; and Eastern Samar – 2,766.

So far, the first batch of BP2 beneficiaries was a group of 112 individuals who returned to Leyte on board five buses from Metro Manila on May 21, 2020. They arrived at the holding and assessment area at the Government Center in Barangay Candahug, Palo, Leyte on May 21 (Thursday) at 9:30 p.m.

To recall during their arrival, DA-RFO 8 Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez, accompanied by Assistant Regional Director for Research and Regulations Dr. Elvira C. Torres and Regional Information Officer Francis Rosaroso, were among those who welcomed and witnessed the arrival together with TESDA Regional Director Loreta Banario, PIA-8 Regional Director

Erlinda Olive Tiu and representative of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), apart from Leyte Governor and RDC-8 Chairman Dominico Leopoldo L. Petilla and Congressman Florencio “Bem” Noel who had overseen the setting up of a swab testing facility right at the reception site courtesy of “An Waray” Partylist and the provincial government of Leyte.

During the virtual meeting it was made clear that the DA is mandated to lead the implementation of Food Security and Agricultural Productivity key area, which focuses on the transformation of local economies through a productive and resilient agriculture value chain.

Adopting a “Whole of DA Approach,” all commodity banner programs under FOD’s watch shall be involved including DA’s attached agencies, namely: BFAR, PhilFIDA, PCA, SRA, ATI, LandBank, DBP, PCIC among others.

Also, as part of social mobilization strategy, the government will provide the BP2 beneficiaries proper training and technical support, to ensure that they can be productive and self-sustaining.

The DA-AFID and Communications Group, including the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (RAFIS) in all regions, are tasked to coordinate with the DA- BP2 Program office, particularly in the execution of the strategic communication and advocacy from the national to regional levels. (Francis Rosaroso/DA-8)