CONTENTS
Volume 1, No. 56 22 - 28 April 2017
REGIONAL NEWS
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Women with disability dance with the rhythm of change
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3 Caraga towns to pioneer ‘assistance to municipalities’ program
DSWD-Caraga ensures readiness of PWDs in times of disaster
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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Agusan Norte rural women get livelihood training
Life lessons mold Caraga DOST scholars to graduate with honors
Agusan Norte ties up with LANHS for OJT program
2 NPA rebels dead, arms and ammo recovered in Agusan del Sur clash Surigao City population office to conduct summer youth camp DTI releases SRP anew
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Filipino anglers dominate in 10th Siargao Int’l Game Fishing Army supports project double barrel reloaded in SurSur Agrarian beneficiaries undergo training on policy formulation
HEALTH NEWS
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COVER
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Organic rice, duck meat feeding program helps improve children’s health
MINDANAO NEWS
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Groups gear up to help kids with disabilities in Mindanao
NATIONAL NEWS
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Pag-IBIG Fund and LRA partnership make housing loan processing faster DOLE ensures more regularized workers under DO 174
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News Briefs The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to provide medical and dental assistance up to P10,000 to its qualified officials and employees per approval of Provincial Ordinance No. 444-2017. Stakeholders of the Palm Oil industry cluster from all over Caraga region have recently gathered together in San Francisco town this province to craft their development direction.
To sustain economic gains and continuously elevate the quality of life in the country, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said that the Philippines endeavors to add at least 20,000 megawatts of renewable energy (RE) capacities by 2040. The Duterte Administration is relentless at implementing institutional reforms and our government media will not be left behind. Finally, after 15 years, the Philippine News Agency has launched a new website.
Life lessons mold Cara scholars to graduate w By: Gabrielle Espinosa
H
onor, humility and confidence— these are the three words cum laude and 10 cum laude scholars of the Department o (DOST) as they proudly marched on stage to receive their in separate commencement exercises at the Philippine Normal Un Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT), and Agusan del Sur Sta Technology (ASSCAT) in the Caraga region. 4
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aga DOST with honors
s that mark the seven magna of Science and Technology diplomas, awards, and medals niversity (PNU) Mindanao, ate College of Agriculture and
Cover Story More than just financial assistance The scholars from PNU Mindanao shared their experiences on how the DOST scholarship helped them achieve amidst their individual stories of struggle and survival as they juggled academic life, family, and even jobs. Marinelle Ramos, magna cum laude, revealed unassumingly that the DOST scholarship gave her a sense of fulfillment and purpose. “Being a DOST scholar is a great privilege since it did not only help us financially but also personally,” said Marinelle. The president of the DOST Scholars Society, Marinelle acknowledged that her position “taught me to govern the group, coordinated with high ranking officials, and boosted my selfconfidence.” Aside from the confidence boost, Marinelle admits that the financial assistance of the DOST Scholarship also helped her to become thrifty and develop a sense of humility. “That time (when I was a scholar), my family could not afford to pay the tuition of my sister who was studying in medical school. Having that amount of money (from the DOST scholarship) helped my family to get through. I was not forced by my parents but it (the scholarship) taught me to prioritize my needs and use my money responsibly instead of spending it on leisure activities,” she shared. 22-28 April 2017
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Cover Story This was also true for Kimberly Besas and Fevwileane Padalapat, both graduated cum laude, who served as bread winners of their family all throughout their college life.
“There is a pressure in me because my boss was also a DOST scholar in both her undergraduate and graduate programs. Thus, I have only Sundays to relax,” he revealed.
“I am so thankful that I became a scholar. The DOST scholarship not only changed me but it also moved my parents to change their habits on arguing over money when they saw me taking over the family’s finances. They saw me writing a long list of expenses and felt how I managed our situation. They witnessed how I was able to balance my academic and financial responsibilities. Over time, I became the family’s inspiration,” Fevwileane explained.
“I’m glad that as a DOST scholar, I was able to help and serve not just the university but also (in promoting research) by being a contributor in developing research in our institution. An educator’s role does not end in passing knowledge to students. He/ she has to expand the knowledge through research to improve curricular programs in universities on the countryside,” Abadiano explains.
Similarly, like how Arnold developed his passion for research, Chris John “My mom and dad are Cagas, another DOST scholar, also separated. My mom migrated to developed passion in his course after Manila and my dad has another family passing the DOST scholarship. to feed,” disclosed Kimberly. “Being the eldest, I have been through many “It is unusual how an easyjobs just to provide the basic needs go-lucky person like me, who is not of my six younger siblings. The DOST an academic striver, received one scholarship eased the burden, it was of the most prestigious scholarships not just for me but for my whole family,” nationwide. At first, it felt like I didn’t Kimberly added. belong in this circle of excellent students. But after I became scholar, I DOST scholarship empowers become conscious of my demeanor. Every time I hang out with my friends, The scholars also shared I remind myself that I am not just an stories of personal transformation, ordinary scholar but a DOST scholar, of how being a scholar changed their and it’s something worth holding up,” mindset in life. For example, Arnold he said. Abadiano, magna cum laude, developed his interest in research “Through the scholarship, I am through the DOST scholarship. reminded of how education can
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Cover Story transform someone like me. I don’t just want to teach my students the information, I want to cultivate their passion in education like how I have developed mine,” Cagas explained. This was also the case of Marion Jane Montilla, a scholar who is a teenage mother. She dropped out of school after discovering her pregnancy. However, she was able to gather up the courage to reenroll and apply for the scholarship. “My life as a student is full of regrets. I went through so many courses in different universities and finally settled at PNU. But I became pregnant right after getting admitted. Depression hit me for a year but I didn’t give up, I still sought the positive side of my situation and enrolled again after giving birth. I did not even expect to become a DOST scholar. The idea of being the scholar pushed me to do more in my life, to not settle for less. Now, I can see myself as an inspiration to other students to work hard and not settle with mediocrity,” said Montilla. Molding leaders
science
and
program has produced thousands of undergraduates who excelled in the fields of science and technology in the country. In Caraga, a total of 42 undergraduate DOST scholars from PNU Mindanano, ASSCAT, SSCT, Caraga State University, Father Saturnino Urios University, and Surigao del Sur State University will graduate as class 2017. The graduates received their scholarships under the Republic Act (R.A.) 10612 and R.A. 7687, or otherwise known as the Junior Level Science Scholarship Program and the Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994. According to Meriam Bouquia, scholarship coordinator in Caraga, the admission exam for the undergraduate scholarships for 2018 will be on the 4th quarter of the year. (Gabrielle Espinosa, DOST-Caraga/PIACaraga)
technology
Since its implementation in 1994, the Department of Science and Technology scholarship program has benefited talented and deserving students whose families cannot afford college education. The
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ASEAN News
President Duterte holds ‘fruitful and productive’ discussions with ASEAN leaders
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday, April 29 said the discussions during the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) Summit were “productive and fruitful.” In a press conference at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), President Duterte said he and the other nine ASEAN Leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest and concern.
“We acknowledged the importance of ASEAN cooperation in addressing issues that affect peace, security, and prosperity of the region, including terrorism, violent extremism, piracy, human trafficking, and illegal drugs,” he said as he faced the media 22-28 April 2017
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ASEAN News prior to his hosting of the gala dinner by hanging. It’s only the Philippines for the visiting Heads of States and that has abrogated or suspended the Governments. death penalty,” he said. He said aside from regional grouping’s work in the community building process , they also discussed the implementation of the blueprints and work fronts of the three community pillars: the political security community; the economic community; and the sociocultural community in achieving the realization of ASEAN Vision 2025.
The President quoted Aung San Suu Kyi’s concept of “right and responsibility” in relation to his campaign against illegal drugs. “And she was very correct. When you have a right, you have a responsibility too. It’s not just a right. You have your human rights, yes, correct. But that human right given to you must be used by you to preserve human right also,” he said.
He also cited his productive engagements with parliamentarians and youth representatives of ASEAN whom he said are “vital components in keeping the engine of ASEAN growth running smoothly.”
On the situation in North Korea, President Duterte admitted that the ASEAN as a bloc is “extremely worried.” He noted that powerful countries like the United States must be prudent and patient in dealing with North Korea.
The President said the leaders also acknowledged the need to deepen awareness and instill a sense of community among the peoples of ASEAN.
“I’m sure President (Donald) Trump by now is cautioning his military to just maybe hang on there and not to start something which they cannot control,” he said.
“We look forward to the full and active participation of all ASEAN citizens for them to effectively play as key partners for positive change in the regional community building,” he said.
“Everybody’s worried. Nobody’s clapping his hand. And I’m sure that if war breaks out in the Korean Peninsula, the imponderables of life is really you cannot foresee even project what will happen,” he added.
The President also reiterated his campaign against illegal drugs and is looking at a harsher penalty. “As it is, look at the penalty. Look at the penal provisions of their countries. It’s death
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The Chief Executive said the ASEAN will issue a communiqué or a statement about the situation in the Korean Peninsula.
ASEAN News
PH hosts successful 30TH ASEAN Summit
The Philippines’ successful hosting of the 30th Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit concluded with leaders working towards the realization of ASEAN Vision 2025.
In the evening, he hosted a state banquet for the Sultan of Brunei whose country is considered by the Philippines as its “most valued friend and ally.” The next day, April 28, President Duterte welcomed another state visitor, Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” “We also discussed the Widodo in Malacañan where the two implementation of the blueprints and leaders agreed to further strengthen work fronts of the three community cooperation on areas of mutual interest. pillars: the political security community, the economic community, and the They witnessed the signing of the sociocultural community as we work Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) towards the realization of ASEAN Vision on Agriculture and the Joint Declaration 2025,” he added. on the Establishment of Sea Connectivity between Davao, General Santos in The major highlights of activities Southern Mindanao, and Bitung, North of the Summit Week included the state Sulawesi, which Duterte and Widodo led visit of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal its formal launching in Davao City on April Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah of Brunei 30. Darussalam on April 27. President Duterte welcomed Sultan Bolkiah in Malacañan Duterte likewise hosted a state where both leaders witnessed the signing banquet for Widodo. In his toast, President of the bilateral agreements aimed at Duterte underscored the deep and long promoting cooperation between the two lasting friendship between the countries countries in the fields of culture and the saying that the Philippines considers halal industry. Indonesia “a family.” “At the 30th Summit of ASEAN, we had engaged in a productive and fruitful deliberation of ASEAN’s work in the community of building process,” the President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said in a press conference on April 29.
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ASEAN News Prior to the state banquet, President Duterte attended the 14th ASEAN Leadership Forum, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in uplifting the lives of the people in the region. Duterte said that as ASEAN continues to work together in shaping positive changes, it must also pursue greater international engagement to advance common interests. During the Summit Week, the Philippines also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest and concern as it acknowledged the importance of ASEAN cooperation in addressing issues that affect peace, security, and prosperity of the region---that included addressing the problems on terrorism, violent extremism, piracy, human trafficking, poverty and illegal drugs. There were also the productive engagements with parliamentarians and the youth of ASEAN. “We look at the progress of our cooperation with external partners and the future direction of ASEAN’s engagement with them, noting the importance of ASEAN Centrality which shows that relations only bear fruit if cooperation is anchored on mutual respect and benefit,” President Duterte underscored on April 29 in his speech during the 30th ASEAN Summit opening ceremony. Following the Summit’s launching, President Duterte along with other nine leaders of the ASEAN Member States signed the ASEAN Declaration on the Role of the Civil Service as a Catalyst for
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Achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. They officially adopted a declaration which underscores the significance of the civil service as the backbone of good governance in the region and its role for enhanced cross-sectoral and cross-pillar cooperation in ASEAN community building and in providing support to furthering regional integration. Alongside the Summit’s opening, Duterte’s common-law wife Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña, meanwhile, toured the spouses of the ASEAN heads of states to the National Museum. She also hosted a luncheon and watched a cultural presentation with them. First Ladies Iriana Widodo from Indonesia, Naraporn Chan-o-cha from Thailand, Tran Nguyen from Vietnam, and Naly Sisoulith from Laos joined the tour. At the 30th ASEAN Summit Gala Dinner, President Duterte feted the ASEAN leaders and their spouses to a night of good food and entertainment. He likewise proposed a toast for the stability and continued success of the Southeast Asian nations. After a productive week of open discussions, sharing inputs, and exchanging of views, President Duterte thanked the ASEAN leaders during the Summit’s gala dinner. The Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit this year is doubly significant as it coincides with the ASEAN’s 50th Anniversary.
REGIONAL NEWS
DSWD-Caraga ensures readiness of PWDs in times of disaster By: Abegail R. Alvarez
BUTUAN CITY - In response to the directive of Secretary Judy Taguiwalo to conduct Family and Community Disaster Preparedness, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga initiated the conduct of the threeday training on Disaster Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and selected LGU PWD focal persons on April 4-6, 2017 at VCDU Prince Hotel, this city.
The said training focused on the modules on Policy Framework, Overview of Hazards and Understanding Disaster Management, Family Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Preparedness Framework, Participatory Disaster Risk Assessment, and Philippine Issuances Relating to PWD.
Assistance that are designed for Community Volunteers of Emergency Response and Disaster Management.
Wilma Geralla, Senior Citizen/ PWD focal person, said, that the PWDs were identified as the most vulnerable sectors in the society especially during disaster. This is mainly the reason why These modules are the results of the the Department conducted collaboration effort of DSWD through the training for them to prepare the former Bureau of Emergency themselves and equip with 22-28 April 2017
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Regional News appropriate knowledge in case of coping mechanism in the advent of any calamity occur in the region. calamities,� added Geralla. “With this training, the PWD leaders and the LGU focal persons are equipped with effective tools to enhance their teaching in highrisk places as well as strengthening their fellow PWDs and families on
Based on the updated Listahanan Database as of February 29, 2016, there are 21,296 poor PWDs in the entire region. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Women with disability dance with the rhythm of change By: Eunice Montaos Plaza
BUTUAN CITY - Empowered women with disabilities (WWD) in Caraga expressed through dancing their stand on how women like their sector make change in the society conveying the message that they have become not just mere objects of charity and other services rather subjects with rights, who are capable of claiming those rights and making decision for their lives as being active members of the society. This was during their celebration of the 13th WWD Day spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on April 19, 2017 held at the Prince Hotel Convention here of which they shared their challenging experiences and their will and acts to make change
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in their lives and eventually become better versions of themselves. The attending WWDs also encouraged other women with the same situation to excel and be able to work harmoniously with other sectors despite their disability.
Regional News These strong women lived with sa Pagbabago.” (Social Marketing the theme of the celebration which Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIAsays, “Babaeng May Kapansanan, Caraga) Manguna at Manindigan Tungo
3 Caraga towns to pioneer ‘assistance to municipalities’ program By: Marilou Autor-Salado
BUTUAN CITY- Three municipalities in Caraga region are set to pioneer the implementation of projects under the Assistance to Municipalities (AM) program as Notices to Debit Account Issued (NADAI) are already out for the release of the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) amounting to P35,177,000.00 as of April 18, 2017. Each municipality is granted the Surigao del Norte will also work on amount equivalent to their approved two approved projects - provision of projects. Potable Water Supply in Poblacion and Rizal amounting to P4,226,000 The municipality of Jabonga, and the Core Local Access Road in Agusan del Norte will implement two Poblacion amounting to P10 million. projects; for the Construction of one unit Evacuation center cum Training Prompt compliance to the Center in Purok 1, Barangay Bangonay requirements of Public Financial amounting P3 million and an amount of Management (PFM) under the P6,913,000 for the upgrading of access Department of Budget and road to Great Lake Resort in Purok 1, Management (DBM) and the Good Poblacion. Financial Housekeeping (GFH), a component of the Seal of Good The municipality of Loreto, Local Governance (SGLG) of the Agusan del Sur will concentrate Department of the Interior and Local all of its allocation amounting to Government (DILG) are two requisites P11,038,000 for the Mayabog Spring for the early release of their funds. development (Level III) for the benefit of barangays Poblacion, Other municipalities are San Vicente, Sta. Teresa, Sto. Tomas, encouraged to coordinate with the Waloe, San Isidro, San Mariano and DBM and the DILG Municipal Officers Sto. Niño. to ensure compliance of requirements to facilitate LGSF release. (DILG The municipality of Sta. Monica, Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 22-28 April 2017
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Photo Gallery Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Board of Directors Meeting Priscilla’s Butuan City 25 April 2017
DOLE-RCC Caraga Press Conference Labor Day Celebration
Alberto’s Bed & Breakfast, Butuan City 25 April 2017
AGUSAN DEL NORTE
Agusan Norte rural women get livelihood training
By: Gil E. Miranda
BUTUAN CITY - In line with the celebration of National Women’s Month in March, the Provincial Agrarian Reform Office in Agusan del Norte conducted two sessions of seminars on Rural Women Enhancement and Entrepreneurial Skills Training held recently here. The seminar was attended by at least 40 rural women Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) who are members of 15 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) from different agrarian reform communities in the province.
(DAR) training coordinator Luningning Buque-Ycoy said the agency is looking into the challenges facing every rural women agrarian reform beneficiaries.
“The DAR looks beyond to improve the lives of the rural women farmer-beneficiaries through livelihood According to CARPO Judith trainings,” Ycoy added. M. Domingo, the agency remains committed to assist the rural women “Large number of agrarian ARBs to increase their income not reform beneficiaries in the province only in crop production but also to are women and some of them become a small-business owner and are dependent from the land they entrepreneur at the community level. tilled. It is an approach to enhance the capacity of the rural women’s Department of Agrarian Reform economic activities and income to 22-28 April 2017
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Provincial News provide a living for their family,” Ycoy has a great potential to augment the added. incomes of household rural women in their community. (DAR-Agusan del The participants appreciated Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte) the agency’s wonderful initiative that
Agusan Norte ties up with LANHS for OJT program By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte recently inked an agreement with the Los Angeles National High School (LANHS) relative to the On-theJob Training Program of its senior high school students.
The province through the Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO) agreed to accept the senior high school students of LANHS as trainees and to avail of the use of its various facilities in the Provincial Diversified Demo Farm in Los Angeles in support to the school’s program and complement the existing curricula on senior high school. The said training is a program requirement of the courses in Technology and Vocational Livelihood (TVL) Crop Production offered by the school wherein the qualified students will undergo work immersion and training exposures
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prior to graduation in order to be adequately familiar with the actual work to enhance their formal education training. Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba was authorized by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No. 087-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, to sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the LANHS considering that the MOA is essential to determine the scope, responsibility and accountability of the two parties. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
AGUSAN DEL SUR
2 NPA rebels dead, arms and ammo recovered in Agusan del Sur clash
BUTUAN CITY - Troops under the 26th Infantry Battalion of 401st Infantry Brigade have recovered one CCZ 550 sniper rifle and two dead New Peoples Army (NPA) were left by their fleeing comrades after a major encounter ensued in the outskirts of Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis town of Agusan del Sur at 3:30 p.m. on April 13, 2017. Troops responded to a report from the concerned civilians that a group of fully armed NPA bandits are harassing their community. It said that the NPAs are forcibly taking foodstuffs and money from the residents of the said community. After a 30-minute fierce firefight, the NPAs scampered out of the encounter area leaving their dead comrades, one sniper rifle, 50 rounds of M60 ammunition, war materiel, 34 sacks of rice, 10 backpacks which contain personal belongings, and subversive documents.
lauded the swift execution of the said operation and congratulated the troops for successfully hitting the NPA bandits who are responsible for many atrocities in Agusan del Sur. “Time and again, we have proven that no evil will triumph. While most of the Filipinos are solemnly reflecting during this lenten season, the NPAs are busy doing their extortion and other evil activities. Fortunately, our relentless guardians of peace have displayed a distinct act of courage when they foiled the extortion and recruitment scheme of the said NPA group in the peaceful lumad community of Brgy. Mahagsay,� underlined MGen Madrigal.
Col. Cristobal Zaragoza, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander ordered the 26th Infantry Battalion to conduct pursuit operation to hunt down the The 26IB is now coordinating with bandits. the concerned local officials for the identification of the two dead NPAs Major General Benjamin Madrigal and for their burial. (4ID, Phil. Army/PIAJr., 4th Infantry Division commander Caraga) 22-28 April 2017
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SURIGAO DEL NORTE
Surigao City population office to conduct summer youth camp By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Surigao City Population Office through the Surigao Youth Center, in partnership with Surigao Youth Convergence, will conduct a three-day Annual Summer Youth Camp set on April 26-28, 2017 to be held at Sea Farers Resort, Barangay Lipata, this city. According to city population officer Jupiter J. Correos, the camp will be filled with learning discussions on Adolescent Health and its related issues including poverty, education, youth participation, environment, and human rights.
Suriga,” Correos said. Correos further said that the activity is free of charge including accommodation as well as the certificates and meals.
A number of youth from different sectors, ages between 15 to 24 years “The camp will also be an avenue old are expected to participate the for camaraderie, networking and three-day event. (City Population learning among the young people in Office/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Provincial News
DTI releases SRP anew
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) under the Consumer Protection Group released the Suggested Retail Price (SRP) guides for basic necessities and prime commodities as of April 1, 2017. The SRP is the selling price suggested by the manufacturer of a product. The intention of the SRP is to help standardize prices among locations. Major retail establishments are directed to set their selling prices within SRP levels. The DTI price monitoring activity which is conducted monthly to major retail establishments is one way of ensuring that retailers of products listed in SRPs shall follow the guide in their pricing. Hence, they are
always provided with updated SRPs regularly. Consumers interested to know more about Suggested Retail Prices (SRPs) and other consumer related concerns are encouraged to visit the DTI’s website at www.dti.gov. ph or visit their office located at the 2nd Floor of Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street, Surigao City or contact at telephone numbers (086) 826-6129 0r 826-2373. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/ PIA-Surigao del Norte) 22-28 April 2017
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Provincial News
Filipino anglers dominate in 10th Siargao Int’l Game Fishing By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Filipino anglers have dominated the recently concluded 10th Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament on April 9, 2017 held in Pilar, Siargao Island, this province. In this year’s tournament for the Biggest Sailfish (Lip-Lipan) Category, Elmer Causing from the Philippines grabbed the 1st place with P60,000 cash plus trophy, 2nd place went to Ryan Damaso with P40,000 cash prize plus trophy and 3rd place was awarded to Emil Santos with P20,000 cash prize plus trophy.
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For the Biggest Giant Trevally (Talakitok) Category 1st place went to Leo Yosalina from the Philippines with P40,000 cash prize plus trophy, 2nd place - Noli Manas (USA) with P30,000 cash prize and trophy and 3rd place - Dave Carl Kintanar (Philippines) with P20,000 cash prize and trophy. Winners for the Biggest Giant Tanguige Category
Provincial News trophy. For the Biggest Giant Dorado Category: 1st place went to Marfin Tan (Philippines), 2nd place - Richard Sharpe (Canada) with P30,000 and 3rd place - Rico Gueco (Philippines) with P20,000 cash prize. Special Prizes for the Biggest Others except Shark, Stingray, Puffer Fish, Dolphin, Turtles and Lumba, 1st place - Jeasa Gonzales (Philippines) with P40,000 cash prize plus trophy, 2nd place - Rico Gueco (Philippines) with P30,000 plus trophy and 3rd place - Mico Kawai (Philippines) with P20,000 plus trophy with 15.30kls.
are Marfin Tan from the Philippines for the 1st place with P40,000 cash prize plus trophy, 2nd place - Jovy Ancheta (Philippines) with P30,000 cash prize plus trophy, and 3rd place - Carlos Kintanar (Philippines) with P20,000 cash prize plus
Governor Sol F. Matugas led the awarding ceremony together with former Congressman Francisco T. Matugas, 1st disrict Congressman Bingo Matugas, Pilar Mayor Ma. Liza Resurreccion, Board Member Cayetano Recabo, Board Member Melva Garcia, and other guests. (PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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SURIGAO DEL SUR
Army supports project double barrel reloaded in SurSur
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – An official of the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB) has expressed his full support on “Project Double Barrel Reloaded” implemented by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
During the City Peace and Order Council meeting held on Tuesday here, 36IB commanding officer Lt. Colonel Randolph Rojas said they are supporting the local government unit as well as the local police to run after the drug syndicates, “for they are destroying the future of the individuals specially the youth in our society.” Accordingly, President Rodrigo Duterte has instructed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to support the PNP on the fight against illegal drugs.
troopers by the PNP-Scene of the Crime Operatives team in response to the call of the commander-in-chief. The results of the drug test showed negative on the presence of THC – metabolites and methamphetamine – both dangerous drugs, indicating that the 36IB troopers are drug free and dedicated in their commitment to serve and protect the people of Surigao del Sur.
According to Rojas, since the start of the implementation of the “Oplan TokHang,” he has been providing augmentation and tactical support to the anti-drug operations conducted Just recently, a random drug by the police within their area of testing was conducted to the 36IB responsibility. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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Provincial News
Agrarian beneficiaries undergo training on policy formulation By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Some 30 agrarian beneficiaries who are members of Kinabigtasan Farmers Marketing Cooperative have undergone training on policy formulation and preparation design for cooperatives held recently at Brgy. Kinabigtasan, Tago of this province. According to Myra Yu, Surigao del Sur Provincial Agrarian Reform Office information officer, that the output of the workshop or the policies formulated by the participants will serve as guide in their future undertakings.
are thankful to DAR for conducting this training that serves to be very useful to every participant,” he said.
“If we were only trained right from the start of the existence of our cooperative with respect to policy preparation, I’m sure we should Yu added that the policy not have experienced difficulties in formulation has covered the existing handling our business as before,” Borja business operations on catering added. services, solar dryer rental services, consumer store and rice buy and sell The training was spearheaded enterprise. by the Department of Agrarian Reform - Surigao del Sur Provincial Office as Cooperative chairperson Herlito part of their support services program Borja also expressed his gratitude to the particularly on capability building Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of farmer cooperatives. (NGPB/PIAfor spearheading such activity. “We Surigao del Sur) 22-28 April 2017
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HEALTH NEWS
Organic rice, duck meat feeding program helps improve children’s health By Venus L. Garcia
The introduction of Integrated Rice-Duck Farming System (IRDFS), an organic farming that yields better results, by the Philippine Agrarian Reform Foundation for National Development, Inc. (PARFUND) has helped in reducing malnutrition through a communitybased feeding program. Based on the data from PARFUND, among the 1,072 children (approximately 50 percent male, 50 percent female aged 1-10 years old) who participated in the locally resourced feeding program manifested an improved health, better skin and weight gain after two to three months eating of organic, unpolished rice and iron and iodine-rich duck meat cooked as porridge called ’arrozcalducks.’
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Health News Of the classified indigenous peoples (IP) communities in Esperanza and Trento, Agusan del Sur, PARFUND was able to assist the rice farmers to establish rice-duck farms. Through this, the feeding program utilizes equipment, materials, supplies, and other resources from the locality. “Thus, there is a greater likelihood that the local government will be able to sustain and even expand the program to other areas,” said chief operations officer of PARFUND Jose Apollo Pacamalan.
Meanwhile, Corazon Penaloga from Trento, Agusan del Sur also testified that her grandson, Carlo Penaloga, aged 4, is doing well now by undertaking the feeding program. “His weight has increased and he became very active,” she stated. PARFUND has recently hosted the 8th International Rice-Duck Conference on March 10-14, 2014 in Butuan City and was graced by no less than Dr. Takao Furono, the founder of the Integrated Rice-Duck Farming System (IRDFS). (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
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MINDANAO NEWS
Groups gear up to help kids with disabilities in Mindanao
DAVAO CITY – Real estate developer DMCI Homes and the Junior Chamber International are gearing up for an annual fun run in support of CURE Philippines, also known as Tebow CURE Hospital, which offers pediatric orthopedic surgical care for children. The fun run will benefit children with treatable conditions such as clubfeet, clubhands, cleft lip, postburn scar releases and palate and spinal deformities.
May 28, where more than 1,000 runners are expected to join to help raise funds for Tebow CURE Hospital to finance the medical surgeries of children with disabilities.
The event, dubbed as “Putting “The race will be held inside the the FUN back on the Run” is slated on three-hectare Verdon Parc of DMCI
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Mindanao News located along Ecoland Drive,” Joie John Baquero, project sales manager of Verdon Parc, told reporters here on Saturday.
The subsidy is derived from the support of donors and programs of the government particularly from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Philippine Baquero said the support to Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Tebow CURE Hospital is part of DMCI’s Philhealth and others. “Kaakbay ng Pamayanan Program,” a corporate social responsibility that The Tebow CURE Hospital is built provides services to communities. and operated by CURE International, one of the primary outreach initiatives “We are supporting this activity of Tim Tebow Foundation to help CURE achieve its mission,” said Alvin Ang, vice president for community Tim Tebow Foundation is one of development of JCI-Davao. the major sources of funding of the Tebow CURE Hospital here in Davao Ang urged interested individuals City. to join the upcoming race as thousands of children with disabilities This year’s race is aiming to put in Mindanao, especially those who up enough funding to help around 10 belong to poor families who urgently children to undergo medical surgery, need medical interventions such as organizers said. surgery, will benefit from the activity. The categories of the upcoming Vincent Bitana, development run will include 3K with a registration of sustainability officer of Tebow CURE PHP300, 5K with PHP500, and 10K with Hospital, said there are over two million PHP750. (PNA) children living with treatable physical disabilities in Mindanao and the whole country. Surgeries for these children require considerable costs, Bitana added, saying that a normal clubfoot surgery may cost PHP70,000 to PHP120,00. Bitana sad Tebow CURE Hospital is a charity hospital that subsidizes the expenses on surgeries of children aged 0 to 18. 22-28 April 2017
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NATIONAL NEWS
Pag-IBIG Fund and LRA partnership make housing loan processing faster
QUEZON CITY- Pag-IBIG Fund recently updated its stakeholders about its partnership with the Land Registration Authority (LRA). Since its launch in June 2013, the LRA kiosk inside the Pag-IBIG office in the National Capital Region (NCR) has released more than 4,400 certified true copies of Transfer Certificate Titles (TCTs) and Condominium Certificate Titles (CCTs). The kiosk is located at the 2nd floor of the Pag-IBIG Fund Housing Sector, 409 JELP Business Solutions Building, Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City. “Our partnership with LRA has saved our members’ time. They don’t have to go to their respective Register of Deeds (RD) to get a certified true copy of their TCT or CCT. Also, our Housing Business Centers in the regions can benefit from the kiosk based
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here in the NCR,” said Pag-IBIG Fund Officer-in-Charge Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti. To request for a copy of the TCT or CCT, the borrower must bring a photocopy of the title, proceed to the
National News LRA kiosk for verification, and pay the corresponding fee (amount is based on the number of pages generated from the online system). Pag-IBIG will verify and facilitate the requests of the titles from LRA online. Certified true copies of the TCTs and CCTs on file with LRA from 2010 and up are released within a day, while those on file prior to 2009 will be released three days after. “So far, we have processed more than 4,400 TCTs and CCTs requests from Pag-IBIG Housing Loan borrowers nationwide,” Mr. Moti added. Acting Deputy CEO Marilene C. Acosta said that Pag-IBIG Fund and the LRA signed an agreement in 2012 which made it possible for the LRA to set up a kiosk in Pag-IBIG’s Housing Operations in the NCR. “With the agreement, Pag-IBIG can verify or validate the land titles submitted for evaluation and take-out. It can also check the authenticity of titles being surrendered as collateral to the loan.
On the other hand, members do not have to travel to and line up at the concerned RDs and wait for some time to claim their certified true copies, as the LRA kiosk will generate the copies needed by Pag-IBIG. The process of applying for a housing loan is now easier and more convenient for our borrowers, as they save time and transportation cost,” she said. Pag-IBIG also sealed a partnership with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for the use of the Electronic BIR Forms (eBIRForms) and the issuance of Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR). The partnership aims to authorize Pag-IBIG to file tax returns using eBIRForms and secure eCAR on behalf of its memberborrowers. “These government-togovernment partnerships of Pag-IBIG with LRA and BIR are among Pag-IBIG’s efforts that are aligned with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directive to improve processing time of government transactions,” Mr. Moti said. (Pag-IBIG)
DOLE ensures more regularized workers under DO 174 MANILA - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has intensified its campaign against illegal forms of contracting and sub-contracting and assured the public that more workers will be regularized with the implementation of Department Order 174. 22-28 April 2017
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National News
Labor Undersecretary Joel B. Maglunsod made the statement following a dialogue with the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and other labor groups who picketed the DOLE offices in Manila.
Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC), Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), and others are all taking part on this initiative to provide our workers with secure and healthy jobs,” Maglunsod added.
“The labor department is hearing your concerns. We also need your help. Let us all unite, continue fighting for your rights and report to us those companies and employers who violate and continue to implement illegal contractualization in the workplaces,” Maglunsod said.
He further stated that as of 20 April 2017, around 47,000 workers have already been regularized by their principal or employers.
Maglunsod also stressed that DOLE has intensified its efforts in conducting Special Assessment and Visit to Establishments (SAVE) and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) inspections on various companies and employers in the country to ensure that they comply with the new department order. “All efforts are being done. Our attached agencies such as the
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“DOLE will make sure that companies and employers nationwide will strictly abide by the labor standards most especially in regularizing their employees. On top of that, workers should also be entitled to proper wages and benefits under the law,” the Undersecretary reiterated. Maglunsod is set to have a formal dialogue with various labor groups and workers who have complaints against their employers on issues of contractualization, illegal dismissal, and other violations on the general labor standards. (DOLE)
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