An Rehiyon Ocho Yana December 1-31, 2020

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

VOL II NO. 23

December 1-31, 2020

We are at the brink of defeating the communist insurgency, CORDS 8 says By: Olive P. Tiu

TACLOBAN CITY -- Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, in a video message on the occasion of the 2nd Anniversary of the National Task Force - ELCAC, said the government is at the brink of defeating the 52-year-old communist insurgency.

Samar TF-ELCAC holds ribbon cutting, blessing of ‘Peace House’ for former rebels By: 8ID, PA

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City -- The Samar Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (STF-ELCAC) conducted a ribbon cutting and blessing of a halfway house for returning New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on December 9, 2020.

The halfway house called ‘Peace House’ which is situated within the 8th Infantry Division compound was funded through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) - PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn or PAMANA. It has dormitory-type rooms, an entertainment area, and several other amenities.

Samar Governor Reynolds Micheal T. Tan said the Peace House will serve as a processing

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In his video message, Secretary Del Rosario congratulated President Duterte for his strong leadership and clear vision and determination to unify the country through inclusive and sustained efforts in the pursuit for Peace and Development.

Del Rosario also cited NTF-ELCAC Vice Chair and National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr. and his tire-less team for spearheading the implementation of innovative and inspiring campaign to cripple the capability of the CPP-NPA both in the national and local level.

“Today, the government is on top as indicated by the recent development,” Secretary Del Rosario said.

Recent RTF8-ELCAC reports show that the campaign against the CPP-NPA in the Region

is right on target with the island of Leyte having been declared insurgent-free while the Samar campaign is on the positive, having cleared areas once under the communist insurgents.

More and more rebels are returning into the folds of the law and the communities are vocally denouncing the insurgents as they report to the military their presence in their communities.

Del Rosario declared that being the CORDS 8 and chair of the RTF8-ELCAC, he is proud to be part of these efforts.

“Together, we will defeat the communist terrorists and we will earn lasting peace to achieve unity and economic prosperity for all Filipinos,” the Secretary concluded.

He gave the assurance that through unity, and continuous

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

1,000 peace-loving educators, students unite as HWPL celebrates ‘2020 National Children’s Month’

By: HWPL BORONGAN CITY -- The nation- at home, school, community, and al government is soon providing nation through peace education. interventions and programs to eight In her speech, Vikki Task Force - End Local Communist Chingtoco-Yu, Chairwoman of ArmIn cooperation with the the Girl Scout of the Philippines Commission on Higher Education (Pila Chapter) and Samahan ng (CHED), Department of Education Babaepreneur, shared how the pan(DepEd), Philippine National demic and the unprecedented proCommission for UNESCO, and the tocols have been affecting the lives Girl Scouts of the Philippines (Pila of children in terms of their physical Chapter), the event was hosted by and a health, development, learning, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, education, behavior, their families’ Restoration of Light (HWPL), an economic security, and their safety. international non-governmental Division Superintendent Dr. peace organization.

Concepcion Ferrer-Balawag of

With the theme, “Achieving DepEd Cotabato City stressed that SDG 16 and Spreading a Culture the rights of children must be proof Peace during Pandemic,” the tected, especially their right to qualwebinar focused on upholding ity education, despite the challenges children’s rights amid the pandemof modular and distance learning in ic by achieving a culture of peace this time of the pandemic.

The obligation of the family and the state to let the children receive special care, protection, and assistance as well as grow in “an atmosphere of happiness, love, security, and understanding” was also emphasized by Hon. Prof. Jose David Lapuz, Commissioner of the Philippine National Commission for UNESCO and

Presidential Consultant for Education.

After the speeches, the parents and guardians led the recitation of “Panatang Makabata” (Pledge for Children) to honor the rights of children and pledge to protect them.

Peace education, a key tool in achieving SDG 16 and protecting children’s rights

In order to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, which focuses on peace, Alecka Fajardo, National Coordinator of HWPL Peace Education, said that this requires all citizens of each country to become “agents of peace” first.

“To do so, it is necessary to improve students’ and citizens’ awareness of peace through education. For this reason, peace education is emerging as an important strategy and a key tool for achieving the SDGs especially for the benefit of the children,” she added.

HWPL Peace Education which consists of 12 lessons is intended to cultivate individuals with the values and spirit of peace. Since 2016, HWPL Peace Education has signed MOAs with 72 educational institutions and schools including the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Dr. Ronald Adamat, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), ensured that the educational sector will prepare and equip students for conflict resolution and peace work at a young age.

“Through peace education

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Youth Leaders Camp for Silago youth opens By: 14IB

MAHAPLAG, Leyte -- Some 26 youth leaders of Silago, Southern Leyte participate in a Youth Leaders Camp organized by the 14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion together with the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Silago, Southern Leyte.The Opening Ceremony for the 4-day Avenger Youth Leaders’ Camp 2020 with the theme; “Lead-Develop-Protect Youth For Peace: Standing Against Radicalization and Recruitment to Safeguard Lives of our Future Generations” at Headquarters, 14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion, Brgy. Uguis, Mahaplag, Leyte was held on December 5, 2020 with Lieutenant Colonel Roberto B. Obaob, Commanding Officer, as the keynote speaker.

Lieutenant Colonel Obaob expressed his deep gratitude to the LGU of Silago and emphasized that the presence of the youth leaders of Silago is already an indication that the blessings of peace shall soon be attainable.

The Opening Ceremony was attended by the following:

Jade C. Moreno, President, Youth For Peace - Leyte Chapter; Ms. Joy Fin V. Gesulga, President, Youth For Peace – Southern Leyte Chapter; Mr. Jan Rex Yunzal, Local Youth Development Officer of Mahaplag, Leyte; and, 26 Youth Leaders of Silago, Southern Leyte composed of 14 Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairpersons, nine (9) SK Councilors; and three (3) SK appointed officials headed by Hon. Raven P. Honor, SK Federation President, Silago, Southern Leyte. (14IB)

PRO-8 observes peaceful ‘Paskuhan’ in EV

By: PRO-8 CAMPETIC, Palo, Leyte -- The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO8) observed a generally peaceful Christmas celebration in Eastern Visayas as no major untoward incident was recorded in the region.

PBGen. Ronaldo F. De Jesus, Regional Director, ordered the establishment of Police Assistance Desks (PADs) in all places of convergence beginning the traditional 9-day “Misa de Gallo” to ensure peace and order. This

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was made possible in coordination with other concerned Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Local Government Units (LGUs) and volunteer groups.

Meanwhile, the Regional Reactionary Standby Support Force (RRSSF), Quick Response Teams (QRTs), Critical Incident Management Task Group (CIMTG), and Disaster Incident Management Task Group (DIMTG) were also activated.

The Medical Reserve Force (MRF) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Group (EOD/K9) were deployed to detect the presence of contrabands while the Road Safety Marshals were also placed in major thoroughfares to prevent traffic congestion.

Accordingly, the Regional Civil Security Unit (RCSU) 8 conducted inspection to security guards stationed in malls to ensure their implementation of the peace and security measures. All these deployments were randomly inspected by the Regional Internal Affairs (RIAS) 8, as directed by the Chief PNP, PGen. Debold M. Sinas.

On the other hand, in line with the operational guidelines on “Ligtas Paskuhan 2020,” PRO-8 ordered the strict adherence of the general public to minimum safety health protocols set forth by the Department of Health in order to contain and avoid the spread and infection of COVID-19.

“The success of the Yuletide celebration is made

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December 1-31, 2020

One CPP-NPA supporter voluntary surrenders in Samar CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City -- In line with the Executive Oder No. 70 which called for the creation of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and end insurgency, one (1) active member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to PLt. Col. Aquilono G. Pongcol, Force Commander of the 2nd Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd SPMFC) together with the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) and the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU-Samar), all under the direct supervision of PCol. Glenn Oliver Cinco, Provincial Director of the Samar Police Provincial Office(SPPO), at Brgy. Maulong, Catbalogan City, Samar.

The surrenderee was identified as Alias “Unyang” under the CPP-NPA-NDF, 42 years old housewife, with common-law husband and member of the legal front (White Area) of the CPP-NDF/NPA (Gabriela) who voluntarily submitted herself and brought with her subversive documents to PLt. Col. Pongcol after she was convinced to withdraw her support to the CPP-NPA-NDF in close coordination with this unit and was subsequently brought to this office for documentation and was subjected to Custodial Debriefing for proper disposition.

Above-mentioned subject wants to live a normal life, embrace the program of the government as provided for in Executive Order No. 70 otherwise known as the whole-ofnation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace through the NTF-ELCAC, and be cleared from any derogatory record.

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Youth, uniformed men hold a candle lighting event denouncing NPAs By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante BORONGAN CITY -- The the difficulties of the families of Sangguniang Kabataan of Brgy. their recruits,” Brgy. Lalawigan SK Lalawigan led by SK Chairperson Chairperson Angela Narte said.

Angela Narte, Brgy. A SK leader

She added that when times Cyril Alegre, other SK members get better, SK will sponsor a semiand uniformed men from the City nar on Kabataan Kontra Droga at Police Office in this city held a canTerorista to encourage the youth to dle lighting event denouncing the serve their communities, instead.

NPAs.

Another youth leader Cyril

Borongan City Chief of Alegre of Brgy. A, the host of the Police Doughlas Antonio Eloja said event, shared that the youth should that the higher headquarters direct- not be willing recruits and instead ed the different station commanders study better. to hold a simultaneous candle light- “They should carry with ing on November 30 at 5: 30 p.m. them knowledge and useful infor The event aims to instill in mation rather than arms or weapthe minds of the public especialons and turn against the governly young people to denounce the ment, I want to show my colleagues NPAs and their activities. that I am a law-abiding citizen.”

The event focused on

In Hernani town, another Kabataan Maglingkod sa Bayan, group of uniformed men from the Hindi sa CPP-NPA-NDF; PNP, Army and youth leaders also Kabayanihan Para sa Bayan, Hindi held the candle lighting activity sa Terorismo at Komunismo; and simultaneously with the Borongan Itigil at Labanan ang Recruitment event. (nbq/PIA E. Samar) ng Kabataan mula sa Communist Terrorist Group.

“I am aware that they are recruiting the youth, but media has enlightened me in so many ways to stay away from them. They believe they are smarter than our government, they do not realize

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Government troops repel CTGs’ intents to sow havoc during Christmastime in Northern Samar By: 8ID, PA CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan CIty, Samar -- In a series of encounters this week, the governBy: PIA-8 ment troops repelled Communist PALO, Leyte -- Three alleged memunder Buhawi Platoon, Amandawin NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who bers of the Communist Party of the Command. were planning to sow havoc and Philippines - New People’s Army

They also surrendered several chaos during Christmastime in (CPP-NPA) and Militia ng Bayan firearms and grenades as follows: one Northern Samar. were formally presented and surren(1) shotgun with two (2) ammuni A high-ranking New dered to PBGen. Ronaldo De Jesus, tion; three (3) revolvers with 10 cal.38 People’s Army (NPA) terrorist PRO-8 Regional Director, in the ammunition; one (1) cal.45 with one leader was killed while anothafternoon of December 26, 2020.

(1) magazine and ammunition and 11 er wounded NPA was arrested

Accompanying the sur9mm ammunition; and three (3) rifle during the five successive encounrenderees were the elements of the grenades. ters. Several high and low-pow1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force

“Ka Joseph” has been in the ered firearms, ammunition, imCompany led by PLt. Col. Frederick communist group for 42 years while provised explosive devices (IEDs), G. Senal, Force Commander, and the “Ka Jay” and “Ka Mateo” joined the claymore mines, and grenades direct supervisor PCol. Rodelio C. said group for 9 years. were also seized.

Samson, Provincial Director of the

Said surenderers decided to

The first encounter beLeyte Police Provincial Office. lay down their arms and return to the tween the troops of the 43rd

The surrenderees were folds of law out of dissatisfaction on Infantry Battalion and a group identified as 1) “Ka Joseph,” former the unfulfilled promises of the comof CNTs occurred in Barangay Commanding Officer of Regional munist group and they also wanted Happy Valley, San Isidro, in the Unified Command (RUC); former live peacefully with their respective morning of December 21, 2020.

Commanding Officer of Regional family.

The 30-minute gunfight Guerilla Unit (RGU) under Efren

De Jesus lauded the decision resulted in the death of a cerMartinez Command; former Finance of the rebels to surrender, saying it was tain Jerry Lutao, alias ‘Apple’, Officer and MEDIC of Banog Platoon a welcome development as governSecretary of Front Committee 2, Front Guerilla Unit (FGU); former ment forces continued to battle with Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Squad Leader and Platoon Leader of the armed wing of the Communist Emporium, Eastern Visayas Hamomoong Platoon Front Guerilla Party of the Philippines (CPP) which Regional Party Committee Unit (FGU); and recently designated marked its 52nd founding anniversary (EVRPC) whose body was left beas Pokot Paniktik (Intel Monitoring); on Saturday, Dec. 26. He encouraged hind by the retreating comrades.

2) “Ka Jay” and 3) “Ka Mateo” both those who are still in the armed move The troops also overran member of Barangay Organisasyon sa ment to surrender and return to the the CNT’s lair and successfully Partido (BOP) and Militia ng Bayan

NPA rebels surrender to authorities in EV

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

PRO-8 observes peaceful ‘Paskuhan’ in EV

By: PRO-8 major thoroughfares to prevent traffic CAMPETIC, Palo, Leyte -- The Police congestion.

Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) observed a Accordingly, the Regional Civil generally peaceful Christmas celebration Security Unit (RCSU) 8 conducted in Eastern Visayas as no major untoward incident was recorded in the region. inspection to security guards stationed in malls to ensure their implementation PBGen. Ronaldo F. De Jesus, Regional of the peace and security measures. All Director, ordered the establishment of these deployments were randomly inPolice Assistance Desks (PADs) in all places of convergence beginning the tra- spected by the Regional Internal Affairs ditional 9-day “Misa de Gallo” to ensure (RIAS) 8, as directed by the Chief PNP, peace and order. This was made possible PGen. Debold M. Sinas.

On the other hand, in line with in coordination with other concerned the operational guidelines on “Ligtas Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Paskuhan 2020,” PRO-8 ordered the Local Government Units (LGUs) and strict adherence of the general public volunteer groups. to minimum safety health protocols set

Meanwhile, the Regional forth by the Department of Health in Reactionary Standby Support Force order to contain and avoid the spread (RRSSF), Quick Response Teams and infection of COVID-19.

(QRTs), Critical Incident Management

“The success of the Yuletide Task Group (CIMTG), and Disaster celebration is made possible through the Incident Management Task Group public’s vigilance and cooperation. I am (DIMTG) were also activated. glad that PRO-8 was not able to mon The Medical Reserve Force itor lawless activities which could have (MRF) and Explosive Ordnance disrupted the observance of a peaceful Disposal and Canine Group (EOD/ and orderly Christmas,” RD De Jesus K9) were deployed to detect the pressaid. (PRO-8) ence of contrabands while the Road Safety Marshals were also placed in

FRs avail of Pangkabuhayan showcase from DTI

By: Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar -have availed of the Pangkabuhayan Twenty-two (22) Former Rebels (FRs) showcase from the Department

of Trade and Industry under the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa program.

“This is a livelihood and entrepreneurship program of DTI given to entrepreneurs affected by conflicts, calamities and or pandemic,” said DTI provincial director, Ms. Mimosa Regis.

“Our mandate is to develop micro, small enterprises, the package is just a small thing but this is a grant, you have the obligation to pay for it, Regis informed the FRs.

The funds, according to her, come from the office of Senator Bong Go coursed through DTI to be given to those interested to start a small business.

Speaking before the rebel returnees, Board Member Florencio “Fawa” Batula, representing Governor Edwin Ongchuan said, “the government tries its best to produce life winners, and you are our winners, hopefully, we can still encourage other rebels to come down to have a meaningful life as the government is serious in reaching out and providing services through various agencies. We don’t expect anything in return, what we only ask is your support.”

Aside from the pangkabuhayan showcase, Governor Edwin Ongchuan also gave Noche Buena packs with ham to the 22 FRs and their families. (PIA-N. Samar)

“Mama delivers..” continued from page 8

response of Pat Adorable and for his decisive measures that needed to be taken,” Coyme added. (PIA8/PRO8/Biliran PPO)

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NPA member yields to the government By: First Samar PMFC

BRGY. PALANAS CARA, Calbayog City -- In line with the steadfast campaign against insurgency, one (1) active member of a legal front of the CPP/NDF/NPA (KABATAAN PARTY LIST/MAKABAYAN BLOC) decided to return to the fold of the law and surrendered to PLt. Col. Joy G. Leanza, Force Commander, 1st Samar PMFC together with Provincial Intelligence Unit, (PIU) and Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU-Samar), all under the direct supervision of PCol. Glenn Oliver C. Cinco, Provincial Director of Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) about 6 o’clock in the evening of December 21, 2020 at Samar PPO, Camp Lukban, Brgy. Maulong, Catbalogan City.

The surrenderee was identified as alias “Jai,” 27 years old, single and is privately employed as a cook and resides in the city proper of Calbayog.

Her motivation of having to enjoy a peaceful and virtuous life led to her decision to cede to the arms of law and avail of the program of the government as provided for in Executive Order No. 70 otherwise known as the the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), and be cleared from any derogatory record.

“We encourage our

SAAD project enriches E. Samar swine breeding production By: Ninfa Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -- The Special Areas for Agricultural Development (SAAD) under the Department of Agriculture is enriching the province’s swine breeding production.

According to Antonio Luceres, focal person of SAAD E. Samar, on November 26, two farmers’ association in Arteche town in Brgy. Carapdapan and Barangay Catumsan received 10 gilts with 20 bags of hog misguided brothers and sisters to renounce the deceitful ideology of Joma Sison and to quit armed struggle. It is not by taking up arms against the government that you can make a difference. You can only make a difference if you live in harmony with the government and obey the rule of law,” PLt. Col. Leanza said.

PLt. Col. Leanza encourages other NPA rebels to surrender and take advantage of the government assistance program for returnees dubbed as Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to live a normal and decent life. (First Samar PMFC)

grower feed each association to ensure that the gilts do not suffer malnutrition.

They also delivered another 10 sets of gilts to the farmers’ association in Brgy. Japitan and Brgy. 14 in Dolores town with the same number of hog grower feeds.

In Brgy. Vigan and Aguinaldo in Gen. MacArthur, and in Brgy. Bagte in Quinapondan, the SAAD team also delivered the same set of assistance.

The farmers association did not only receive the gilts, feeds but also medicines and antibiotics and technical assistance from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian headed by Dr. Norma Ylanan to ensure that the gilts will produce healthy offspring, Luceres added.

Ylanan said that the provision of the feeds is good for the first cycle or until the gilts’ delivery.

With the infusion of the swine breeding production in strategic areas in the north and southern part of the province, the SAAD program with the provincial government hopes that the supply of meat will be enough.

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Mama delivers baby inside High-ranking NPA terrorist leader killed in a patrol car Northern Samar clash 8

December 1-31, 2020

By: 43rd IB/8ID CAMP SUMUROY, Brgy. Dalakit, intelligence value.

Catarman, Northern Samar -- A

According to the high-ranking New People’s Army Commanding Officer of the 43rd (NPA) terrorist leader was killed in a Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel 30-minute encounter in San Isidro town Raymundo C. Picut Jr., the timely and Northern Samar, morning of December accurate information given by the resi21, 2020. dents helped in the neutralization of the

The troops of the 43rd Infantry armed group responsible for the recent Battalion clashed with around 60 atrocities in Northern Samar.

Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs)

“Tuloy-tuloy po ang inyong with the aid of new military technolkasundalohan sa pagbabantay at ogy that pinpointed the location of pagseserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan the enemy in the vicinity of Barangay para masigurong ligtas sa panggugulo Happy Valley, San Isidro. at pangingikil ng mga NPA ngayong

The clash resulted to the death panahon ng kapaskohan.” of a certain alias ‘Apple’, Secretary of

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa Front Committee 2, Sub-Regional impormasyon ng mga taga barangay Committee (SRC) Emporium, Eastern at sa tulong na rin ng makabagong Visayas Regional Party Committee teknolohiya ay naging matagumpay ang (EVRPC) whose body was left behind ating operasyon laban sa mga terorby the retreating comrades. No casualty istang grupo. Nakakalungkot lang isipin was reported on the government side. na ilang araw na lang ay sasapit na ang

Meanwhile, the government Pasko at may isang pamilya na nawalan troops successfully overran the CNT’s ng mahal sa buhay ng dahil lang sa lair that can accommodate more or less ipinaglalaban na maling idolohiya. Kaya 60 rebels consisting of 30 bunkers, two sa mga kapatid natin na nasa kilusan pa, sentinel posts, three comfort rooms, one bumaba na kayo at magbalik-loob sa kitchen and one mess hall and several gobyerno. Masarap ang mamuhay na firearms. The troops also recovered one kapiling ang pamilya,” Picut said. (43rd cellular phone, two bottles of dextrose IB/8ID) and subversive documents of high

By: PIA-8 and PRO8/Biliran PPO TACLOBAN CITY -- The Biliran Police Provincial Office, Mobile Force Platoon personnel helped deliver a baby on December 29, 2020 around 3:15 p.m. in Bulalacao, Kawayan, Biliran.

The Police Regional Office 8 told the Philippine Information Agency Region 8 that on December 29, 2020 around 3 p.m., Hon. Rolly Culibra, Brgy.

Chairman of Ungale 1, Kawayan, Biliran requested the assistance of the Madao, Kawayan-based Biliran Mobile Force Platoon to transport a pregnant mother who went into labor and was about to give birth.

Without wasting any time, Pat. Presco Diaz Adobrable, under the supervision of PLt. Sammy A. Paning, immediately responded and drove towards Brgy Ungale 1, Kawayan, Biliran and fetched the expectant mother and husband.

While on their way to RHU Kawayan, Biliran, however, the husband noticed the head of the baby already coming out prior to their arrival to the clinic.

Thus, the baby was delivered inside the patrol car.

The mother identified as, Maria Fe Agustin and the baby boy are both safe and were immediately brought to RHU Kawayan for further medical attention.

PCol. Julius M Coyme, director of Biliran PPO, commended Pat. Adorable for his deed which only goes to show that we in the PNP value lives.

“I’m truly honored to the quick

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Gov’t troops seize NPA high-powered firearms, explosives after armed clash in Northern Samar By: Ailene N. Diaz

Bong Go’s ‘pamasko’ lifts spirit of hundreds of patients and medical frontliners at the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City By: OSBG As the Christmas spirit fills the air, the Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Monday, December 21, distributed Christmas gifts to a total of 230 recipients composed of patients and medical frontliners of the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City, Leyte.

In his video message to the beneficiaries, Go thanked them for their support to President Rodrigo Duterte and their cooperation amid the ongoing health crisis. He also told them not to hesitate to seek his help should they need it.

“Ako’y natutuwa dahil nakausap ko kayo at ma-greet ng ‘merry Christmas’. Maraming salamat po sa tulong ninyo at sa suporta ninyo kay Pangulong Duterte. Huwag po kayong mag-alala, sa abot ng aming makakaya ni Pangulong Duterte magta-trabaho at magseserbisyo kami sa inyong lahat,” said Go.

“Sana po ay huwag kayong mag-atubiling lumapit dahil trabaho po namin ang magserbisyo sa inyo.

Magtulungan lang po tayo,” he added.

He also acknowledged the

efforts of the hospital administrators and staff, led by Chief of Hospital Director Salvador Evardone, as he urged them to prioritize the needs of the poor and the vulnerable.

“Isa lang po ang pakiusap ko sa inyo. Unahin po natin ang mga mahihirap, dahil kawawa po ang mga pasyente na walang malapitan kung hindi ang ating ospital lang po. Huwag natin pabayaan ang mga kababayan nating nangangailangan,” he asked.

“Marahil sinusubok ang ating pananampalataya at katatagan ngayong taon. Patuloy lang po tayong magdasal at magmalasakit sa kapwa.

Alagaan natin ang ating kalusugan at panatilihing ligtas ang ating komunidad — iyan ang pinaka-importanteng mapapamahagi natin ngayong Pasko,” he added.

During the activity, the beneficiaries were given meals, food packs, masks, face shields, and vitamins. Go’s team ensured that the distribution activities were conducted while strictly complying with necessary health and safety protocols to avoid the further

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CATARMAN, Northern Samar -Government troops, 43rd Infantry Battalion in particular seized the Communist NPA Terrorists’ (CNTs) high-powered firearms and other explosives after an armed clash at the vicinity of Barangay Mabini, Catarman, Northern Samar on November 27, 2020.

This was learned from a press release through Cpt Jonathan R Mayono (INF) PA, Civil Military Operations Officer.

According to Cpt. Mayono, seized during the clash were one M16 rifle, one shotgun, a hand grenade, detonator with detonator cord, six short and long magazines, 91 rounds of ammunition, bandolier, laptop, cellphones, medical supplies, twenty-two (22) backpacks, five CNT flags, and subversive documents.

The engagement lasted around 15 minutes and no casualty on the government side were reported, while undetermined wounded on the part of the NPA terrorists based on reported bloodstains seen in the clash site, Mayono further informed.

The encounter happened after receiving report from a concerned citizen on the presence of the armed group. The Commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, Colonel Lowell R Tan, lauded the troops of

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

DSWD nakapamahagi na ng P47M Bayanihan 2 OPAV brings EOC best practices to Northern Emergency Subsidy sa Rehiyon 8 Samar By: PIA-8/DSWD-8 TACLOBAN CITY -- Sa panahon ng Kapaskuhan, nakapamahagi na ang Kagawaran ng Kagalingang Panlipunan at Pag-unlad o DSWD ng P47,580,000 bilang Emergency Subsidy sa 9,251 na kwalipikadong pamilya sa ilalim ng Bayanihan 2 dito sa Rehiyon 8.

Ayon sa DSWD Field Office 8 sa pamumuno ni Regional Director Lala Gopalan, ang mga benepisaryo ay ang mga pamilyang nakatira sa mga critical zone na lugar na isinailalim sa granular lockdown, o kaya ay ang mga hindi nakatanggap noong unang distribusyon ng Social Amelioration Program.

Naging maaga ang Pasko para sa mga taga-Babatngon, Leyte matapos maipamahagi ng DSWD ang P5,000 na Emergency Subsidy ng Bayanihan 2.

“Maraming salamat, DSWD, sa inyong binigay na aginaldo sa amin. Mahirap ang buhay naming dito sa barrio, kaya malaking tulong talaga ito sa amin. Ibibili ko ito ng pagkain para magkaroon kami ng munting salu-salo ngayong Pasko!”

Ito ang pahayag ni Danilo, isang benepisaryo ng Babatngon, Leyte.

Sa ilalim ng Bayanihan 2, maaaring makatanggap ng P5,000 na Emergency Subsidy ang mga kwalipikadong pamliya na nakatira sa mga lugar na isinailalim sa granular lockdown na tinaguriang critical zone ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) at sinangayunan ng Regional Inter-Agency Task Force (RIATF). Kasama din ang mga kwalipikadong pamilya na hindi nakatanggap noong First Tranche.

Muling nililinaw ng DSWD8 na ang pamamahagi ng Bayanihan 2 ay hindi Second o Third Tranche ng Social Amelioration Program.

Hindi kasama ang buong Eastern Visayas sa Second Tranche dahil hindi kasama ang Rehiyon 8 sa mga isinailalim sa Enhanced Community Quarantine noong pinirmahan ni Pangulong Duterte ang Executive Order 112, s. 2020.

Sa ngayon, patuloy pa rin ang pamamahagi ng DSWD Eastern Visayas ng Bayanihan 2 sa iba’t ibang munisipyo sa Rehiyon 8.

Para sa iskedyul ng distribusyon sa lugar ninyo, makipag-ugnayan sa inyong lokal na mga opisyal, payo ng DSWD-8. (PIA8/DSWD8)

By: OPAV

The Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV) and the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) have recommended measures to Northern Samar to better manage the COVID-19 crisis in the Eastern Visayas province.

OPAV has reached out to Northern Samar provincial officials in a virtual meeting to assess the COVID situation and make recommendations on containing the spread of the virus.

With the reported rise in cases in the province, OPAV and IATF urged Northern Samar local governments to establish an Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

The meeting was led by IATF Visayas Chief Implementer retired Maj. General Melquiades Feliciano and OPAV representative Joel Aba. It was attended by officials from Provincial Health Office of Northern Samar, City Health Office of Catarman, and Provincial and City Risk Reduction Management Offices.

During the meeting, Feliciano presented the organizational structure of an EOC, which he first set up in Cebu City when he was sent by the national government to help manage the crisis.

Feliciano emphasized the important role of barangay officials in curbing the COVID-19 problem.

Feliciano advised Northern Samar health officials to do a daily

continued on page 24

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December 1-31, 2020

11

RDC VIII honors regional winners of SOCV 2020 By: NEDA-8

PALO, Leyte -- The Regional Development Council (RDC) VIII - Executive Committee honored the three regional winners of the Search for Outstanding COVID19 Volunteers 2020 (SOCV 2020) during the RDC VIII Executive Committee Meeting on 15 December 2020 via Zoom.

Mr. Niño Archie S. Labordo took the top prize as the Most Outstanding Regional COVID-19 Volunteer in the region for 2020, while Mr. Francisco F. Buctot, Jr. and Ms. Asuncion A. Pernites were named Outstanding Regional COVID-19 Volunteers.

Mr. Labordo led multiple campaigns during the pandemic, first to give out Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other medical supplies to health workers in Tarangnan, Samar at the height of the pandemic, then providing food packs for checkpoint personnel and orientation webinars for nurses, all while working regularly as a Nutrition Officer at the National Nutrition Council (NNC) VIII and as a triage nurse at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Tacloban City.

On the other hand, Mr. Francisco F. Buctot Jr., as Assistant Director, Executive Operations and External Affairs of the Southern Leyte State University

DOLE Northern Samar, Rotary Club of Catarman join hands in year-end gift giving to 270 child laborers By: DOLE-NSFO

CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- As the year 2020 comes to an end, the Department of Labor and Employment - Northern Samar Field Office (DOLE-NSFO) marked the pandemic-strained year with a heigtened campaign against child labor by taking lead in reaching out to previously identified child laborers in the Province of Northern Samar.

With the support of the private sector through the Rotary Club of Catarman, DOLE-NSFO distributed grocery packs to 270 child laborers in the Municipality of Bobon and in eight (8) barangays in the Municipality of Catarman between November 28 and December 22.

Dubbed as Project Angel Tree, this year’s reachout project is a joint effort with the business community of Catarman through continued on page 13 Rotary member Member Merely Allado.

“This is our way of helping raise hopes to end a pandemic-strained year in a cheerful note by bringing the spirit of the holidays to the families of these child laborers,” DOLE Northern Samar head Patria

Bigcas said.

Barangay Captain Federico T. Olivares of Brgy. Cervantes, Catarman, the effects of the pandemic and the resulting community quarantine measures might have worsened the child labor situation in their barangay.

With schools locked down due to COVID-19, children who would otherwise be in classrooms would be outside of their homes working to earn money to supplement their family’s meager earnings.

“They would work in copra farms or even construction sites,” said Olivares.

While measures have been taken to ensure that establishments do not hire minors, the desire or need to help their families, or even themselves, often takes precedence over safety, health and education for these children, Olivares explained.

Sonia Macaldo, a parent of a child labor in Brgy. Cawayan, however, poined out that her daughter, 12, only helps out in her small food-vending business after she is done with her school’s modules.

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December 1-31, 2020

Agriculture Secretary’s Visayas Leg visit concludes with ‘Pasasalamat’ in Region 8

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

RED Enriquez further stated.

An expeditious implementation of the ALPAS Kontra Covid-19 or the AGRI-4Ps commonly known as Plant, Plant, Plant Program was vigorously pursued to ensure a food-seBy: Francis Rosaroso/DA-8 cure Philippines in this crucial time of health emergency. This is in line TACLOBAN CITY -- Secretary William D. Dar, one of the hardwork- with his basic tenets that if no action is done, “the threat of hunger is as real as ing and perhaps, undisputed top the threat of the virus.” performing cabinet members of the

Inspired by Secretary’s princiDuterte Administration concluded ple, the Covid-19 pandemic was never his 3-day visit in the Visayas regions considered a hindrance by the key dethru a special gathering dubbed as velopment partners and stakeholders “Pasasalamat” (thanksgiving) with who faced the problems head on. This agency’s development partners and created a synergical effect enabling stakeholders held on Dec.9 at The the agri-fishery sector to remarkably Oriental Leyte in Palo, Leyte.

The DA chief, who is interna- overcome the challenges, thereby spurring the region’s GVA growth of tionally renowned as a Filipino hor2.1 percent as cited by the Philippine ticulturist and servant leader, crossed Statistics Authority (PSA). the borders of Regions 6, 7 and 8 to

Verily, the Plant, Plant, Plant complete his 3-day Visayas leg visit.

Program has gained traction and for

DA-8 Regional Executive the past nine months, became a buzzDirector Angel C. Enriquez said that word not only at the grassroots level, in this recent Visayas-wide barnbut also in many areas where Urban storming of the Secretary, the DA-8 Agriculture became widespread.

Family feted him with a unique kind Hence, with Secretary Dar’s of event as an expression of our grati- visit to Eastern Visayas, a selected tude to his brand of leadership.

“We initiated the event to pri- number of program partners and marily honor and recognize the role of beneficiaries were treated with a rare all stakeholders in ensuring food secu- kind of celebration.

Aside from awarding various rity amidst the Covid-19 pandemic,”

agri-fishery interventions to the six provinces under the Bayanihan 2 amounting to more than Php402 million this year, Secretary Dar also committed more than half a billion peso worth of projects for 2021.

Also, he spearheaded the turnover of millions worth of cash and food subsidies to an initial 15 invited marginalized coconut and corn farmers, including fisherfolk. More of similar distribution will follow in the succeeding days with PCA, BFAR, DA in coordination with DBP and conduit financing entities.

In all three regions in the Visayas, a series of consultation-dialogues with representatives from the academe, non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, religious organizations and LGUs were conducted.

Dar said he is grateful that the solid collaboration between the DA, PLGUs, MLGUs, public and private sectors in implementing the AGRI-4Ps is bearing fruitful results in Eastern Visayas.

“Hunger and poverty elimination are priorities of the Duterte administration. Hence, a strong and sustained partnership with you as our

continued on page 23

“PRO-8 observes...” continued from page 3 possible through the public’s vigilance and cooperation. I am glad that PRO-8 was not able to monitor lawless activities which could have disrupted the observance of a peaceful and orderly Christmas,” RD De Jesus said. (PRO-8)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

13

“Gov’t troops seize..” continued from page 9 43IB for their efforts in protecting the community, he likewise expressed his gratitude to the residents who gave the information, said Mayono.

“Let us continue engaging the community from the Barangay down to the sitios, to build a strong rapport with the communities and help them cooperate with the government and the armed forces. The government troops are also willing to extend our hand for the wounded members of the NPA,” said Brigade Commander Colonel Lowell R Tan. (ADiaz, PIA-N. Samar)

NNC-8: Malnutrition rate in SoLeyte remains lowest in EV, cites rising malnutrition concerns By: Erna Gorne

MAASIN CITY, Dec. 28 (PIA) -- Southern Leyte registered the lowest malnutrition rate among provinces in Eastern Visayas according to the top official of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) in the region.

Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator, Dr. Catalino Dotollo said during the 4th Quarter City Nutrition Council Meeting, that compared to other provinces in the region, Southern Leyte remains to get the lowest malnutrition rate despite the increasing trend in several health indicators.

Dr. Dotollo advised the local nutrition council on the recent results of the Expanded National Nutrition Survey the need to revisit the local nutrition action plan as Maasin City LGU forms part among the provincial survey respondents.

He specifically mentioned

the threats on food security and calls to focus on food production in the communities and families, rising anaemia among the females of reproductive age, lack of physical activities among the adolescents, and the need to re-disseminate anti-smoking and anti-drinking among the young people and adolescents provincewide.

Dotollo enlightened the group that teenage pregnancy is one of the culprits in the anemia prevalence among the females from the infants and adolescents, wherein five percent of the 1,079 birth deliveries in 2019 were coming from teenage pregnancies.

He added, “being stunted, another irreversible effect of malnutrition, is very profound among the females in Southern Leyte.”

He further called on the health workers to strengthen the campaign against smoking and drinking which is on the rise across the province and further advised the council to design physical activities for the students as the survey results manifested that adults are more active than adolescents. (ldl/esg/PIA S. Leyte)

“RDC VIII..” continued from page 11 - Hinundayan Campus, led the efforts of SLSU to provide support to the community by harnessing the expertise of the University - such as the making of face shields, disinfectants and fliers for COVID-19 awareness and prevention, and the manufacturing of food packs and agricultural food products for frontliners, students, and ordinary households.

Ms. Asuncion A. Pernites mobilized external resources and even used her own money to provide meals to frontliners, all while volunteering as a border frontliner in the Kawayan Border Checkpoint.

All three were recognized for selflessly offering their time, services, skills, and resources to help the community’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Knulp Aseo/NEDA-8)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Returning residents of S. Leyte’s ‘Lupong Tagapamayapa’ winners Borongan city to take recognized, receive cash incentives By: Rebecca G. Cadavos free antigen test

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December 1-31, 2020

By: Reden D. Tangara BORONGAN CITY -- Returning residents of Borongan will undergo free antigen testing once their home is qualified for home quarantine.

This is according to Mayor Dayan Agda on a presscon on December 18, 2020.

This is due to the increase in the number of Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) in the quarantine facilities.

The City Health Office and the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) ask the resident LSIs or Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) who will return to Borongan to inform them in advance so that the CDRRMO will be able to check their houses if suited for home quarantine.

Once the LSI/ROF yields negative in the antigen test, he will be able to continue the 14day quarantine at home but still

continued on page 26

“One CPP-NPA supporter....” continued from page 4

PLt.Col. Pongcol encourages our brothers and sisters who are in the wrong path to surrender themselves to the government and to have a peaceful life.

He quoted, “You can’t go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are now and change the ending.”

In addition, PLt. Col. Pongcol emboldens the community to report any terroristic act and/or presence of persons of doubtful character to the nearest Police Station or to the nearest Maneuvering Platoons of 2nd SPMFC. (2nd SPMFC)

MAASIN CITY -- Winners of the 2020 Lupon Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards (LTIA) were given recognition and cash incentives by the provincial government of Southern Leyte in an awarding ceremony led by the provincial office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Declared as Lupong Tagapamayapa provincial winners are Brgy. Tubod, Silago for the 4th6th class municipality and Brgy.

Catublian, Hinunangan for the 1st3rd class municipality.

Both received P30,000 cash award and an additional financial grant for Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) development projects worth P50,000.

Brgy. San Jose of Maasin City won for the component city category and received P30,000 cash award and an additional financial grant of P30,000 for KPs development projects.

Other winners for the local LTIA were given to Poblacion in Padre Burgos, Punod of Pintuyan,

Sindangan in Macrohon,

and one in the municipality of Libagon.

These barangay runners-up also get cash awards and an additional grant for the Katarungang Pambarangay development projects during the awarding ceremony held at the Old DPWH Function Hall on November 27, 2020.

The local LTIA awarding ceremony was held after the Provincial Inter-Agency Task Force meeting led by Gov. Damian G. Mercado with the presence of municipal/city mayors who were also acknowledged for their usual support of the said program, to include the Lupon chairs, barangay treasurers of each winning barangay, and the Municipal/City Local Government Operations Officers. (ldl/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

“NPA rebels....” continued from page 5

PLGU-Southern Leyte produces 3 more medical doctors By: Erna S. Gorne

MAASIN CITY -- The provincial government of Southern Leyte recently produces three more medical doctors as an offshoot of the Southern Leyte Medical Scholarship program which started years ago.

The provincial government moved to fill the need of medical doctors in the province with the establishment of medical scholarship program presented by Congressman Roger Mercado during his stint as the provincial governor in 2015.

Rep. Mercado aggressively pushed for the said new education program so that the province will be producing its own medical doctors, seeing the scarcity of the medical doctors working at the provincial, district hospitals and urban/city/rural health units since then, hence endangering the health of the people.

The three new medical doctors, who successfully hurdled the 2020 Board Examination for Doctors are: Dr. Lester M. Clerigo, who hails from San Ricardo; Dr. Paola Elisha P. Cutamora from Maasin City; and Dr. Steve Aldrich M. Guias from San Ricardo, all from Southern Leyte.

Earlier, four medical doctors,

who were also PLGU scholars, have already started working at the Salvacion Oppus Yniguez Memorial Provincial Hospital (SOYMPH) as part of the medical team of the provincial government.

“We now have seven medical doctors added to the provincial hospital medical staff,” said Mr. Cel Toledo, who managed the scholarship program.

According to the scholarship Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the provincial government and the scholars, it was agreed that scholars will render return service to the provincial government for two years for every year of availment of the scholarship program.

“Each medical doctor will render a return service in the next 10 years,” Toledo said.

They will serve as government doctors and will be employed as permanent employees of the provincial government, he added.

Meanwhile, the provincial government under the leadership of Provincial Governor Damian Mercado, officially launched the

continued on page 23

15

folds of the law.

“I call upon all those who remain under the nonsensical influence of this communist group to finally abandon the armed struggle.

The government forces are more than willing to accommodate your decision towards peace and progress,” De Jesus said in a statement.

The surrender of the said former rebels was the result of an intensified campaign of Leyte PPO under the command of PCol. Samson against these insurgents and in support to Executive No. 70 (NTF-ELCAC).

PCol. Samson, explained that the surrender came after the conduct of a joint community engagement and Intelligence and Information Operation (IO/Counter Propaganda) conducted by PLt. Col. Senal.

“The recent surrender of other CTG members is a big black eye to the communist movement, to which they are now reacting and are affected. This is a whole-ofnation approach where we coordinate and support the DILG and other agencies of government, including the local government units who have started their manifesto denouncing these

CTG’s in their area,” Samson said

Samson believes that with the recent surrender, many of their colleagues in the movement are now in the process of withdrawing support to avail of livelihood packages offered by the government. (PIA8/PRO8/Leyte PPO)

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

CSOs, media inspect DILG-funded projects in Southern Leyte By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- For three straight days, representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs) and the local media accompanied personnel from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to look into the status of development projects the agency funded.

The projects that were actually seen, or learned through interaction with concerned local government unit (LGU) officials, were financed under the assistance to municipalities (AM) program of the DILG for 2019, wherein many were already finished, a few still in progress, or in the finishing stages of completion.

These included two water systems that are still ongoing, 19 local access roads in which 16 were already completed, and two evacuation centers where one was finished, for a total of 23 projects spread in 18 municipalities -- city of Maasin not part of AM -- for a total fund allocation for 2019 worth P150,248,000.

Based on a DILG briefer, locally-funded projects are those taken from the LGU development plans that were formulated during multi stakeholders planning and consultations as listed in the investment program, but fund allocation was dependent upon the LGU’s governance performance.

continued on page 17

Christening of Typhoon Rolly delivery-aided child highlights 803rd MC’s welcoming of Lenten Season By: Leviresa A. Getigan

LAVEZARES, Northern Samar -- The 803rd Maneuver Company (803rd MC) of the 8th Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB8), Philippine National Police (PNP), welcomed the Lenten Season through a thanksgiving mass and Christening of Princess Roselyn “Baby Rolya” Edic on December 1, 2020 at the Company’s Headquarters in Urdaneta, this municipality.

Baby Rolya was born during the onslaught of Typhoon Rolly in October 31, this year, and whose mother, Mrs. Letecia Combo, was assisted during delivery by the personnel of 803rd MC particularly by a police officer who is a nurse by profession.

In consonance with the PNP’s “Adopt a Child: Adopt an Indigent Family Program,” 803rd MC processed the documentary requirements, facilitated the Christening of Baby Rolya and provided clothes and other basic needs.

Relatively, all PNP units are directed to conduct a modified,

simple, meaningful yet cost-effective observance of the Yuletide Season themed: “Diwa ng Kapaskuhan at Pagkakaisa sa Panahon ng Pandemya,” to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and to give the PNP an opportunity to celebrate amid the global pandemic.

“I commend my personnel for the ‘life and death’ assistance accorded to Combo Family while our unit was providing disaster response to the Lavezaresnons. The Christening of Baby Rolya reflects on the celebration of the birth of Christ; rendering the observance of the Yuletide Season more meaningful and significant” said Police Captain Lalic, acting company commander.

Combo family will be included in the units Adopt a Family program to closely monitor the families well-being given that there source of living is gravely affected since the imposition of Community Quarantine causes by corona virus. (lag)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

17

“Samar, TF-ELCAC...” continued from page 1 center for former rebels as part of the local government’s initiative under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). It will also be used as a temporary shelter for all former rebels as they begin their rehabilitation journey back to mainstream society.

Tan reiterated the local government’s full support to the E-CLIP and assured that it will continue to assist the returning rebels in the province. In fact, it allocated P25 million as a fund for the Local Social Integration Program (L-SIP) of the province.

“Gusto ko na talaga na magkaroon ng lasting peace dito sa Samar kasi the problem has been here for more than 50 years and ayoko na i-prolong pa for another 50 years. So, during my administration as Governor, siguro naman, hopefully, we can solve this problem pero if not at least we’ve made a significant reduction sa problem ngayon,” Tan said.

On the other hand, the 8th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Pio Q. Din~oso III assured the former rebels that the military will support them as they undergo a series of transformation activities and livelihood training.

Din~oso also acknowledged the fact that the government has its shortcomings that somehow, they wanted to fill by giving them what was denied to them for many years while they

were still part of the communist group.

To live initially secured inside the peace house for one and living peacefully and happily with their loved ones in the future.

“Wala naman talagang gustong maging rebelde.

Nalinlang lang sila, natulak sila dahil na rin sa mga pagkukulang natin sa gobyerno.

“Ngayon ang misyon nga ng 8ID is i-rescue itong mga tao na ito. Kasi ‘pag nasa loob na sila ng grupo, ng kilusan, doon nagkakaroon ng riyalisasyon na mali pala ang kanilang nasapian.

“Ngayon ‘pag nasa loob ka na kasi ay mahirap nang lumabas.

So responsibilidad namin iyon at aming objective nga na i-rescue sila,” Din~oso said.

Ka Ronna, a former rebel could not hold back her tears as she looked back on how the local government and law enforcement agencies helped her after surrendering six months ago.

“She said she was not only given a second chance to be reunited with her family but was also given livelihood.

“Sa aking mga kasamahan, bumaba na kayo. May nakalaan na tulong ang pamahalaan sa inyo.

Kaysa nandiyan kayo sa kabundukan na nagtitiis sa mga lamok, lamig, ulan, gutom at puyat na wala namang inaasahang sahod.

Dito pwede pa kayo magbagong buhay.

“Tutulungan talaga kayo ng gobyerno. Ang ELCAC talaga ang nangunguna sa tulong ng mga Local Government Units,” said Ka Ronna.

Din~oso also encouraged every citizen of Eastern Visayas to not allow fear to prevail but instead to work hard and unite to end the decades long insurgency problem in the region. (8ID)

“CSOs, media...” continued from page 16

During the tour, people living in the barangays serviced by the projects attested they have greatly benefitted from it, their life somehow improved, such as rehabbed potholed roads and expansion of a water system.

Delays were attributed to the restrictions of movement including delivery of construction materials because of the Covid-19 pandemic and unfavorable working conditions due to successive, continuous rains for days caused by passing typhoons and low pressure areas.

In spite of these natural forces, concerned LGU officials and contractor representatives vowed to exert best efforts to finish the project the soonest time possible. (ldl/ mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Cacao farmers in SoLeyte participate in DTI’s good agricultural practices training By: Rebecca G. Cadavos

MAASIN CITY -- A total of fifty eight cacao farmers in the province of Southern Leyte participated in the Good Agricultural Practices Training initiated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Provincial Office.

The said training which was set on two scheduled dates on December 9-10, in the municipality of Sogod and December 16-17, in Pintuyan town.

DTI Provincial Director Michael B. Nuñez reported that the training aims to increase income of small farmers and unemployed rural folks across selected agri-based value chains.

From the total cacao farmers, 28 attended in Sogod and 30 in Pintuyan, it was learned.

“These activities were made through the Rural Agro Enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development (RAPID) Growth Project of DTI,” Nuñez said.

It is a market-driven value-chain based project of the department, he said referring to RAPID Growth Project which will also serve as an indirect support to the cacao industry in the province.

The good agricultural practices have been set by researchers for farmers to follow to optimize farmer income and maintain quality yield.

In Southern Leyte, cacao farmers still use the traditional farming techniques, the source

PCA distributes assistance to marginalized coconut farmers By: Reden D. Tangara

BORONGAN CITY -- Some 112 coconut farmers received cash and food assistance from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) under the Department of Agriculture’s Cash and Food Subsidy for Marginal Farmers and Fishers Program on December 21, at the Borongan city plaza.

Of the subsidy, three thousand pesos will be given as cash assistance to be claimed at MLhuillier, while the remaining P2,000 will be for food items specifically rice (P1,000), chicken (P600), and egg (P400).

One beneficiary Rodrigo Anacta, 70, from Brgy. Surok, said.

“This is one of the factors why their average yield/proceeds remain lower than the national standard,” Nuñez added.

The training is also intended to capacitate farmers on good agricultural practices and apply such practices in order to increase supply of good quality materials to buyers and practice sustainable farming. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

Borongan City was thankful as his movement is limited due to the pandemic. He said that with the amount, his family can celebrate Christmas like others.

Another beneficiary, Maria Nelia Arre, 55, of Brgy.

San Gabriel, said she is happy with the blessing, “May food packs na, may cash pa!”

According to the Office of the Agricultural Services (OPAS) chief Virgilio Capon, PCA identified the qualified beneficiaries-farmers who were not able to receive the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) worth P5,000.

The PCA is the implementing agency because it is intended for the coconut farmers.

(RDT/ PIA E. Samar)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

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Maasin City supports campus journalism, says councilor By: Marcelo M. Pedalino

Modern PUJs to ply Allen-Catarman, Allen-Calbayog routes By:Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar

This is in response to the -- Modern Public Utility Jeepneys PUV modernization program of (PUJs) has started its operation President Rodrigo Duterte’s adfor Allen-Catarman and Allen ministration, he said, adding that Calbayog routes after its grand this is the first in Northern Samar launching on December 8, 2020 and in the whole Samar Island. held at Allen St. James the Greater LTFRB is serious in the Plaza, Allen, Northern Samar. implementation of the moderniza The 45 modern jeepneys tion program and committed to its as presented and drive-tested thrust in providing a comfortable, through a motorcade are owned safe, reliable and convenient transby the Allen Municipal Officials port to the commuting public, Employees and Communities Gualberto said.

Multi-Purpose Cooperative

The AMOEC-MPS on the (AMOEC-MPS) financed by the other hand, assured operators and Land Bank of the Philippines. drivers of old jeepneys of their

Regional Director livelihood.

Gualberto N. Gualberto of the

All 74 operators and Land Transportation Franchising drivers will be hired as drivers and Regulatory Board 8 (LTFRBof the modern jeepneys with a 8) voiced his support and condaily wage and share of monthly gratulated AMOEC-MPS in its income. venture in leading the transport

During the launching, groups in the modernization of Northern Samar local officials, public utility vehicles.

Governor Edwin Ongchuan, and Allen Mayor Jose Arturo Suan extended their congratulatory video messages to AMOEC-MPS and wished the cooperative for its successful operation. (ldl/ADiaz/ PIA-Northern Samar)

MAASIN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) -- The local government unit here expressed readiness to support campus journalism activities among schools under the city schools division of the Department of Education (DepEd).

This will be carried out in partnership with the organization of practicing mediamen in the city and province, the Associated Media of Southern Leyte (AMSL), said Zaldy Olita, city council member.

Last month the Press Freedom Week was observed in the city, a first of its kind of celebration participated by selected campus writers, two each from four schools -- Maasin City National High School, Manhilo National High School, Dongon National High School, and Saint Joseph College.

City Ordinance 2019-129 passed and approved last year mandated that the city LGU, in close coordination with AMSL, conduct activities to mark freedom week every first week of October -- moved to last week of November because of Covid -- as a way of recognizing the efforts the local media exerted in advancing the city’s development, even if at times the media itself played an adversarial role.

Among the activities stated in the ordinance, whose principal sponsor was Councilor Olita, was the training of campus paper writers.

“Hopefully the plan will

continued on page 22

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA entering and going out of the city,” City Councilor Zaldy Olita reported during a recent press conference with campus writers on the occasion of the first press freedom week celebration.

Many businesses had since opened in the past two months, and the bus terminal was alive again with some vans, buses, multicabs plying routes in and out of the city, again, under the new normal attitude the riding public has to follow. (ldl/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte, with a report from Maraih Sheine Valez, campus writer of Manhilo National High School)

Christmas village in Maasin City adds glitter to new normal holidays By: Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY -- At sundown when the weather permits, the Anatalio Gaviola public plaza in this city transformed into a beehive of activity since December 1, as various selfie-and-groufie-perfect sights attract the young and the old alike.

Under the watchful eyes of the city enforcers and policemen, who constantly balked reminders to maintain social distancing and proper wearing of facemasks, the people enjoyed every moment just the same, aware that this is the new normal way of celebrating the yuletide season.

During the lighting ceremony, Mayor Nacional Mercado said the entertaining spectacle, themed Christmas village, was dedicated to frontliners battling coronavirus disease in recognition of their efforts and service.

In a subsequent social media post, Mayor Mercado called on the people strolling the area to maintain the usual health protocols, and ordered cops and enforcers to ensure these minimum requirements were faithfully implemented.

The curfew hours starting at 10 p.m. was also among the orders the Mayor issued, so by that hour until 4 a.m., everyone should have left the place, or be caught by police for curfew violation.

Meanwhile, mobile food carts and ambulant water vendors enjoyed brisk business, too, as well as those in the “makdo” barbecue stalls, showing signs of a gradual recovery in the grassroots economy.

The scenario was a marked improvement over the past seven months when the business community was hit hard by the Covid pandemic, including the city’s economic enterprise.

“The pandemic has a huge impact in the local economy. First, many establishments were closed and, second, the terminal was paralyzed as there was limited or no transportation

Southern Leyte welcomes govt’s Moral Transformation Program By: Erna S. Gorne

MAASIN CITY -- The Philippine Moral Transformation (PMT) program of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was welcomed in the province of Southern Leyte during the launching here, Wednesday.

Office of the Presidential Adviser for Religious Affairs (OPARA) 8 Regional Director Jericho Labonete said PMT is continuing the campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte against corruption and illegal drugs.

Labonete disclosed that the PMT has three-pronged program – Bawat Tahanan, Sambahan – Bawat Pamilya may Kapilya; Gabay ng Bayan – Gabay ng Barangay; and Gabay sa Bagong Buhay.

He further discussed that Gabay ng Bayan – Gabay ng Barangay is an anti-corruption and anti-drug initiative to be implemented by Yeshua Change Agents, while the Bawat Tahanan, Sambahan – Bawat Pamilya May Kapilya is an anti-rebellion and drug demand reduction initiative

continued on page 28

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

21

35 inmates benefit from TESDA’s training for work scholarship program By: Ailene N. Diaz

CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- Some 35 inmates or people deprived of liberty (PDL) from Laoang Sub-Provincial Jail received training allowance as part of the scholarship benefits under the Training for Work Scholarship Program - Special Skills Training Program (SSTP) of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

This was learned from Mr. Jonel Jolejole of TESDA-Las Navas Agro Industrial School (LNAIS).

“This is in response to the mandate of TESDA of expanding its services to various communities, train the people and the communities for them to acquire skills and be productive citizens,” said TESDA OIC Ma. Asuncion Sumoray.

The 35 inmates went through skills training on bread and pastry production, support to Horticultural Crop work, support Horticultural Nursery work which will led to Agricultural Crop Production.

This was made possible through the collaboration of Las Navas Agro Industrial School, Laoang Sub-Provincial Jail and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

During the event, Laoang inmates expressed their gratitude to TESDA particularly to Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña, Regional Director Dante J. Navarro, and OIC Ms. Ma. Asuncion Sumoray for the

E. Samar SP approves P1.5B budget for 2021 By: Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of E. Samar has approved a P1.5 billion budget for 2021.

This is what Vice Governor Maricar Sison-Goteesan said as she faced the local media after the SP session on December 18, 2020.

She added that the priority of the provincial government remains on health, agriculture, and education.

She also said that the SP will look for funding for the promised provision of vaccines to Estehanons who will not be able to avail themselves of the free vaccines by the national government.

“The LGU will find ways for those who cannot avail from the national government,” she training opportunity extended to them even they are behind bars, said Jolejole.

They likewise extended special thanks to TESDA-LNAIS Vocational School Administrator Ms. Yolanda Pajenado as service provider for the special skills training for the inmates. (ldl/ AND/PIA-N. Samar)

said.

As health is the number one priority, Goteesan also talked about the availability of the CT Scan and Dialysis machines by the first quarter of next year.

As to the other community and district hospitals located in the entire province, she said that more improvements are on their way.

Other ordinances/legislations the vice-governor said is the provision of P50,000 to centenarians. Then there is the approval of the Provincial Bike Code which states safety for the bikers.

The Vice-Governor also takes pride in saying that because the whole SP and the Governor is one, the SP is always ready to support Gov. Evardone’s propositions that will benefit the Estehanons. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

“SAAD project..” continued from page 7

“We will not have to import pork anymore, and this will provide income to poor families who are members of the farmers’ associations, “ said Luceres.

The project worth P5,967,395 for the seven farmers groups will roll out to other beneficiaries, said Luceres.

Piglets that will be produced later will be dispersed to other farmers for the same purpose. Liezelda Carin, an officer of the Japitan SAAD Farmers Association thanked the DA and the Provincial Government for the assistance. She said she will encourage her members to take care of the investment as this will also help their families. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

“Maasin City supports...” continued from page 19 be realized. AMSL will train and help you to become future mediamen and follow our footsteps,” Olita said, speaking in the dialect, during a press conference where he was the guest and the interviewers were the budding journalists.

Olita, who is now on his second term, was a broadcaster at radio station DYDM since 2009 before joining local politics in 2016.

He is still active in live, on-air radio reporting on the station’s morning newscast, sharing updates from the city hall, especially the Sangguniang Panlunsod. (ldl/mmp/PIA8Southern Leyte, with a report from Ervi Lowell Doble, campus paper writer of Maasin City National High School)

LTO-Naval stops accepting vehicle inspection, testing documents from Biliran By: Lailani P. Tupaz

NAVAL, Biliran -- Romeo P. Alianza, chief of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Naval District Office, informed that their office has stopped accepting vehicle inspection and smoke emission testing performed within the district starting December 23, 2020.

Alianza disclosed that under LTO-8 Memorandum dated December 22, 2020, signed

by Regional Director Rhodelio Poliquit, all heads of district offices in Baybay, Palompon, Ormoc, and Naval were informed of the start of operation of the COJIBAS Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) in Ormoc City.

All inspection and emission testing of motorcycles, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), and all types of light vehicles, except that of trucks and trailers of 4,800 kilograms gross vehicle weight and more, are to be performed in the identified inspection center.

Said memorandum also prohibits all district offices, extension offices, and other inspection areas to conduct inspection and

testing of all motorcycles, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), and all types of light vehicles because they are all covered by the COJIBAS PMVIC.

Inspection and testing of trucks and trailers with 4,800 kilograms gross vehicle weight and more remain in the area of coverage of LTO-Naval District Office.

To avoid unnecessary expense and delay in the processing of vehicle registration, Alianza reiterated, LTO-Naval District Office no longer honors vehicle inspection and testing conducted within Biliran province.

All vehicle owners are advised to submit their vehicles to COJIBAS PMVIC in Ormoc City for inspection and testing, Alianza added. (ldl/mlt/PIA8 Biliran)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

23

“Agriculture Secretary’s...” continued from page 23

LGU-Southern Leyte signs covenant with OPARA’s Moral Transformation program By: Rebecca G. Cadavos

MAASIN CITY -- The Office of the Presidential Adviser for Religious Affairs (OPARA) Region-8 had signed a covenant with the local government unit of Southern Leyte, in the launching activity of the Philippine Moral Transformation (PMT) program of the present administration.

Before the covenant signing, OPARA-8 Regional Director Jericho Labonete said in his message that “this is the second PMT launched in the region, and Eastern Visayas was the first to launch throughout the country.”

He said that the PMT is a level of commitment not only to God but for the country.

“It is a continuing campaign against corruption and illegal drugs, where the family has an important role and the first-hand

implementer.”

“Malaki ang kinalaman ng mga Tatay sa pagpalaki ng kanilang mga anak,” he said in Filipino.

The PMT has three sectoral programs such as the Bawat Tahanan, Sambahan; Bawat Pamilya may Kapilya; and the Gabay ng Bayan, Gabay ng Barangay, Gabay sa Bagong Buhay, Labonete presented.

After Labonete’s presentation of the overview of the Philippine Moral Transformation Program, a covenant signing was made with the sectoral representatives from the different religious organizations, government agency representatives, including the Philippine National Police, the Municipal and Barangay Anti-Drug Addiction reps who will be part of the program implementation.

The OPARA team expressed their gratitude for the support of the local government of the province of Southern Leyte, among others concerned who were involved in the successful launching activity held recently at the Old DPWH Function Hall here. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

valued stakeholders, should continue and we should make it even better in 2021 “ he added.

The event practically served as the launching pad for the following projects: Cash and Food Subsidy for marginal farmers and fisherfolk; Milk Feeding Program of Southern Leyte Schools Division; and Chicken and Goat Multiplier Farm with UEP and BIPSU. Among the local luminaries who graced the event include RDC 8 Chair and Leyte Governor Dominico Leopoldo Petilla; Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina; Southern Leyte Governor Damian Mercado; Congressman Florencio “Bem” Noel of An Waray Partylist; representatives of the three Samar provinces; Tacloban City Mayor; as well as heads of DA’s attached agencies and bureaus.

Development partners such as PIA-8 under Regional Director Olive Tiu and religious sector represented by I-konek Klesia under Rev. Pastor Noli Opiniano were also cited and given due recognition during the program. It also highlighted the awarding of Php1 million cash prize to Culaba, Biliran as Outstanding Municipality for the 2019 Rice Achievers Awards (RAA). (DA-8)

“PLGU Southern Leyte...” continued from page 15

Nursing Scholarship program this year.

The provincial government of Southern Leyte sent 10 nursing scholars to school this year.

“All of the 10 nursing scholars will exclusively study at the College of Maasin, a locally based Nursing School in Maasin City. We should patronize our own medical schools,” Toledo note.

He further disclosed that the provincial government-initiated medical scholarship programs are still accepting those who are interested to study for the next school year and may reach him with this telephone number 09279976907. (ldl/ esg/PIA SoLeyte)

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December 1-31, 2020

‘Project Kamustahan’ in Biliran supports mental health

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “DOLE Northern Samar...” continued from page 11

(DOH) in Central Visayas, assessed the laboratory practices and operations in Northern Samar, and lauded the speed

Since all her other children of the release of results in the province, are already adults and have families which is 24 hours on the average. of their own, her daughter is the By: Lailani P. Tupaz

Loreche expressed hoped that only one who helps her out in her there will be an increase in the testing caNAVAL, Biliran -- Considering the livelihood. pacity of the province to be able to fully number of reported suicide cases

Miss Bigcas admits that utilize their resources and manpower. in the entire province of Biliran, the Project Angel Tree is only a small

During the meeting, Northern Biliran Provincial Health Office rep- part of a bigger intervention package Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan licated the Department of Health’s under its Child Labor Program (CLP). thanked Presidential Assistant for the (DOH) “Project Kamustahan” and

According to her, this iniVisayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino, campaigned for mental health suptiative is also important in bringing Gen. Feliciano and Dr. Loreche for their port among families and communi- the issues of child labor into the fore efforts to help the province’s COVID ties in the island province. and in keeping them the subject of response.

Project Kamustan is a prodiscussions that hopefully will result

“This [the presentation of gram of the Department of Health in longer-term interventions.

General Feliciano] is already a big help as the government’s support to

Included in NSFO’s slate of to us,” Ongchuan said. He also recogmental health and save the precious projects for 2021 is the provision of nized the efforts of OPAV in extending lives of the victims. livelihood packages for parents of its concern and assistance to their

Vanessa Ramirez, Biliran child laborers worth P30,000 each. province.

PHO health education and promo “By giving parents a sustain “The efforts Gen. Feliciano tions officer, disclosed during PIAable mean of earning a living, it will with the help of OPAV to bring this Biliran Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan free up their children from economic EOC concept have really helped the key over Radyo Natin-Naval that most activities so they can focus on their areas in the Visayas,” Secretary Dino of suicide victims in the country are education, instead,” Bigcas said. said. Secretary Dino, for instance, cited in the 15-23 age bracket and that the Some 228 child laborBacolod City, where COVID cases are case is preventable with the families’ ers in the Catarman barangays of now manageable after the local govhelp and support.

Baybay, Cervantes, Polangi, Libjo, ernment and health officials success The provincial health educa- Cawayan, Washington, Macagtas fully implemented the EOC formula tor urged everyone to give attention and Dalaquit, as well as 42 chilin the city. Dino further said that the to one’s mental health and encourdren in the Municipality of Bobon, OPAV, which serves as the bridge of aged families and communities to Northern Samar were reached out.

Malacañang to the Visayas, will provide observe every member’s behavior (DOLE-NSFO) logistics support for the province if they for early detection of any mental decide to send their representatives health issues.

“OPAV brings..” continued to Cebu to undergo the actual EOC

Ramirez emphasized the from page 10 training. need to observe the warning signs huddle at their COVID command

After spending over a month of mental disturbance which may center to be able to keep them abreast in Bacolod City, Feliciano, together with include a change of behavior, with the latest data on infection and his wife Mia Fe, also flew to Pagadian expressions of hopelessness, efrecovery rates, and enable them to City in Zamboanga del Sur with the forts to inflict self-destruction, and fight the virus head on. same goal of bringing the Cebu EOC continued on page 28 Feliciano explained that the concept. The EOC aims to harmonize EOC serves as a centralized hub which data, testing and contact tracing efforts should have both Data Collection through a centralized data management Management and Analysis Group, system in efforts to detect, isolate, treat and the Education, Information and and stop transmission of COVID-19.

Training Group to make it efficient.

This government-led center has been

Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, chief proven to have brought down cases in pathologist at the Department of Health the cities of Cebu and Bacolod. (OPAV)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 1-31, 2020

25

“Government troops..” continued from page 5

seized one M16, M4, M4KG, .38 revolver, magazines, two rifle grenades, a hand grenade, four IEDs, claymore mine, bomb triggering devices, backpacks, cellphones, generator sets, medical supplies, NPA flag, and subversive documents.

In the morning of December 22, 2020, while on pursuit operation, the troops of the 43rd IB encountered six CNTs at the vicinity of Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro.

No casualty on the government side while an undetermined casualty on the enemy’s side was reported during the 10-minute firefight.

Five hours after the morning encounter, troops of 43rd IB clashed with the same group of CNTs at the vicinity of Sitio Agsam, Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro.

Seized during the encounter were two shotguns, one caliber .38 revolver with ammunition, one magazine of .45 pistol loaded with 7 rounds of ammunition, cellphones, and backpacks.

The fourth encounter transpired at dawn of December 23, 2020, at the vicinity of Km 14, Barangay Happy Valley of the same town. One Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was wounded and troops immediately gave him first aid. He was identified as Jonas Dela Torre alias Jonel, 36, years old, Team Leader of Squad Uno, Front Committee 2. Troops were able to recover Dela Torres’s AK47 rifle.

The last encounter happened hours before Christmas Eve when troops from 43rd IB engaged in a 15-minute gunfight with three CNTs still at

Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, Northern Samar. There were no reported casualties on the government side while there are heavy casualties on CNT’s side as indicated by bloodstains at enemy’s route of withdrawal.

Recovered at the encounter site were two M16 rifles, magazines, ammunition, and one improvised hand grenade. Troops are still on pursuit operation.

According to 43rdIB Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Raymundo C. Picut Jr., all their military intelligence units are closely monitoring the activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) this holiday season as it planned to really conduct atrocities in the Province.

“Maliban sa panggugulo ngayong kapaskuhan sa mga remote at vulnerable areas ay magsasagawa rin sila ng mga tactical offensives sa mga military detachments at police stations lalo na ngayong nalalapit na rin ang ika-52 anibersaryo ng CPP-NPA,” Picut said.

Because of the dwindling ranks of the NPA, 8th Infantry

Division Commander Major General Pio Q. Diñoso III said, it is unlikely for the Communist Terrorists to hold a large meeting during CPP’s founding anniversary on December 26. He assured the people of Eastern Visayas that troops will be guarding communities to ensure a meaningful and peaceful Christmas celebration.

“Bilib at hanga ako sa lakas at determinasyon ng ating mga tropa. Gamit ang ating makabagong technology, military assets kasama ang ating K9 team at mga pursigidong sundalo at sa tulong ng mga residente, hindi natin titigilan ang pagtugis sa mga teroristang NPA hanggang sa magapi natin sila. Maliban na lamang kung mapag-pasyahan na nilang sumuko para maibalik natin sila ng buhay sa kanilang mga pamilya,” Major General Diñoso added.

(43rd IB, 8ID)

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

“Bong Go’s Pamasko...” continued from page 9 spread of COVID-19.

Due to limited public transportation and the need to commute to work, Go’s team also gave away bicycles to selected recipients. Tablets were also given to another set of chosen beneficiaries for their children’s use to better participate in classes under the blended learning set up.Meanwhile, personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development separately provided financial assistance to the beneficiaries through their existing programs.

Go also informed the beneficiaries that they may conveniently avail of assistance for their healthcare needs from the Malasakit Center inside the hospital.

The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop where all four government agencies, namely the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and PhilHealth, are already under one roof, with special lanes for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

The Malasakit Center streamlines the processes for Filipinos requesting government assistance for their medical needs.

“Masaya ako para sa inyong lahat dahil mayroon na tayong 96 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas.

Nung naging Senador ako, ipinaglaban ko po itong maisabatas at patuloy lang po akong magseserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan,” Go said.

As the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also assured beneficiaries that once a safe and effective vaccine for COVID19 is available and approved by the Food and Drug Administration, he and President Rodrigo Duterte will prioritize the poor and the vulnerable, as well as frontliners.

“Huwag po kayong mag-alala, mga kababayan kong Bisaya, kapag mayroon nang safe na vaccine at na-declare ng FDA (Food and Drug Administration), uunahin namin ni Pangulong Duterte ang lahat ng mahihirap, mga vulnerable, at lahat ng frontliners,” he said.

“Frontliners, mauuna kayo kasi kayo po ang sinabak sa giyerang ito.

“So, dapat protektado po ang ating mga frontliners. Kaunting tiis lang po, mga kababayan ko, kapit lang po tayo, taga-Leyte, taga-Samar, mga Waray, mga Bisaya, kapit lang tayo. Malalampasan din natin itong pandemyang ito,” he said.

Ending his message, Go thanked the frontliners for their continuing service to the Filipino people amid the pandemic.

He also vowed to prioritize their welfare as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health.

“Sa mga frontliners, salamat sa inyong serbisyo. Maraming salamat po sa ating mga frontliners. Ako, as a Committee Chair po sa Senado, full support po ako sa kapakanan ng ating frontliners, nurses, doctors, health workers. Full support po ako sa inyong lahat, sa lahat ng pangangailangan ninyo,” he ended.

“Returning residents...” continued from page 14 strictly observing the minimum health standards.

“The negative result of the antigen test is valid only for 1 to 8 days, so finish your quarantine at home,” City Health Officer Dr. John Kelly Cainday said.

The antigen test procedure is the same as RT PCR, where swabbing will be done and the test result will be given in 15 to 30 minutes.

Mayor Agda added that Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APORs) that will enter the city will be assessed in the border checkpoints if they need to undergo the antigen test.

APOR from the government will be tested for free, while private employees will pay P 650 and the employer will be responsible for the payment. (RDT with reports from Penelope Pomida)

Posting of signs vs trafficking in Borongan establishment marks the 18-day campaign against VAW

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “1,000 peace-loving...” continued from page 2

December 1-31, 2020

27

some infrastructure projects that in the tertiary, secondary, and basic the LGU extended to the different curriculum, we could strengthen the barangays.

“We just have so much budget foundation of social justice, unity, from the IRA that we cannot possibly harmony, and development in our society. It would surely be the finest give them all their needs, but through By: Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante the TF-ELCAC, these barangays will be proof that peace indeed is the best assured of the needed support from the protection of children’s rights,” he BORONGAN CITY -- The postnational government,” said Carpeso. added. ing of signs against trafficking in

We have provided them infra “Education is very crucial Borongan City establishments structure like concrete roads, waiting in realizing peace. The mindset of marked the 18-day campaign to shed, water system, street lights and in ‘all armed conflicts can be put to end Violence Against Women on the livelihood part, we have given them an end’ and the concept of peace November 25, 2020. swine dispersal project, Carpeso added. should be taught at a young age,”

The City government When asked how many said Chairman Man-hee Lee during of Borongan, through the City kilometers more of access road the the first Peace Education Forum.

Tourism Office, CSWDO, town needed, Carpeso said they need Last July, HWPL launched Provincial and City WCPD with the the Voice of Peace PH where volun- some 45 kilometers more to connect the Samar Field office met with Hotel distant sitios and barangays. teer educators teach children how and Resort owners and representaIt is only through the Dolores River that to become peacemakers through tives to seek compliance to a City the eight barangays can be reached. peace education for free.

Ordinance.

These trips require them to sail There are currently 50 peace

The ordinance sponsored by for three to four hours just to reach the SBs led by Kurt Ty with Ma. Rozene educators, and 160 students enrolled poblacion to deliver their goods or to nationwide. The Voice of Peace PH Daza, Lyra Gel Limbauan, Kathlyn will continue to reach more children obtain some services, the mayor said.

Jane Cainday, and Katrina Anacta Jonathan Capacite, punong Sadac passed in August 2020 stated and youth through Peace Education barangay of Sta. Cruz said that the only City Ordinance 173, An Ordinance by opening a new batch in January local government structure they have 2021. (HWPL) Requiring Establishments Engaged is their barangay hall. “This even needs ------------------------------in the Hotel Industry To Put Up a repair,” he said.

HWPL has been cooperating Poster or Notice Against Trafficking

The barangay hall, he said and Providing Penalties Thereto that with LGUs, educational sectors, youth serves as day care center, health center, it supports Republic Act 9208 or the and women’s organizations by carrying evacuation center all rolled into one. out activities and education to raise Anti-Trafficking Act of 2003.

Capacite though is proud that the DILG peace awareness in order to live a sus Terre de Homes, an NGO has given them a water system under tainable peaceful society as a legacy for that vows to stop child exploitation the Salintubig project, but he still needs future generations. drafted and lobbied the ordinance electricity connections for his three ed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) focused in June to the city tourism office distant sitios. barangays of Dolores town. with the support of the City Social

Aside from Brgy. Sta Cruz, With Dolores 41 barangays, Welfare and Development office. In Dolores barangays included in the eight eight of them are listed under the TF July 2020, the City Tourism Office TF barangays are Aroganga, Buenavista, ELCAC and are slated for several govurged the passage of the ordinance Caglao-an, Denigpi-an, Rizal, San Isidro continued on page 28 ernment interventions. and San Roque.

On October 7, Dolores town

Meanwhile, Mayor Carpeso Mayor Shonny Niño Carpeso was visibly thankful for the promised assistance. is hopeful that the government interventions to be poured to these eight Representatives from the different national government agencies met to listen barangays will make them appreciate the government better. (nbq/PIA 8 E. to the Barangay Development Plans of Samar) the eight concerned barangays.

Carpeso though enumerated

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December 1-31, 2020

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “Project Kamustahan..” continued from page 24

expressions of ending one’s life or committing suicide.

Once these behaviors are observed, Ramirez advised families and communities to strengthen support system as their protective factor and save the person from committing suicide.

Aside from the immediate families and communities, the Biliran Provincial Health Office promoted Project Kamustahan through found in their FB page.

Concerned individuals may call or message their numbers via Globe/TM (0953-356-0296) and Smart/TNT (0961-886-3973), or message to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ projectkamustahan/.

Biliran PHO assured all conversations and messages about the issues are treated with privacy and confidentiality. (ldl/mlt/PIA8 Biliran)

“Posting of...” continued from page 27

“Southern Leyte welcomes..” continued from page 20 to be implemented by Yeshua Men of Covenant.

The launching was participated in by Municipal and Barangay Anti-Drug-Addiction representatives from the 18 towns and the City of Maasin, who shall form part in the implementation of the moral recovery program of the Duterte Administration.

“OPARA is a government agency, not a religious organization,” Labonete said.

Labonete expressed full

confidence on the support of the provincial, city and municipal local government units since the program initiated emanates from President Duterte, who was born in Maasin City. (ldl/esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)

“We are at the brink...” continued from page 1 cooperation of all concerned, the vision to end local communist armed conflict will come true and the long-time elusive quest for lasting Peace and Development will be achieved. (PIA-8)

to the city council and was finally enacted in August 19, 2020.

These signs were posted in different establishments like hotels, resorts, restaurant and Home stays.

The posting of IEC materials is done to raise the public awareness that the City of Borongan does not tolerate child abuse and exploitation in hotels, resorts, lodging houses, homestays, travel and tour offices, terminals, restaurants, and stalls at Baybay Boulevard.

Borongan City establishment owners and operators engaged in the tourism industry obliged.

Borongan City is trying to take steps to become a #childfriendly and #ViolenceFree City. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)