x 8 Butuan City barangay fire victims receive assistance from PRC ADN-BC Chapter 9 STEM Alliance binuo sa Caraga Region 17 18 DICT-13 Conducts Digital Literacy Training to Former Rebels 20 AgNor Solon pushes for law enforcers mandatory training, use of body-worn cameras in all antidangerous drugs operations 21 23IB, LGU Las Nieves in Agusan del Norte advocate IP Youth Empowerment 23 29th IB kinilala ang kontribusyon ng mga kasundalohan at stakeholders Volume V1, No. 35 Aug. 27-Sept. 2, 2022CaragaINFOCUS8CONTENTS ARTICLES REGIONAL NEWS Indigenous Abaca Farmers, Complete Training 18 11 Butuan City Electronic Payment System Ordinance of 2022, aprobado na 15 Ibat-ibang proyektong pangkaunlaran, mas pinalawig pa sa munisipyo ng Esperanza sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur 10 1,303 PWDs in Butuan avail of DOLE’s TUPAD COVER 54 PBBM eyes private sector cooperation on infra, water, energy 55 Marcos vows to improve work conditions of Filipino nurses 57 Marcos admin respects press freedom: Palace 58 Filipinos urged to be ‘instruments of peace and solidarity’ 53 PBBM backs passage of nursing law; vows equal pay for gov’t, private nurses NATIONAL NEWS 61 Add’l 24.6K seniors now fully vaccinated via PinasLakas drive 62 DOH insists wearing of masks lowers chances of Covid infection 63 Most severe, critical Covid-19 patients unvaxxed: PHAPI COVID-19 NEWS 25 Malnutrition rate sa Agusan del Norte, miubos sa 2022 26 TWMC recognizes stakeholders’ contributions to Taguibo watershed 27 EU ambassador to PH visits Siargao school, monitors humanitarian aid 29 ‘Kapuso-type’ classrooms to rise in Siargao 24 3 High Ranking CTG Leaders yields in 29IB 31 DepEd-Siargao dominates tri-divisions Buwan ng Wika culminating contests 32 Drug operatives nab pusher selling shabu in Siargao 33 Reservist chief in Caraga pledges full support for climate change adaptation 34 Former barangay treasurer in Manila charged for presumption of malversation falls in Surigao Norte 30 Pusher peddling P250-k worth of shabu arrested in Surigao Norte town PROVINCIAL NEWS 13 PGAS recognizes Outstanding SPES graduates 14 DOLE AgSur Field Office exhibits core programs for MSMEs 41 Tibuok grupo sa NPA sa Surigao Norte, nibiya sa armadong pakigbisog 43 Surigao Norte police nets 7 most wanted persons during SACLEO 44 Fish vendor in Siargao arrested in joint PDEA-PNP buy-bust operation 45 DOH merits SurSur Province, 3 LGUs during Race to End TB Awards at National Level 39 Siyam ka miyembro sa NPA, mi-surrender sa Surigao Norte 36 Drug peddlers arrested, more than Php36k shabu seized in separate SDN buy-bust ops 37 EastMinCom troops unearth largest arm caches in Caraga Region 35 Police arrests drunk security guard in Surigao Norte who went amok 48 Tago MPS escaped from a foiled ambush by CTG in SurSur town 49 Tandag Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc is all set to host MinBizCon 2022 in Tandag City 50 NPA Terrorist dies in a Clash against Government Troops in SurSur 51 Newly identified drug personality falls to operatives, 34K worth of illegal drugs seize 47 16 members of CTG surrender to authorities; 6 firearms and 3 explosives seize in SurSur 53 9 15
The thissuchsinceManyconcerningfocusedcelebrationNAPOLCOM,“InCOVID-19thehavediscussingisforbytheonRinaOfficer-designatePublicto(NCPW)Preventionofwith(IEC)andinformation,Office(NAPOLCOM)PoliceNationalCommissionRegional13isgearingupitseducation,communicationcampaigninlinetheobservancetheNationalCrimeWeekonSeptember17,2022.InformationAndreaL.CaloThursdaysaidthatactivitieslinedupNAPOLCOM-13thisyear’sNCPWgearedtowardscrimesthatproliferatedsincebeginningofthepandemic.thepastyears,inofNCPW,onactivitiesCOVID-19.crimeshaverisenthepandemicasrape,whereincrimehascontinued
By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
NAPOLCOM-13 gears up IEC campaign for 2022 NCPW
NAPOLCOM-13 plans on establishing the Student Crime Prevention Committee, which they will be presenting to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Caraga on September 6. Three webinar episodes will be aired on September 7 by NAPOLCOM Central Office that will tackle sexual abuse and exploitation, correction services, and the best communitybased crime prevention initiatives. Calo also shared that its Central Office will be recognizing local police stations and other units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) that have implemented best practices on Community and Service-Oriented Policing (CSOP) System and crime prevention initiatives in time with the Commission’s anniversary on September 8. Throughout the NCPW observance, netizens can expect from NAPOLCOM-13 crime prevention tips on rape, cybercrime, sexual harassment, school-related crimes, theft, and the Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act through their official Facebook PIA-Caraga)napolcomcaraga13official.https://www.facebook.com/account,(DMNR/ to rise this NAPOLCOMyear.and PNP have seen the increase of crime rates so now, we will be holding activities to tackle these crimes to help prevent their occurrence,” she Calosaid. added that NAPOLCOM Central Office has also taken charge of hosting webinars online that will be participated by target NAPOLCOM-13sectors. partnered with the Butuan City Police Office (BPCO) and barangay local government units in Butuan City to conduct community services on September 2. On the same day, a webinar on Cybercrime will be hosted by the NAPOLCOM Central Office via Zoom. A webinar Septemberthewill“ProsecutionentitledandCourts”alsobehostedbyCentralOfficeon5.
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 20224 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 5
RA 9710: Magna Carta of Women Implementing Rules and Regulations. This book contains the implementing rules and regulations of the Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women. It is a comprehensive women’s human rights law that seeks to eliminate discrimination through the recognition, protection, fulfilment and promotion of the rights of Filipino women, especially those belonging in the marginalized sectors of the society.
REGIONAL NEWS
The Department of Education issues DepEd Order No. 37, s. 2022 or the Guidelines on the Cancellation or Suspension of Classes and Work in Schools in the Event of Disasters and other Natural Calamities. This policy promotes the safety and protection of learners and personnel from unnecessary physical dangers that they may be exposed to during natural disasters and calamities. This Order is being issued to further guide schools, its personnel and learners, both within the public and private institutions on the suspension of classes and work during emergencies. Visit the Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional Exposition (ASPIRE) Trade Fair at the Robinson’s Place Butuan atrium. Check and avail of the agri products from different areas of Caraga region, and the innovative products produced by Food Innovation Center.
xx
The Office of Civil Defense Caraga Region will conduct a 4-Day Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Blended Training Course for service utility providers and partner-stakeholders on September 6 to 9, 2022 via video teleconferencing. Briefs
News
Robert Jay Raz, one of the fire victims who also received food and hygiene packs from PRC is grateful for the assistance, he also thank the barangay officials for facilitating and providing them their immediate needs. Limaha Punong Barangay John Benjamin Rosales also extended its gratitude to the PRC chapter for the assistance, he also called groups and individuals who are willing to donate to the fire victims to coordinate with their barangay. He further said that the fire victims need materials to construct their houses so they can go back to their normal life activities. The fire incident that started at around 11:20 in the morning on August 27, 2022 in Butuan City reached to the third alarm and caused the damaged of 40 houses; and affected 68 families with 172 individuals to include three persons with disabilities, one pregnant, and 15 senior Victimscitizens.were evacuated to two identified evacuation centers at Barangay Limaha covered court and Purok 7 covered court, Barangay Limaha. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte) ng Science and Technology Committee sa pagtaas ng bilang ng estudyanteng kumuha ng STEM education, dahil sa nakitang pagtaas ng enrolment sa Pisay Caraga para sa darating na Angpasukan.Pisay Caraga ay mayroong 570 na estudyanteng nakaenroll para sa darating na pasukan kung saan 383 o 76 porsyento nito ay galing sa Butuan City. Ayon din kay DOST Caraga regional director Engr. Noel M. Ajoc, ang Caraga STEM alliance ay isang platform upang ma-promote ang stem learnings at maencourage ang mga studyante na magdevelop ng innovations. (NCLM, PIA Caraga)
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 20228 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 9
STEM Alliance binuo sa Caraga Region Mas pinalawak pa ang kampanya para sa STEM o Science, campusAyonSTEMmag-aaralencourageSTEMLayuninUnitangCaragaandDepartmentCaragaRegionalHighnaallianceangsaansaMathematicsEngineeringTechnology,andlearningCaragaregionkungapatnainstitusyonbumoongisangsapangungunaPhilippineScienceSchoolCaragaCampusoPisaykabilangangofScienceTechnologyCaraga,StateUniversityatLocalGovernmentngButuanCity.ngCaragaAlliancenama-angmganakumuhangcourses.kayPisaycaragadirectorEngr.
Ramil Sanchez ang alliance ay tutulong sa pag-promote ng STEM education na napatunayan ng backbone ng isang advanced technology.
Hanga si Butuan City councilor Cherry Mae Busa, ang chairperson
Butuan City barangay fire victims receive assistance from PRC ADN-BC Chapter
Sixty eight (68) families affected by the recent fire in barangay Limaha, Butuan City received assistance from the Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter (PRC ADN-BC). Each affected family received five kilos of rice and a box of mask. Some 5 pcs. of washable masks were also given to each affected child. Alger Boter, headministratorchaptersaidthatchapterestablished a welfare desk and first aid station at the identified evacuation center and demonstrated the proper handwashing technique to the affected individuals. Psychosocial games were also conducted to children to help divert their attention and ease them from the unpleasant experience. Also, the chapter lead by Boter with the support of the board of directors and stakeholders distributed 172 packed hot meals to the affected individuals and conducted a Psychosocial First Aid Activity to 13 “Thechildren.packed hot meals will serve as their dinner today, we hope that this will help them while they are still in the evacuation site,” said Boter.
1,303 PWDs in Butuan avail of DOLE’s TUPAD The Department of Labor and Employment Agusan del Norte Field Office (DOLE ADNFO) facilitated the total payout of P6,840,750.00 to some 1,303 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Barangay Doongan Covered Court, this city. The throughtemporaryeachreceivedandhearingspeech,psychosocialwithbeneficiariesphysicalanddisabilities,language,impairment,visualmentaldisabilitiesP5,250.00assalariesfortheiremploymenttheDepartment’s clean-up and disinfection of public places. The activity is in line with the post celebration of the 44th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week from July 17 to 23, 2022 with the theme “Pamahalaan kabalikat sa Pagtupad ng Pantay na Edukasyon, Trabaho at Kabuhayan, tugon sa Pagpapalakas ng Taong May opportunitiesequalmissionConsistentKapansanan”.withitstoprovideemploymentforall, DOLE Caraga lauded the participation of PWDs in the economic activity of the country through the TUPAD program despite their disabilities. (DOLECaraga) Butuan City Electronic Payment System Ordinance of 2022, aprobado na Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating activitiescommunity-basedwereThe(TUPAD)DisplacedDisadvantaged/WorkersProgram.PWD-beneficiariesinvolvedinsuchasthe Giaprobahan na ni Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada ang SP Ordinance No. 6662-2022 o ang ordinansa KomitibaBusa,Konsehala&CommitteeUnayKonsehalgipangamahanAngGovernmenttransactionstanangpaymentpaggamitpag-institutionalizengasasaelectronicsystemsafinancialsaCitysaButuan.ordinansaniJohnGilSr.,ChairmansaonWaysMeanskaabagsilaCherryMayChairmansasaScience& Technology nga maoy Sponsor sa nasangpit nga lokal nga balaudnon ug gisuportahan ni Vice Mayor Law Fortun. Sa pagpatuman niini dunay sundon nga mga palisiya ug guidelines subay sa ipagawas nga Executive Order ni Mayor Lagnada. Kabahin usab sa liquidation sa collection sa e-payment system dunay gitahasan nga mga personahe aron mamahimong epektibo ug episyente sistema.pagpatumanangsabag-ong Nakalatid usab sa section 7 sa ordinansa nga dili mandatory ang bagong sistema, optional kini ug pwede gihapon sa paaging over the counter ang payment sa mga transaksyon sa City Norte)Citysadihamalikayanmgaugpinaagiaffairspagdumalaaccountability,sapalisiyaDinhiRed9485pagServices,DeliveryDoingAnno.ordinansaAngECOmamahimongalayonsaAngGovernment.pagInstitutionalizeE-paymentsystemsatumongngaSMART-Cityangdakbayan.nasangpitngasubaysaRA11032omasnailangaActPromotingEaseofBusinessugEfficientsaGovernmentsakatuyuanngaamyendasaRANo.omasnailangaAntiTapeActsa2007.gideklaraangmgaaronpagpromoteintegridad,saktongsapublicugpublicpropertysapagpatumanpagestablesarsabestpracticesaronangkorapsyonsapanudlanangobyerno.(ButuanPIO/PIAAgusandel Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202210 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 11
PROVINCIAL NEWS PGAS recognizes Outstanding SPES graduates
Some one hundred twentythree beneficiaries under the Special Program of the Employment for Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) from the province of Agusan del Sur graduated this year from the different universities in the Sixteencountry.ofwhich were recognized and awarded with cash incentives by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) for graduating with Latin honors: nine Magna Cum Laude and seven Cum Laude recipients --- by far the batch of SPES graduates with the most Latin honors. “Sa atong SPES babies, proud na gani mi nga nakagraduate mo og college, but to graduate with honors, garbo gyud mo sa atong probinsya… Dako sab withproudourprogramapagsaofpasalamatakongsaDepartmentLaborandEmploymentpartnershipnatosaimplementniiningsaprobinsya(ToSPESbabies,wearethatyougraduatedhonors,whichgave pride to our province),” Gov. Santiago Cane, Jr., shared as he led the recognition and awarding of cash incentives to the said ProvincialMs.OfficeEmploymenttheandthroughSPESTheevent.presentPanlalawigan,ofTortorVice-Governorgraduates.SamuelandthememberstheSangguniangwerealsoduringthesaidimplementationofwasmadepossiblethesupportcommitmentofProvincialPublicService(PESO)headedbyDivinaP.Lagumbay,PESOManager.
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 13
The Special Program for Employment of Students or SPES more known as Summer Job is the department’s AgusanDOLE-Agusan(Christianpursuethatincometoorand/orworkersordependentsout-of-schoolbutemploymenttoprogramemployment-bridgingyouthwhichaimsprovidetemporarytopoordeservingstudents,youth,andofdisplacedwould-bedisplacedduringsummerChristmasvacationanytimeoftheyearaugmentthefamily’stohelpensurebeneficiariescantheireducation.PhillipN.Lozano,delSur/PIA-delSur)
informationhouseCompliancesSSafetyOccupationalandHealthandin-ormunicipalleveldrivefor Labor contributiontheCane,Hon.ProvincialEducation.GovernorSantiagoB.Jr.,emphasizedimportanceandofMSMEs to economic growth and poverty alleviation, and lauded the PIA-AgusanDOLE-AgusanDumalaba,MediaandEnterpreknowForum,stagedTheInternalandInsuranceHealthSystemCouncil,DevelopmentandtherepresentativeswithTheduringknowledgepresentgovernmentparticipatingagenciesforthesharedtheprogram.forumwaspartneredandattendedbyfromProvincialSmallMediumEnterprise(SMED)SocialSecurity(SSS),Philippine(Philhealth)Corporation,theBureauofRevenue(BIR).MSMEWeekalsotheStakeholder’sYouthForum,Quiz,SeminaronSocialMarketing.(ReyP.ADSFOLIO,delSur/delSur) Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202214 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 15
konstraksyon ng MultiPurpose Complex na malapit nang matapos, kung saan may nakalaang opisina ang mga ahensiya tulad ng Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Municipal Tourism Office, at Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Manpatilan,Ayon(MDRRMO).kayMayornais ng lokal na pamahalaan na mas maging proactive ang mga ahensiya sa kanilang lugar at agad ding makatugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga mamamayan lalo na sa panahon ng emergency at disaster. Magtatayo rin ng Terminal ang local government unit (LGU) para mas maging madali nalang ang transportasyon ng mga residente palabas at papasok ng Esperanza.
Maliban sa KabilangManpatilan.Mayorsalokalpangkaunlaraniba’t-ibangangresidente,ngayonpinapakinabanganAgusanngnaproyektongmganaitatagsamunisipyoEsperanzasadelSurnangmgapatuloydinpagpapatayongproyektongngnapamahalaanpangungunaniDeo“Bambi”ditoang
Ibat-ibang proyektong pangkaunlaran, mas pinalawig pa sa munisipyo ng Esperanza sa probinsya ng Agusan del Sur programs for MSMEs
The Department of Labor and Employment Agusan del Sur Field Office (DOLE ADSFO) shared the DOLE programs and services to the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) employers of Agusan del Sur during a forum held last July 18, 2022 at Ernielita’s Event and Dormitel, Patinay, Prosperidad, this Theprovince.forum is part of the celebration of the National MSME Week 2022 duly facilitated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur. Engr. Rey P. Dumalaba from DOLE ADSFO imparted information and updates on the department’s activities and programs to MSME employers. Included in his discussion were Information on Labor Education, recent wage hikes, policies and guidelines, and best practices being indulged by the Field Office to the employers, to name, facilitation of Safety Officer Training and First Aid Training for
DOLE AgSur Field Office exhibits core
Pagdating sa Turismo, may dini-develop aniya ang LGU na mga bago at oilpabricksproduksyonkaming“SasaibangdekorasyonpagbuonginisyatiboisaDagdagmaramingmakaka-engganyocavesnakakamanghangnainaasahangngturista.pangalkalde,rinsakanilangangpagamitplasticbrickssangmgasaiba’t-touristdestinationkanilanglugar.simulamasmaraminagagawangngplasticdahildatiina-allow‘yungpagbilingusedmulasamgafastfood chains na ginagamit sa pagawa ng plastic bricks ngunit ipinagbabawalnangna ito, nahirapan na din tayong makakuha ng mga used oil. Kaya umaasa ang LGU na mapagbigyan ang ating request na makakuha pa rin ng used oil dahil mahalaga ito sa pagawa ng mga plastic bricks,” ani Mayor Binigyang-diinManpatilan. din ni Mayor Manpatilan na malaki ang naidulot ng Executive Order 70 ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte dahil maraming barangay ang nakinabang sa AgusanManpatilan.bayan,”norte,bukidnon,esperanzamgamgaangnaroadsdahilangnatulunganmaraming“DahilEsperanzahanon.ahensiyangprogramaroadsfarm-to-marketatiba’t-ibangatserbisyomgakinauukulangparasamgasaEO70,sektoranglalonaatingmgafarmerssafarm-to-marketnanakatulongmasmapadalipag-deliverngprodukto.maykalsadanamulapapuntangagusandelatmgakaratig-pahayagni(JPG/PIA-delSur)
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202216 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 17
Indigenous Abaca Farmers, Complete Training A total of 50 farmers in Sitio Afga theinterventionpartfarmingappliedofresultfarming.properoffarmer’sactivityTheBuenavista.Government(PhilFIDA),DevelopmentPhilippineofwiththeinTheNorte.Buenavista,Barangay2022from(Masigasig)byTraining,Abacacompletedsuccessfullythetwo-dayManagementspearheadedArmy’s23rdInfantryBattalionAugust17to18,heldatSitioAfga,LowerOlave,Agusandeltwo-dayactivitywaslinewiththeeffortsofunitincollaborationtheDepartmentAgriculture(DA),FiberIndustryAuthorityandtheLocalUnitofobjectiveofthisistoeducatetheorganizationSitioAfgaonthewayofAbacaThistrainingwilltoothersourcesincomeasitwillbetotheirdailyactivities.Itisofthegovernment’sinalleviatinglivesofourfarmers and giving them the right track on farming methods and the right technology. Mr. Jhovany dela Rosa, Provincial Agriculturist, PhilFida, was the guest lecturer together with Ms. Marnelli Racsa as the instructor of the said Theactivity.barangay officials of Lower Olave were thankful to the collaboration of the 23IB, DA, and PhilFIDA and for the support given to the residents of Sitio Afga. In a statement by one of the officials: “Daku namong kalipay ug pasalamat nga nahatagan mi ug higayon ug unta dili malugda ang mga ahensya sa atong gobyerno kauban sa DA, PhilFIDA, 23IB ug ang uban pa sa pagtabang Thekanamo.”training honed Indigenous Peoples skills and knowledge on abaca production and AgusanPhilippineInfantrythewouldagainsttoItenterprisewithagroforestryonthroughmanagementhands-onlessonsconservationandmethods,technicalskills,anddevelopment.alsopreparedthembecomeadvocatespracticesthatnegativelyimpactenvironment.(23rdBattalion,Army/PIAdelNorte)
FRs under the theagenciestheexpresses(Masigasig)Thetheknowledgethroughandthempartdevelopmentofbuilding,trainingmainstreaminwhich(ECLIP)IntegrationComprehensiveEnhancedLocalProgramofthegovernmentwillpreparethemtheirintegrationintothesociety.TheensurescapacityenhancementabilitiesandpersonalityontheoftheFRs.Makingmoreproductivemoreequippedthenewskillsandacquiredincourseofthetraining.23rdInfantryBattalion,itsgratitudetovariousgovernmentthatprovidedneedsoftheFRsinthe
vocational training. With great
As part of its contribution to the theDICT-13Norte.Gymnasium,theFormerwhichDigitalrecentlyofsupport(23IB)(Masigasig)with(DICT-13),TechnologyCommunicationsofthecommunistApproachWhole-of-Nationincurbinginsurgency,DepartmentInformationand-Region13inpartnershipthe23rdInfantryBattalionandwiththeoftheProvinceAgusandelNorte,conductedaLiteracyProgram,benefited48Rebels(FRs)atProvincialCapitolAgusandelimplementsTechnology for Education, madetheThetherein.ofhasTech4EDalreadywhereunderservedtoTechnology)andprovidesconflict.communisthelpcommunities(Tech4ED)EconomicEntrepreneurship,Employment,andDevelopmenttoempowerandtoendthelocalarmedTheprojectICT(InformationCommunicationsservicesunservedandcommunities,theclusterhasestablished219centersandconductedseriesdigitalliteracytrainingactivityispartofnumerousbenefitsavailabletothe
Empowerment
conduct of and contentment, 23rd (Masigasig)InfantryBattalion also Province of line community you live. I have high hopes that this training, along with the other trainings that will be coming up in the near future, will assist you in becoming financially self-sufficient and productive thinkers, which will not only improve the conditions of your families, but also the conditions of your communities and our government as a whole. Our government is committed to its goal of putting an end to the insurgency. The emphasis is placed on presenting you with a variety of options; therefore, you should make the most of this circumstance. Your goal should be to become better and improved individuals through participation in this kind of trainings. Your demeanor will serve as a role model for the other members of the armed group, so that they will also respond to the call of the government for peace,” Gov. Ma. Angelica
the
recognizes the
Agusan del Norte and other
government agencies for their unending support to the FRs and for memberspotentialyoucommitted“OurCaragathereadythatLaboratoryofmobilizemadetraining.undergowillingnessherdelofAmante-Matba,AngelicaMeanwhile,wherevervaluablewillcompetencies,acquiresurelylife.workencouragingconstantlythemtoharderforabetterTheskillstraininghelpstheFRstothenecessarywhichserveastheirmostweapontheygo.Gov.Ma.RosedellGovernortheProvinceofAgusanNorteexpressedgladnessontheoftheFRstothesaidskillsTheprovinceitpossibletotheequipmenttheMobileComputer(MCL)van,areallfunctionalandtoaccommodateFRsandtheyouthinRegion.administrationistoassistinginrealizingyourfullasproductiveofthe
their technical
DICT-13 Conducts Digital Literacy Training to Former Rebels
PIABattalion,theprinters,desktopequipmentprovideteachdeploythetheproductivebeforereformationwilldigitalwillThroughAmante-MatbaRosedellsaid.this,theFRsbegivenaccesstoliteracyandthisintegrateICTintheirprogramtheygobackasmembersofsociety.NotonlywillpartneragenciesinstructorstoFRsbutalsothenecessarysuchascomputers,routers,andlike.(23rdInfantryPhilippineArmy/AgusandelNorte) Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202218 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 19
Agusan del Norte second Congressional needCorveraRepresentativeDistrictDaleB.emphasizedtheforalllawenforcers to undergo mandatory training on the chain of custody of drug evidence prior to involvement in any antidangerous drugs operations following the alarming reports on the high number of dismissed dangerous drug cases presented during the recently held Organizational Meeting of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, attended by law Theagencies.enforcementDangerousDrugs Board reported that based on its official record, about 85% of dangerous drug cases filed before the regular courts are dismissed. The National Bureau of Investigation likewise reported a dismal 0.89% success rate in the prosecution of dangerous drug cases initiated by the “AsNBI. a former local chief executive, I am made aware of the fact that not all law seizedthetechnicalcapablyagainstconductingenforcersoperationsillegaldrugsaretrainedonthetaskofobservingchainofcustodyofdrugevidence.This renders the seized drugs, paraphernalia and effects to become inadmissible in evidence and causes the acquittal of the accused if no other pieces of evidence would be presented to prove his guilt” he said. Corvera, a member of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, likewise emphasized the need for the use of body-worn cameras or alternative recording devices during the conduct of anti-dangerous drugs
“Theoperations.useof body-worn cameras or alternative recording devices during the conduct of antidangerous drugs operations is a two-edged sword. It not only aids the courts in resolving issues that may become relevant in criminal cases, but also serves as deterrent to law enforcers from violating the constitutional rights of suspects.” he added. (Hala Bira Sa Kongreso/PIA Agusan del Norte)
SummitPeoplesthree-dayNievesGovernmentand(Masigasig)InfantryBattaliontheLocalofLasconductedaIndigenousAwarenesslastAugust26
onan Hiusahon Arun Kaugmaon Ug Kahapsay Maangkon,” which aspires to nurture and develop them to become responsible citizens and good leaders in the near future. It includes series of lectures from different line agencies, small group oftheTheactivities.SpiritualTeam-building,Culturaldiscussions,Presentations,andEnlightenmentactivityaimstogivedifferentsub-sectorstheIPyouthawider perspective on the current issues that hinder peace, progress and development. It gears for a broader acceptance of individual responsibility through a series of lectures and interactive discussions focusing on leadership and the role of the youth in nationbuilding. The activity was also designed to help the IP youth participants to be transformed and become empowered as they fulfill their roles as responsible and honorable citizens of our Onecountry.ofthe attendees, Elmar G Labanes of Sitio valueacknowledgedBokbokon,theofthelearnings he gained from the threeday activity. “Through this IP Awareness, we gained a lot of knowledge and it strengthened our selfassurance, developed our leadership potential, and improved us individually and as people. Additionally, Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 2022 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 21
enforcers mandatory training, use of body-worn cameras in all antidangerous drugs operations
AgNor Solon pushes for law
The 23rd to 28, 2022, held at the New Municipal Gymnasium, Brgy. Poblacion, Las Nieves, Agusan del Fifty-fiveNorte. participants from the youth sector of the thetheCommunityIndigenousattendedsaidactivity,withtheme:“Kabatan-
20
del Norte advocate IP Youth Empowerment
23IB, LGU Las Nieves in Agusan
kontribusyon at pagbigay parangal sa Nagingkanila. highlight din sa recognition ng 29IB sa taong 2022 ang Battalion’s Best CAFGU Active Auxilliary, Best Battalion’s Best Enlisted Personnel at Battalion’s Best Company, at ang mga ahensyang tumulong upang makamit ang adhikain at kapayapaan sa probinysa ng Agusan del Norte at ng buong Nagpasalamatbansa. din si Col. Jason Norte)(NCLM,atkapayaanpangmatagalangNPAngangupangsaRosedellgovernordinSamantala,battalion.sektorsuportangcommandingSaldua,officer29IBsapatuloynangiba’t-ibangnakanilangpatuloyangpanawaganniMariaAngelicaM.AmantemgaAgusanonmahintonamgagawainmgateroristangatmakamitangsaprobinsyasabuongbansa.PIAAgusandel
Bilang pagkilala sa kagitingan at kontribusyon ng mga kasundaluhan at mga pagkilalaCorporalNagpasalamatMayCorporalT.PrivateAlbertsinaKasamakanilangatng17,NorteJabonga,Barangay(CNTs)People’snglimangpakikipaglabankagitingangdahilngang(29IB),29thbinigyangkapayapaanupangstakeholdersmakamitangsabansa,parangalngInfantryBattalionPhilippineArmydalawangsundalomeritoriouspromotionsakanilangipinakitasasalabin-(15)myembroCommunistNewArmyTerroristssasitioTinago,Baleguian,AgusandelnoongDecember2020naikinamataydalawangterorista,pagkarecoverngmgaarmas.sapinarangalanPrivateFirstClassT.CardienteatFirstClassOscarTolentino,nakapwasimulanoong30,2022.siCardientesasakanilang 29th IB kinilala ang kontribusyon ng mga kasundalohan at stakeholders it contributed to the development of our moral character and love for our nation.” He expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Las Nieves Municipality and the 23rd IB for the said activity which helped the youth in their barangay become more involved and conscious of their duties as Itadded.ElmarPeople’smemberstoisPhilippinesCommunistandus“Themembers.communitytrainingalsomadebecomeawarecautiousofthePartyofthe(CPP)whichrecruitingtheyouthbecomearmedoftheNewArmy(NPA),”GLabanesfurtherwashighlightedthat the Communist NPA recruits and misleads IP adolescents, being the most susceptible to such Lasinfluence.Nieves Vice-Mayor Virgilio Escasia Jr., emphasized the value of strong ProvincialfortheRegion-13theNationalNorteAuthorityandTechnicalundertakingsupportingOtherprogram’sandparticularlythepartnershipsworkingbetweenIPcommunities,theyouth,theLGUduringtheinception.agenciesthearetheEducationSkillsDevelopmentinAgusandel(TESDA-ADN),CommissiononIndigenousPeoples(NCIP-13),LasNievesYouthPeaceMovement,SocialWelfare and Norte)Army/PIABattalion,movement.theysurelypropaganda,TerroristbybeingIPactivists.ratherinactivethetheareofforpeopleandactivityTheStation.NievesOffice,DevelopmentandtheLasMunicipalPolicemainpurposeoftheistoeducateempoweryoungtobeadvocatespeacefulchange.Allthesummit’ssubjectshighlypertinentintransformationofyoungpeopleintoparticipantsdevelopmentthanjustpeaceItenablestheYouthtoresistfromeasilydupedtheCommunistGroup(CTG)whichwillruintheirfutureifjointheclandestine(23rdInfantryPhilippineAgusandel
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202222 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 23
3 29IByieldsLeadersCTGRankingHighin Malnutrition rate sa Agusan del Norte, miubos sa 2022 Mikunhod ang ihap sa malnutrition rate sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte mahitungod sa prevalence rate ubos sa kategorya nga Wasting ug pagpahibalopaprobinsya.(BNS)BarangaynganutritionmonitorKabahinstuntingsama-resolbamadusoKong.RosedelllideratopanggamhanansagipahingusganMatudkumparaedad)(ubos&SamtanggikanalangWastingratenaDevelopmentProvincialCoordinatorFabiaña,BasekinimalnutritionUnderweightsatuig2022kungitandisatuig2021.satahoniEmelynNutritionProgramsabuhatansaSocialWelfareand(PSWD),miubossa1.2%angprevalencesamoderate&severeo(ubosogtimbangsakatas-onsabata)sa2.0%satuig2021.angunderweightsevereUnderweightoogtimbangalangsaanaanakaronsa3.7%sa6.1%sa2021.paniFabiaña,karonprobinsyalngaubossaniGob.AngelicaM.AmanteugniDaleB.Corverangaangpag-pugongugangmalnutritionwasting,underweightugsatibuoklalawigan.niini,aktibonagangmembrosacouncilsaprobinsyalpanggamhananubansaNutritionScholarssamataglungsodsaMasgipalapdanangadbokasiyaugmahitungod
sa maayong pamaagi aron mapadayon ang pag-ubos sa malnutrisyon rate sa tibuok Salalawigan.pagkakaron, mas gitutukan na usab sa maong buhatan nga makunhoran ang ihap sa severe stunting malnutrition o kadtong mubo nga mga bata nag nag edad og 2 anyos paubos. Base sa datus nga nakuha, moabot sa 7.3% ang prevalence rate niini gikan sa 6.6% sa tuig 2021. Pasabot ni Fabiaña, daku ang kabahin ug epekto sa First 1000 days nga gisulong karon nga kampanya sa National Nutrition Council – Caraga nga labing gisuportahan sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan sa pagpangulo ni Gob. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante ug ni Kong. Dale B. Corvera. Ang kampanya sa First 1000 days, makatabang nga mapalig-on ang nutrisyon sa bata sulod sa 1000 ka adlaw sugod sa pagburos sa inahan hangtud sa pagpadaku niini. Subay niini, nagtapok ang tanang Barangay Nutrition Scholars sa probinsya alang sa Barangay Nutrition Scholars’ Summit subay sa pagsaulog sa National Breastfeeding Awareness Month niadtong Agosto 26 sa Provincial Covered Court. Atol sa maong kalihukan, gipahibalo ngadto sa mga BNS ang importansya sa breastfeeding ug ang kamahinungdanon sa prenatal check-up ug nutrition counselling alang sa tanang mabdos ug lactating nga inahan alang ma-siguro ang nutrition sulod sa 1000 days. Gawas niini, nanghatag usab ang probinsya og mga breastfeeding ug nourishment kits alang sa mga anemic ug ubos og BMI nga mga buntis nga inahan. (KKD, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Colonel Saldua identified the three CTG personalities as Rolly N Gabi alias @Longlong, a resident of Purok 2 Brgy Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, who brought along with him one high-powered firearm with one magazine; John Leno M Cabrera alias Rom/Makoy, a resident of Brgy La Purisima, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur; and Jovanie Asay alias Janix/Junry, a resident of Brgy Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. According to them, they wanted to return to mainstream society after having a miserable and desperate life with the Communist Terrorist Group, a life exactly opposite to what the CTGs had promised them. They suffered from hunger and extreme fatigue. They are tired of running and hiding from the government forces who are relentlessly conducting combat operations in Agusan del Likewise,Norte.they also revealed that many of its members have considered to leave and escape the CTG in order to go back to their families and live a normal life. The CTG cadres were also aware of the assistance that the government is providing them through the E-CLIP if they will Colsurrender.Jason M. Saldua said, “I know that the CTGs are now miserably looking for their way out, and this is now the time for the other members to stand against the deceptive lies of the CTG leadership. They have nowhere to go as a result of the intensified military operations conducted by this unit. Likewise,“ he reiterated his call to the remaining members of the CTG to surrender to the authorities while there is still time because the Philippine Army is committed to bringing peace and upholding its Tomandate.thosewho are afraid or hesitant to lay down their arms and go back to the folds of the law, I will assure you, together with the local government unit and local government agencies, we will help them start anew through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government. “It is never too late to have normal lives and be with their families,” said Col. Saldua. (2Lt. rose Ann Mae U. Cordova, CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Three high-ranking Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leaders who desired to have a peaceful life voluntarily surrendered to Colonel Jason M. Saldua, Commanding Officer of the 29th Infantry Battalion at Headquarters 29IB, Purok 4, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte on August 27, 2022.
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202224 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 25
contributions to Taguibo watershed
Four stakeholders were recognized for their outstanding contributions for the management and protection of the Taguibo River to contribution,BecausemeetingduringandDepartment(TWMC)ManagementTaguiboofTheysustainablemaintaincontinuallyacleanandwaterflow.receivedplaquerecognitionfromtheWatershedCouncilchairedbytheofEnvironmentNaturalResourcestheirthirdquarterheldinButuanCity.oftheirtheTaguibo
EU ambassador to PH visits Siargao school, monitors humanitarian aid Barangay Anticala, Butuan City Committee chair on Environment Kagawad Danilo Dandanon said, the recognition given to them by the Council will encourage them to work more and protect the water resource. “Protecting the Taguibo River, our source of water is one of our priorities and responsibilities, because it is where we get our water, the very need to survive,” he said. Also, on behalf of the Butuan City Water District (BCWD), Forester Ernie Ruiz expressed gratitude to the Council for recognizing their contribution. Forester Ruiz said, BCWD helps in the implementation of programs and projects to protect, and even in the reforestation in the Taguibo watershed area. According to Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Achilles Anthony Ebron, giving of recognition to the stakeholders is one way to strengthen partnership with the different stakeholders to motivate them to do more in the protection of the water resource. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
European localcourtesyambassadorprogram,PriormembersandwithofalongsideanddevelopmenttoNortePilarElementaryvisitedPhilippinesAmbassadorUniontotheLucVeronCaridadSchoolintowninSurigaodelonAugust16,2022monitortheschoolprojectshumanitarianaid,thediscussiontherecoveryplansthelocalofficialscommunityofPilar.totheshortthepaidacalltothechiefexecutive of the municipality of Pilar, Mayor Maria Liza G. Resurreccion, and committed to bring more humanitarian aid to meet the desired goal of the organization in reducing social and venuespacemulti-purposerelatedandrepair,itsElementaryreceivedAmongmarginalization.economictheassistancebyCaridadSchoolandcommunityareshelterwater,sanitation,hygieneprotection-interventions,learningasatemporaryforteachinglearning activities, solar lights, sleeping gear, and legal EducationofdivisionNeliatoDesinganio,AffairsThelmaOxfamMariaAidAquino,ambassador’sareambassador’sPresentprocessing.documentsduringthevisitNicoleWesmann,wife;ArlynHumanitarianProgramOfficer;RosarioFelizco,ountrydirector;Gecolea,Publicofficer;CathysecretarytheAmbassador;Dr.S.Lomocso,schoolssuperintendenttheDepartmentof(DepEd)Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202226 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 27
River, one of the sources of water supply of Butuan City and even part of the province of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur was ranked third in the national search for Recognizing Individuals/ Institutions Towards Vibrant and Enhanced Rivers or RIVERs for Life Award FY The2021.four stakeholders who received plaque of recognition include the Butuan City Water District, Barangay Anticala, Anticala Pianing Tribal Organization and Barangay Pianing.
TWMC recognizes stakeholders’
Norte)Siargao/PIA-SurigaoGorgonio,School.togaveThesheandyouhumanitarianforwardaour“ThankwithpartnershipoverjoyedResurreccionMayorwaswiththesheforgedtheEuropeanUnion.youbecausewithpartnership,there’sbrightfuturetolooktothroughyouraid.Thankforthetime,effort,lovesharedtous,”said.EuropeanUnionalsooutschoolsuppliesCaridadElementary(EdgarR.Jr.,DepEd-del rise in Siargao
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202228 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 29
Siargao Division; Mayor Maria Liza Resurreccion and Vice Mayor Jeasa Gonzales; Catherine Landao, DepEd Siargao Brigada sector.helpingpassionateemotionalsharedAmbassadorInthehandwashing‘petchay’andthespacemulti-purposerecitationmulti-gradelaudedAmbassadorDuringsupervisor.Pomoy,coordinator;Eskwela/DRRMandEmiliePilardistricthisvisit,VerontheinteractiveclassheldatthelearningdonatedbyEuropeanUnion,joinedtheclassinplantingandaspartoflessonintegration.astatement,VeronthathewasandveryabouttheeducationForhim,doing
The municipal mayor of Burgos, Hon. Arcena, thanked the foundation for the timely assistance and she looked forward to more projects to create in the near future. Meanwhile, the superintendent of DepEd Siargao also expressed her gratitude to the charitable foundation for choosing DepEd Siargao as its “Thankrecipient.you most sincerely, GMA Kapuso Foundation and donors, for being to the rescue in our classroom needs, especially that we are set to open the full-blown face-to-face classes in November, this year. Your valuable gift will truly make a difference in the lives of our learners, and we are extremely grateful for that,” Dr. Lomocso Distributionsaid.
‘Kapuso-type’ classrooms to
of the learners’ kits from Kapuso followed after the ceremonial groundbreaking and agreement signing. (Edgar R. Gorgonio, Jr., DepEdSiargao/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
The GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc., through Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (EVP/COO) Rikki Escudero Catibog, convened all the signatories on August 18, 2022 at Baybay Elementary School in the Municipality of Burgos for the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed construction of the disasterresilient school building otherwise known as “Kapusotype classroom” for the said Involvedschool. parties present during the said activities were Burgos Municipal Mayor Angie Arcena, Schools Division Superintendent Nelia S. Lomocso, CSR Area Supervisor for Mindanao Concrete Stone Corporation Ricky Bocaoco, LIXIL Philippines Inc. brand leader Giuliana Anastacio, APEX Mining Corporation Corporate Affairs and Communication AVP Ma. Teresa L. Pacis, CEMEX Philippines Foundation Executive Director Erlinda Lizardo, and deputy commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command Brigadier General (BGEN) Potenciano C. Camba. In a message, Catibog assured the learners of Baybay ES that the proposed classroom project will be ready for occupancy in three months’ time. “Three months from now, babalik kami dito na may dalang regalo bilang bahagi ng aming ‘Give a Gift’ project. Three months from now, may bago na kayong classrooms (Three months from now, we will return here with gifts as part of our ‘Give a Gift’ project. Three months from now, you will have new classrooms),” she said. Invited entities, especially the benefactors affirmed their commitment to Kapuso Foundation for the provision of manpower, resources, security, and transportation to afford the school children of Baybay ES a more durable and stable education facility.
otherwise is tantamount to the curtailment of the children’s basic right to especiallyeducation,education in “Iemergencies.camehere today not in a way as an ambassador. I came here not to witness the devastation, but the recovery of the place and the people after the disaster,” he said. “I am emotional while visiting your school because I see education as a basic right. This is something we should be concerned about since the future of Pilar is in the education of the children of Pilar,” he Inadded.aresponse message, Schools SuperintendentDivision Dr. Nelia S. Lomocso conveyed her gratitude to Ambassador Veron for the enormous support he extended to Caridad, most especially the “Ilearners.ambringing the love and gratefulness of DepEd Siargao for the European Union’s relentless and altruistic effort in providing the direct need of our department in preparation for the faceto-face classes,” she Meanwhile,said.
Pusher peddling P250-k worth of shabu arrested in Surigao Norte town DepEd-Siargao dominates tri-divisions Buwan ng Wika culminating contests Joint elements of Philippine eveningTaganito,atanti-drugStationClaverInfantry(SDNPPO-PDEU),EnforcementOffice-ProvincialNorteOffice(PDEA)EnforcementDrugAgencyRegionalXIII,SurigaodelPoliceProvincialDrugUnit30thBattalion,andMunicipalPoliceconductedanoperationPurok4,BarangayClaverintheofAugust18, 2022 which resulted in the apprehensionsuccessfulof Jesus Rios Fortuna after getting caught red-handed selling Php250,000 worth of shabu to an undercover agent. Upon body search several sachets of shabu were also seized from the suspect. The drug operatives recovered from his possession the buy-bust money along with drug paraphernalia. His cellular phone used in his illegal drug transactions was also confiscated together with his driver’s license and money amounting to ThePhp2,020.suspect is temporarily detained at the PDEA Regional Office custodial facility for Caraga/PIA-Surigaodisposition.proper(PDEA- del Norte) fromLadyAndroSurigawnonSinurigawnonVyingCenter,ProvincialAugustSurigawnonasBuwanDivisionsthecontestedafteremergedSiargaooffromStudent-contenderstheDepartmentEducation(DepEd)-DivisionvictoriousdominatingtheeventsduringcelebrationoftheTri-culminationofngWikadubbedBuyannanSinultihan2022heldon30,2022attheConventionSurigaoCity.fortheBalakandKantaevents,S.RaveloandArrianneOmas-asSiargaoNational Science High School nipped the first place, besting the participating contestants from Surigao City and Surigao del Norte Divisions. On the other hand, Hesed Jule N. Galarido, a senior high school student of Siargao National Science High School, landed third in Diskurso Surigawnon. Schools SuperintendentDivision Dr. Nelia S. Lomocso lauded coach Camille E. Mortel and Randy Rudila, Filipino Education Program supervisor, for devoting their time in harnessing the potential of the contestants before engaging in the actual Thebattle.Kanta Surigawnon first place winner received a cash prize amounting to PhP10,000 while another first place winner in Balak Sinurigawnon was given a PhP7,000 cash Theincentive.thirdplace winner also received PHP5,000. (Edgar R. Gorgonio, Jr., SurigaoDepEd-Siargao/PIA-delNorte) Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202230 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 31
Reservist chief in Caraga pledges full support for climate change adaptation Drug operatives nab pusher selling shabu in Siargao
Thedisasters.official discussed the Reserve Force’s mission, its program, and the services that the reservists may provide in the community and in participation to socio-economic development efforts in the region of Caraga.
RCDG chief also affirmed his support “for a stronger convergence towards climate action, resiliency, and sustainability” through the commitment signing held during the summit. (15th Regional Community Defense Group/PIA-Surigao del Norte) 27-September 2022
During his talk, Col. Peji elaborated on the functions of the Reserve Army for natural disaster assistance, climate change, and implementation of disaster risk reduction and management. He described the immediate, direct, and sustained involvement of the Reserve Force in bringing aid during emergencies and calamities such as typhoons, storm surges, and other natural
In line with the campaign to promote the active participation of the reservists in nation-building, group commander Colonel Diosdado E. Peji of 15th Regional Community Defense Group (15RCDG), reserve command (RESCOM) of the Philippine Army, who represented Major General Fernando V. Felipe, commander of the RESCOM, discussed the role of reservists in climate change adaptation and mitigation during the 1st Caraga Climate Change Summit on August 27, 2022 held at the Philippine Gateway Hotel, Surigao City.
The summit, which was anchored on the theme, “Adaptation and Resiliency: Public, Private, and Individual Change Maker,” is facilitated by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga.
Commissioner Albert P. Dela Cruz of the Climate Change Commission (CCC) served as the keynote speaker. Climate Change Commission is the sole policy-making body of the government which shall be tasked to coordinate, monitor and evaluate the programs and action plans of the government relating to climate change pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 9729, also known as the Climate Change Act of 2009.
Caraga Infocus • August
32 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 33
2,
A drug pusher was arrested by the joint anti-drug operatives of Philippine hydrochloridemethamphetamineinsuspectofStationDapa(SDNPPO-PDEU),EnforcementOffice-ProvincialNorteOffice(PDEA)EnforcementDrugAgencyRegionalXIII,SurigaodelPoliceProvincialDrugUnitandMunicipalPoliceintheeveningAugust11,2022.Thewascaughttheactsellingthelocally known as “shabu” to an undercover agent of the illegalofAntranspired.entrapmentwhereBarangayapprehendedGerarcasasidentifiedAnti-druggovernment.operativesthesuspectRickyCaminguewhowasat13,Dapa,thedrugoperationestimatedamountPhp520,000worthofdrugswereseized from the suspect that comprised the buybust item confiscated from him and the illegal drugs recovered from his possession. In addition, one unit of Mio motorcycle, the cellular phone of the suspect, and his identification card were confiscatedalsofrom him which form part of the inventory of seized nondrug evidence.
Norte)Caraga/PIA-Surigao(PDEA-del
“Be one of us! Join the Reserve Force,” Peji said to the attendees, as he ended his
Thespeech.15th
Police received a phone call from a concerned citizen informing the police station of a commotion in front of the house of the suspect’s parents. The investigation revealed that Vergara had a disagreement with his father that led to the Theincident.suspect will be charged with violation of Republic Act 10591 or the possessionDecreeViolationAlarmsRegulationFirearmsComprehensiveandAmmunitionAct,andtheandScandalandofPresidentialBlg.6forillegalofbladed weapon docketed under criminal case Norte)Office-13/PIA-Surigaosaid.thethetheirtoinwiththoseThisordertocommunityparticipationis“TheXM-06-INQ-22H-103.numberarrestofthesuspecttheresultoftheactiveoftheinourquestmaintainpeaceandinourcommunity.isawake-upcalltopersonschargedcarryingfirearmstheirlineofdutyberesponsibleforactionsorfaceconsequences,”region’stopcop(PoliceRegionaldel
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202234 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 35
National04St.,aold,Abengoza,Alejandre42yearswidow,jobless,andresidentof753LeoBarangay569,PSSampaloc,Manila,CapitalRegion
A former barangay treasurer in Sampaloc, Manila who escaped conviction malversationforof public funds was apprehended by the personnel of San Francisco Municipal Station (MPS) in Surigao del Norte on August 15, Leah2022. (NCR), was nabbed at Purok 7, Barangay Honrado, San Francisco through a warrant of Sanarrest.Francisco MPS revealed that Abengoza engaged in the unlawful conduct of taking or misappropriating, or using public funds by stealing five cheques from the barangay funds of Barangay 596 in Sampaloc, Manila in Regional2014.
Former barangay treasurer in Manila charged for presumption of malversation falls in Surigao Norte guard in Surigao Norte who went amok
Police arrests drunk security
Trial Court National Capital Judicial Region Branch 55 - Manila issued the warrant of arrest for the crime of Malversation of Public Funds or Property, Presumption of Malversation of Revised Penal Code Article 217 for five counts. Under criminal case number 15-317229233, Abengoza was apprehended, with Service of Sentence ordered by the presiding judge as she evaded service of sentence by escaping during the term of her sentence. “We condemn this unlawful act and rest assured that this deed shall not go unpunished. Remember, no one can ever escape the long arm of the law,” said Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13) Regional Director Romeo M. Caramat, Jr. (Police Regional Office-13/PIASurigao del Norte) With its commitment to preserve the peace and order in Caraga region, the Police Regional Office-13 arrested a drunk security guard after firing his weapon in Malimono, Surigao del Norte on August 23, 2022.
PRO-13 director, Police Brigadier General (PBGEN) Romeo M. Caramat, Jr. divulged that 55-year-old Roy Labial Vergara, a security guard of J&T Express, was arrested by personnel of Malimono Municipal Police Station (MPS) at 5:20 PM in Purok-4, weaponslugtwotwonumbercal.wereVergara’sConfiscatedSurigaoBunyasan,BarangayMalimono,delNorte.frompossessiononeunitof.38revolverwithserialRIA1871925,liveammunition,firedcartridges,oneandonebladedwithscabbard.
37
PBGen. Caramat, Jr. affirmed that PRO-13 will continue to team up with concerned government agencies to put an end to illegal drug use and abuse in the region. “Under my watch, I will not tolerate any illegal drug activities in our region. They will face the consequences of their actions. Let this serve as a warning,” said Director Caramat. (Police Regional Office-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte) Eastern (EastMinCom)CommandMindanaounder the leadership of Lieutenant General (LtGen.) Greg T. Almerol has uncovered the largest arm caches in Caraga Region following the mass surrender of the members of a materiel,firearmshidingthatLtGen.(IB)30thtroopsgroupscommunist-terrorist(CTG)totheof901stBrigade’sInfantryBattalioninAugust.Almerolbaredfourarmcaches,31high-poweredandotherwarwererevealed by the members of Guerilla Front 16, SubRegional poweredtheAugustSurigaoMahanub,troopsNEMRC16BYunit(SDG)SentronineItNorthland,CommitteeMindanaoNorthland,CommitteeNorthEasternRegional(GF16,SRCNEMRC).canberecalledthatmembersoftheDegrabidadandSandatahangPampropaganda(SYP16B),GF16,yieldedtotheof30IBatBrgy.Gigaquit,delNorteon12,whichledtorecoveryof16high-firearms. They were identified as Edelberto D. Maisog alias Marmar, Grace J. Bacalan alias Nizel, Jessie S. Roxas alias Jemrex, Alfredo A. Balocloc Jr alias Degard, Lynde T. Bacalan alias Diane, Christopher G. Libres alias Joreden, Nikki B. Pinao alias Cyrel, Alvin Palen alias Barry, and Janiza Galupo alias Fox. Their four comradesotheridentified as Panie H. Jubasan alias Alvin, Junas L. Morata alias Bong, Merimi C. Manego alias Odette, and Lenie B. Mantawiran Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 2022 27-September 2 , 2022
Two separate buy-bust operations in Surigao del Norte resulted in the confiscation of illegal drugs worth Php36,720 on August 24, 2022.
Drug peddlers arrested, more than Php36k shabu seized in separate SDN buy-bust ops
EastMinCom troops unearth largest arm caches in Caraga Region
Police Brigadier General Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., regional director of the Police Regional Office-13 (PRO13), disclosed that around 9:50 PM at Purok 2, Barangay Rizal, municipality of Socorro, operatives from Socorro Municipal Police Station (MPS), Surigao del Norte Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office 13 apprehended Nixon Laugo Mesias, 49 years old. Found in his possession were three pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing 3.7 grams of suspected shabu with a standard drug price (SDP) value of Php25,160, Php500 marked money, and a cellular phone.
Meanwhile in Purok Azucena, Barangay Taft, Surigao City, Ephraim Delgado Esmeralda alias Poloy, 40 years old, fish vendor, and a resident of P-9, Aneco, Cabadbaran City was caught in the act of selling drugs by Surigao City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit around 3:00 AM. A total of 1.7 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” with an SDP value of Php11,560 and Php1,000 marked money was confiscated from Esmeralda.
36 Caraga Infocus • August
According to Surigao City police, Esmeralda was already arrested in 2017 by the Dapa Municipal Police Station operatives and was released from the Provincial Jail in 2020 after availing the plea-bargaining agreement.
Rifle.armassurrenderestasyonanni-surrendermiyembrousastaff,usasila(SDG)sa(NEMRC).RegionalEastern16(SYP16B),PangpropagandaYunitGuerillaFront(GF16)saNorthMindanaoCommitteeDuhakasakopSentroDegrabidadsaNEMRCngasialyasLarry,kinikaordnanceugalyasFoxngakaelementongsagrupoangusabsadiinilanggi-angilangmgangaduhakaAK47 Siyam ka miyembro sa NPA, mi-surrender sa Surigao Norte Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202238 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 39
alias Glay-Glay who respectively surrendered on August 22 and 25, also revealed two arms caches with 15 highpowered firearms. The 31 retrieved highpowered firearms were composed of nine M4 Rifles, eight M16 Rifles, six AK47 Rifles, three M203 Grenade Launchers, an M14 Rifle, a Galil Rifle, a Caliber .22 Carbine, an R4 Rifle, a Pistol Grand Master, an Improvised Explosive Device, several assorted magazines, 2,010 rounds of various ammunition, four Bandoliers, and other war materiel. In another incident, troops of the 1001st and 701st Brigades under the 10th Infantry Division (ID) uncovered separately two arm caches within Davao Region on August 25 and 26 after the revelation of two CTG personalities. Alias Delmar, former Chief Ordnance of Southern Mindanao CommitteeRegional(SMRC) and alias Bukawe, Team Leader Abe of the Weakened GF18, aided the troops in recovering five M16A1 Rifles, an M60 Machine Gun, an M16 Rifle, and an AK47 Rifle. A former Militia ng Bayan (MB) member, identified as alias Labay, who surrendered to the troops of 402nd Brigade’s 16IB, also revealed the location of an arm cache at Sitio Mintapod, Brgy. Hagpa, AlmerolMeanwhile,ammunition.DeviceImprovised10.30ItBukidnonImpasugong,onAugust27.containedaCaliberM1SpringfieldRifle,handgrenades,anExplosive(IED),andLtGen.laudedthe troops of the 4ID and 10ID for their relentless efforts that further weakened the capability of the CTG in Eastern Mindanao. He is also optimistic that with the series of surrenders, Caraga Region will be declared “Insurgencyfree” before 2022 ends. “We are optimistic that GF16 is at the brink of collapse with the gradual surrender of their leadership. With our intensified military operations and aid from former rebels, it is only a matter of time before we declare them dismantled and the rest of Caraga Region free from insurgency this year,” he PIA-SurigaoMindanaoPhilippines-Eastern(Armedlife(E-CLIP)IntegrationComprehensivetheprogramavailtoremainingencouragedCommanderTheassured.EastMinComlikewisetheCTGmembers“surrenderandthegovernmentthroughEnhancedLocalProgramtostartanewwithyourfamilies”.ForcesoftheCommand/delNorte) Kakapoy, kagutom ug pagkamingaw sa pamilya hinungdan nga siyam ka miyembro sa New People’s Army o NPA ang midangop sa gobyerno ug mi-surrender sa kasundalohan sa 30th Infantry PhilippineBattalion,Armylakip ang 16 ka lain-laing klase sa armas niadtong Agosto 12, Uban2022.sa tinguha nga mahiusa pag-usab sa ilang mga pamilya ug magpuyo pag-usab nga malinawon nga kinabuhi, mikontak sa 30IB Headquarters ubos sa pagpangulo ni Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Jerold H. Jale ang siyam ka miyembro sa NPA nga giila nga sila si alyas Marmar, nga usa ka squad leader; alyas Nizel/Jimjim nga political guide ug medic sa grupo; alyas Jemrex ug alyas Degard nga puros vice team leaders sa maong squad; ug alyas Diane, alyas Joreden, ug alyas Cyrel isip mga sakop sa squad. Nasayran nga ang pito ka miyembro magkauban sa susamang platon sa Sandatahang
Tibuok grupo sa NPA sa Surigao Norte, nibiya sa armadong pakigbisog Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202240 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 41
Kaubangobyerno.sa ilang
Sa padayon pakighimamatngasa 30IB ngadto sa mga kanhing sakop sa NPA human sa ilang pagbalik loob, ilang gi-surrender usab ang ubang mga armas sama sa usa ka M14 Rifle, tulo ka AK47 Rifles lakip na ang 10 ka magazine, tulo ka M16 Rifles nga adunay 10 ma tagas nga mga magasin ug pito ka mugbong magazine, tulo ka M4 Rifle, duha ka M203 Grenade Launchers, usa ka Cal.22 Carbine, usa ka Pistol Grand Master, ug upat ka Bandolier. Sa pakighinabi ni Lt. Col. Jale ngadto sa mga kanhing sakop sa NPA, ilang gibutyag ang rason nganong ilang gipili nga mosurender ug modawat sa hinabang nga ihatag sa gobyerno tungod kay wala silay makaon ug sa grabeng kalisod ug kakapoy nga ilang nasinati bunga sa sunod-sunod mga operasyon sa militar. “Sa kadugayan sa among pakig bisog ug pakig gubat
usabngaConflictCommunistresultaNPAkanhingbalik-loob“Sanikaugalingon,”rangpadulngannamat-unganamongngawalayugamuagisilutanamongmatudpaAlyasMarmar.nahitabongpagsamgamiyembrosausalangkinisasaEndingLocalArmedomasnailhanELCACugtungodsapadayonnga pagtinabangay ug kooperasyon sa mga komunidad, nawadan sila og suporta ngadto sa mga masa ilabina sa mga lugar nga gilihokan sa mga NPA erya SYP16B. Sa pagkakaron, ang inyong kasundalohan sa 30IB nagpadayon sa pagtuman sa katungdanan niini aron makab-ot na nato ang kalinaw sa tibuok probinsya sa Surigao del Norte,” matod pa ni Lt. Col. Jale. “Sa laing bahin, among gidasig ang nahibiling mga sakop sa NPA nga mobalik ug maminaw sa panawagan sa ilang mga pamilya ug modawat sa tabang nga ihatag sa gobyerno, ang CompreheEnhancednsive Local Integration Program o ECLIP,” dugang niini. Sa custodialnagpadayonpagkakaronangdebriefing sa siyam ka nagbalik-loob aron maproseso ang mga benipisyo sa ECLIP ug magamit sa ilang pagsugod pag-usab. (30th Infantry Battalion/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Mitahan ang tibuok grupo sa Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda (SYP) 16B sa Guerilla Front16 (GF16) sa NorthEastern Mindanao Regional Committee sa NPA dala ang ilang nagkalain-laing tag-as nga kalibre sa armas sa 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) Headquarters sa lungsod sa Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte kaniadtong Agosto 22, Ang2022.grupo naglakip nila ni Panie Hukman
Jubasan alyas Alvin/ Jimboy; Junas Lubang Morata alyas Bong; Merimi Cortes Manego alyas Odette; ug Lenie B. Mantawiran alyas Glay-glay, nga pulos miyembro sa SYP16B, GF16. Ang kagutom ug pagkamingaw sa ilang mga pamilya ug ang pinakusgan ug walay hunong nga operasyon sa 30IB maoy nag-unang rason sa ilang pagbalikAngloob.ilang pagbalik sa gobyerno malinawon nga gidawat ni Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Jerold H Jale, ang lider sa 30IB kinsa mihatag dayon sa tukmang panahon nga makauban ang ilang tagsa-tagsa ka pamilya samtang nangandam sa mga dokumento aron makadawat ug hinanaling tabang pinansyal ubos sa Enhance Comprehensive Local ProgramIntegrationoE-CLIP sa
desiyon sa pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno,” dugang Gipahibaloniya.usab ni Lt.Col Jerold H. Jale nga ang ilang pagbalik-loob usa ka kadaogan dili lang sa militar kon dili lakip na sa mga lokal nga kagamhanan ug mga lomolopyo sa probinsiya sa Surigao del Norte. “Ang pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno sa tibuok pwersa sa SYP16B usa Norte)Battalion/PIA-SurigaoE-CLIP.ilangoryentasyonngaNPAmgaSanikalamboan.”hingpitngakitaMagmaloomonsakooperasyonngausabSurigaodinhiahensyakadauganmakasaysayanongkasamatagsagobyernosaprobinsyasadelNorte.Resultakinisapadayonkolaborasyonuggikanmgalungsuranon.usabsaatongtinguhamakab-otnatoangngakalinawogpagsaysayLt.Col.Jale.pagkakaron,angpersonahisapadayonpagipailawomsaalangsapagpa-enrolsa(30thInfantrydel were seized during the apprehension of the individual engaged in illegal fishing. “I applaud our troops for their commitment and whichdedication,occurred in the successful conduct of a one-day SACLEO that resulted in the arrest of these law offenders. We will continue to ramp up our efforts to apprehend these
Police authorities in Surigao del wantedpersonssevenoperatives(SDNPPO)PolicetheRenatoProvincial2022.(SACLEO)EnforcementAnti-CriminalityintensifiedindividualsapersonssevenapprehendedNortethemostwantedandcountedtotalof41otherduringtheSimultaneousLawOperationsonAugust30,DirectorC.MercadoofSurigaodelNorteProvincialOfficereportedthatarrestedmostwanted(MWPs),35otherpersons(OWP), five individuals caught in illegal drugs, and one engaged in illegal fishing. The arrested seven MWPs comprised of two MWPs in the regional level and five in the provincial Meanwhile,level. operatives 3.7317confiscatedgrams KingatAPhP25,376.28.drug“shabu”hydrochloridemethamphetamineoforwithastandardprice(SDP)ofmotorbancavaluedPhP10,000anda16HPEaglemotorengine
PIA-SurigaoPolicesaid.Colonelindividuals,wanted”Police(PCol)Mercado(SurigaoDelNorteProvincialOffice/delNorte) Surigao Norte police nets 7 most wanted persons during SACLEO Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202242 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 43
pagbalik-loob mao ang pagtahan sa ilang mga armas ug ang pagbutyag sa lokasyon diin ilang gitagoan ang nahabilin nilang armas sa dapit sa Huwat Baboy, Brgy Jubgan, San Francisco ug dapit sa Brgy Malimono.Cagtinae,Limaka M16 Rifle, unom ka M4 Rifle, usa ka M203 grenade launcher, usa ka R4 Rifle, usa ka AK47 Rifle, ug usa ka Galil Rifle. Gawas sa mga tag-as nga armas, gi-surrender usab nila ang uban pa nilang kahimanan sa gubat sama sa mga magazine nga adunay gidaghanon nga 57, nagkalainlaing klase sa bala, illegal explosive device (IED), usa ka binocular, bandila sa New People’s Army (NPA), personal equipment ug mga subersibong dokumento sa NPA. Ang pagbalik-loob ni alyas Jimboy, alyas Bong, alyas Odette, ug alyas Glai-Glai maoy hinungdan nga hingpit nga nabungkag ang grupo sa SYP 16B sa GF16 tungod kay kung atong tawhanonggirespetowalanilaBatcomsa“NagapasalamatkahinuongirespitopasakitansasiyaJimboy,Matodkalibreangsakauban12,kaniadtongmahinumdomanAgostosiyamsailangmgaangnahiunanapagbalik-loobbitbit16ngatag-assasaarmas.nialyasAlvin/mapasalamatonsakasundaluhan30IBngaabinilagsilaapanuggiatimansilasamasausaigsuon.ko30IBilabinasailangkaygidawatmiisipusakaigsuonugmipasakiti.Ilangangamongkatungodug
QuarterSuccessResistant-forPopulation-TheMonthofAugustvirtuallyAwards”Tuberculosisconductedyesterday,31,2022,intimetheNationalLungculmination.awardsgivenare:SilverAwardforTestingrate1stQuarterCY2022GoldAwardforDrugTBTreatmentRatefor2ndCY2022
Fish vendor in Siargao arrested in joint PDEA-PNP buy-bust operation DOH merits SurSur Province, 3
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202244 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 45
LGUs during Race to End TB Awards at National Level
The GovernmentProvincialof Surigao del Sur received three (3) awards at the National level for the “Race to End
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
The DuringDapa.Barangay46of(SDNPPO)PoliceofDrugPolice13,theCaramat,(PBGen)PoliceTheAugust13)Regional-13Enforcementofbuy-bust“shabu”hydrochloridemethamphetamineworthofintheillegalcrackdowncontinuousondrugsacrossregionresultedtheconfiscationPhp343,600ofsuspectedorinajointoperationthePhilippineDrugAgency(PDEA-13)andPoliceOffice-13(PRO-ataround6:20PMon11,2022.region’stopcop,BrigadierGeneralRomeoM.Jr.,laudedtroopsofPDEA-DapaMunicipalStation,andtheEnforcementUnitSurigaodelNorteProvincialOfficeforthearrestRickyC.Gerarcas,yearsold,residentof13,Poblacion,theoperation, government troops confiscated six sachets of suspected “shabu” weighing 52 grams with a standard drug price of Php343,600, 20 pieces of Php1,000 bills as marked money, a cell phone, and a Yamaha “Thismotorcycle.another accomplishmentmajoris clear proof of the relentless fight of Caraga cops against illegal drug personalities in the region. The public is encouraged to continue to support the efforts of the authorities to rid the region of the influence of illegal drugs,” said PRO-13’s regional director. (Police Norte)Office-13/PIA-SurigaoRegionaldel
- Gold Award for TB preventive Coverage for 1st and 2nd Quarter CY2022 Quarter. The other three local government units (LGUs) from the province of Surigao del Sur also received national awards, the twocomponent cities of Bislig and Tandag, and the municipality of Barobo. The City of Tandag got the Gold Award for DRTB Treatment Success rate for the 2nd Quarter CY For2022.the City of Bislig, they bagged the Gold and Bronze awards. -Gold Award for DRTB Treatment Success rate for 2nd Quarter CY2022, & -Bronze award TB Preventive Treatment Coverage 1st and 2nd CY The2022municipality of Barobo grabbed the -Silver Award for Bacteriology Confirmed TB treatment Enrolment.
The GovernmentProvincialof Surigao del Sur headed by Governor Alexander Pimentel, was ably represented by Vice Governor Manuel Alameda to deliver a message during the event. Vice Gov. Alameda said, “We are indeed happy to know that our beloved province of Surigao del Sur garnered the provincial Gold Award for the noted.Vicetoespeciallyprojects,TuberculosissupportIof“Ascountry.totowardsaccomplishingbiggertotheyAccordingcalendarCategory1stCategory,PreventiveTuberculosisTreatmentforbothand2ndQuarterfortheyear2022.”toAlameda,aredutyboundrecognizetheresponsibilityofmorealong-termgoalendTuberculosisintheViceGovernorSurigaodelSur,amreiteratingmytopushforwardprograms,andactivities,itsintegrationuniversalhealthcare,”GovernorAlameda
With the relentless effort of the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) operatives during the conduct of whothedisclosedDennisDirectorSDS-PPO30.governmentsurrenderGroupCommunistthe(SACLEO)EnforcementAnti-CriminalitySimultaneousLawOperationspromptedmembersoftheTerroristtovoluntarilytotheonAugustProvincialPoliceColonelA.Sirunothatamong16CTGmembersreturnedtothe
Meanwhile, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) revealed two awards were given to the SurigaoGovernmentProvincialofdelSurfor its performance in the implementation of the Tuberculosis Program at the Regional Level: - Gold Award for Population Testing rate for 1st Quarter CY 2022, -andGold Award for BCTB Treatment Enrolment 1st Quarter CY 2022. PHO announced the other awardees from Surigao del Sur on the Regional Level, to wit, Gold Award for BCTB Treatment Enrolment 1st Quarter CY 2022 - Barobo TB DOTS Center - Cagwait TB DOTS -CenterLanuza TB DOTS Center Gold Award for BCTB Treatment Enrolment 2nd Quarter CY 2022 - Carrascal TB DOTS SilverCenterAward for BCTB treatment Enrolment 1st quarter CY 2022 - San Miguel TB DOTS Center Silver Award for BCTB treatment Enrolment 2nd quarter CY 2022 - San Agustin TB DOTS BronzeCenter Award for BCTB treatment Enrolment 2nd quarter CY 2022 - Madrid TB DOTS Center - Barobo TB DOTS Center Gold Award for BCTB Treatment Enrolment 1st and 2nd quarter CY 2022 - Bislig District Hospital TB DOTS Center - Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center TB DOTS GoldCenterAward for TB Preventive Treatment Coverage 1st quarter CY -2022Carrascal TB DOTS BronzeCenter Award for TB Preventive Treatment Coverage 2nd quarter CY 2022 - Bislig City TB DOTS InCenter.2018, the governmentPhilippinepledged to find and treat 2.5 million Filipinos with TB by the end of 2022. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
16 members of CTG surrender to authorities; 6 firearms and 3 explosives seize in SurSur Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202246 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 47
fold of the law, three (3) of which were listed as periodic status reports, and 13 were considered as non-periodic status SDS-PPOreports. chief lauded the operatives for their accomplishments and urged them to intensify the campaign to fight “Iterrorism.laudthe effort of the operatives on these accomplishmentssignificant and i encouarge the CTG members who decided to go back to the fold of the law to be part of the real change. In addition, we will continue to intensify our campaign to fight terrorism in the province,” PCOL Siruno Meanwhile,said. the six (6) small firearms, and three (3) explosive device were seized from the members of the CTG who surrenderd at the different police stations, including the provincial mobile force company during the implementation of SACLEO, was also confirmed by the Surigao(NGPB/SDS-PPO/PIA-official.delSur)
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202248 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 49
Tandag Chamber of Commerce
Tago MPS escaped from a foiled
By: Nida Grace Barcena
The intelligence personnel of the Tago Municipal Police Station (MPS) onboard a gray Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter Van were fired upon by more or less 10 Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) believed to be members of GF 30A, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committe (NEMRC) under Kumander Nico, around 11:20AM, yesterday, August 30, 2022 in Sitio Panunungan, Barangay Libas Gua, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. Based on the report, the said PNP team was conducting an operation dubbed as 1-day Simultaneous Anti Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO), serving the warrant of arrest (WOA) against a CTG personality identified as Luwino Mendiola also known as “Doktor Turko”, believing to be hiding in Barangay Libas Gua. Unfortunately, Mendiola was not around during that day. While the operatives of the PNP were on their way back to their official station, they were fired upon by members of the CTG that hit the right rear tire and back portion of the vehicle, prompting them to accelerate and escape away. Upon reaching the vicinity of Sitio Cadlum, Barangay Cabangahan,
ambush by CTG in SurSur town
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena Tago, Surigao del Sur, the PNP operatives noticed another fully armed men believed to be CTGs along the road. The situation prompted them to abandon the vehicle and secured themselves bound to the mountainous area of said Aroundplace.12:50 PM of the same day, the police operatives reached the adjacent Barangay Alba, Tago, Surigao del Sur. They were fetched by personnel of Tago MPS, and safely arrived at their station at around 1:10 PM. The Police Provincial Office (PPO) immediately alerted all units in the vicinity of the province. Likewise, they coordinated with the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) for their information and appropriate action. Meanwhile, abandonedthevehicle used for the operation was successfully retrieved by the personnel of San Miguel MPS at around 3:00 PM on the same day and brought it back to Tago MPS, it was learned. (PIASurigao del Sur) As the country gradually adopts to the new normal brought by the pandemic, the Tandag Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (TCCII) is proudly hosting the significant event of the 31st Mindanao Business Conference starting September 1 to September 2, 2022 for the conference proper at ofoverhaulstofocussustainability,forthethethePimentelresourcesimmensetorecommendationswith,discusssouthernandenterprisingmovers,of:toareVincentAccordingCity.(NEMSU)MindanaoNortheasternStateUniversityStadiuminTandagtoTCCIIchairJohnCruzPimentel,theyexpectinginfluxofvisitorsjointheeventcomposedbusinessleaders,industrypolicyexperts,gamechangers,variousstakeholdersinPhilippines.Theywillonhowtocomeupifnotthebest,thebetteronhowharnessanddevelopthepotentialandvastofMindanao.furtherexplainedthatMinBizConwillconvergegovernmentofficialsandprivatesectorsaspartnersprogress,development,andmore,withonlong-termresiliencyfutureshudders,possibleandintegrationstructures,system,and and Industry, Inc is all set to host MinBizCon 2022 in Tandag City
data-sharing to drive greater impact and making programs and services truly equitable and inclusive. With a theme of One Mindanao: Bigger, Better, Bolder!, the Conference aims to tackle three thematic 1.panels:Theimpetus to scale up economic production in Bigger Mindanao, 2. The need to improve business conditions and production factors through better Mindanao, and 3. The critical importance of bold and visionary leadership that can ferry a Bolder Mindanao through the new Meanwhile,normal. prior to the Conference proper on September 1, the arrival of participants, and the Chamber Management Forum takes place as early as today, August 30, 2022. The Welcome Dinnerl is sponsored by the TheLeagueCaragaofMayors.partnershipofTCCII with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, and the City Government of Tandag as host of the event will boost the tourism industry of the booming elongated province of Surigao del Sur including the eastern part of Mindanao as one of the destinations to discover by both foreign and local tourists . The Media Launching was successfully conducted on Monday, August 29, 2022 at the Petron Pavillion in Tandag City, as officially declared by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Eastern Mindanao Regional Governor Julie Senense. It was joined by participants both face-to-face and virtually via zoom by the media partners in Caraga Region. (Grace Barcena/PIASurigao del Sur)
1. Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office chief Police Colonel Dennis A. Siruno, disclosed the newly identified pusher as the street level individual as Joebert Raz Suarez a.k.a “Jojo”, male, 42 years old, with live-in partner, selfemployed, resident of the aforesaid place. The official assured that the PNP will continue to intensify the campaign and run after those who are involved in illegal drugs within the province of Surigao del Sur. “I assure the Surigaonons that we will continue to intensify our campaign against illegal drugs. We will sustain this momentum on pursuing those involved in the illegal drugs and put them behind bars,” PCOL Siruno affirmed. Based on the report, personnel of TCCPS were able to seize the following:
A member of the Communist Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army/ National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA)
Newly identified drug personality falls to operatives, 34K worth of illegal drugs seize
(NGPB/Lt. Jezreel Bajar, 75IB CMO/PIASurigao del Sur)
In line with the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, the Tandag Component City Police Station Purokwarrantofimplementationthroughdrugsuccessfulscoredoperatives(TCCPS)anotheroperationthethesearchinQuintos, Barangay Mabua, Tandag City Septembertoday,
The official also called on the remaining CTG members to surrender. “To the remaining CTG members in Surigao del Sur, heed our call, surrender peacefully, and avail of the E-CLIP of the government. We will help you with open arms, and together we will end this nonsense conflict and achieve longlasting peace,” Lt. Col. Buyuccan noted.
• one piece of an improvised needle; one rolled aluminum foil; • one violet belt bag; one unit .45 caliber pistol COLT MES CO HARTFORD. CT USA with serial number 127912; • one piece Magazine inserted in .45 caliber pistol COLT MES CO HARTFORD. CT USA with serial number •127912;seven pieces of live ammunition loaded in the magazine of the said •firearm;oneorange white crystalline substance believed to be shabu with an estimated weight of 5 grams and Estimated Street Value of Php34,000.00; • three pieces of folded aluminum foil; and one piece of improvised totter. Further, cases for violation of RA 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and RA 10591 the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) are being prepared against the suspect. (Grace Barcena/ with a report from SDS-PPO/ PIA-Surigao del Sur)
NPA Terrorist dies in a Clash against
Government Troops in SurSur
containingplastictransparentheat-sealedpieces•candypeppermintaluminum•aluminumof•lighter;disposabletwopiecescrumpledfoil;onepiecebox;nine(9)ofthesachetthe
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 202250 Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 51
Terrorist (CNT) was killed in action in a clash against the government troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion in a secluded area in Sitio Panukmuan, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur morning of August 25, 2022. Based on the report, three (3) high-powered firearms were recovered in the battle area after the armed encounter. These are one (1) CNT; capture of one (1) AK47 Rifle; one (1) M4 Rifle; one (1) Carbine cal. 30; and other war materials. Prior to the incident, the government troops were alerted by the report from concerned citizen/s regarding the presence of CNTs in the Witharea.theinformation received, the troops immediately conducted a security operation. The firefight happened against around 10 CNT members believed to be involved in extortion activities in Surigao del TheSur. slain CNT identified as Adring Acevido aka DIEGO, 49 years old and from Sitio Nalindog, Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel town of this province. His cadaver was then brought to Duran Funeral Homes in Brgy Poblacion, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur for proper disposition.
75IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Jelson D. Buyuccan, in his message, confirmed the incident. He also emphasized that the government had given them the chance to change and live normally and avail the government programs intended for “Anthem.unfortunate event resulted in the death of another CTG member. As much as possible, we would like them to surrender so that they will have a chance to change their lives with their loved ones by returning to the folds of law and avail of the E-CLIP,” Lt. Col. Buyuccan said.
President “Bongbong”FerdinandMarcos Jr. on Thursday expressed support for the passage of the Philippine Nursing Practice Act, a measure that aims to improve the nursing profession through better career prospects and relevant nursing education. “So the government recognizes and acknowledges your hard work and sacrifice, including risking your own health and lives to care for others… In fact, I have taken special note of the clamor to address issues in the nursing profession by the passage of the new Philippine Nursing Practice Act,” Marcos said in a speech at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Nurses Association Marcos(PNA). said his administration, alongside Congress, will work with the PNA to institute reforms to further protect and develop the nursing profession in the Philippines. “The Executive department, together with Congress, will work with you to achieve these goals,” said Marcos. In his speech, the President also sought to create equal footing for all nurses regardless of the sector they are working in. “As part of our goal to raise the profile and improve the working condition of nurses, we seek to address the disparity in salaries between nurses in government hospitals with those in the private sector,” he said. Marcos also raised the need to address the uneven distribution of nurses in various areas around the country. This means addressing issues related to health facilities, benefits, and security of tenure, according to the “AsPresident.wework hard to improve the state of our healthcare system at home, let us join hands to maintain our country’s position as the gold standard when it comes to providing healthcare workers to hospitals and health facilities globally,” Marcos Thesaid.chief executive said his administration would open more slots for the deployment of nurses abroad while striving to improve Hedomestically.opportunitiesalsotappedthePNA, with its 40,000-strong membership, to help him achieve these goals.“With the PNA, boasting a 40,000-strong membership, I believe that together we have the ability, we have the strength to improve our nurses’ welfare and build on the Filipino distinction of excellence competitivenessandin the global health community,” said Marcos. | Caraga Infocus • 27-September 2 , 2022
August
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NATIONAL NEWS PBBM backs passage of nursing law; vows equal pay for gov’t, private nurses
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (Screengrab from RTVM)
PBBM eyes private sector cooperation on infra, water, energy MSMEs comprise 99.51 percent of business establishments in the Philippines and employ around 63 percent of the country’s Alsoworkforce.inAugust, Marcos met with the PSAC to express his support for the plan to offer a “ladderized” program for nurses to strengthen the health sector and address the supposed “brain drain,” or the departure of professionals from the country for better pay or living Theconditions.proposed ladderized program that will be adopted by the national government is already implemented by the University of the Philippines (UP)-Manila and select local government units (LGUs). Under the program, UP Manila offers a two-year scholarship for midwives who come back to the community to serve upon course completion. Once they gain experience, they return to UP Manila to study nursing for another two years. In July, Marcos, who concurrently serves as head of the Department of Agriculture, also expressed excitement over the possible partnership with the private sector to improve the agricultural sector. The PSAC intends to regularly report to the President to provide feedback on what is happening on the ground and make recommendations on modern policy development.
President “Bongbong”FerdinandMarcos Jr. on Thursday met with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to explore possible cooperation for the development of infrastructure, water, and energy sectors. The Office of the President (OP), on its official Facebook page, shared several photos taken during Marcos’ meeting with PSAC at Malacañan Palace in “PresidentManila. RomualdezFerdinandMarcosJr. meets with members of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to discuss how PublicPrivate Partnerships (PPP) can help the Philippines improve its infrastructure, water, and energy services,” the OP said. Malacañang has yet to provide additional details about the Marcos,meeting.in his first State of the Nation Address, vowed to put a premium on various fields, including infrastructure, health and Marcosenergy.held a series of meetings with the PSAC since he assumed the presidency on June 30. The PSAC, in its meeting with Marcos in August, sought the expansion of the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country to create more job opportunities for FollFilipinos.owinghis meeting with the private sector, Marcos ensured that the revival of MSMEs is one of the administration’s priorities.
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President “Bongbong”FerdinandMarcos Jr. on Thursday said his administration is committed to raising the profile and improving the working conditions of nurses here and abroad. He made this commitment in a speech during his attendance at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Nurses Association, Inc. at The Manila Hotel. “As part of our goal to raise the profile and improve the working condition of nurses, we seek to address the disparity in salaries between government hospitals with those in the private sector,” he said. “Also, we must address the uneven distribution of nurses in different areas around the country. In order to do that, we have to address issues related to health facilities, benefits, and security of tenure,” he added. Marcos acknowledged that the current salaries of nurses in the Philippines need to be raised, but noted that the government may not have available funds to cover this “Medyoyet.
Marcos vows to improve work conditions of Filipino nurses
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. meets with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Thursday (Sept. 1, 2022). Marcos discussed with PSAC how Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) can help the Philippines improve its infrastructure, water, and energy services. (Photo from OP Facebook page)
(PNA/ By Ruth Abbey GitaCarlos
hirap tayo sa pondo ngayon, kaya’t sa ngayon ganyan lang muna. Pero palagay ko…binibuhay nyo ang may sakit e, ibang usapan yan. Mahirap lagyan ng balor, ng dolyar, ng piso yung trabahong ginagawa ninyo (We are still short of funds now, that’s why that will have to do for now. But I think…because you are caring for the sick, that’s a different story. It is difficult to put a price tag on the job you do),” he said. He noted that his office is “always open” to dialogue to address the issues concerning nurses and allied healthcare professionals.
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Marcos also promised to open more slots to the deployment of nurses abroad while striving to improve domestic Inopportunities.termsoflegislation, Marcos backed the passage of House Bill 9389 or the New Philippine Nursing Practice Act” which was recently approved by the House of Representatives on final reading and will be submitted to the Senate for “Iaction.have taken special note of the clamor to address issues in the nursing profession by the passage of the New Philippine Nursing Practice Act. This Executive Department together with Congress will work with you to achieve these goals,” he Assaid.of Aug. 19, Marcos said the government has disbursed a total of PHP25.82 billion worth of benefits to healthcare workers, especially nurses. These include hazard duty pay, Covid-19 sickness and death compensation, meals, accommodation and transportation allowances, life insurance, special risk allowance, and the One Covid-19 allowance. Programs for nurses Marcos said the government will also continue to pursue programs that support the continuous development of Filipino nurses such as the Nursing Certification program which strengthens and certifies our nurses’ competencies in various specialty areas. He said the Primary Care Workers Certification program, which provides eligibility requirements, cannot stress more, because of you and the sacrifices that you made knowing that there is a risk involved, but because of that sacrifice, because of that compassion, because of that professionalism our nation has survived the most difficult moments of this pandemic,” he Hesaid.said Filipino nurses stood out from others not just for their competence and dedication, but for their “compassion and “Maramikindness.”namang magaling diyan ngunit kahit yung mga foreigner hinahanap nila, mas gusto nila na ang nag-aalaga sa kanila mga Pilipino na nurse. At hindi naman kataka-taka dahil kapag alagaan ka ng Pilipino na nurse gagaling ka talaga (There are so many excellent nurses, but even foreigners prefer being taken care of by Filipino nurses. And there is no surprise there because if a Filipino nurse takes care of you, you will surely recover,” he said. He also said it was a pleasure to attend the PNA’s 100th anniversary because his father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., also attended the association’s golden Foundedanniversary.in1922, the association was established to promote professional growth towards the attainment of the highest standard of nursing. The anniversary celebration coincides with the 65th Nurses’ Week Celebration and its National Annual Convention 2022. (PNA/Azer Parrocha)
becauseoftheCovid-19,“Duringfamilies.spreadingreturnsickriskedwitnessedCovid-19experienceSpeakingallsacrificesexpressedMeanwhile,kindnessFilipinocontinuedisciplinescoursesdevelopment,free,whichandthroughenhanceScholarshipTheandandprovideaimsPublicDevelopmentsupportMarcosalsoforcompetentprocessesmechanisms,competencies,standardtrainingandcertificationthatensureandqualitystaffingourhealthcaresystem,willbeoffered.saidtheywillalsotheLeadershipCoursesforHealthNurseswhichtocapacitatenursestoqualityhealthservicesbecomeskilledleadersmanagers.In-ServicePost-GraduateProgram,whichwillnurses’competenciesformaleducation,theE-learningprogram,providesaccesstocontinuingprofessionalandaccreditedinmanymanyofstudy,willalsotobeprovided.nurses’compassionandMarcospraisedgratitudefortheandcontributionsofFilipinonurses.fromhisownaftercontractingtwice,MarcossaidhehowFilipinonursestheirlivestocarefortheandevenoptednottototheirhomestoavoidthevirustotheirmyfightagainstIbenefitedfromableandhealinghandscompetentFilipinonurses.ofyou,andthisI
Marcos admin respects press freedom: Palace Press freedom is guaranteed under the watch of ensuredOnMarcelotheDay,NationalinisOfficeCruz-Angelesinthecountry,pressrecognizesFerdinandleadershipadministration,oatingnafreedomR.nisang“KinikilalaDay.ofstatement,Cruz-AngelesPresssaidMarcosFerdinandPresident“Bongbong”Jr.,MalacañangonTuesday.SecretaryTrixieissuedtheincelebrationNationalPressFreedomatnirerespetoatingpamahalaan,ilalimngpamumunoPangulongFerdinandMarcosJr.,angpresssabansanakabataysaSaligangBatasKonstitusyon(TheundertheofPresidentR.MarcosJr.,andrespectsfreedomintheasguaranteedbyConstitution),”shesaidaFacebookpost.saidtheofthePressSecretaryjoiningtheentirecountrycommemoratingthePressFreedomwhichcoincideswithbirthanniversaryofH.delPilar.Aug.25,Cruz-AngelesthatthePalace (Photo from STCA’s official Facebook page) would work closely with media organizations to protect and uphold the rights of Republicjournalists.Act(RA) 11699 inked by former President Rodrigo Duterte declared Aug. 30 of every year as National Press Freedom Day in honor of del Pilar, the father of Philippine DelJournalism.Pilar,who wrote under the pen name “Plaridel,” was born on Aug. 30, 1890. Under RA 11699, Aug. 30 of every year is declared a working holiday. RA mandates all government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as the private sector, to engage and participate in the meaningful observance and celebration of National Press Freedom Day. The directive covers the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Abbeyresponsibilities.andimportanceorganizingschoolstoSkillsTechnicalEducation,theDepartmentTheunits.and-controlledgovernment-ownedPolice,andcorporations,thelocalgovernmentlawalsoorderstheofEducation,CommissiononHigherandtheEducationandDevelopmentAuthorityleadpublicandprivateatalllevelsinactivitiesontheofthepresstheirrightsandsocial(PNA/RuthGita-Carlos)
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Rally behind gov’t
of peace and solidarity’
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• August
Citing how past heroes fought for the country’s freedom, he called on Filipinos to embrace the same kind of passion in carrying out acts of love and genuine concern for others. He also honored presentday heroes such as farmers, teachers, healthcare workers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and the like for making the country a better place to live in.
Get vaccinated As part of efforts to revive the economy, Marcos also reiterated his call for Filipinos to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and complete their booster “Inaanyayahanshots. ko ang lahat na ang mga maaaring magpabakuna na makiisa sa ating mga vaccination program upang mapangalagaan ang kalusugan hindi lamang ng ating mga sarili kung hindi ang ating mga kapwa (I invite everyone who’s eligible to get vaccinated Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2, 2022 Caraga Infocus 27-September 2 , 2022
In a separate speech, National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Rene Escalante called on Filipinos to support the Marcos government as it addresses both problems arising from internal and external “Inconflicts.themidst of the pandemic and rising costs of living, our country cannot afford to be engaged in any world war or any domestic conflict…We need to rally behind the President’s call for unity if we want to survive the pandemic and bring our economy back on track,” he Hesaid.also emphasized the relevance commemoratingof National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, describing it as a “sacred ground and serves as the final resting place of many Filipinos who fought and died defending the freedom of the country.”
Instead of dragging each other down, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday said the only way to succeed as a nation is to lift each other up by being instruments of peace and solidarity. He made this call in a speech during heofInstead,dragourselveskapayapaantayoSapaghihilahansariliikulong“HuwagCity.ngHeroescommemorationtheofNationalDayattheLibinganmgaBayaniinTaguignamannatinangatingmgasahidwaanatngpababa.halip,maginginstrumentongpagkakaisa[at](Let’snotlockinconflictandeachotherdown.letusbeinstrumentspeace[and]solidarity),”said.
“Even if their names are lost to history, our nation remains proud in calling them our heroes,” he said. Republic Act 9492, signed by former President Azerday,celebratedBonifacioNationalPhilippines.NationaltheMacapagal-Arroyo,GloriadeclareslastMondayofAugustasHeroesDayintheHeroesDayandDayusedtobeonthesameNovember30.(PNA/Parrocha) and fight for),” he added. Marcos said that unity is the key to achieving success as a “Buongnation.tapang nating harapin ang anumang hamon na hinaharap na may tiwala tayo na higit na lalakas at said.togethercontinueandthataheadfaceisangataymatagumpaymagigingkungtayopatuloynamagkakaisamagtutulunganbilangbansa(Letusbravelyanychallengethatlieswiththeconfidencewewillbestrongermoresuccessfulifwetouniteandworkasanation),”he
Filipinos urged to be ‘instruments
“Umaasa ako na sa halimbawa ng ating mga dakilang bayani, higit nating isasabuhay ang kanilang ipinakitang pag-ibig sa bayan at ipinagtatanggol at ipinaglalaban nilang panata sa kabutihan (I hope that with the example of our great heroes, we will further live out the love shown to the country and the vow of goodness that they defend to join our vaccination programs to protect the health of not only ourselves but our neighbors),” he said. He said history has shown that Filipinos’ collective strength is key to attaining “Angvictory.mga bayaning nagalay ng sarili para sa atin ay huwarang patutuo sa pangako ng pag-asa ng ating pinanghahawakan. Kaya naman dapat lamang natin pahalagahan ng wasto ang ating kalayaan at ibaling ang ating mga kinikilos na ayon sa pagibig at pagmamalasakit sa kapwa (The heroes who sacrificed themselves for us are exemplary believers in the promise of hope that we hold dear. That’s why we should only properly value our freedom and change our actions according to love and concern for others),” he added. According to Marcos, all Filipinos can create change that will benefit the greater “Habanggood. ang mga makabagong panahon ay nagbibigay sa atin ng mga changesmodernsarilingbayanipagsuboknatintiyakkailangangpagbabagongharapin,namalalampasanangkahitnaanongkungmagigingtayosaatingmgapamamaraan(Astimespresentuswithtodealwith,we can surely overcome any challenge if we become heroes in our own ways),” he added. Hospitals for war veterans Meanwhile, Marcos vowed to continuously push for programs that benefit Filipino war veterans and their veterans.andhospitalization,currentlyhospitalsgovernment(PVAO)-VMMCVeteransQuezonMedicalThehededicateandhospitalsAffairswithmgailalaanVisayastayoAffairs“KaisaWarWorldMindanaohospitalswouldHedependents.saidthegovernmentalsoestablishmoreintheVisayasandthatcatertoWarIIandPostWorldveterans.ngPhilippineVeteransOffice,magpapatayongmgaospitalsaatMindanaonanatinparasaatingbeterano(TogetherthePhilippineVeteransOffice,wewillbuildintheVisayasMindanaothatwewillforourveterans),”said.VeteransMemorialCenter(VMMC)inCityandPhilippineAffairsOfficeaccreditedandprivatenationwidethatprovidequalitymedicalcaretreatmenttoFilipino
Add’l 24.6K seniors now fully vaccinated via PinasLakas drive
The DOH has presented to the Centers for Health Development in different regions varying strategies to increase vaccination Itcoverage.alsorequested various medical societies to help push the campaign for booster doses. “We are planning for a special week of vaccination drive for the whole Philippines this coming end of the month of September,” Vergeire said.
The DOH, through the special vaccination week, hopes to achieve at least 50 percent of its PinasLakas drive targets to increase the wall of immunity in the country. As of Aug. 28, about 72,476,610 individuals are fully vaccinated and 17,843,348 have received their booster doses. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor ) (PNA file photo by Gil Calinga)
Caraga Infocus • August 27-September 2 , 2022 61
A total of 24,661 senior citizens have been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) since the PinasLakas campaign started on July 26. In a media said.PinasLakas50regionpo50na“WalapopulationofindividualsreachedVergeireForaccomplishments.”theplusdapatdoon“Malayongseniorforof“So,drive.throughofaimschargeofWednesday,briefingDepartmentHealth(DOH)officer-in-saidthegovernmenttoprotect90percenttheelderlypopulationthevaccinationthisisjust2.03percentourtargetedpopulationourprimaryseriesforcitizens,”shesaid.malayopoiyansatina-targetnatinnaperdaymay17,000na(Thatisveryfarfromtargetperdayof17,000)thefirstboosterdose,saidtheDOHhasover2.1millionor8.82percentthetargetedeligibleof23million.parinpongrehiyonnakakaabotngatleastpercentcoverageditosaatingginagawang(Nohasreachedatleastpercentcoverageinthis)Campaign,”she
However, the National Capital Region has reached 47 percent vaccination rate, the highest among the Earlier,regions.the DOH conducted a survey to identify why fewer people want to be vaccinated against ApartCovid-19.from lack of access to vaccination sites, Vergeire noted that some individuals still believe that Covid-19 jabs could cause harm to their Shehealth.said this factor is especially true for the senior “Maramicitizens. na raw silang ibang sakit at kakaunti lang daw ang kanilang natitirang oras dito (They have other ailments already and they have shorter time to live), so they don’t need the boosters anymore,” she added.
PNA file photo by Joey O. Razon
DOH insists wearing of masks lowers chances of Covid infection
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Montemayor)(Filephoto)
‘Yung mga ganun, in a few days, nadi-discharge naman (Many among the admissions are mild cases that are incidental Covid. They are discharged in a few days),” de Grano said. He noted that most of the Covid-19 cases that reach the critical or severe stage are the elderly with no Asvaccination.ofAugust 22, about 72,310,149 or 92.59 percent of the country’s target population (78,100,578) have been vaccinated against Covid-19, including 78.01 percent of 8,721,357 senior Meanwhile,citizens. 17,419,141 individuals have received booster shots out of the fully vaccinated population. “Napansin lang namin na ‘yung mga na-admit na (We noticed that those admitted who are) immunocompromised (and) with pre-existing diseases na hindi (who are not) fully vaccinated, ayun po ang nagpo-progress (those are the ones who progress) to severe and critical,” de Grano added. The DOH, through the PinasLakas Campaign, continues to bring Covid-19 vaccines and booster doses closer to the people as health experts’ projections show that cases and hospitalizations would rise next month if the booster uptick remains low. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa
The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PHAPI) said Thursday the most severe and critical cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in their facilities are partially vaccinated or PHAPIunvaccinated.president Dr. Rene de Grano said in a televised public briefing that the intensive care units of private hospitals in the country “can still cope with the (number) of Covid-19 patients.”
Most severe, critical Covid-19
The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday said the wearing of face masks decreases the possibility of infection by 70 to 80 percent, reminding Filipinos not to be complacent with the dropping number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) gustopa“Hanggangcases.sahindinatinnaaabotangnatingratepara sa bakunahan para maipataas ang immunity ng ating populasyon, sana lahat tayo na Pilipino nagkakaisa na ipatupad muna natin ang mask mandates natin (I hope all Filipinos will cooperate about the implementation of our mask mandates until we haven’t reached the vaccination rate we want to increase our population’s immunity),” DOH officerin-charge Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in media briefing. This came after Cebu City issued an executive order (EO) making use of face masks non-obligatory in open spaces and most places. The EO stated wearing face masks will still be required in hospitals and business establishments have the discretion whether to implement or not the face mask mandate. “We were never consulted on this matter regarding the removal of this face mask outdoors and this executive order they’re going to issue,” Vergeire said. She noted that the matter is now under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior and Local government which has the authority to implement policies across all local government units without “Asexemptions.Ialways said, a city in a country cannot act on its own, cannot be an island across all islands,” she said. While noting that prevention of Covid-19 infection is the responsibility of every Filipino, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said must have the freedom to choose between wearing a face mask or not on the basis of selfEarlier,preservation.health experts have said the risk of infection would be higher in areas not implementing the safeguards for Covid-19 prevention. “We know that people all over the country travel to and from these areas of the country, and we know that Covid-19 crosses borders,” Vergeire said. “Mula nang nag-umpisa tayo ng Covid-19 [response] atin pong in-emphasize at nahighlight (Since we started our Covid-19 response, we have emphasized and highlighted) this should be a one nation approach, this is the whole Philippines implementing safeguards for our population,” she added. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)
This was after Department of Health (DOH) officer in charge Maria Rosario Vergeire confirmed that the percentage of severe and critical Covid-19 cases in hospitals is increasing but is still within the threshold. On Monday, the department reported 811 or 9.7 percent of the total Covid-19 admissions in hospitals are severe and critical cases. In the past four weeks, DOH data showed that severe and critical infections comprised more than 9 percent of hospital “’Yungadmissions.mga na-admit na mas madami are the mild cases na incidental Covid. patients unvaxxed: PHAPI
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