CONTENTS
REGIONAL NEWS
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LGU-Butuan urges participation in Balangay float parade competition POPCOM, CHR heighten advocacy on RPRH for men Caraga RDRRMC holds 1st quarter full council meeting in 2017 PRO Caraga tightens security measures for Lent, summer
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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DOH, AECID turn over birthing facility to Dinagat Islands LGU 70 Women PWDs undergo store management training in Surigao Norte town
COVER Stakeholders express strong support to PIA’s ASEAN forum, info kiosk launching in Butuan City
Dinagat Islands LGU joins International Day of Forest PNP foils NPA’s sinister plot in SurSur Bislig Mayor Librado, Japanese mayor sign MOU on organic farming More troops arrive in SurSur AgNor approves scaling-up of climate-resilient farming communities
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PSA to conduct consumer expectation survey in Agusan Norte, Surigao Norte DAR AgNor celebrates international women’s day NPA leader surrenders in Agusan Sur
HEALTH NEWS
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Feature: Pinoys’ fruits and vegetables consumption decreasing in the past 37 years
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MINDANAO NEWS
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World Bank, foreign donors eye fresh funds for peace initiatives in Mindanao
NATIONAL NEWS
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Volume 1, No. 54 8 - 14 April 2017
SSS warns public of fake checks Pag-IBIG Fund grants P11.3B in cash loans in 1Q 2017
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News Briefs Talking about ‘Ambisyon Natin 2040’, NEDA Caraga regional director Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño underscored that it is important for everyone to be united in this initiative and to have common understanding of what every citizens are trying to do, & how to move forward. The ASEAN’s 50th Founding Anniversary this year is anchored on the theme, “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”. Hence, PIA deputy director general Gregorio Angelo Villar underscored that the agency is mandated to engage with its partner stakeholders in communicating ASEAN to the various sectors of the community.
President Rodrigo Duterte promised overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Bahrain that his six-year administration would be free from corruption, oppression and abusive officials. Facing an ecstatic crowd of around 4,000 at the Khalifa Sports City Stadium, Duterte said he wants to solve the problem of corruption in the country to encourage OFWs to return home. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in its aim to give assurance to farmers to own the land that they till, distributed Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to a total of 12 farmers from the seven barangays of Esperanza town within the first quarter of this year held at DAR Municipal Office. The said landholdings cover 19.0646 hectares of agricultural land from Brgys. Tagabase, Remedios, Nato, Mc Arthur, San Jose, Bakingking and Duangan.
Cover Story
Stakeholders express stro ASEAN forum, info kiosk la By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
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UTUAN CITY – Stakeholders in Caraga region have expressed their strong support to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga during the conduct of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) Forum and ASEAN Information kiosk launching held here recently. 4
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ong support to PIA’s aunching in Butuan City According to PIA deputy director general Gregorio Angelo Villar, the said ASEAN Forum is just one of the many strategies of the agency to disseminate and promote relevant information on the opportunities and benefits which the Filipino people can benefit from. “The Philippines is hosting this year’s 50th ASEAN, and we might as well take advantage of this opportunity to help our co-fellowmen participate in the activities of the ASEAN community, which will not only help the country’s economy, but also the lives of the Filipino in the different regions,” underlined Villar.
Villar added that the partner stakeholders from the different provinces of Caraga region play a vital role in their respective areas as they cascade the knowledge they gained from the forum to their localities and encourage people in the grassroots to contribute and participate in the ASEAN activities of the country. Also, regional director Abner Caga of PIA Caraga thanked all the participating stakeholders during the two separate ASEAN activities of the regional office in the city. He stressed that the forum was a good venue for the different sectors to discuss issues and concerns related to ASEAN.
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Cover Story “We are very glad to see your active participation, and we have heard and noted all your questions, opinions, clarification and suggestions on how we can better promote ASEAN in the region,� Caga underscored.
launched the ASEAN Information Kiosk at the arrival area of Butuan Aiport.
Travelers going in and out of the city have free access on the different Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on Meanwhile, PIA Caraga, in ASEAN and the various programs and partnership with the Civil Aviation services of the government agencies. Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) (JPG/PIA-Caraga) Butuan, has also successfully
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Photo Gallery Tiange sa Siargao
Pilar, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
10th Siargao Int’l Game Fishing Tournament Surigao del Norte
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ASEAN News
President Duterte formally opens the 30th ASEAN Summit, pushes for drug-free ASEAN
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte pushed for a drug-free Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) community as he formally opened the 30th ASEAN Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Saturday, April 29. The opening ceremony, held at the Plenary Hall of the PICC, commenced with the singing of the ASEAN Anthem, “The ASEAN Way” led
by Ms. Rachel Alejandro; followed by a cultural presentation dubbed, “Iisang Bangko Tayo” (We are in the Same Boat).
ASEAN News In his opening statement, strengthen its partnership with the President Duterte said the ASEAN must business community. be resolute in realizing a drug-free ASEAN. “We can advance cooperation in our region by staying true, steadfast, “The scourge of illegal drugs and resolute to our processes of threatens our gains in community- integration, innovation, inclusivity, and building. I have seen how illegal drugs connectivity,” Duterte said, as he noted have ended the hopes, dreams, future that the capacities of micro, small, and and even lives of countless people, medium enterprises (MSMEs) should be especially the youth,” President Duterte strengthened as MSMEs are engines of said. growth. “The illegal drug trade apparatus is massive. But it is not impregnable. With political will and cooperation, it can be dismantled, it can be destroyed before it destroys our societies,” he said.
In the same speech, President Duterte thanked the ASEAN neighbors for its assistance to the Philippines in the wake of natural disasters.
“During our time of greatest The President also stressed that need, you were there. We are eternally the ASEAN must not waver on its efforts grateful. Today, I say the Philippines will to eliminate security threats. do its own part to help those who are in need in our region and beyond,” the “Piracy and armed robbery President said. against ships disrupt the stability of regional and global commerce. This year, ASEAN commemorates Terrorism and violent extremism have its 50th year. Likewise, the ASEAN brought the reality of attacks right commemorates its 40th anniversary of on our shores and at our doorsteps,” dialogue relations with Canada, the Duterte said. European Union (EU), and the United States of America, as well as the 25th “Eternal vigilance is the price anniversary of relations with India. that we must pay to keep our citizens safe. We can only achieve this through “These are relations that are advancing cooperation at the bilateral, valued. But they can be much more regional, and multilateral levels,” he valuable and stronger if we learn to added. respect each other’s independence and treat each other as sovereign President Duterte, who is also the equals,” Duterte said. chair of the ASEAN this year, likewise urged his fellow ASEAN leaders to “Our engagement with Dialogue
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ASEAN News Partners allowed us to set the table for meaningful discussions on maintaining peace and stability, the pursuit of development goals, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and the promotion of our peoples’ welfare,” he said.
ASEAN Community Vision 2025.
He was accompanied by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, “In this milestone year, the time is Acting Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique ripe – and indeed it is right - to make our Manalo, and Social Welfare Secretary decisions count. It is time for ASEAN to Judy Taguiwalo. finally assert, with conviction, its position in the international arena,” Duterte The opening ceremony, on the said. other hand, was attended by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Following the opening ceremony, Cabinet officials, the Diplomatic Corps, the leaders then proceeded to the former First Lady Imelda Marcos, former Reception Hall for the 30th ASEAN Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senate Summit Plenary Session. President Aquilino Pimentel III, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Chief In his opening statement, President Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, and Duterte said the regional grouping is Philippine National Police chief Ronald dedicated in its work towards genuine Dela Rosa. transformation that will benefit the people. The cultural presentation featured the CEU Folk Dance Troupe, Sindaw According to Duterte, ASEAN Philippines Performing Arts Guild, Mga was defined by unity, solidarity, and Anak ni Inang Daigdig, SFC Lahing cooperation over the last five decades Kayumanggi Mananayaw ng Marikina, and these are crucial to the body’s and the Manila Symphony Orchestra. collective success. He, however, acknowledged that their work is far from complete. “Faced with greater challenge, we are full of hope that we will rise to the occasion and emerge politically and economically stronger,” he said. President Duterte said the leaders will discuss the implementation of the 08 -14 April 2017
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ASEAN News
AFP: No serious threat seen on ASEAN Summit
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) allayed the public’s fears of any serious threat to the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit this week.
In a press briefing in Malacañang on Tuesday, April 25, AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, Jr. said they do not see any serious threat but authorities are prepared for any worst-case scenario.
radar screen but our planning is always based on worst-case scenarios,” he said.
“So whatever worst-case scenarios that we anticipate that could happen, then adequate preparations “On the issue of ASEAN, the and plans are laid down to meet these Armed Forces is part of the task force. scenarios,” he added. The security and the one in charge of safeguarding and ensuring the events Padilla assured that the Joint Task under ASEAN hosting goes on well is Force - National Capital Region (JTFcomposed of a lot of agencies,” Padilla NCR) is fully equipped with whatever said. “We are all part of this team they need and the AFP has provided entrusted to ensure that the activities whatever it is that they will still need just are held without any hitch.” in case of any contingency. “We don’t see any threat right The AFP spokesperson meanwhile now, no serious threat that is in the assured that the terror threat in Bohol
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ASEAN News has already been addressed as he tax and constitutional reforms and a called on tourists not to cancel their relentless drive to create a peaceful tour reservations. environment for business to flourish,” he added. It will be recalled that government forces clashed with the Abu Sayyaf Abella also noted that the Group (ASG) in Bohol last week. projects registered with the Board of Investments (BoI) have increased by 67 “The Armed Forces and the percent in first quarter of 2017 or from Philippine National Police [are] happy 72 to 122 projects. to inform you that the threats we faced in the island of Bohol and the other “Once operational, these are confirmed reports that have been projects are seen to generate coming our way as well as to the public about 36,115 jobs or an increase regarding dangers posed by terrorists in of 181 percent over the 12,841 our tourists areas is already addressed,” jobs generated in the first quarter Padilla said. of 2016,” Abella said, adding that these investment projects are also In the same briefing, Presidential expected to create 6,884 new jobs spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in agriculture and 24,367 new jobs in the Philippines is gaining momentum investment and housing projects; and as a foreign direct investment (FDI) 3,038 new jobs for the manufacturingdestination. related projects. Abella said that FDI inflow last year reached $7.9 billion, exceeding the full-year target of $6.7 billion, and 40.7 percent higher compared to 2015. “The President made the commitment to prioritize a better life for all, to improve lives by reducing poverty by rebuilding trust in government and peace in our borders,” Abella said. “We’re gathering more momentum as a growing number of investors notice the positive results of our economy which rests on solid economic fundamentals, increased spending for crucial infrastructure, 08 -14 April 2017
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REGIONAL NEWS
LGU-Butuan urges participation in Balangay float parade competition
By: Regal C. Oribia
BUTUAN CITY - With the aim to advocate, showcase and promote the City of Butuan as one of the leading tourist destination, not just in the Philippines, but worldwide, the Butuan City local government unit (LGU) led by Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada is inviting all private and government offices, barangays and schools to join the Balangay Float Parade Competition in celebration of the 29th Balangay Festival come May 2017. The following are the boat/float government offices situated in Butuan parade mechanics: City. The float shall be mounted in a vehicle not smaller than a multicab 1. Concept or theme for the float and not larger than an elf. must depict the appearance of a Balangay boat. 3. Contestant will have option of constructing or pre-fabricating their 2. Contest will be open to floats in their own discretion of location. barangays, schools, private and The vehicle that will be used should be
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Regional News in good condition. 4. Contestant will have the option of providing performers as props during the duration of the parade. Entry must portray authentic appearance of the Balangay boat including the color, presentation and feature. 5. The height must not go beyond 12 feet; width must not go beyond 9 feet and length must not go beyond 20 feet. For every foot in excess the maximum specifications, a penalty of five points shall be deducted from the total score of all judges.
10. The float contestant will be given their float number as they confirm their participation and submission of registration form. The number must be printed in a 2 feet x 3 feet placard and be placed on a conspicuous part of the float together with the name of participant.
11. Entry will be disqualified if it fails 6. Floats will be judged during the to abide with the mechanics. duration of the parade. Floats should be stable and secure and must be 12. The decision of the judges shall well-ventilated to avoid suffocation of be final and non-appealable. driver/rider. 7. Assembly time will be at North Montilla Boulevard at 1:00 p.m. and will traverse at North Montilla Boulevard, J.C. Aquino Avenue and ends at the City Sports Complex. Floats must remain parked at the designated area in the complex for the judges’ final scoring.
Meanwhile, the criteria for judging the boat/float contest will be 50 percent for craftsmanship, 25 percent for the theme and 25 percent for impact and ingenuity.
“The prize for the grand winner is P150,000. Second prize winner will receive P100,000 and P75,000.00 for the 8. Entries in the float competition third prize winner. Consolation prizes of will be confirmed upon receipt by the P20,000 will also be accorded to each secretariat of the duly accomplished five floats,� said Lagnada. registration form. 9. Floats should be environmental friendly. Participant will have the prerogative on its concept and design of the Balangay float.
For queries, contact the Balangay Festival Float Parade and Street Dance Competition sub-committee chair Alfredo Mori at telephone number (085) 342-6880. (RCO/PIA Caraga) 08 -14 April 2017
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Regional News
POPCOM, CHR heighten advocacy on RPRH for men By: May Ann O. Escobal
BUTUAN CITY About 100 men from various Regional Line Agencies (RLAs) actively participated in the Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya or KATROPA session held recently here by the Commission on Population (POPCOM) - Caraga in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) - Caraga. POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano highlighted the significance of this activity for it equipped these men with necessary knowledge and skills on maternal and child health in order for them to become more personally effective in making decisions about their and their family’s health, personal development, and other related issues and concerns.
men collectively for maternal health and responsible parenthood can make pregnancy and child birth a joyous moment for women as well as their male partners, instead of being situations where women have to risk their lives from the risk of pregnancy and child birth.
On her part, CHR Caraga Regional Director Atty. Jerefe D. Tubigon-Bacang said that KATROPA The good director also pointed- session is another tool in their continuing out that if males are involved in effort in reducing domestic violence, discussions and activities on maternal particularly those affecting women. health and responsible parenting, they could become advocates The KATROPA session ended who could push for needed policies with a community group singing. All and programs in their respective participants sang the song entitled communities. “The Wonder of You,” dedicated to the women of their lives. (POPCOM POPCOM believes that mobilizing Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
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Regional News
Caraga RDRRMC holds 1st quarter full council meeting in 2017 By: April Rose Sanchez
BUTUAN CITY - The Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) held its 1st Quarter RDRRMC Full Council Meeting on Tuesday in one of the convention centers here. As the RDRRMC institutionalizes the four DRRM Committees, the agenda for the full council meeting were presented per committee/ thematic area. The agenda of the meeting included the Seasonal Weather Outlook for the 2nd Quarter by PAGASA; Update on the Harmonization of Vulnerability Assessment Tools (VATs) and Presentation of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee Road Map for 2017 by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); updates of the Regional Disaster Preparedness
Plan (RDPP) and presentation of Disaster Preparedness Committee Road Map for 2017 by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); After Action Review on recent weather disturbances and 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Caraga Region and Presentation of Disaster Response Committee Road Map for 2017 by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD); Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) Report on various weather disturbances and 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Caraga Region and presentation of Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery Committee Road Map 08 -14 April 2017
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Regional News
for 2017 by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA); and the significant accomplishments and milestones of the province of Surigao del Norte and Butuan City for the 1st Quarter.
with the Implementation of the Disaster Capability Assessment Checklist for All RDRRMC Members, Associations and Organizations pursuant to RDRRMC Resolution No. 1 series of 2015 entitled “A Resolution Enjoining All Member Agencies, Associations and Organizations of the RDRRMC to Undertake the Disaster Capability Assessment� were awarded with Plaque of Recognition during the meeting. The checklist is a self-assessment tool to evaluate the disaster preparedness capability of all RDRRMC member agencies, associations and organizations. This is also to determine whether government agencies are compliant to the provisions of RA 10121 particularly on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM). These agencies were DILG, DOST, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Philippine National Police and National Telecommunications Commission.
The meeting was presided by the RDRRMC Chairperson and OCD Caraga Regional Director Rosauro Arnel Gonzales,Jr. It was attended by the members of the RDRRMC Executive Committee (Dir. Dominga D. Mallonga, DOST Caraga Regional Diector and Vice Chairperson for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation; Ray Gregory Jaranilla of DILG Caraga as Vice Chairperson for Disaster Preparedness; Angel Bert Casimillo of DSWD Caraga as Vice Chairperson for Disaster Response; and Assistant Regional Director Roy Kantuna of NEDA as Vice Chairperson for Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery), RDRRMC member-agencies including representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Provincial and City DRRM officers. The next full council meeting is scheduled in June 2017. (OCD The six agencies that complied Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
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Regional News
PRO Caraga tightens security measures for Lent, summer By: Honey Dy
BUTUAN CITY - The Police Regional Office (PRO) in Caraga has intensified its security operations for the Lenten and entire summer season dubbed as “Ligtas Sumvac 2017.”
PRO Caraga Regional Director PCSupt. Rolando B. Felix directed all city and provincial directors to implement the “Ligtas SUMVAC 2017” campaign to ensure the safety and security of the public.
The region’s top cop also assured the public that security measures are in place to keep the streets and roads leading to churches and other summer destinations safe. More police personnel have been deployed with influx of travellers and tourists. Police presence will be intensified through increased foot/ mobile patrols, checkpoints, and the establishment of Police Assistance
Desks Centers in places of public convergence to stop the criminal elements from taking advantage of the occasion. “The Caraga Police will collaborate with other government agencies, stakeholders and the community in keeping the summer vacation safe and secure for everyone,” PCSupt Felix said. Police Regional Office 13 is urging the citizenry to report crimerelated incidents through phone (815-3325 or 09399354084) or hotline numbers of police stations posted in public areas. (PRO-13/PIA-Caraga)
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Association of Southeast Information Kiosk Launching
Butuan Airport, Bancasi Butuan City 11 April 2017
t Asian Nations (ASEAN) Multi-Sectoral Forum
Watergate Hotel, Butuan City 11 April 2017
SURIGAO DEL NORTE
DOH, AECID turn over birthing facility to Dinagat Islands LGU By: Amiable Ahmz Fuentes
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands – The Agencia Espaniola de Cooperacion International para el Desarollo (AECID) through the Department of Health (DOH) officially turned over a birthing facility to the provincial government of Dinagat Islands on March 7, 2017 in Cagdianao town. The birthing facility was funded by AECID through the DOH and the fund was downloaded to the Provincial heartfelt gratitude to the provincial Health Office (PHO) who facilitated the government in realizing the said project. construction of the said facility. “The facility is a dream come The said facility will cater the non- true for us especially for the women PhilHealth member/patient but will not because they don’t need to travel accept first-time mother to delivered to Dinagat district hospital just to give in the facility since they belong to the birth,” Licaycay said. high-risk group. During the ceremony, Vice Gov. In his message, Vice Governor Ecleo led the ceremonial ribbon cutting Benglen B. Ecleo thanked the Spanish together with Provincial Administrator government for giving the funds and Gwendolyn Ecleo-Pols, Cagdianao support to the health needs of the Mayor Adolfo E. Longos and witnessed by some members of the Sangguniang province. Panlalawigan, Provincial Health On her part, barangay captain Officer Dr. Vicente Soco, Jr. and his Flordelina Licaylicay expressed her staff, Provincial Engineer Fe Botanas
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Provincial News and her staff, teachers of R.E. Ecleo check worth P3,000 each as an aide Elementary School, municipal officials, to barangays R. E. Ecleo Sr, Del Pilar, and barangay officials. Poblacion, Cabungaan, Maatas, Sta. Rita, and Mabini. (Provincial Information Meanwhile, Community Affairs Office-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Officer Jay G. Benitez handed over a Islands)
70 Women PWDs undergo store management training in Surigao Norte town By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – A total of 70 members of the women and persons with disabilities (PWD) associations under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Socorro town, underwent a training on merchandising and store management on March 7-8, 2017 held in Socorro town, this province. According to DTI-Trade and Industry Development Specialists Mardell Allen G. Delanto, the two-day activity aims to uplift small enterprises and improve the businesses of common citizens at the grassroots in general.
operations,” said Delanto.
Delanto emphasized that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its services, provides various interventions to micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to promote the ease of doing business and spur economic growth in the “This effort will help retail vendors countryside. under the SLP of the Department of Social Welfare and Development The two-day training was (DSWD) to improve their micro- conducted by the provincial office of economic activities and at the same the DTI in partnership with the DSWD. time, it will benefit the way they handle (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del clients and customers in their store Norte) 08 -14 April 2017
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Provincial News
Dinagat Islands LGU joins International Day of Forest
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The provincial government of Dinagat Islands joined the world in the celebration of the International Day of Forest on March 21, 2017 thru a tree planting activity. The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) took the lead in planting 1,500 seedlings of Agoho tree most commonly known as “Pine Tree” along the national highway of Barangay Diegas, Basilisa town. The activity is part of the flagship program of Governor Glenda B. Ecleo dubbed “Verde Dinagat Highway,” which aims to promote a green community from the municipalities of Cagdianao to Loreto.
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Around 500 employees from the national line agencies, civil society organizations, cooperatives, people’s organizations, and provincial capitol employees spearheaded by Vice Governor Benglen B. Ecleo participated in the said activity. Similar activity was also done in the municipalities of Basilisa, Cagdianao, Dinagat, Libjo and San Jose. (LGU-Dinagat Islands/PIADinagat Islands)
SURIGAO DEL SUR
PNP foils NPA’s sinister plot in SurSur By: Greg Tataro Jr.
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Surigao del Sur had the belief that it foiled the evil plan of the New People’s Army (NPA) to “sow terror” after overrunning its position in Purok 1, Barangay Tambis, Barobo town, 105 kilometers, south, this city.
At around 1:30 p.m. on March 21, a 30-minute firefight ensued between state forces and rebel groups when Police Chief Inspector (PCI) Manolo Andrew Agcaoili, chief of police (COP) of Barobo Municipal Police
Station (MPS), mustered his men together with other PNP forces to conduct a clearing operation. Coordination was likewise made with the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) 08 -14 April 2017
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Provincial News of the Philippine Army (PA) under Lt. Col. Wilfredo Amoma, which he said had done its part to keep the rebels at bay and not to do more harm in the community.
have been aimed at anybody, citing “To whom it may concern.”
No one was hurt on the government side, but the police chief indicated that the pack of Agcaoili said the successful rebels, estimated to be at some 20 to operation was jointly carried out 30 members, could have sustained together with the 1st Maneuver injuries. Company, Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) 13 led by PSInsp. Recovered from the clash site Mawi Arcilla. Also, a little later, were four gallons of gasoline, four reinforcement troops from Agusan black tents, one black hammock, del Sur Provincial Public Safety one crumpled electrical wire, one Company, 3rd Maneuver Company, unit black Nokia cellphone, one PNP-Special Action Force (SAF), and metal shrapnel, two flashlights, and 11th Special Action Company (SAC) a lot more of personal belongings, arrived to join the fray. including a pack of sanitary napkin, Agcaoili bared. Earlier, the police officer admitted it had been tipped off The Barobo police chief had about the activity of some highly linked the presence of rebels to the suspicious armed men believed to upcoming March 29 NPA anniversary, be members of the rebel groups who, he believed seeking to mark their roaming around the area. occasion with a bang. However, sightings had been The armed group who had reported to be there for a couple of been operating in the area belongs weeks already. to Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 19A headed by a certain “Ian” under Upon arrival, an improvised the Northeastern Mindanao Regional explosive device (IED) went-off, Command (NEMRC), Agcaoili breaking the windshield of one of the confirmed. police cars. The enemy also started firing upon the troops which signaled However, he clarified that an the onset of the fierce gun battle, PCI in-depth investigation had been Agcaoili stressed. The area where ongoing in order to identify in the IED was blown up was only three particular the persons behind the meters away from the national plot for the filing of appropriate highway, he added. The Barobo town charges. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/ COP also said that the explosive could PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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Provincial News
Bislig Mayor Librado, Japanese mayor sign MOU on organic farming By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Local chief executives of Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines and Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the promotion and development of organic agriculture.
Bislig City Mayor Librado Navarro and Kisarazu City Mayor Yushikuni Watanabe signed the MOU on Monday during the ceremonial activity at the city hall of Kisarazu. The cooperation and friendship relations will be done through the exchange of information, knowledge, and experience between the two cities to enhance more development. In the MOU, it includes the cooperation and friendship of both parties on the following fields: Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry; Tourism; Education; and other fields
as mutually agreed upon by both parties. The establishment of cooperation and friendship between the two cities, anchored from the slogan: “Think internationally, Act locally,” is part of the international initiative and innovation implemented by the city government of Bislig. It can be recalled that last September 2016, Bislig City and Goesan County, South Korea has also signed an MOU relative to the partnership on organic agriculture, it was learned. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) 08 -14 April 2017
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Provincial News
More troops arrive in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The troops from the 16th Special Forces Company of Special Forces Regiment Airborne, Special Operations Command, Philippine Army arrived on Saturday via C-130 plane here to reinforce the army’s forces in Surigao del Sur. The said company headed by the province peaceful,” Rivas said. Captain Michael Jameson Constantino was formerly assigned in Jolo, Sulu, it “With your presence, we are was learned. looking forward to a better relationship with the military for the development The arrival ceremony was in the province. Hand in hand, peace graced by Surigao del Sur Provincial and development will come together,” Administrator Efren Rivas representing Rivas added. Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. and 402nd Brigade Commander Col. Meanwhile, Col. Gacal expressed Franco Nemesio Gacal. his confidence that the troops can easily adjust with their new assignment. Rivas said the provincial He also asked the troops to assist the government under Pimentel local government unit and 402nd administration was overwhelmed with Brigade to achieve their mission, which the arrival of the additional troops is to create an environment conducive to ensure peace and order in the to development and lasting peace. province. “The security situation here is “We are happy that the quite challenging, but I assure you that Philippine Army has been a partner of you will be having a good experience the province of Surigao del Sur ever here. Apply what you have learned since, and we are grateful that they and do it well,” Col. Gacal added. supported us all the way in keeping (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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AGUSAN DEL NORTE
AgNor approves scaling-up of climate-resilient farming communities By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is on the go for the scaling up of climate-resilient farming communities in the province through innovative risk transfer mechanism. The proposed concept of scaling up was endorsed by Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the provincial lawmakers adopted and approved the proposal through Provincial Resolution No. 035-217, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong. The Climate Change Adaptation Project (CCAP), entitled Climate Resilient Farming Communities in Agusan del Norte through Innovative Risk Transfer Mechanism is one of the demonstration projects of the Jong Program of the Spanish Government through the United Nations Millennium Development Goal (UN-MDG) Achievement Fund Thematic Window on environment and Climate Change that was developed and tested in four pilot municipalities in the province of Agusan del Norte to support its farmers’ concerns in providing rice and corn production and
alternative livelihood loans. Provincial officials have the same view on the benefits it can give to the farmers and the scaling-up of climate resilient farming communities in the province provides vulnerable and marginal farming populations within the province access to both financial and productive resources from production to marketing aspects and adoption of mechanism strategy in order to protect and prepare them in times of calamities. This move is fully supported by the executive and legislative branches of government since the project is in line with the disaster risk management programs of the province and promoting self-sufficiency to marginal farming communities. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Agusan del Norte) 08 -14 April 2017
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Provincial News
PSA to conduct consumer expectation survey in Agusan Norte, Surigao Norte BUTUAN CITY - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Caraga will conduct a consumer expectations survey (CES) on April 1 to 12, 2017 to the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte. CES is a household-based survey on the consumers’ assessment of their family income, financial situation, and the economic condition of the country. It is conducted on a quarterly basis and administered on a sample basis at the household level. The said survey is a joint undertaking between the PSA and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
generate forecasts in the direction of the country’s economic activity based on consumers’ outlook in the current quarter, next quarter and the next 12 months; and to provide quick and regular assessment of consumers’ confidence in terms of their income and expenditures as well as their outlook on key economic indicators closely monitored by the BSP such as inflation, exchange rate and interest The PSA’s responsibility is to rates. undertake the data collection and encoding of the questionnaires while PSA assures the respondents generation of tables and analysis of that all information collected by the results for the BSP. the hired Statistical Researchers from the sample households shall It aims to provide a quick and be kept strictly confidential and regular assessment of the financial shall not be used for purposes of condition of consumers and taxation, investigation or regulation economic condition of the country at as provided under Article 55 of present and in the near future, from Republic Act 10625. (PSA-Caraga/ the consumers’ own viewpoints; to PIA-Caraga)
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Provincial News
DAR AgNor celebrates international women’s day By: Gil E. Miranda
BUTUAN CITY - In line with the worldwide observance of the International Women’s Day (IWD), the Provincial Agrarian Reform in Agusan del Norte joined the nation in celebrating the women’s month with the theme “We Make Change Work for Women.” Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Andre B. Atega recognized the effort of the women personnel in DAR particularly on the activities that recognized the women Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ (ARBs’) efforts to uplift their rights and welfare and contribute to rural development. The activities highlighted with a motorcade, ARB products trade fair, ARBs’ Forum, Gender and Development seminar like Gender Sensitivity and DAR women’s Entrepreneurship Seminar involving some women ARBs.
Personnel Officer and GAD Point Person Ellen J. Torralba said that the activities are good avenue for women to attain equality and empowerment and actively participate in decisionmaking. “We appreciate the time and effort of DAR personnel, where majority are women who actively organized a Gender and Development Team responsible for any GAD activities involving rural women agrarian reform beneficiaries in the province,” Torralba said. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte) 08 -14 April 2017
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AGUSAN DEL SUR
NPA leader surrenders in Agusan Sur By: Janen Lumandas
BUTUAN CITY - A New People’s Army (NPA) leader has surrendered to the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army on Sunday, Apr. 2. Col. Cristobal Zaragoza, 401st Brigade Commander, identified the NPA leader as Estelito Camino Jr., also known as Ka Puma, commanding officer of the Sub-Region Sentro de Grabidad of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA operating on the boundaries of Surigao del Sur and Agusan provinces.
He also bared that most of his comrades are already thinking of laying down their arms at an opportune time as they accordingly believe that the Duterte administration is their best chance for a peaceful life.
As top ranking NPA, he accordingly saw how corruption works in the NPA and named top ranking leaders pocketing Accordingly, Ka Puma was with extorted money from businesses and the NPA for 14 years where he earned farmers. several warrants of arrest including those for murder cases for the atrocities they Meanwhile, Col. Zaragoza also committed. credited the surrender of Ka Puma to the relentless pressure exerted by the Ka Puma cited hardship and 402nd Brigade and Philippine National disillusionment with the NPA as reasons Police (PNP) in Surigao and Agusan for his surrender. He said he wants to be which led to the arrest of Ka Puma. He an example to his sub-commanders in revealed that Ka Puma is willing to face pursuing with their surrender plan after his criminal cases and hopes that his he has proven that no maltreatment is surrender will mitigate his legal cases. committed by government forces to those who surrender, contrary to the Major General Benjamin Madrigal stories told them by their older cadres. of the 4th Infantry Division congratulated the two Brigades, the PNP Caraga and He revealed that being with the the intelligence units of the Army for the NPAs left him no chance of being with feat. He instructed them to prepare for his wife and three kids who are also the influx of surrenders as Ka Puma has a hard-up after they failed to give their following in the NPAs in the region. (401st promised monthly support to his family. Brigade/PIA-Caraga)
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HEALTH NEWS
Pinoys’ fruits and vegetables consumption decreasing in the past 37 years Fruits and vegetables consumption in the Philippines showed a gradual decreasing trend in the past 37 years according to the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI). Results of the 2015 Updating Survey by the DOST-FNRI showed that the mean one-day per capita intake of vegetables in the Philippines was 123 grams, slightly higher than the 2013 per capita intake of 114 grams. However, this is much lower than the mean per capita intake in 1978 at 145 grams which has been the highest reported per capita intake of vegetables.
was 37 grams in 2015, almost threefold lower than the per capita intake in 1978 at 104 grams according to DOSTFNRI. The highest reported per capita intake was 107 grams in 1987 but has The trend is even more apparent since steadily declined over the last in the per capita intake of fruits which three decades. 08 -14 April 2017
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Health News Moreover, the combined per capita intakes of fruits and vegetables are much lower than the recommended intake by the World Health Organization (WHO) of 400 grams. Low intake of fruits and vegetables has been linked to poor health and increased risk of noncommunicable diseases and is among the top 10 risk factors contributing to global mortality. According to WHO, an estimated 5.2 million deaths worldwide were attributable to inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption in 2013. In the Philippines, mortality trends for non-communicable diseases such as diseases of the heart and cancers have also been increasing from 1958 to 2008 based on the Philippine Health Statistics 2008. In contrast, while there has been a general decline in the local consumption of fruits and vegetables, there is an increasing trend in the demand for fruits and vegetables for exports with an average yearly growth of about seven percent (7%) for the processed products from 2006-2010 according to the Department of Trade and Industry. From 2010 to 2014, there has been a general increase in total crop production by volume according to the Philippine Statistics Authority which included fruits and vegetables namely banana, pineapple, mango, tomato, garlic, onion, cabbage, eggplant and calamansi.
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Thus, there is a need to promote fruits and vegetable consumption at the local level through various medium such as backyard and school gardening. There should also be support for local farmers to improve production and produce better quality foods but with lower prices. We can also push for innovative nutrition education on the benefits of fruits and vegetables such as mainstream advertising in addition to conventional methods. Message No.3 of the 2012 Nutritional Guideline for Filipinos developed by a Technical Working Group led by the DOST-FNRI reminds us to “eat more vegetables and fruits everyday to get the essential vitamins, minerals and fiber for regulation of body processes.� For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 8372071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@ yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. Like our Facebook page at facebook. com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (Charina A. Javier, DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)
MINDANAO NEWS
World Bank, foreign donors eye fresh funds for peace initiatives in Mindanao
By: Lilian C. Mellejor
DAVAO CITY - The World Bank (WB) and other foreign donors are open to pour fresh funds to further support the government’s peace and development efforts in Mindanao. “We are planning new World Banksupported programs for Mindanao to sustain efforts toward attaining peace and development (in the island),” said World Bank Country Director Mara Warwick during the closing of the 11-year-old Mindanao Trust FundReconstruction and Development
Project (MTF-RDP) held at the SM Convention Center on Tuesday. The MTF is a multi-donor grant facility established to consolidate international development assistance for the socioeconomic recovery of conflict-affected communities 08 -14 April 2017
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Mindanao News in Mindanao. It partners with the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), the development arm of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, with technical support from Community and Family Services International and Mindanao Land Foundation, Incorporated. Warwick said a similar program is being finalized by the government that would also cover the communist revolutionaries.
Jessen said the EU is willing to provide fresh funds to support peace initiatives in the country. “The European Union will continue to support programs such as these (provided by MTF) to help bring lasting peace and development in Mindanao,” he said. Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines John Holmes said they are satisfied with the work of the MTF and looks forward to work closely again with the Philippine government.
Since 2006, the MTF completed 573 community-driven projects Holmes said they are now in the benefitting 650,000 people in 315 process of reviewing international conflict-affected communities. assistance with special focus on The European Union is the biggest Mindanao.(PNA)LCM contributor to the MTF, providing PHP1.17 billion to the PHP1.4 billion total trust fund. During the press conference, Ambassador Franz Jessen, Head of Delegation of the European Union, said they are closely monitoring the peace process, which they regard as the “most promising area” of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. Jessen cited the President’s tremendous efforts to bring peace in Mindanao, particularly in Bangsamoro areas, as well as his stance to forge an agreement with the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s ArmyNational Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF).
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NATIONAL NEWS
SSS warns public of fake checks
The Social Security System (SSS) warned its members and the public of a possible spread of fake checks after the pension fund was informed that a grocery store received as payment a fake SSS check. SSS Senior Vice President for Luzon Operations Group Josie G. Magana said that the fake SSS check amounting to P20,000 was used to pay groceries at Catanduanes Supermart of Virac Catanduanes by a certain Gina S. Henzon.
accepted the check after verifying the voter’s ID of the buyer which looked valid. However, upon deposit of the check with their bank, they were informed that it was spurious,” said Magana.
Sorra immediately went to “According to Precious Sorra, SSS Virac to report the fake check. Secretary of the supermart, they Afterwhich, SSS Virac Branch Head 08 -14 April 2017
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National News Divina T. Avila instructed Edgar S. Rubio, Officer-In-Charge for Admin Section to check the name and SS number of Henzon. However, the SS number was invalid and such name is not registered in the SSS database. “Aside from non-existing name and invalid SS number, the signatories in the check who were employees of SSS Urdaneta were also forged. Authorized signatories of SSS checks are not rank-and-file employees,” said Magana. Avila later on instructed Jerald F. Competente, Verifier of SSS Virac to make a follow-up investigation at Barangay Palta Small in Virac which
was the address indicated in the check. Based on the investigation, people in the area do not know Henzon and is not a resident of the said barangay. “We advise the public, especially establishments, that before they accept checks as payment, kindly call SSS first to verify its authenticity. Also, valid SSS checks are attached to a voucher indicating the information about the payee as well as payment details from SSS,” said Magana. To report fake checks, members and the public may call the SSS hotline at numbers 920-6446 to 55 or email member_relations@sss.gov.ph. (SSS)
Pag-IBIG Fund grants P11.3B in cash loans in 1Q 2017 QUEZON CITY - State-run Pag-IBIG Fund has released more than P11.3 billion in cash loans for the first quarter of the year, the agency’s top executive said on Wednesday (April 05).
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National News “From January to March alone, we disbursed P11.3 Billion under our MultiPurpose Loan Program or MPL. These cash loans helped 520,000 Pag-IBIG members in their everyday expenses.
disaster. Members have 90 days after a declaration of State of Calamity in affected areas to file applications for the loan. Mr. Moti added that Pag-IBIG is studying various options to make the MPL and Calamity Loan Programs more responsive to the needs of the members, citing President Duterte’s directive to make government programs accessible to the people.
This is a remarkable 15 percent increase from our first quarter lending last year, with MPL borrowers mostly coming from the low-income brackets. This is one of Pag-IBIG’s programs that support President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s campaign to uplift the lives of our minimum- and low-wage earners,” “This 2017, we will unveil our new said Pag-IBIG Fund Officer-in-Charge MPL and Calamity Loan processing Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti. system that will make the processing of loan applications faster and more Under Pag-IBIG’s MPL program, efficient,” Mr. Moti said. (Pag-IBIG) members can borrow up to 80 percent of their total contributions with the Fund. Members can use the loan proceeds to pay for tuition and other school fees, medical expenses, purchase of furniture, minor home improvements, and other needs. Acting Deputy CEO for Member Services Operations Cluster Alexander Hilario G. Aguilar said, “Pag-IBIG Fund also released an additional P759 Million in Calamity Loans in early 2017. These Calamity Loans helped 53,401 members who were affected by the typhoons in December 2016, particularly those in the Bicol and Southern Tagalog regions.” Members can avail of a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan to help them finance repairs of their damaged homes or help their families recover from the 08 -14 April 2017
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For more info. contact: Tel. No.: (085) 225-9219 / 300-0722 Cell Nos. 0908-875-9185 / 0917-580-2609 / 0925-556-2417 Email: inkboxinnovation@gmail.com
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