CONTENTS
REGIONAL NEWS
7 8 10 11
PIA-Caraga set to launch ASEAN info kiosks at Butuan Airport
Lady legislators vow to support RH PRO Caraga tightens security measures for Lent, summer POPCOM capacitates more pre-marriage educators
PROVINCIAL NEWS
13 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26
PGO-AgSur invites Agusanons to join Naliyagan Festival Jingle Making Contest All systems go for the 10th Siargao International Game Fishing Tourney
Volume 1, No. 53 01 - 07 April 2017
COVER Caraganons gear up for ASEAN multi-sectoral forum in Butuan City
DTI Surigao Norte intensifies enforcement of price act Dinagat Islands LGU celebrates Women’s Month SurSur guv delighted over resumption of peace talks SurSur employees commemorate Women’s Month celebration 100 shooters join 1st Gov. BB Pimentel cup Phil. Red Cross AgNor-Butuan chapter supports Million Volunteer Run 4
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PDRRMC conducts hands only CPR Training in Agusan Norte Partner agencies ink commitment to strengthen PRDP project in Agusan Norte DAR AgNor personnel, women-farmers attend GAD symposium
HEALTH NEWS
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Feature: Good nutrition from the start
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Federalism to result in peace in Mindanao Pimentel
MINDANAO NEWS NATIONAL NEWS
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Watchdog pushes for toxic-free play environment for kids this summer DTI cuts bureaucratic red tape on SRP setting
News Briefs The Lady Local Legislators’ League of the Philippines (Four-L Philippines) vowed to support the full implementation of Republic Act 10354, through the signing of a pledge of commitment, during the recent Regional Summit. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in coordination with the local government unit of Cagdianao, Surigao del Norte conducted recently the Kalahi-CIDSS (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) NCDDP (National CommunityDriven Development Program (NCDDP) Tier 2 Municipal
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Sur Provincial Office has warned the public against fraudulent investment schemes operating in the province. The office of the National Food Authority (NFA) Surigao del Norte is now ready to buy palay with additional incentives. According to NFA provincial manager Gleen P. Echin the NFA’s buying price for clean and dry palay is P17.00 per kg with an additional P0.20/kg drying incentive if the moisture content (MC) is 14 percent or lower.
Cover Story
Caraganons gear up for ASEAN multi-sectoral forum in Butuan City By: Venus L. Garcia
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UTUAN CITY– As an endeavor in keeping the people to be well-acquainted on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its socio-economic impacts, Caraganons from all levels of society will come together for the ‘ASEAN Multi-Sectoral Forum’ to be held on April 11, 2017, 1:00 p.m. at the Convention Hall of Watergate Hotel, here. 4
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The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga-led ASEAN MultiSectoral Forum will be participated by some 500 youth/indigenous people, information officers and representatives of local government units and national line agencies, student leaders and educators, religious group representatives, community movers and media practitioners. According to PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, the activity also aims to drum up support to Philippines’ chairmanship of the ASEAN this year. “PIA, as the government’s information arm, wants to share how the Filipino can keep advantage from being citizens of an ASEAN member country,” said Caga. Topics that will be discussed in the said forum include Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN 2017, positive impact of the ASEAN and how this opens
opportunities for all Filipinos, as well as the challenges and accomplishments of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Executive Order, and Ambisyon Natin 2040, among others. Philippine Information Agency Director General Harold Clavite and Deputy Director General Gregorio Angelo Villar will personally grace the event. The ASEAN’s 50th Founding Anniversary this year is anchored on the theme, “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”. “It is hoped that as we work together using the awareness on how Filipinos can participate in and benefit from the programs, policies and services of the government and the ASEAN, we can best define our roles in pursuing the goals for sustainable development,” underlined Caga. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
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REGIONAL NEWS
PIA-Caraga set to launch ASEAN info kiosks at Butuan Airport By: Venus L. Garcia
BUTUAN CITY – In view of the Philippines’ hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN’s) 50th Founding Anniversary, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)-Butuan, is all set for the ASEAN Information Kiosks Launching at the Butuan Airport in this city on morning of April 11, 2017. The launching will commence right after the arrival of the PIA director general Harold Clavite, deputy director general Gregorio Angelo Villar, along with other guests, who will be taking the first flight from Manila. The said information booth that will be widely known as ‘ASEAN Info Kiosk’ will serve as a medium toward a particular goal of addressing the perceived information needs of visiting
guests and the laypeople about ASEAN, government and PIA local services, and vital information of the region. “It is also one of the many endeavors to continually communicate the government policies and services to the general public down to the grassroots level,” underscored PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga. 01 - 07 April 2017
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Regional News Caga said that DG Clavite and DDG Villar will take the lead in the ceremonious cutting of ribbons indicating the opening of the kiosk to the general public. They will be joined by director Caga who is also the cluster head of Northern and Northeastern Mindanao, and Butuan Airport manager Evangeline Daba. According to Daba, they are designating spaces both at the arrival and departure areas to where the kiosks will be set up for easy access of air passengers. “For those travellers who are awaiting for their boarding time,
the information, education and communication materials that are readily available and up for grab at the kiosks will help them gain awareness derived from the information contained in the brochures,” said Daba. The ASEAN Info Kiosks are inaugurated in different regions of the country as part of the advocacy campaign to increase consciousness and knowledge not only about ASEAN but as well as the government’s programs and projects, its interventions to the people and nation in entirety. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Lady legislators vow to support RH By: Angie B. Antonio
BUTUAN CITY - The Lady Local Legislators’ League of the Philippines (Four-L Philippines) vowed to support the full implementation of Republic Act 10354, through the signing of a pledge of commitment, during the recent Regional Summit. The Four-L, newly-organized in Caraga Region by their national officers, pledged to strongly support the administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte in implementing responsible efforts to resolve the population issues in a way that respects gender dimensions, cultural identity, values and tradition. As part of their commitment, they promised to remove all remaining barriers that inhibit access to family planning services, information and
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education, as well as to help support the provision of reproductive health and family planning services as widely as possible. The Lady Legislators further committed their support and take part in collective action toward the passage into law of House Bill (HB) 4742, Preventing Teenage Pregnancies and Institutionalizing Social Protection for Teenage Parents; and HB 4689, Creation of a Local Population and
Regional News Development Office in all Provinces, Cities and Municipalities. Thus, they call on the Congress to immediately enact these measures. Moreover, the lady Legislators pledged to work to enact legislation to increase funding for population and development programs, as appropriate, at the same time, efficient use of existing resources as is also important and should be pursued through such measures as decentralization, peoples’ participation, and focus on poor household. Present during the summit is the Masbate Vice-Governor, Hon. Jo Kristine C. Revil, being the incumbent national president of the Four-L Philippines, Atty. Katherine C. Agapay, Vice-Governor of the province of Laguna and Four-L National Executive Vice-President, who at the same time reactors during the summit. Other national officers of the Four-L Phils., from the three island groups of the country also witnessed the event. All lady local legislators of the five provinces and six cities of the region were represented and organized by chapter.
Juan Antonio A. Perez III was ably represented by the chief of the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division who presented the concepts of Population and Development. Meanwhile, RD Alexander A. Makinano of Population Commission (POPCOM) Caraga also presented the RPRH in Local Legislation and pointed-out three adopted Regional Development Council (RDC) Resolutions in response to the high incidence of teenage pregnancy in the region. The Summit was made possible through the coordination and support of Atty. Rema E. Burdeos, SP Member in Butuan and Four-L, Phils.-Director for Mindanao. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIACaraga)
Hon. Mayor Vicente C. Lagnada, City Mayor of Butuan and Hon. Attorney Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun, Congressman, Butuan City and Las Nieves were also present to grace the occasion.
POPCOM
Executive
Director 01 - 07 April 2017
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Regional News
PRO Caraga tightens security measures for Lent, summer By: Honey Dy
PRO Caraga Regional Director PCSupt. Rolando B. Felix directed all city and provincial directors to implement the “Ligtas SUMVAC 2017” campaign to ensure the safety and security of the public. The region’s top cop also assured the public that security measures are in place to keep the streets and roads leading to churches and other summer destinations safe. More police personnel have been deployed with influx of travellers and tourists. Police presence will be intensified through increased foot/ mobile patrols, checkpoints, and the establishment of Police Assistance
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BUTUAN CITY - The Police Regional Office (PRO) in Caraga has intensified its security operations for the Lenten and entire summer season dubbed as “Ligtas Sumvac 2017.” Desks Centers in places of public convergence to stop the criminal elements from taking advantage of the occasion. “The Caraga Police will collaborate with other government agencies, stakeholders and the community in keeping the summer vacation safe and secure for everyone,” PCSupt Felix said. Police Regional Office 13 is urging the citizenry to report crime-related incidents through phone (815-3325 or 09399354084) or hotline numbers of police stations posted in public areas. (PRO-13/PIA-Caraga)
Regional News
POPCOM capacitates more pre-marriage educators
By: May Ann O. Escobal
BUTUAN CITY - About 60 pre-marriage counselors from various towns in Caraga Region completed the Pre-Marriage Counselling (PMC) Training of Trainers held recently in Butuan City and Surigao City, respectively. Following the new PMC manual, the Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga organized the training to hone these pre-marriage counselors in developing and maintaining a responsive mechanism for an effective implementation of the PMC program in their respective locality – such as conducting
PMC sessions for engaged couple applicants; and advocating for more effective implementation of said program to ensure continued awareness and support. POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano reiterated the importance of this 01 - 07 April 2017
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Regional News training for it equipped and provided the counselors with proper and updated information about social and legal changes related to the institution of marriage and the family in Philippine society; and this also served as guidance as they take on the challenges. “The role of these trained premarriage counselors is very significant. They provide engaged couples with critical information about marriage and relationships, responsible parenthood, maternal and child health, family planning and home management – for a harmonious marriage and nurtured family,” Director Makinano emphasized. PMC is among the venue of POPCOM and partners to reach-out women and couples on reproductive ages and provide appropriate modern
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family planning services.
information
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To recall, based on the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 01 Series of 2010 of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and POPCOM, the PMC team is composed of a Population Officer, as team leader; Pre-Marriage Counselors from the City/Municipal Health and Nutrition Office, City/Municipal Social Welfare Development Office, City/Municipal Population and Development Office, City/Municipal Agriculture Office, Department of Education City/ Municipal District Office, and civil society and faith-based organizations – as members of the team. (POPCOMCaraga/PIA-Caraga)
AGUSAN DEL SUR
PGO-AgSur invites Agusanons to join Naliyagan Festival Jingle Making Contest By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY– The provincial government of Agusan del Sur is inviting Agusanons to join in this year’s Naliyagan Festival Jingle Making Contest. According to Provincial Tourism Officer Christy Basan, the lyrics of the Jingle must be in Cebuano-Bisaya and must be relevant to the theme “Agusan del Sur through the years: Changing Lives, Preserving Culture.”
partners, team or group regardless of age, work, position, religious affiliation and educational attainment can submit entry for the said contest. Each municipality and city should encourage their music enthusiast either individual or group to submit “It is open to all Agusanon entries to have more chances to residents who have a skill in music win,” underlined Basan. composition. Interested individuals, 01 - 07 April 2017
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Provincial News Basan also said that the duration of the Jingle should only last a maximum of three minutes and minimum of two minutes. It must also be original in nature (lyrics, tone, accompaniment, etc). The use of copied melodic pattern and accompaniment is strictly prohibited. The provincial government of Agusan del Sur shall not be held liable to any copyright issues if in case there are some committed by any participants, Basan added.
musicality (melody, arrangement, accompaniment, tone) – 25 percent; voice projection – 20 percent; and recording quality – 10 percent, a total of 100 percent. The 1st prize winner will receive P30,000; 2nd prize – P22,000; 3rd prize – 15,000 while seven consolation prizes amounting to P2,000 will also be given to non-winning participants. It was also learned that the first prize winning Jingle will be officially owned by the provincial government and shall be used as the Jingle track of the Naliyagan Festival celebration in June 2017. Meanwhile, the top three winning entries will also perform on the day of the celebration of the 25th Naliyagan Festival at Datu Lipus Cultural Center-Main Stage (formely known as Naliyagan Cultural Center Stage).
“Jingle entries shall be submitted in an mp3 format with the title of the jingle as the file name; must be sent in a flash drive or DVD/Optical Disc with the following requirements: accomplished entry form; printed Jingle lyric (5 copies); profile of the composer/s and arranger/s with Certificate of Residency issued by the BLGU. All entries shall be submitted on or before April 5, 2017, while late entries shall not be accommodated,” This Naliyagan Festival Jingle Basan clarified. Making Contest forms part of the activities set for this year’s 50th (Gold) As to criteria of the Jingle making Founding Anniversary of Agusan del contest, lyrics/relevance to the theme Sur and 25th (Silver) Naliyagan Festival. is 25 percent; originality – 20 percent; (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
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SURIGAO DEL NORTE
All systems go for the 10th Siargao International Game Fishing Tourney By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - It’s all systems go for the Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament which is set on April 6-9, 2017 in Pilar town, Siargao Island. Now on its 10 years, Provincial Tourism and Culture Officer Ivonnie B. Dumadag said all are now ready, including side events that the local and foreign tourists can enjoy aside from game fishing.
She said that about 75 anglers from the Philippines and abroad are expected to compete for the following categories: Biggest Billfish, Biggest Talakitok, Biggest Wahoo/Tangigue and Biggest Dorado. 01 - 07 April 2017
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Provincial News Cash prizes and trophies are up April or the beginning of May, Siargao for grabs for the biggest catch in the hosts this international sport fishing tournament. One of the features of the island. tournament is that competitors are Dumadag said other side events encouraged to hire local fishing boats, are lined up for tourists and residents completes with local fishermen as to enjoy, these include: Game Fishing captains and guides,” said Dumadag. Art Workshop (elementary school), Dumadag added that the sport On the Spot Poster Making Contest (elementary and secondary), Photo fishing tournament aims to provide Exhibit “Celebrating a Decade of additional income for the community, Game Fishing”, Tiange-Tiange sa through boat hire and from visitors Siargao, Siargao Island Discovery who will usually stay in a well-managed Tour, 1st Siargao Invitational Photo “home stay” accomodation offered Shoot Competition, Catch and by the townfolks, but it also offers a Release Tournament (elementary unique cultural exchange opportunity and secondary level), Lip-Lipan that has been cited as one of the Cooking Contest, Zumba na Pilarnon, significant benefits of the overall Pahugjaw sa Siargao (sayawitan nan event. barangay, creative dance contest, For registration, please contact hip-hop dance competition), Surigao del Norte Inter-Municipality AVPs the following persons: Municipal Competition, 1st Pliar Baroto Race, Mayor Atty. Maria Liza G. Resurreccion Paduwa sa Barangay, LGBT Pilar at cellular number 0949-1588517; Triathlon (running, swimming, boating), Municipal Vice Mayor Lucio Gonzales and Siargao International Game at 0999-9922973; Abegail D. Española at 0998-8673969/0995-6028644, and Fishing Electro Night Party. Marife D. Villa at 0918-9636211. (PIA “Every year towards the end of Surigao del Norte)
DTI Surigao Norte intensifies enforcement of price act
By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office has intensified its campaign on Republic Act No. 7581 otherwise known as the “Price Act” especially in San Francisco town.
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Provincial News
According to DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, the local government unit of San Francisco just recently crated its Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) through Executive Order No. 03 as one of the response mechanisms to address increasing prices of basic commodities in the municipality after the 6.7 magnitude earthquake hit the said town. During the first meeting of the LPCC, DTI trade and industry development specialist Josephine D. Gabutin conducted a briefing on the R.A. 7581, as well as the functions and responsibilities of the concerned member agencies and LGU departments in monitoring the price and supply situation of basic and prime commodities.
DTI Head of Institutional Development Unit Rodrigo R. Matabaran explained to the LPC members the activities that need to be undertaken after the earthquake including the conduct of price monitoring, Diskwento Caravan, as well as the process of issuance of show cause orders to business establishments found to have effected an increase in prices of basic commodities that should be done by concerned agencies having particular jurisdictions on various goods. On her part, LPCC chairperson Mayor Guia Plaza-Sabanal explained that the increase in prices if there is any could have been caused by the additional cost in hauling labor and transport due to the damaged Anaoaon Bridge. Negapatan disclosed that it was agreed by the council that a meeting will be called for business owners to discuss the price freeze advisory in the context of the earthquake disaster that cause disruption in the usual transport route of the municipality. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte) 01 - 07 April 2017
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Provincial News
Dinagat Islands LGU celebrates Women’s Month By: Susil D. Ragas
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The provincial government of Dinagat Islands conducted a convergence activity dubbed “Handog Serbisyo nan Probinsya Para sa mga Kababayen-an sa Dinagat Islands” on March 15, 2017 held at the Dinagat Municipal Gym, this province. The one-day activity is in line with fertilizer (117 liters). the celebration of Women’s Month, this whole month of March with the theme, Meanwhile, the Provincial Social “We Make Change Work for Women.” Welfare and Development Office distributed financial assistance worth During the said event, the P200 to indigenous mothers of the Provincial Health Office served different municipality under the survival and services for free such as provision of subsistence level. multivitamins with iron to all pregnant women, laboratory examination (blood Further, the municipality of Dinagat sugar testing to 200 women), hepatitis B received recently an award for being screening and dental examination. the first placer in Accessibility Compliant Municipality with cash incentives worth The Provincial Agriculturist Office P15,000 pesos from board member Nilo also distributed commercial vegetable P. Demerey, Jr. seeds such as ampalaya seeds (140 pouches), pole sitaw (130 pouches), Hundreds of empowered women eggplant (130 pouches), sweet pepper from the 12 barangays of the said (140 pouches), okra (10 kilograms), municipality participated the activity. tomato seeds (130 pouches), upland (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat kangkong (10 kilograms), and organic Islands)
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SURIGAO DEL SUR
SurSur guv delighted over resumption of peace talks By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Surigao del Sur Provincial Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. was delighted over the resumption of peace talks between the Philippine Government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in April this year.
In a radio interview, the provincial governor said that there is a need for the resumption of peace talks between the national government and the CPP-NPA-NDF in order to achieve long lasting peace.
the people in the affected areas.
Despite series of anti-insurgency operations conducted late last year, Governor Pimentel as well as the military and police authorities confirmed that no “bloody Pimentel believed that the four- encounter” between the government decade conflict has already affected and the NPA rebels had happened in the source of income and livelihood of Surigao del Sur. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) 01 - 07 April 2017
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Provincial News
SurSur employees commemorate Women’s Month celebration By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - The provincial employees of Surigao del Sur with the national line agencies joined the nation in celebrating the Women’s Month this year with series of activities lined up for the month of March. The celebration kicked-off with the fun run and “Hataw” (Zumba) on March 1 facilitated by the Surigao del Sur Women Employees Association (SSWEA) in partnership with the Provincial Government Office.
woman chess grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna also graced the occasion. “Since it’s women’s month, I want to inform you all that the Filipino women chess players are as brilliant as the men grandmasters,” Frayna said.
On March 8, as part of the International Women’s Day celebration, a symposium was conducted participated by the women employees from the different national line agencies, governmentowned and controlled corporations, and provincial government.
Earlier this month, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) facilitated the diet counseling, while the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) facilitated the pap smear and laboratory examination for all the women.
Ma. Carla Lopez Pichay, journalist, entrepreneur and first lady of 1st District Congressman Prospero Pichay Jr, was the event’s keynote speaker.
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Meanwhile, the Philippines’ first 01 - 07 April 2017
The month-long celebration will culminate on March 27, which will be highlighted with the Health Summit and the Gabay sa Negosyo Video Presentation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Provincial News
100 shooters join 1st Gov. BB Pimentel cup By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao de Sur – One hundred shooters from Ilocos, Davao City, Cotabato City, Gingoog City, Cagayan de Oro City, Surigao City, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur including Bislig and Tandag Cities joined the 1st Governor “BB” Pimentel Cup 2017 held on March 10-12 at Camp Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. Firing Range, Telaje this city. The 3-day tournament is sanctioned by the International Practical Shooting ConfederationPhilippine Practical Shooters Association (IPSC-PPSA). It was learned that the 36 Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB) under the command of Lt. Col. Randolph Rojas facilitated the said activity in coordination with the provincial government, as part of the 70th birthday celebration of Provincial Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. The event was also joined by Commanding General MGen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army as the guest of honor and speaker during the awarding ceremony.
In his message, MGen. Madrigal expressed his gratitude to the local officials of the province under the Pimentel administration for placing their trust and confidence to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The Governor also thanked the AFP for facilitating the event. He also vowed to continue supporting the tournament next year. Meanwhile, Governor Pimentel received a trophy for the Governor’s Category during the awarding ceremony while Mayor Raul Cubil of Marihatag town received the Surigao del Sur local government unit (LGU) category award. (PIASurigao del Sur)
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AGUSAN DEL NORTE
Phil. Red Cross AgNorButuan chapter supports Million Volunteer Run 4
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By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del NorteButuan City Chapter expressed its support for this year’s Million Volunteer Run to be held in key cities simultaneously nationwide on May 13. But the local chapter here has opted to re-schedule it on July 22, 2017 in time with their 69th founding anniversary. Caraganons are encouraged to disseminate the information and let others join the run in other regions, as well as the upcoming run happening in July this year. The event consists of two categories – 3 kilometer and 5 kilometer run. Participants of the said run have options to choose as they pay the
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registration fee. For Option A with registration fee of P500.00, participants will enjoy freebies such as Bronze membership, singlet, registration form and waiver, runner card, and race bib. Option B for P350.00 will receive freebies except for Bronze membership. And Option C for P200.00, participants will receive the registration form and waiver, runner card, and race bib. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Provincial News
PDRRMC conducts hands only CPR Training in Agusan Norte By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY The Agusan del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) spearheaded the conduct of the Mass “Hands Only” CPR Training at the Provincial Capitol lobby on February 14. Provincial officials and employees simple skill that can help save lives. were encouraged to participate to learn the basics and can help save lives Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell in times of need. Matba believed that if more people know how to do CPR, more lives could The personnel of the Philippine be saved. National Police (PNP) also participated in the conduct of the Cardiopulmonary According to the PDRRMC, Resuscitation (CPR) training and other with CPR performed, especially in interested Agusanons. the first moments of a cardiac arrest, can double or even triple a person’s Records show that approximately chance of survival. CPR can make all 100,908 deaths due to cardiac arrest the difference in the world to a loved occur outside the hospital each year in one, a friend, a neighbor or co-worker. the country – with about three quarters (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del of them occurring at home. CPR is a Norte)
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Provincial News
Partner agencies ink commitment to strengthen PRDP project in Agusan Norte By: Fretcher D. Magatao
BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Agriculture’s (DA’s) Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Caraga together with partner agencies recently converged through a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the harmonization of support for the abaca industry in the province of Agusan del Norte. The activity aims to mainstream the support from partner agencies in helping Agusan del Norte in the implementation of its Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP) and support the industry and other major commodity value chains in the province.
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Local executives seized the challenge of taking the lead in institutionalizing government agencies’ support in implementing the PCIP. “We cannot do everything alone. We need the assistance of government agencies in achieving what we have determined in the PCIP,” said Governor
Provincial News Maria Angelica Amante-Matba.
technical support, programs and projects to help the province and Amante-Matba emphasizes that what support could be possibly the province needs a strong partnership mainstreamed into the regular budget with the concerned agencies and and programs of partner agencies. other stakeholders in addressing gaps and constraints for the development “In PRDP, we do not want of not just abaca, but also other to leave our farmers and industry priority commodities. “Now that we players hanging anywhere in any have signified our commitment to the of the segments of the value chain. province, I am assured that all we have We want to elevate them to higher envisioned can be accomplished grounds, thereby boosting their accordingly,” Amante-Matba said. chances to improve their lot,” said Mindanao Project Support Office PRDP’s introduction of innovative I-PLAN Component Head Cerenio Tila. tools such as the applied geotagging technology, the value chain analysis The signing was participated by (VCA) and the vulnerability and the regional head of agencies from suitability assessment (E-VSA) in crafting the DA, Philippine Fiber Development the PCIP would help other agencies Authority, Department of Trade and in identifying specific interventions Industry, Department of Agrarian for the development of a particular Reform, Department of Science and commodity. Technology, Caraga State University and the provincial government of The undertaking expects the Agusan del Norte. (RPCO-Caraga/PIApooling of resources in the form of Caraga)
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Provincial News
DAR AgNor personnel, womenfarmers attend GAD symposium By: Gil E. Miranda
BUTUAN CITY - The Provincial Agrarian Reform Office in the Province of Agusan del Norte, in coordination with the Gender and Development (GAD) team recently conducted a Gender Sensitivity Cum Entrepreneurship Seminar here.
The seminar participated in by all provincial Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) personnel led by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Andre B. Atega and selected women farmer-beneficiaries in the province.
long celebration of the women’s month with the theme, “We make change work for women.”
Provincial GAD point person Ellen J. Torralba said the activity aimed to promote self-reliance for women agrarian reform beneficiaries. The The activity is in line with the seminar shared inputs on how they can nationwide observance of the month- actively make decisions for themselves,
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Provincial News for community and able to participate women’s rule in nation building. for organization-building efforts. In the afternoon, the discussion “The participants, despite on Entrepreneurship skills training took coming from different backgrounds place with invited resource speaker were able to integrate under a from Department of Trade and Industry common objective for improving (DTI) Caraga Region Irene L. Macheca the welfare of all rural women in the who presented business planning ideas community,� Torralba said. and latest trends in business. The morning session was presented by the resource person, Commission on Human Rights Caraga regional director Atty. Jerefe T. Bacang who discussed, among others, the topic on basic concept on gender and development and emphasizing the
With this intention to enhance the well-being of women, the agency is hopeful that the inputs will have a long term benefit to emancipate the oppressed women against violence and discrimination. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
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HEALTH NEWS
Good nutrition from the start
As new parents, you want to give the best to your baby. The best start is through good nutrition. Good nutrition from the start or on the baby’s first year is very important because it is a time of rapid growth and development. Providing babies with the right foods will promote good health and develop good eating habits. It is a fact that mother’s milk is the ideal nourishment for the first six months of life. Generally, at six months of age, the baby is ready for solids or complementary foods but if you are not sure, test the baby’s readiness to accept new foods by placing a teaspoon between the lips. If the lips tend to close or the teaspoon is pushed away continuously, then your baby is not yet ready. Don’t force your baby to eat.
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The following indicates readiness to accept solids: - when he accepts food from a spoon without the tongue pushing the food out of his mouth, - when he is interested in foods when others eat, - when he is able to swallow , - when your baby has doubled his birth weight, and - when he can sit on his own.
Health News Here are some important points to (4) Don’t force your baby to eat keep in mind when introducing solids to – Don’t over-react if your baby doesn’t your baby’s diet: want to eat. Maybe he/she doesn’t feel hungry. Don’t worry, he/she will (1) One at a time – Introduce one make up for it next time. new food at a time. Never start two new foods at the same time. Let your (5) Don’t Forget the Basics – baby get used to a new food for about Always test the temperature of the three days before trying out a new one. food before you give it to your baby. Be This will give you time to see if there is sure to pay attention to good personal any allergic reaction to your baby. It is hygiene practices when preparing also advisable to introduce new food baby’s food. Wash your hands with to your baby during breakfast or lunch soap and clean water before handling to reduce the risk of allergic symptoms baby’s food. Sterilize bowls and spoons developing during the night. Be sure to used for feeding. Avoid giving left-over only give foods that are appropriate to foods to your baby, give only freshly your baby’s age. cooked and freshly peeled fruits. (2) Take it in Steps – Start with a small amount of any food – a teaspoonful or less then gradually increase the amount – a tablespoonful or more. Use thin liquid purees when starting solid foods then gradually shift to more solid and chunkier meals. Make sure that your baby is able to cope comfortably with the new texture. (3) Keep it Wholesome – Offer bland foods to your baby. Salt should not be added to your baby’s food until the age of one as the baby’s kidneys cannot cope with salt. Even after the age of one, only a little amount of salt should be added to the food. Add little or no sugar to your baby’s food. Too much sugar and sweets lead to tooth decay and encourage the child to have a sweet tooth.
Remember …… with proper feeding, your baby will grow healthy and strong, be a source of pride and happiness to your family. For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 8373164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook. com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (Idelia G. Glorioso, /PIA-Caraga) 01 - 07 April 2017
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MINDANAO NEWS
Federalism to result in peace in Mindanao - Pimentel MANILA Although the adoption of a federal system of government would take time, Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said this would eventually result in peace in Mindanao. Pimentel stressed this point during the recent 136th Interparliamentary Union Assembly noting that “some rebel groups therein have been clamoring for decades for some kind of autonomy rule.”
change of entertaining outside of the box solutions to inter-generational problems,” Pimentel said.
Aside from resulting in peace, he said that the shift to federalism would also encourage the preservation of the He pointed out federalism would culture, language, and other practices act as “chosen weapon to fight the and beliefs of the country’s numerous inter-generational problems of poverty, ethno-linguistic groups. inequality, and the societal instability” and urged other legislators to be open Moreover, he said the Philippines to this type of change. continued to grapple with “the wealth gap.” “Let us be open to challenging the status quo and make the attitudinal “The Philippines is too familiar
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Mindanao News with this wealth gap, especially the gap which exists within the country. Last year, our economy again posted a strong 6.6 percent growth in GDP, following steady growth in the previous years - but it has yet to be truly felt by the majority of our citizens, especially the poor that still comprise a little more than 1/4 of our population,” Pimentel said. He said that contributing to this problem was the fact that the Philippines is a unitary state, with more than 60 percent of its GDP generated in Metro Manila and the areas near the national capital.
the island called Mindanao. In short, the richest areas in the Philippines are the capital and those closest to it. The poorest are those farthest from the capital,” he noted. He further said that the shift to federalism would involve the regions in national decision making and accelerate the economic development of regions. Under the proposed federalism plan of President Rodrigo Duterte, the country will be divided into 11 regions.
The country’s adoption of federalism is one of the major thrusts of “…The poorest and least President Duterte, who is also the first developed areas of the Philippines are president from Mindanao. (PNA)AZER found in the far south of the capital, in N. PARROCHA
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NATIONAL NEWS
Watchdog pushes for toxic-free play environment for kids this summer QUEZON CITY - As the country’s youth and children embrace the summer vacation with gusto, a public interest group reminded parents to watch out for potential sources of lead exposure in the outdoor play environments.
The EcoWaste Coalition, a toxics watch group, drew attention to possible sources of childhood lead exposure as young people make the best of the summer break by playing containing lead, a toxic substance outdoor games. that is banned in children’s toys as per Department of Environment and “Playing outside has many health Natural Resources Administrative Order and developmental benefits, including 2013-24, or the Chemical Control Order enhancing your child’s physical for Lead and Lead Compounds. fitness, problem solving abilities, social skills, creative potentials and more,” As clarified by Memorandum stated Thony Dizon, Coordinator of the Circular 10, Series of 2016, issued by the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect. Environmental Management Bureau, “the manufacture, processing, sale, “However, the situation out there distribution and use of paints with may be fraught with some chemical more than 90 parts per million (ppm) hazards that can unsuspectingly affect of lead and lead compounds in the well-being of your child,” he pointed the production of toys and related out. products shall be prohibited after December 31, 2016.” Dizon warned that some play things may still be coated with paints “Children’s products,” according
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National News to the said directive, include, among other things, “indoor/outdoor playground equipment (such as) slides, swings, seesaws, play pens, play houses.” “With frequent use, the leadcontaining paints in some playground equipment may chip or peel and gets into the soil, which can be ingested by children as a result of their usual handto-mouth behavior,” Dizon said.
forms of lead hazard assessment is necessary to ensure a lead-safe play environment for the children,” he added.
To minimize childhood exposure to lead this summer, the EcoWaste “As many of the public Coalition suggested that: playgrounds are not well-maintained, 1. Organizers of street and it is possible that the paint in some painted play equipment has already barangay basketball games should not paint the backboard, pole and floor deteriorated,” he said. markings with lead-containing paints. Dizon noted that high Always choose lead-safe certified concentrations of lead up to over paints. 100,000 ppm were detected by 2. Children should refrain from the EcoWaste Coalition during the group’s screening of paints in public buying and using painted turumpo as playgrounds in Metro Manila in the last some tops may be coated with leadcontaining paints. Go for unpainted five years. tops instead. “While some lead-containing 3. Parents should guide their kids playground equipment in Manila and Quezon City have been recoated on the proper washing of hands after or replaced, we are not sure if other play and especially before meals to local government units (LGUs) have avoid the ingestion of lead-containing undertaken essential remediation dust or soil. measures,” he said. According to the World Health “The onset of summer provides Organization, “children are particularly a good opportunity for our LGUs to vulnerable to the neurotoxic effects check not only on the physical state of lead, and even relatively low levels of our public playgrounds, but also on of exposure can cause serious and in the potential chemical risk posed by some cases irreversible neurological some leaded play equipment. Some damage.” (EcoWaste) 01 - 07 April 2017
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National News
DTI cuts bureaucratic red tape on SRP setting MAKATI - Trade & Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez convened the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) to closely evaluate the price and supply situation of basic necessities and prime commodities during the first quarter of this year. During the meeting, DTI discussed its stand to deregulate the setting of Suggested Retail Prices (SRP) on certain commodities to reduce bureaucratic red tape in the system, while it continues to closely monitor the movement of prices of products and ensure fair trade in the market.
set the SRPs because products with competitive market players and several brands, both locally produced and imported, have their ‘self-correcting mechanism’ on their prices,” said Sec. Lopez.
“In fact, prices of brands and commodities that do not pass the approval system of DTI before DTI clarified that there will still remained stable and some are even be SRPs on manufactured products declining because of competition” he but it can be set by the companies added. themselves for guidance of the supermarkets and consumers. These Sec. Lopez believes that SRPs will still be closely monitored by liberalizing price setting would help DTI. spur competition among industries and would further improve their product “We can let the companies quality.
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National News “DTI would prioritize the protection of the consumers by ensuring that industries have a competitive business environment that allows entry of brands and players in the market and give the consumers the widest range of choice,” the trade chief said. “We will continue to closely monitor the prices of basic goods, and will have the oversight function to enforce regulation of irregular price increases,” added Sec. Lopez, ensuring commitment to consumer protection.
The NPCC will work with DTI on analyzing the industry structure and streamlining the process of price regulation to create a more efficient and effective system for both manufacturers and consumers. DTI would also be working with the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) to continuously review the industries’ structure, and the play of competitive forces, that will ensure optimum competition and best options for quality products/services and affordable price points for consumers. (DTI/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)
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