CARAGA RDRRMC, RTF COVID-19 ON RED ALERT FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS
26
39
PSA-13 ENJOINS SUPPORT FOR THE CONDUCT OF NATIONAL DEMOGRAPHIC, HEALTH SURVEY ARMY RESERVISTS TAKE PART IN ‘OPERATION TULI’ IN BUTUAN NMCI, ARMY RESERVE FORCE WELCOME NEW BATCH OF CADET OFFICER ASPIRANTS CARAGA REGION’S ARMY RESERVE FORCE INTENSIFIES PEACE ADVOCACY AND INITIATIVES CARAGA RDRRMC, LDRRMCS JOIN IN 6-DAY CONTINGENCY PLANNING BCPO TAKES PART IN MULTI-AGENCY SEND-OFF OF SECURITY FORCES FOR THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS
33 34
BIR-BUTUAN ANNOUNCES FIRST BATCH OF RAFFLE DRAW WINNERS MGA KABATAAN SA CARAGA REGION, HINIHIKAYAT NA MAGSIMULA NG KANILANG NEGOSYO SA TULONG NG PROGRAMA NG DOST
DOT-13, BISLIG LGU CONDUCTS AWARENESS SEMINAR FOR TOURISM POLICE
2 REBELS DIE IN CLASH WITH GOV’T TROOPS IN SURSUR TOWN
COMMUNITY TIPS OFF NPAS IN AGNOR; BOMBMAKING MATERIALS SEIZED
26
36
PRO13’S SECURITY PROVISION PREPARATIONS FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS NOW IN FULL SWING
PROVINCIAL NEWS 21 22 23
24 25
12
EDUCATORS IN CARAGA COMPLETE 5-DAY BASIC ICS
P191.3M BUDGET SA AGNOR LGU, APROBADO SA SP EDUCATIONAL AID ALANG COLLEGE STUDENTS SA AGNOR LGU, APROBADO NA PHO AGUSAN DEL NORTE MAGBATON OG DUGANG DOKTOR AGI’G MOA TALI SPMC, DAVAO
27 28 29 30 31
30 AGSUR LCES: FMRS, OTHER INFRA PROJECTS CONTRIBUTE TO PEACE AND ORDER IN THE AGSUR PROVINCE LGU-PROSPERIDAD UNDERGOES 2022 SGLG ASSESSMENT 44 FRS IN AGSUR ORIENTED ON LSG PROGRAM, BUSINESS MANAGEMENT ARMY RESERVE FORCE JOINS THE DUTERTE LEGACY CARAVAN IN AGSUR TOWN GSIS-SURIGAO ORIENTS FILE HANDLERS ON UPDATED EBCS
36 37 38 39 41 43 44
MINDANAO NEWS COFFEE, CACAO EMERGING AGRI PRODUCTS IN NORMIN MARAWI EYES FULL FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES IN SEPTEMBER
NATIONAL NEWS BG PARTYLIST 108 TO SUPPORT LABOR REFORMS, POLICIES PROTECTING WORKERS, CREATING MORE JOBS BG PARTYLIST 108 JOINS THE FILIPINO-MUSLIM COMMUNITY IN CELEBRATING EID’L FITR BG PARTYLIST 108 LAUDS PRRD APPROVAL OF TARGETED CASH TRANSFER PROGRAM FOR POOR FAMILIES AFFECTED BY RECENT PRICE HIKE BG PARTYLIST 108 TO CONTINUE BRINGING BASIC GOV’T SERVICES TO GRASSROOTS LEVEL
COVID-19 NEWS
ALMOST 68M FILIPINOS FULLY VAXXED; 13M GET BOOSTERS SHOTS GOV’T EYES VAX SITES IN SCHOOLS TO PROP UP MORE F2F CLASSES BOOSTER SHOT HELPS PROTECT VS. OMICRON SUBVARIANT: DOH
CONTENTS
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 19
REGIONAL NEWS
INFOCUS
COVER
Caraga
Volume VI, No. 18 April 30-May 6, 2022
UNDP donates brand new vehicles for DICT’s response efforts in Caraga Region By Jennifer P. Gaitano
While enhancing the technical capabilities of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in Caraga Region, the department is also now equipped with brand new vehicles which they could use in monitoring and response operation
4
in areas which will be affected by any typhoon, disaster, and emergency. These vehicles were donated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of their support and contribution to DICT in disaster risk reduction and management.
According to DICT Undersecretary of Resilient Government Emergency Communications Alan Silor, their personnel and responders had been utilizing their personal vehicles in going to different areas due to lack of resources of the agency.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
“Essentially the essence there is that they’re using their own vehicles to serve the people. Not because they’re being told to, but because there were no other options. We could not even rent during the height of the typhoon, and during the response. So thank you very much, I really appreciate it so much,” Silor said. The Undersecretary also expressed his gratitude to UNDP for the technical assistance through the provision of communication equipment such as the satellite phones and
two-way radio sets, which were also used during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Odette. “Our long standing partnership with UNDP is a testament to the commitment of the government to making the lives of the Filipino better. Again, we thank UNDP for this gracious assistance of equipment and vehicles to facilitate ease of coordination, response and even recovery in times of emergencies and disasters. These vehicles are truly an investment to the lives of the Filipino people and the country,” Silor added. Meanwhile, UNDP Deputy Resident Edwine Carrie
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
also stressed the relevance of its partnership with the government agencies in the country, as they continue to provide aid to vulnerable sectors. Carrie further expressed optimism that the vehicles they donated to DICT would really be of great help not only to the agency but also with the Caraganons. “We hope that these vehicles will benefit existing and supplement capacities to respond to the typhoon. and will enable the local authorities in moving towards recovery planning with equipment, additional sets,” Carrie said. (JPG/ PIA-Caraga)
5
News Briefs The Civil Service Commission (CSC) reminded government employees that they have less than one month left to prepare and submit their 2021 Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) with their respective departments, agencies, or offices, and urged them not to wait until the 30 May 2022 deadline. xx
The cooperation among the World Bank Group (WBG), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in jointly providing funding support for the Philippine government’s COVID-19 inoculation program gave this effort a “seal of good housekeeping.” This assures the Filipino people that the procurement of the vaccines was legal and aboveboard, according to Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez. He added that this trilateral cooperation could be replicated to mobilize financing for other development projects, particularly the climate adaptation and mitigation initiatives by emerging economies like the Philippines. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte has approved Provincial Ordinance No. 617-2022, “An Ordinance Regulating the Speed Limits in All Roads in the Province of Agusan of Agusan del Norte in Pursuance to RA 4136, the Land Transportation and Traffic Code and Joint DOTR, DPWH and DILG Memorandum circular 2018001, and Imposing Penalties Thereof.” Mga Ka-Agri sa Caraga, here are the prevailing prices of agricultural commodities in Mayor Salvador Calo Public Market, Butuan City based on the price monitoring activity conducted by Department of Agriculture - Caraga for the period of MAY 1ST WEEK of 2022.
REGIONAL NEWS
Caraga RDRRMC, RTF COVID-19 on red alert for upcoming elections personnel to their best capacities to assist the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for a COVIDfree elections,” it added.
The Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) and the Regional Task Force for COVID-19 will be on red alert for the upcoming elections on May 9. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Caraga, the executive arm and secretariat of the RDRRMC and chair of the RTF COVID-19, issued Thursday, May 5, the Advisory No. 30, directing all council and task force members, as well as
8
local task forces (LTFs) and DRMM councils to be on red alert status from May 8 to 10, 2022. “Inevitably, the COVID-19 pandemic remains a threat across the region amidst the consistent efforts to hamper its transmission and increase vaccination uptakes,” the advisory said. “With the upcoming national and local elections, there is an urgent need to mobilize all resources and
All member agencies of the Regional Response Cluster and the LTFs are directed to adhere to the requirements and needs set by the Comelec through its field offices, and perform other duties and functions that it may prescribe from time to time. OCD, as the head of the Task Group Resource Management and Logistics, will facilitate and coordinate the provision of medical supplies and other logistical requirements for COVID-19 operations as needed. Intense preparations are now being undertaken by all concerned government agencies, with the national and local elections now only three days away. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Educators in Caraga complete 5-Day Basic ICS Forty-two educators from Caraga region and staff from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs) completed the 5-Day Basic Incident Command System (BICS) Blended Training Course on April 1822, via Zoom video teleconference and OCD Training Information Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga Management System Chairperson and OCD (IMS). Caraga Regional The Basic ICS Course was Director Liza R. Mazo conducted by the Office emphasized the importance of ICS of Civil Defense (OCD) for volunteers and Caraga, through the educators especially Capacity Building and those who are involved Training Section (CBTS). in disaster risk reduction Apart from taking part and management. in the VTC discussions and breakout sessions, The ICS is a standard, the participants also on-scene, and all-hazard answered self-paced incident management learning requirements, concept introduced by accomplished prethe US Forest Service test, read initial reading that can be used by all modules and submitted DRRM Councils, school assignments as DRRM coordinators and requirements in finishing response agencies. It is the Basic ICS. a disaster response tool that coordinates the Regional Disaster actions of all response Risk Reduction and Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
groups. Following the enactment of Republic Act 10121, otherwise known as the Philippine DRRM Act of 2010, the Philippine government took a proactive approach to manage the disaster consequences and reduce disaster risks by institutionalizing various mechanisms. Among these is the ICS, one of the flagship programs of the OCD. By virtue of various NDRRMC issuances, ICS has been institutionalized as an onscene disaster response tool of the Philippine DRRM System. (OCDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)
9
PRO13’s security provision preparations for upcoming elections now in full swing
PSA-13 enjoins support for the conduct of national demographic, health survey
The Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13), is now on guard and ready with all its security preparations for the coming national and local elections on May 9.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Regional Statistical Services Office XIII (Caraga) will conduct the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey, with a sample of around 1,945 households, deemed sufficient to provide regional level estimates. About 38 statistical researchers and field personnel will be involved in the conduct of the 2022 NDHS in the region.
PRO-13 Director Police Brigadier General Romeo M. Caramat, Jr. said that the deployment of uniformed personnel to guard and secure votecounting machines, official ballots, and other elections equipment, supplies, and paraphernalia by Also, personnel from COMELEC are now in the Department of place. Education (DepEd), Philippine Coast Guard Regionwide, the 6,886 (PCG), and Armed Philippine National Forces of the Philippines Police (PNP) personnel (AFP), are in place to performing electionattain a harmonious and related functions safe election supported that COMELEC duly by the 258 PRO13 police authorizes are now on force trained on standby their respective five as electoral boards. provincial hubs, 73 City/ Municipal Treasurer's Office, and 1,349 polling "PRO-13 is now ready centers. for the coming Monday
10
elections. As we are in full alert status, Caraga police remain vigilant against any threat that prevents our people from enduring a safe and peaceful 2022 elections through the support and cooperation of the peace-loving Caraganons," Director Caramat, Jr. said. (PMaj Dorothy M. Tumulak, PNP-Caraga/PIACaraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
The 2022 NDHS is the twelfth in a series of national demographic and health surveys undertaken in the Philippines since 1968. It will involve interviewing respondents from randomly selected households, and within selected households, women who are 15 to 49 years old. The Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) application using tablets as a method of
data collection will be introduced.
encourages everyone, especially the sample households, to support The 2022 NDHS is and cooperate in a national sample the conduct of the survey designed to 2022 NDHS. The data provide information on collection will start on population, fertility, family May 2 to June 22, 2022. planning, marriage, child health, child survival, All information collected HIV/AIDS and other by the hired statistical sexually transmitted researchers from the infections, reproductive sample households health, nutrition, gender shall be kept strictly issues, women safety, confidential and shall not tobacco and alcohol be used for purposes of use. Information on child taxation, investigation or discipline and early regulation as provided childhood development under Article 55 of will also be collected in Republic Act 10625, or this NDHS round. the Philippine Statistical Act of 2013. (PSAIn line with this, the PSA Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
11
Army reservists take part in ‘Operation Tuli’ in Butuan
The reservist personnel from 1501st Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn) with the supervision of the 1501st Community Defense Center (CDC), 15th Regional Command Defense Group (15RCDG) took part in offering free circumcision and feeding program conducted by Eastern Gateway Eagles Club on April 30 at Barangay Ampayon, Butuan City.
12
The activity forms part of the community service of the Eastern Gateway Eagles Club wherein 67 boys with their parents lined-up with eagerness and desire to avail free circumcision during the ‘Operation Tuli’ at the Covered Court of the said barangay. Along with the free circumcision, a free medication was also given. All the
beneficiaries enjoyed free meals and snacks. The 1501st reservist assisted on the said activity through washing of instruments used in the Operation Tuli, crowd control and distribution of food packs. Also, the 1501st troopers catered to 14 individuals who availed the free haircut. (1501st RRIBn, 1501st CDC, 15RCDG/PIACaraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
NMCI, Army reserve force welcome new batch of cadet officer aspirants
With the hope to become a cadet officer in the Reserved Officer Training Corps (ROTC), the personnel of 1501st Community Defense Center (CDC) and Northern Mindanao Colleges Incorporated (NMCI) ROTC unit welcomed some 107 aspiring cadets from NMCI during the opening ceremony of Cadet Officer Qualifying Course (COQC) held on April 30, 2022 at the NMCI quadrangle, Cabadbaran City. In the said event, Major Frances Belarmino, commandant of NMCI ROTC Unit, served as keynote speaker. He emphasized the
discipline and positive mental attitude that the applicants should acquire during the training, and imparted his experiences being a Cadet Officer years back. Major Belarmino also shared his idealism for the cadets to join the Philippine Army someday.
for Basic ROTC cadets interested in becoming cadet officers or Advance ROTC cadets. It provides physical and mental challenges to aspirant cadets, allowing them to improve their leadership skills to prepare them to handle basic ROTC MS1 cadets.
After the opening program, the cadets went through the traditional military reception wherein they performed several military exercises under the downpour to test their stamina and physical strength.
With the joint endeavors of Sgt Jay Famador (Reserve), NMCI NSTP director, ROTC cadet officers, graduate military assistants, and 1501st CDC organic personnel and reservist, the said training will keep on pushing ahead on weekends until May 22, 2022. (1501st CDC, 15RCDG/PIA-Caraga)
The COQC is a preentry training program
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
13
Caraga Region’s Army reserve force intensifies peace advocacy and initiatives
community and country in general, and promotes the spirit of volunteerism.
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
With the aim to enhance the knowledge and skills of the members of the Army reserve force in Caraga Region and make them better communicators in their respective areas with various stakeholders, the reservists or the “citizen army” learned new techniques and strategies in writing news stories and advocacy materials for the communities. Through the 15th Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, the participating Citizen Army were able to
14
Caraga RDRRMC, LDRRMCs join in 6-day contingency planning
determine the significant messages which people should know for them to be part of the government’s peace and development efforts, and help put an end to insurgency. Private Jenily Tindoy of 1501st Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn), a reservist and nurse from one of the public hospitals in Butuan City, expressed that being in the reserve force is a great opportunity to help people in need especially in times of disaster or emergency. She further stressed that every reservist has a vital role to play in the
“This skills enhancement training-workshop conducted by PIA would really help us become better communicators, especially during response operations in times of disaster or emergency that will surely catch the attention of the people. I am very fortunate to have undergone this activity,” said Tindoy. Colonel Diosdado Peji, commander of 15th RCDG also called on the different sectors particularly the youth to support the reserve force and take part in attaining its goals towards a safe and peaceful community. “I urge everyone to be active, especially our youth sector to be part of our citizen army and contribute to nationbuilding,” Col Peji said. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Some 49 participants from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) member agencies and Local DRRM Councils in Caraga Region completed the 6-Day Contingency Planning Blended Training on April 25-30 via Zoom video teleconference and OCD Training Information Management System (IMS). Said training was led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga, through the Capacity Building and Training Section (CBTS). Apart from taking part in the VTC discussions and
breakout sessions, the participants also answered self-paced learning requirements, accomplished pre-test, read initial reading modules and submitted assignments as requirements in finishing the Contingency Planning Blended Training. Contingency plan (CP) is a scenario-based plan for a specific and projected natural and/or humaninduced hazard. It aims to address the impacts of the hazard and/or to prevent the occurrence of the emerging threats by arranging well-coordinated responses and enabling efficient management of
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
resources. As provided for in Republic Act 10121, otherwise known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, CP is used to establish preparedness measures and arrange response priorities ahead of time prior to a certain disaster. Contingency planning works well together with other DRRM tools to help ensure the achievement of safer, adaptive and disaster-resilient communities towards sustainable development. (OCDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)
15
BCPO takes part in multi-agency send-off of security forces for the upcoming elections
to defend and protect them. “We have already prepared our actionoriented efforts to ensure a violent-free and fraudfree election, and also to affirm our pledge of commitment for a nonpartisan, secured and peaceful May 2022 elections,“ said BCPO City Director PCol Excelso L. Lazaga, Jr.
The Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) showed force and resources on May 4, during the SendOff Ceremony of Security Forces for the National and Local Elections (NLE) 2022. Four days before the NLE, the multi-agencies showed forces as the send-off ceremony commenced at the BCPO headquarters, Malvar Circle, Butuan City. This is part of the commitment of the security forces in the fulfillment of a safe, secure and peaceful elections. Among the highlights of
16
the ceremony included the blessing of the 177 deployable BCPO forces and the Basic Internal Security Operation Course (BISOC), Public Safety Basic Recruit Course (PSBRC) augments, officiated by the BCPO life coach Pastor Ronel Abendanio. In his message, Atty. Mark Christer Sorilla, the city election supervisor, reminded all the security forces in the fulfillment of their duties without fear or favor, to protect and serve and to implement the mission within the bounce of the law for the COMELEC is there
The personnel of the 23rd Infantry Battalion and 65th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army; Philippine Coast Guard (PCG); 1302 Maritime Police Station; Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City; Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), representatives from the City Health Office; BCPO Life Coach Pastor Ronel Abendanio; station commanders of BCPS 1-5; force commander of the Butuan City Mobile Force Company; and other deployable BCPO personnel actively took part in the said event. (PLtCol Patrick D Lumba, PIO, BCPO/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
BIR-Butuan announces first batch of raffle draw winners Prizes await for the first batch of winners of the “Resibo Mo, Panalo Ko!” raffle draw of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) - Revenue District Office (RDO) 103 in Butuan City, which was announced Wednesday, May 4. Entries comprise of submitted receipts/ sales invoices issued by establishments/ businesses in the province of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City, which make up the areas covered by RDO 103. One lucky winner will receive PhP2,000 worth of gift certificate, while 10 others will receive limited edition BIR freebies. For the first batch of winners, Joceline Manulat of the municipality of Nasipit bagged the grand prize while the following received BIR mugs: Bartolome Larita - Lower Boundary, Carmen
Reyna B. Mejio Guingona Subdivision, Brgy. J. P. Rizal, Butuan City Emmanuel E. Gimena, Jr. - Municipality of Carmen Liza Suyago Ernesta Opalia - Ipil Road Extension, Butuan City (2 entries) Leah Mae Simbajon Brgy. Bancasi, Butuan City (2 entries) Rita Antepuerta - Brgy. Baan Km. 3, Butuan City Nolito Cubillas - Emenville Subdivision, Brgy. Ambago, Butuan City Since its launching on April 7, 2022, hundreds of entries have been submitted to the RDO
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
and revenue collection offices (RCOs) across the province. Revenue District Officer Atty. Dante E. Tan thanked the public’s support for their raffle promo. “I am overwhelmed... by the support of the taxpaying public of RDO 103 - Butuan City for participating in our raffle promo. It shows that taxpayers in Butuan City are very supportive,” he said. RDO 103 launched the raffle draw to encourage the consuming public of Butuan City and Agusan del Norte to ask for
17
public. Tan also called on taxpayers to extend their support to all the endeavors of the office.
Revenue District Officer Atty. Dante E. Tan
receipts/sales invoices in every transaction or purchase they make. “In that way, it will compel our taxpayers to issue receipts everytime they sell, so that when they file their income tax or value-added tax returns, they will be able to declare the correct figures and pay the correct [amount of] taxes,” Tan added.
“I would like to appeal to our dear taxpayers to participate not only in this program, but in all our endeavors. We consider you as partners in nation-building,” the official said.
through the conduct of information dissemination Those interested may activities. drop their entries to the dropbox located at The raffle draw will run the RDO 103, J. Rosales until December 2022, Avenue, Butuan City, or but will continue based in nearby RCOs. (DMNR/ on the demand and/ or participation of the PIA-Caraga)
The “Resibo Mo, Panalo Ko!” also forms part of RDO 103’s initiative supporting BIR’s Taxpayers’ Awareness Program (TAP), which aims to enhance voluntary compliance of taxpayers by keeping them informed all the time regarding updates in tax administration
18
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Mga kabataan sa Caraga Region, hinihikayat na magsimula ng kanilang negosyo sa tulong ng programa ng DOST Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano
Sa kanyang pagbisita sa Caraga Region, hinikayat ni Secretary Fortunato De La Peña and mga sector lalo na ang mga kabataan na makinabang sa programa ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST) para makapagsimula ng kanilang sariling negosyo. Taong 2019 nang magsimula si Kit Gresos sa kanyang negosyo, ang kilalang Papelamanto Visual Arts and Scenography sa lungsod ng Butuan. Gumagawa sila ng mga souvenirs, plake at iba pang likha gamit ang mga makabagong teknolohiya at makinaryang makatutulong na mas mapapadali ang kanilang produksyon. Si Gresos ang pinakabatang micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) owner sa Butuan City na nakakuha ng pondo sa ilalim ng Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) ng DOST.
“Dati-rati wala kaming inventory system. Labaspasok lang ‘yung orders. Naisip namin na pwede palang gawin namin ‘to and mas organisadong pagtala ng mga incoming at outgoing sales. Kailangan pala naming gawin ‘to para ma-track ang mga orders. At sa panahong ‘yun, nagkaroon kami ng savings na almost PhP200,000 kasi may mga nakatambak lang doon na stocks,” ani ni Gresos.
Sa pagbisita ni Sec. De La Peña, ibinahagi ni Gresos ang mga kinailangang mapagdaanang pagsasanay para mas mapabuti pa ang kanilang negosyo.
Tiniyak naman ni Sec. De La Peña na patuloy ang mga magagandang programa ng DOST na malaking tulong para sa mga sektor lalo na sa mga kabataang may interest sa larangan ng siyensya at
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
teknolohiya.
De La Peña
Samantala, binisita rin ni De La Peña ang Caraga State University (CSU) at Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) sa Butuan City, ang dalawang malalaking unibersidad sa rehiyon na kasalukuyang may mga proyektong pinunduhan ng ahensiya. “Ang Caraga State University ang isa sa aking pinagmamalaki sa ating mga SUCs sa buong Pilipinas dahil nakita ko yung pag-angat ng CSU sa nakalipas na panahon, at ‘yan ay isang napakalaking pagkilala,” banggit ni Sec. De La Peña. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
19
DOT-13, Bislig LGU conducts awareness seminar for tourism police will serve as tourist police, and be of assistance to the tourists visiting Bislig City.
PROVINCIAL NEWS
The COVID-19 pandemic has indeed brought about great changes in the way of living of the people and has greatly impacted a lot of industries, and the tourism industry is no exception.
Police For Community Order And Protection (TOPCOP)” on April 2021, at the Bislig Highland and Function Farm and on April 22, at the Bislig City Cultural and Sports Center (BCCSC).
To this day, as the economy is striving hard to regain its loss, the Philippines tourism industry, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), is also gradually opening its borders for both international and domestic travel.
This seminar was attended by selected Philippine National Police (PNP) and Traffic Management Group (TMG) personnel as they
The activity tackled a series of discussions and workshops, where Dr. Lilifreda P. Almazan of the Department of Education (DepEd)-Bislig City Division discussed Filipino History and Culture; Richard Nick A. Amores, DOT Accredited Trainer tackled the overview of tourism and tourism products and services, tourist behavior pattern and market profile, and values formation and effective customer service. PLTCOL Rudy L. Elandag from the Police Regional Office-13 (PRO13) discussed the role and mission of TOPCOPs, and police first responders.
With the current situation, the City Tourism Operations Division of the City Information Office (CIO) of Bislig, headed by Napoleon Velez, in partnership with the DOT Caraga Region, conducted a 3-day training on “Tourism Awareness Seminar For Tourist-Oriented Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
21
2 rebels die in clash with gov’t troops in SurSur town
Community tips off NPAs in AgNor; bomb-making materials seized
Two members of communist NPA terrorist (CNTs) died in a clash against the government troops of the 36 Infantry Battalion (36IB), Philippine Army, Friday, April 29, at Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur.
loving communities for their strong support in our campaign to end the local insurgency in this province. With their active support and participation, the total collapse of the CTG is already imminent. The CTG has been disturbing the local populace who wished to live peacefully. Hence, we encourage everyone to support the government in order to attain an inclusive peace and development in the area,” Col. Saldua said.
The recovery of one M16 rifle and one Cal. 45 pistol in the encounter site was also reported after the exchange of fires at around 3pm, which lasted for about 10 minutes. The government troops responded accordingly to the report they received regarding the presence of the CNTs planned for the extortion of the campaign rallies of the politicians in the area.
Lt. Col. Michael Rey S. Reuyan, commanding officer of 36IB, said that with the help and support of Surigaonons, they will continue their pursuit operations against CNTs to pre-empt their extortion activity and terroristic acts. The official added that the encounter that happened in Barangay Nurcia will serve as an eye-opener to the remaining CNTs who still refuse to surrender. “This may be the outcome they may also end up with, therefore it is best that you end armed conflict now, return to your families, surrender yourself, and take control of your life,” Reuyan said. (Civil-Military Operations, 36th Infantry Battalion, PA/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
22
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Following a tip-off from the residents of Sitio Tagbuaya, Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, the troops of the 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army encountered eight members of communistterrorist group (CTG) which resulted in the seizure of bomb making materials on the evening of May 2.
4kg ammonium nitrate ; a 100-meter solid hawkup wire; two dynamo; a 6-meter Flat cord wire #18; five magnets; 36 Eveready batteries (1.5 volts), and assorted food supplies.
Col Saldua also reiterated his call to the remaining members of the CTG to surrender and stop wasting their lives for the ideology that could destroy them one day.
29IB Commanding Officer Col Jason M. Saldua said that a focused military operation was immediately launched upon receiving information from the residents on the location of the CTG members.
Col Saldua added that the said materials are components in making improvised explosive devices (IED), which is proof of the blatant disregard of CTG members of the provisions of the International Humanitarian Law which strictly prohibits the use of landmines or IEDs, including its components/materials.
Items seized after the five-minute firefight were
“We would like to extend our gratitude to the peace-
“You still have time to heed our call to surrender, return to the folds of the law, and go back into mainstream society. Avail the benefits of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Take the chance to live a peaceful, normal life with your family and loved ones,” he added. (2Lt. Rose Ann Mae U. Cordova (QMS) PA, 29IB CMO Officer/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
23
P191.3M budget sa AgNor LGU, aprobado sa SP
Educational aid alang college students sa AgNor LGU, aprobado na
Aprobado na sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte ang Annual Budget sa lungsod sa Tubay, ning lalawigan alang karong tuiga inubanan usab sa Annual Investment Plan niini nga mokabat sa kantidad nga PhP190, 500,000 sa General Fund ug PhP850,000 sa Special Account Fund alang sa ilang mga programa, proyekto ug aktibidad.
Makadawat na og educational aid ang mga kwalipikadong kabus nga nagtungha sa kolihiyo sa Carmen, Agusan del Norte, nga mukabat sa PhP5,000 kada semester sulod sa duha ka tuig.
Basi sa ilang AIP, ubay-ubay nga mga proyektong imprastraktura ang gihatagag pagtagad nga mapundohan ug pipila niini mao ang mosunod: Construction of Tubay-Cabayawa to Lalawigan West Coastal HighwayPhP30M; Construction of Two-Storey Building Evacuation CenterPhP15M; Construction of Drainage Canal on Poblacion BarangaysPhP4M ug uban pang mga programa, kalihokan nga motubag
24
sa kasamtangang panginahanglan sa katawhan sa Tubay.
ug aktibidad sa maong lungsod alang sa tibook tuig niining operasyon.
Gawas niini, mapundohan usab ang Providing Assistance to Women in Micro Enterprises-Livelihood Assistance, Scholarship Program (TECHVOC/ College), ug installation of street lights.
Base sa rekomendasyon sa SP Committee on Finance and Appropriation, diin tsirman si Bise Gobernador Rambu Bungabong ang nasangpit nga AIP ug Annual Budget giaprobahan pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No.163 ug 164 -2022 atol sa ika 132nd sesyon regular sa SP. (LGUAgusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte)
Ang AIP ug Budget kinahanglan maguban ug maaprobahan aron masiguro nga mapundohan ang mga programa, proyekto,
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Kini ang unod sa Municipal Ordinance No. 3 nga aprobado na sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 176-2022. Gitakda nga muabot sa 30 ka mga kwalipikadong indigent students lamang ang maka angkon niini sulod sa walo ka mga barangay sa Carmen diin gi klaro nga dili mahi apil ang mga estudyante nga naka benipisyo na sa Tertiary Educational Subsidy (TES) ug ang cheque sa maong educational aid idiritso gayud sa hingtundang skwelahan. Tumong niini nga mahatagan ug kasayon
sa pagtungha og dikalidad nga serbisyo para sa mga estudyante aron makab-ot nila ang ilang mga pangandoy ug maka dugang sa populusyon nga mag hatag og kalambuan sa Probinsya pag abot sa panahon. Ang maong resolosyon
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
gi aprobahan adtong Abril 11, 2022 sa SP atol sa ika-133rd regular session nga gipangamahan sa tsirman sa Committee on Education and Culture nga si Bokal Rodulfo A. Pitogo. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
25
PHO Agusan del Norte magbaton og dugang doktor agi’g MOA tali SPMC, Davao
AgSur LCEs: FMRs, other infra projects contribute to peace and order in the AgSur province By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Dugang kalidad nga serbisyo sa Provincial Hospital ang gituohan human nagkasinabot ang probinsiya sa Agusan del Norte, Department of Health Caraga ug Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) sa Davao City nga mosulod sa usa ka kasabutan. Ubos sa maong kasabutan, i-assign si Dr. Benjo P. Ato graduate sa SPMC sa Internal Medicine Department,
26
Davao City sa Provincial Hospital gikan Marso 21, 2022 hangtod Marso 10, 2023 pinaagi sa Post Residency Deployment Program isip dugang doktor sa maong ospital
Health Workforce Support System.
Ang paghatag otoridad kay Gob. Corvera gi-aprobahan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan pinaagi sa Ubos sa Republic Act Sanggunian Resolution No. 11223, o nailhan No. 166-2022 nga nga Universal Health gipanginahanan ni Bokal Care Act of 2019, Elizabeth Marie R. Calo responsibilidad sa DOH atol sa ika 132nd regular nga magbutang og session niini. (Jessica O. igong health workforce Mellejor, LGU-Agusan del sa tanan ospital sa nasod Norte/PIA-Agusan del pinaagi sa National Norte) Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Maintaining peace and order is everybody’s concern. This was emphasized by Lieutenant Colonel Reynald Romel Goce, commanding officer of 26th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, as he elaborated the significant programs and projects of the government for the local residents. Goce stressed that the programs and projects to include the farm-to-market roads and other infra developments that were established particularly in the far-flung barangays of the
said province formed part of the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communists armed conflict. “With the developments that were established in the different municipalities and cities here in the province of Agusan del Sur, locals have become more active and participative in the government’s campaign and initiatives. They immediately report to the authorities when they notice the presence of the New People’s Army in their respective barangays,” said Goce.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Mayor Phoebe Corvera of San Luis, and Mayor Pauline Masendo of Talacogon in Agusan del Sur are among the local chief executives who have seen the great impact of EO 70 especially to their constituents in the barangays identified as geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) that also benefited from the ELCAC funds. Mayor Masendo highlighted that the indigenous peoples (IPs) are now active in advocating the government’s campaign against insurgency. (JPG/PIAAgsuan del Sur)
27
LGU-Prosperidad undergoes 2022 SGLG assessment
44 FRs in AgSur oriented on LSG program, business management A total of 44 former rebels (FRs) from the different municipalities of Agusan del Sur undergone an orientation on Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) Program and a seminar on Financial Literacy and Business Management held on April 27, in the municipality of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
The local government of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur has been complying with the requirements for the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga. The SGLG Regional Assessment team headed by Marilou Salado, LGOO VI with Michael Bitanghol, Civil Society Organization (CSO) representative, and Milariza Beniga, MLGOO assessed the LGU-Prosperidad to make sure that the required indicators are followed. The municipality, headed by Mayor Eric Plaza Mellana,
28
wants to keep the winning streak in the SGLG. During the exit conference, the team received a positive commendation from the assessors, which means it gives the LGU hope to bag another SGLG award. To do that, LGUProsperidad must receive a passing remark in all following areas such as financial administration and sustainability; disaster preparedness; health compliance and responsiveness; sustainable education; business-friendliness and competitiveness;
safety, peace and order; environmental management; youth development; tourism, heritage development, culture and the arts; and social protection and sensitivity. SGLG is the highest recognition given by the DILG to an LGU that has shown good governance and effective delivery in the mentioned areas and is practicing good management principles, including transparency, accountability and responsiveness. (Team Prosperidad/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
The LSG refers to the financial assistance provided to affected families and/or displaced persons due to armed conflicts. Each of the returnees will receive PhP20,000, which will be used to finance their proposed projects, such as livestock production, merchandising, and farming, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said during the orientation.
and provided with a corresponding budget through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) under Executive Order (EO) 70, series of 2018.
In line with the project implementation, participants are informed of the concept of financial freedom- mastering the aspects of income, budget, emergency fund, investments, and desires. The familiarity with these aspects will help define their It is said these projects will be assessed by DSWD financial goals and help Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
improve their success, DTI said during the seminar. The activity was spearheaded by the DSWD under Alvin Bajao, LSG provincial coordinator, in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Razel Montemor, Department of Trade and IndustryAgusan del Sur, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH). (NCIPAgusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)
29
Army reserve force joins the Duterte Legacy Caravan in AgSur town
The 1502 Community Defense Center (CDC), Reserve Command, Philippine Army led by Major Jerome G. Waclin, director, together with the Medical Team of 1502nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn) in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur and other government line agencies joined the Duterte Legacy Caravan on Sunday held at the Covered Court, Barangay Santa Ana, San Francisco, this province. The 1502 CSC assisted
30
all other government agencies involved in the caravan to ensure safety of the beneficiaries and order of the event at the said venue.
recruitment. The Duterte Legacy Caravan Thru Convergence of All Government Agencies aims to inform the public about the government’s Free services and effort in achieving community building positive changes in programs were provided the Philippines through such as feeding, dental President Rodrigo tooth extraction, Duterte’s leadership dental varnishing, which is anchored with demonstration of proper his agenda “tapang brushing of teeth, giving at malasakit”, bringing of dental kits, information the government closer drive campaign, to the Filipino public. free haircut, and (2Lt Adones L. Apilada, distribution of leaflets Executive Officer of as part of 1502nd CDC 1502CDC/PIA-Agusan strengthening of reservist del Sur) Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
GSIS-Surigao orients file handlers on updated EBCS
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Surigao City Branch recently administered a two-day Electronic Remittance File (ERF) Handlers and Disbursing Officers’ Meeting on April 27-28, attended by 142 participants from the various government agencies in the provinces of Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur. Sixty-seven out of the 142 participants showed up on the first day of the two-day event at the face-to-face assembly held at the Philippine Gateway Hotel, Surigao City. The said set up was made possible to cater agencies that have ongoing unresolved internet connection issues caused by the Super Typhoon
Odette. Meanwhile, the remaining 75 participants attended the second day of the meeting via Zoom platform. The conference was spearheaded by the Billing, Collection and Reconciliation Division (BCRD) officers. Theresa Ferrer, BCRD chief, warmly welcomed the members. Throughout the event, the
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
new features and updates on the enhanced E-Billing and Collection System (EBCS) were extensively discussed by the unit’s team leader, Ellen Esguerra. Diverse sample scenarios were also handed by Staff Officer Melchora Agra to give the participants an overview in handling situations relating to EBCS. (GSISSurigao City/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
31
Coffee, cacao emerging agri products in NorMin The Department of Agriculture (DA) 10 (Northern Mindanao) sees the cultivation and production of coffee and cacao as an emerging contributor to boosting the region’s agriculture sector. During the Network Briefing News on Friday, DA-10 Director Carlene Collado said after some farmers groups received support and recognition, they can expand supply in the country and to international markets.
MINDANAO NEWS
“Hopefully, with our assistance, they will be known internationally, and supply for export their products. This would also mean larger income for them,” Collado said, referring to the PHP8 million worth of assistance to farmers through the Cacao CommunityBased Development Enterprise project.
As for the coffee industry, Collado cited recent achievements of Mindanao farmers’ groups that garnered awards in the 2022 Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC) held in Davao City on March 18.
The PCQC is an annual green coffee competition that recognizes outstanding One of the beneficiaries was Filipino coffee farmers the Toburan-Mapulog-Maputi and where growers are Arc Marketing Cooperative, encouraged to improve the covering 67 hectares in quality of their products to Naawan, Misamis Oriental. boost their competitiveness in the domestic and global Some members are already markets. growing cacao and producing tablea (pure To date, the DA - Philippine chocolate usually in tablet Rural Development shape) and selling them to Project has seven coffee agri-development centers. subprojects in its Mindanao Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
portfolio: two in Northern Mindanao with the Coffee Processing and Marketing Enterprise in Maramag and Arabica Coffee Processing, Consolidation and Marketing enterprise in Bukidnon; two in Soccsksargen with the Enhancement of Production and Marketing of Dried Green Coffee Beans in Tupi South Cotabato and the Production and Marketing of Green Coffee Beans in Sultan Kudarat; Caraga region’s Integrated Green Coffee Beans in Surigao del Sur; and Davao region’s Coffee Processing and Marketing Enterprise in Davao del Norte and Green Coffee Beans Processing and Marketing Enterprise in Davao del Sur. (PNA/Nef Luczon)
33
Marawi eyes full face-to-face classes in September
education office, Dr. Arturo Bayocot, said earlier. In a speech during the National Joint Executive Committee and Management Conference in Camiguin province, Bayocot said the reopening of the schools for limited in-person classes began as early as November 2021.
UNDER RENOVATION. A public school in Marawi City undergoing renovation in this undated photo. The office of the Department of Education in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur said Friday (April 29, 2022) they are targeting to implement a full operation of face-to-face classes beginning in September. (File photo)
The office of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur is targeting to implement a full operation of faceto-face classes beginning September.
expansion since April 17. So far, there have been no reported illnesses or outbreaks of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) that have affected their students and teachers.
In a statement Friday, Marawi City Schools Division (MCSD) Superintendent, Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto, said the plan was aligned with the targets set by the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) of the Bangsamoro region.
MBHTE Minister Mohagher Iqbal has provided PHP50,000 for the 13 identified recipient schools that qualified in the tests to open the controlled in-person classes.
“(The) MBHTE wanted a hundred percent opening of our classes because the last two years brought learning losses to our children who were affected by the twoyear pandemic,” Alonto said. At the moment, 13 schools are conducting limited faceto-face classes with the
34
He said the figure is broken down into 1,704 public schools and 31 private schools.
The MCSD is also up for the annual activity of the DepEd, which is the early registration of enrollees for School Year (SY) 2022-2023. NorMin schools Meanwhile, at least 1,735 schools in Northern Mindanao are implementing limited face-to-face classes, director of the regional
“Camiguin is one of the divisions that have opened all their schools. Camiguin is just a small provincial schools’ division but the 55 elementary schools and the 13 high schools have opened their classes,” Bayocot said. Based on DepEd Order 17, schools may use the school and maintenance and other operating expenses in implementing in-person classes. The last day of classes for SY 2021-2022 will be on July 27 because classes will be interrupted from May 2 to 13 due to election-related activities. Classes for SY 2022-2023 will open in August to give time for a short break that can be used for bridging or remediation programs and the capacity building of teachers. (PNA/Nef Luczon)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
BG Partylist 108 to support labor reforms, policies protecting workers, creating more jobs
BG Partylist 108 joins the FilipinoMuslim community in celebrating Eid’l Fitr
The Bisaya Gyud Partylist 108 on Sunday stressed its support in the country’s much needed labor reforms that would further promote the welfare of Filipino workers.
The Bisaya Gyud Party-list 108 on Monday joined the Muslim community in celebrating Eid Al-Fitr to mark the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan.
BG Partylist First Nominee Alelee Aguilar-Andanar hailed Filipino workers for their industry, sacrifices, and perseverance to work despite the health crisis. She recognized that the hardwork of Filipinos has been one of the keys to the country’s economic recovery for the past 2 years. “Hindi lang po dito sa bansa kilala ang galing at dedikasyon ng ating mga manggagawa, kundi sa buong mundo lalo na ngayong pandemya. Ang ating mga manggagawa ang nasa frontline para labanan ang COVID-19. Ang ating mga manggagawa rin ang tumataguyod sa ating bansa para untiunting makabangon mula sa pandemya. Salamat sa kabayanihan ng mga manggagawang Pilipino!” Andanar said. She also committed to prioritize legislation that would help the labor sector once elected.
36
“Kung kami po ay palarin sa Kongreso, isusulong namin ang mga panukalang magrereporma sa sistema ng paggawa sa bansa para kayo po ay matulungang makabangon at mapaangat ang pamumuhay,” Andanar added. “Naniniwala ako sa lakas ng ating paggawa. Kaya iprayoridad namin ang seguridad ng mga manggagawa. Dahil kapag may trabaho, mayroon ding pambili ng pagkain, tahanan, edukasyon, at pagunlad ng buhay.,” she said. Andanar has previously expressed support for the continuation of the Duterte administration’s Build, Build, Build program in order to sustain job opportunities in the country.
BG Partylist 108, the first and only partylist openly endorsed by Presidnet Rodrigo Duterte, has also vowed to continue other landmark policies of the administration that will help poor and marginalized Filipino families uplift their lives through addressing key concerns in food, shelter, education , and security. “Titiyakin namin na susuportahan ang mga programa na magpapalakas sa ating sektor ng paggawa,” Second nominee Atty. Mico Clavano said. “Isusulong din namin ang mga patakarang magbubukas ng mas maraming oportunidad at trabaho sa mga Pilipino,” he added.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
BG Partylist 108 first nominee Alelee AguilarAndanar expressed optimism that the FIlipino public will draw inspiration from the Muslim community for their unwavering faith, and strength to move forward regardless of challenges. “Sa pagtatapos ng Ramadan, kasama niyo ang BG Partylist sa pagpapasalamat sa mga biyaya at lakas na ibinigay sa inyo ni Allah lalo na sa inyong isang buwang pag-aayuno,” she said. “Umaasa ako na ang okasyong ito ay magbibigay sa inyo ng panibagong simula at
sigla sa pagharap sa ating bukas. Nawa’y maging inspirasyon pa kayo upang maging modelo hindi lamang sa pananampalatayang Islam, kundi sa sangkatauhan,” she added.
Second nominee Atty. Mico Clavano also greeted the Muslim community and said that the celebration is an opportune time to express gratitude to the blessings given to them by Allah.
Filipino Muslim in the country gathered on May 2 to express their devotion to Allah, offer their prayers, and feast with their family and relatives. Consequently, the Palace has declared May 3 as a regular holiday in accordance with the religion’s celebration.
“Marami mang hamon tayong hinarap, isa-isa natin silang nalampasan dahil sa ating pagkakaisa at pananampalataya. Magsilbi sana tayong ehemplo ng tibay ng pananampalataya at pagiging maka-tao,” he said.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
37
BG Partylist 108 lauds PRRD approval of targeted cash transfer program for poor families affected by recent price hike
BG Partylist 108 to continue bringing basic gov’t services to grassroots level added. BG Party-list focuses their platforms on four areas of concern namely on food, shelter, education, and security, eyeing to sustain and improve the existing policies pioneered by the Duterte administration.
BG Partylist 108 first nominee Alelee Aguilar-Andanar on Wednesday lauded the approval of the targeted Cash Transfer Program for poor Filipino households, who were affected by successive fuel price hikes. Andanar thanked President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for the decision, noting that it was another proof for the administration’s genuine concern for the vulnerable sector in crisis. “Dito natin makikita ang tunay na malasakit ng Pangulo sa lahat ng mga Pilipino. Batid niya na marami ang hindi pa nakakabangon sa pandemya at ngayon ay nahaharap naman sa krisis dulot ng Ukraine-Russia conflict,” she said. She also called on public offices, including the local government units to speed the distribution of themuch needed assistance. She is hoping that candidates vying for public seats would also refrain from using it for their political agenda. “Sa panahon ngayon, mahalaga ang bawat sentimo sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan. Kailangan nila ang tulong ng
38
gobyerno para may pambili ng pagkain, pantustos sa tahanan at mga pag-aaral,” Andanar added. The Philippines is among othe countries in the world affected by the fuel price hikes in the world market brought about by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia tension. Earlier in March, the government’s Economic Development Cluster recommended the distribution of cash grants to the bottom 50 percent of all Filipino households, seeking to benefit around 12.4 million families or 74.7 million Filipinos nationwide. Meanwhile, the partylist’s
second nominee Atty. Mico Clavano vowed that BG Partylist 108 will push for a policy that will prepare Filipinos for a similar crisis in the future. “Sa panahon ngayon, mahalagang magdamayan ang lahat, ang gobyerno at taumbayan. Kaya isang malaking tulong sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan ang targeted cash transfer program,” Clavano said. “Kung kami ay papalarin sa Kongreso, isusulong namin ang panukalang maghahanda sa atin sa mga ganitong krisis para maging institutionalize ang pagbibigay ng ayuda,” he added.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Pro-Duterte group BG Party-list 108 commits to continue bringing the government’s basic programs and services closer to the people, the same advocacy that the Duterte administration has demonstrated for almost 6 years.
activities where they were able to provide relief and financial aid to those who wish to return to their respective hometowns. They also helped refer patients to Malasakit Centers in Visayas and Mindanao to ease medical expenses.
In an interview on the Daily Tribune on Wednesday, BG Partylist first nominee Alelee Aguilar-Andanar reiterated the need for the government to establish good relationships with the people at the grassroots level.
“Our target really is the marginalized sector, the poor families in Visayas and MIndanao. We want to continue to provide them with these services so they don’t have to go to Metro Manila to seek better opportunities and even ask for assistance,” she said.
She recalled how the BG Partylist started in November 2019 as a volunteer for distressed Bisaya across the country. Andanar said they initiated
“Doon pa lang sa kanikanilang mga komunidad, andun na ang gobyerno working for them,” she
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Earlier in April 2022, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte openly endorsed the BG Party-list for this year’s elections, the first party-list that the chief executive expressed support to. Andanar said that the President’s support is a testament of his confidence for the group to continue to public service with genuine concern to the Filipino people. “It’s an honor na maendoroso ng Pangulo. Ibig sabihin lang po nun ay naniniwala si Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte naniniwala siya sa aming mga plataporma to the extent na he openly expressed his trust and confidence for us,” Andanar said.
39
Almost 68M Filipinos fully vaxxed; 13M get boosters shots “We are calling on those who haven’t received their vaccines and boosters to be vaccinated because we want the incoming election on Monday not just honest and orderly but also safe from Covid-19,” he said.
JABS. A total of 465,600 doses of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on April 28, 2022. The government says there are enough supplies and has already started the rollout of second booster shots for immunocompromised adults. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
The Philippines has administered 146,869,397 doses of coronavirus vaccines nationwide, with 67,911,464 million Filipinos already fully vaccinated, according to the latest report of the National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19. The data presented during the prerecorded “Talk to the People” of President Rodrigo Duterte aired Tuesday morning also showed that 4,779,495 are waiting for their second primary doses while 7,430
have second booster shots since the official rollout on April 25. NTF chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the vaccination coverage significantly declined since December last year, leaving only 13,231,643 with first booster shots. He noted that of the total fully vaccinated, 94 percent belong to the 18 to 59 age group while 80 percent are senior citizens.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Galvez cited the need to increase the vaccine demand amid complacency over low Covid-19 cases. “Despite the slowing of vaccination output but already high vaccination coverage, 8 out of 17 regions are now on Alert Level 1 and 42 provinces out of 81 also under Level 1,” he said. Twenty-four provinces are still behind the 70-percent vaccination coverage -- Davao del Norte, Bohol, Antique, Negros Occidental, Western Samar, Benguet, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Cebu, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato,
41
Masbate, Ifugao, Davao Occidental, Sarangani, Palawan, Negros Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Lanao del Sur. Further, Galvez cited the significant contributions of the private sector in the country’s Covid-19 pandemic responses, thanking them for helping the government increas testing capacity from a single polymerase chain reaction test laboratory to 334 currently operational laboratories nationwide -- 155 of them manned by the government.
From 1,000 daily, testing capacity has reached 76,000 per day. “We believe the national government cannot do it alone,” he said. The government likewise partnered with the private sector in procuring and donating personal protective equipment for health care workers at the height of the pandemic. Galvez said such strong partnerships resulted in the construction of isolation facilities, mobilization of private hospitals and medical
clinics for Covid-19 treatment, massive vaccination program, and insurance packages. “The weekly forum and meeting provided us the broader perspective on the global and regional context of Covid response and vaccination that’s why we are able to garner 83 percent approval for the government and President Duterte’s Covid-19 response rating in an OCTA Research survey,” Galvez said. (PNA/Lade Jean Kabagani)
Gov’t eyes vax sites in schools to prop up more F2F classes The government is eyeing the establishment of vaccination sites in schools to encourage more children to get protected against Covid-19. During the prerecorded “Talk to the People” of President Rodrigo Duterte aired Tuesday morning, Presidential Adviser on Covid-19 Response, Secretary Vince Dizon, said National Task Force Against Covid-19 chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. already instructed to make coronavirus jabs available in all schools. Dizon noted that there are enough supplies of reformulated vaccines for the pediatric age group 5 to 11. “We have about 10 million remaining doses in stock so we have enough vaccines and these can be easily deployed to all our schools for our children,” he said. Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones also reported that 25,668 public schools and 676 private schools nationwide have already started face-to-face classes. Dizon said the major challenge now is encouraging private schools
42
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
(Photo courtesy of San Carlos City Information Office)
to engage in face-to-face classes. “There is some resistance from the private schools and upon the consultations conducted earlier this evening (Monday), it seems that it is a mixture of various reasons and the most compelling of which is that some parents in the private schools are still apprehensive about letting their children go back to face-to-face classes, which of course is the right of every parent,” Dizon said. The government strongly encourages all academic institutions, both public and private, to resume their faceto-face classes.
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
The President has allowed the face-to-face classes provided that learners will be vaccinated against Covid-19. Thus, the government pushed for the procurement of reformulated low-dosage coronavirus jabs for children 5 to 11 years old, with 15 million doses already delivered. So far, more than 9.9 million aged 12 to 17 age groups and 2.7 million aged 5 to 11 have been vaccinated with at least the first dose. About 93 percent of over 947,000 DepEd personnel are fully vaccinated, Briones said. (PNA/ Lade Jean Kabagani)
43
Booster shot helps protect vs. Omicron subvariant: DOH persons to receive their second booster shot at least three months after their first booster dose. In the latest run of whole genome sequencing, about 83 persons or 63 percent of the 132 sequenced samples had Omicron variant. The 83 samples were from 10 regions and one foreign national. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
Getting a booster shot of the Covid-19 vaccine helps protect against Sars-CoV-2 variants, the Department of Health (DOH) reiterated Thursday as the country logs its first case of the Omicron BA.2.12 subvariant. “Omicron BA.2.12 reminds us that the virus is still out there, and the cases can go up the moment we let our guard down,” the DOH said in a public advisory. The BA.2.12 subvariant
44
has been detected in a 52-year-old Finnish woman who tested for Covid-19 after having mild symptoms nine days following her arrival in the country. The DOH urged eligible individuals to receive their booster shots immediately as immunity provided by the primary series of Covid-19 vaccine is proven to wane over time. It also reminded the eligible immunocompromised
Of the remaining 49 samples - four were Delta cases, all from Region 11 and the other 45 had no lineage assigned. To date, Delta comprises the biggest proportion of the 28,908 total samples sequenced at 30 percent. It is followed by Omicron at 25 percent. However, most recent runs showed that Omicron still comprises the highest percentage among detected variants. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)
Caraga Infocus • April 30-May 6, 2022
Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (085) 341-5285; (085) 815-1991 Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga
Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City (085) 815-1991 pia.northagusan@gmail.com PIA Agusan del Norte
AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur 0917-723-3455 pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph PIA Agusan del Sur
SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City (086) 826-9450 piasurigao@gmail.com PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands
SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City (086) 211-3353 piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph PIA Surigao del Sur