Caraga Infocus - September 22 - 28, 2018 by Caraga InFocus

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

Contents

An Electronic News Magazine of Philippine Information Agency Caraga

Volume II, No. 77

22 - 28 September, 2018

Agusanon kids bag bronze award in ASEAN cyberkids camp

SSS News: SSS collects more than P2B income from 300k availees of loan penalty condonation

DOE News: DOE-ASEP Holds Forum for Greener Government Buildings

ASEAN News: Lopez talks investment prospects with UKASEAN bizmen

Regional News 9 10

Caraga media reoriented on juvenile justice laws DOT-13 to host 29th National Statistics Month opening

Provincial News 15

DTI Surigao del Norte launches KMME Batch 2

PRRD to visit Army camp in Agusan Sur

CENRO Bislig seizes 10K board feet lumber

AgNor SP urges establishment of PESO in LGUs

Agusan Norte ARB orgs join Sandugo Trade Expo

Mindanao News

Mayor Sara to continue serving Davao City despite good survey ratings

GenSan sustains heightened security alert status

National News 25

Palace ‘expected’ slowdown in PH economic growth forecast

Electronics industry to survive tax reforms

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

News Briefs • In celebration of the Health Promotion Week, the Health Promotion Unit of DOH Caraga, together with the Training/Deployment Section is determined to convene all deployed Human Resource for Health (HRH) in the region for a Regional Health Promotion Summit on Oct. 24-25, 2018 at Oazis Hotel, Butuan City. Said activity is anchored on the theme “Raising Health Literacy, Boosting Health Promotion for the Community.”

• DTI Agusan del Norte has recently organized a capability building workshop for managers and supervisors who are recipients of the Bagwis Award. The Bagwis award is a recognition that an establishment that upholds the rights of consumers while practicing responsible business where consumers get the best value for money.

• Brigadier General Andres C Centino, commander of 401st Brigade, Phil. Army during KBP’s Hour program in San Francisco Agusan del Sur emphasized the importance of convergence of all government agencies in order to address the four conflict lines in Caraga - criminality, resourced based conflict, conflict involving IPs and insurgency. He thanked the Regional Peace & Order Council (RPOC) and Regional Development Council (RDC) Caraga for initiating the establishment of Peace and Development Zones (PDZ) in conflict affected areas which aims to harness all the government interventions to address the needs of the people in order to attain sustainable peace & development in the Region. (Source: CMO Officer, 401st Brigade, PA) • Around 150 famous surfers from different countries like United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, Hawaii, Europe and Philippines will compete for this year’s Int’l Surfing Cup held at Gen. Luna, Siargao Islands.

• The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) Asia designated the City Organic Agri-Fishery Complex (COAFC) of Bislig as Organic Education and Social Innovations Institute for IFOAM-ASIA. Also, a scholarship was granted to the stand alone Senior High School in Tambuang, Brgy. Cumawas, Bislig City during the recent 3rd Organic Asia Congress Closing Ceremonies. (DA-Caraga)

• Loreto Municipal Police Station personnel participated in the Coastal Clean-up this morning at the seashore of Brgy. Esperanza spearheaded by the barangay officials of Brgy. Esperanza, Loreto, Dinagat Islands.

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

y r o t S r e v o C

E Z N O R B G A B S D I K N AGUSANO SEAN A N I D R A AW P M A C S D I CYBERK olde

By Nora L. M

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) -- “Great things happened when we least expect it,” a statement came out from teachercoach Prelyn Perla “Prets” Sandimas upon knowing that her “Anakshies na gagmay” cyberkids from North Cabadbaran Central Elementary School got a Bronze Award during the ASEAN Cyberkids Camp 2018 held in Bendar Seri Begawan, Brunie Darussalam on September 4 to 6. The two primary pupils, Rainbow Beltran Concha, Grade 4 and Jassef Ysaiah Leanne Vista Tambis, Grade 3, all the way from Cabadbaran City in the province of Agusan del Norte representing the Philippines bring home Bronze medals after competing with other school children aged seven to 12 from other ASEAN Member States (AMS). Twenty students with their coaches from the 10 AMS competed at the Rizqun International Hotel.

given, the two made an animation about what makes a smart city smart. They made two sprite characters named Abby and Dee discussing what makes a smart city smart by creating a city that uses an information and communication technology (ICT) in the movement of the city.

“Their entry illustrates a smart city animation – having a buildings, high technology hospitals, transportation, wide coverage of Wi-Fi connection Coach Prets recalled that and has a competent schools in it,” Rainbow and Leanne were given the coach Prets narrated. project topic “Smart City”. On the topic 4

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

What makes the illustration great, coach Prets said, is the illustration of a smart, healthy and happy people living on it, I think that makes their smart city smart project becomes great.

present their project – three minutes for equipment set up; 10 minutes for preparation and demonstration; five minutes for Questions and Answers; and two minutes for disassembling the presentation equipment.

During the competition, they were given a total of 20 minutes to

(ACC) is organized as a platform for the top students aged 12 years and below from the ASEAN Member States (AMS) to gather together and create multimedia computer projects upon an instant challenge from the judges. The program adopts the 21st century learning objectives by way

The

ASEAN

Cyberkids

Camp

of developing computer animations, interactive stories or applications. The event was aimed to enhance the students’ skills in adaptability, critical thinking, problem solving, working in a team, ability to use ICT creativity and awareness of cross-cultural issues. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

SSS News

SSS COLLECTS MORE THAN P2B INCOME FROM 300K AVAILEES OF LOAN PENALTY CONDONATION

The Social Security System (SSS) on Wednesday said it collected more than P2 billion income from nearly 300,000 availees of the second Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) with penalty condonation, which was implemented on April 2, 2018.

flexible and affordable payment terms and conditional condonation of loan penalties,” Dooc said.

Within five months of the second LRP implementation, the SSS has already condoned P4.3 billion penalties, resulting in P4.9 billion in restructured SSS President and Chief Executive loans. Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said that as of August 31, a total of 296,086 member- To qualify for the LRP, memberborrowers have availed of the LRP with applicants should be residing or collections amounting to P2.1 billion. employed in any of the calamity areas declared by the National Disaster Risk “We’re glad that the LRP has once Reduction and Management Council again served its purpose of providing (NDRRMC) or the national government. members an immense relief from The short-term loan must also be paying their loan delinquencies through overdue for at least six months. Based Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

SSS News

on SSS records, almost all of its members members with outstanding loan are either residing or employed in an obligations to avail of the program area devastated by a calamity. before it ends on Octorber 1 to avoid the hassle of last-minute filing. Members can pay their overdue loans in full within 30 days with no “If they failed to apply for the additional interest, or apply for an LRP, their loan interest and penalty installment payment term of up to five will continue to accumulate, making years with a minimal interest rate of it harder for them to pay back their three percent per annum. loans. That is why we advise them to file as early as now so that they can “In case the member failed to pay the conveniently settle their loan obligations restructured loan within the approved with the nearest SSS branch and enjoy payment term, the outstanding loan their future SSS benefits without any delinquency shall be consolidated in deduction,” Dooc concluded. Restructured Loan 2 , which incurs a higher interest rate of 10 percent per Members who will apply annum. So we strongly advise them under the LRP should bring their to pay their monthly amortizations on duly accomplished LRP forms, valid time,” Dooc said. identification documents and Letter of Authority (LOA) if to be filed by an Dooc further encouraged all authorized representative. (SSS)

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

regional news

CARAGA MEDIA REORIENTED ON JUVENILE JUSTICE LAW

BUTUAN CITY - “If in doubt, ask yourself: issues, the fact that these children need Is this in the best interest of the child?” restorative justice makes it more a concern for child welfare,” Ferrer said. This was emphasized by lawyer Euvic He also added that the media could be Ferrer of the Commission on Human a great contributor both in protecting Rights during a media orientation on these children and making sure that the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act they do not undergo “unfair trial by held recently at LJ Mega Convention publicity.” Center, this city. “Aside from protecting the Organized by the Regional Juvenile confidentiality and privacy of these Justice and Welfare Committee children in media reports, it is also the (RJJWC) headed by the Department duty of the media to make sure that of Social Welfare and Development all media stories are done in the best (DSWD)-Caraga, the activity aimed benefit of a child,” he said. to reorient the media and the people on Republic Act 9344 as amended by Discussed in the orientation are the 10630 which strengthens the juvenile roles of media in the promotion of child justice system in the Philippines that rights, and delinquency prevention by protects the rights of children in conflict relaying consistent messages through with the law (CICL). a balanced approach and that media practitioners, as partners in ensuring “Although criminal cases committed juvenile justice and welfare, shall have by these children are considered legal the duty to maintain the highest critical Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

regional news

and professional standards in their rights to enjoy presumption of minority; reports covering cases of CICLs. freedom from torture, cruel inhuman, degrading treatment or punishment; “In all publicity concerning children, the not to be imposed capital punishment, best interest of the child should be the life imprisonment, without possibility of primordial and paramount concern,” release; freedom from any unlawful or Ferrer said, adding that “any undue, arbitrary deprivation of liberty; not to inappropriate and sensationalized be detained in a jail pending trial or publicity of any case involving a CICL is hearing; and right to privacy, among a violation of the child’s rights.” others. DSWD-Caraga OIC Regional Director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim, who also chairs RJJWC, said that CICLs have rights that “we should all help protect.” “This is an interagency concern because all of us, especially the media, have roles to play in ensuring that these children still enjoy their rights,” Lim added.

The orientation, which also tackled the differences of children-at-risk and CICL, child custody, intervention programs for CICL and the system of diversion, was attended by media persons from Butuan City and Tandag City, police officers from Agusan del Norte and select parents and special education teachers. (Mike Ariel P. Plaza/Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office According to RA 10630, CICLs have the Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DOT-13 TO HOST 29th NATIONAL STATISTICS MONTH OPENING By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) - The Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga is spearheading the opening of the 29th National Statistics Month on October 2, 2018, 3:00 p.m. at the Robinsons Place, this city. 10

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

According to DOT-Caraga regional director Ma. Ana Nuguid, this initiative is in partnership with the Regional Statistics Committee and anchored on the theme “Exploring Philippine Wonders in Numbers: Statistics Towards Sustainable Tourism Development.”

Reynaldo Macion of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Butuan City branch will lead the discussion on inflation.

The annual celebration is pursuant to Proclamation No. 647 “Declaring the Month of October of Every Year as the National Statistics Month” issued on September 20, 1990 by then President “The event will highlight two Corazon C. Aquino. major activities for the month-long celebration – the Tourism Statistics “As a take-off point of this Logo-Making Contest and Infographics advocacy, series of activities will be Contest (Best Display of Agency/Local spearheaded by the Department Government Unit/Academic Data to explain the significance and role through Infographics),” said Dir. Nuguid. of statistics, particularly the tourism’s role in the economy thru statistics, in The lady director also said that DOT measuring and translating sustainable Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III development across all sectors of the will be the keynote speaker during this society,” she added. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) event, while Acting Deputy Director Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

DOE news

DOE-ASEP HOLDS FORUM FOR GREENER GOVERNMENT BUILDING The Department of Energy (DOE) through the support of the Access to Sustainable Energy Program (ASEP) of the Energy Union (EU), opened today the Forum on Energy Efficiency Technologies and Best Practices to Support Government Energy Efficiency Projects at the Discovery Suites Manila in Pasig City.

in government projects and even in government owned and operated buildings.

“This is a good opportunity for our government agencies to learn more about the concept of ‘green buildings’ and its increasing role in our country’s energy future. Imagine the amount of savings we would generate if all The two-day event (26 and 27 government buildings were built and September) aims to promote the operated with energy efficiency as a available energy efficiency (EE) major consideration,” Sec. Cusi said. strategies that could be implemented in the design, construction and operation The forum features several sessions of government building projects, as on EE topics which include policy, well as provide government agencies equipment, lighting, building structure, with the latest developments on EE information, monitoring, and metering technology options and best practices. systems, as well as renewable energy technologies. DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi noted that while government agencies Present today were officials from stand to gain immensely from pursuing the DOE, ASEP, PNOC, DOF, NEDA, PEZA, EE strategies, the lack of awareness and DPWH, NEA, Energy Service Companies, information on EE opportunities serve and EE product manufacturers and as major barriers to its incorporation suppliers. Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PHOTO GALLERY

OTOP.PH Philippines Hub Grand Opening Robinsons Place Butuan, Butuan City, 28 September 2018

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

SURIGAO DEL NORTE

DTI SURIGAO DEL NORTE LAUNCHES KMME BATCH 2

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) – Micro entrepreneurs are step closer to achieving better business performance with the help of local stakeholders in government and private institutions as the Kapatid Mentor ME (KKME) program rolls towards its 2nd Batch in the province on September 14, 2018 at Hotel Tavern, this city.

in business. Meanwhile, Lanot discussed the dynamics of marketing which can help build up brands for customers to remember.

The KKME Program is an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Philippine Around 91 micro-enterprises Center of Entrepreneurship (PCE) in gathered and participated in the support for the country’s MSMEs. lectures of Module 1: Entrepreneurial Mindsetting and Values Formation The program is composed of and Module 2: Marketing which were lecture and mentoring sessions in 10 discussed by Armando “Butz” O. weeks, which one module is covered Bartolome, President of GMB Franchise per week. Developers, Inc. and John Paul “PJ” The lecture sessions aim to help the P. Lanot, President of Pino Groups of mentees with the technical concepts Restaurant, respectively. in developing their businesses. During the lecture, Bartolome shared his experiences and entrepreneurial The mentors of the program are journey in attaining business success. experts in the field of entrepreneurship With it and emphasized that having and are certified PCE members. (DTIgood values will contribute to success SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

AGUSAN DEL SUR

DTI SURIGAO DEL NORTE LAUNCHES KMME BATCH 2 By Jennifer P. Gaitano BUTUAN CITY (PIA) - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is set to visit the Philippine Army’s 401st Brigade at Camp Datu Lipus Makapandong in Brgy. Awa, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Saturday, Sept. 29.

by 4 pm and will speak before some 400 soldiers and civilian personnel from the 401st and 402nd Brigades.

He is also set to hold an executive briefing with military officials led by 401st Brigade Commander BGen. Andres President Duterte will lead the donning Centino. of ranks and awarding of medals to deserving troops under the 401st Afterwhich, the president will join the Brigade. troops in the ‘Boodle’ fight dinner at the venue. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur) He is expected to arrive at the venue

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

SURIGAO DEL SUR

CENRO BISLIG SEIZES 10K BOARD FEET LUMBER By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) – The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Bislig confiscated more than 10,000 board feet lumbers for three and a half months alone this year, in collaboration with the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police.

have confiscated 14 motorcycle units, one unit of Fuso dump truck, and one unit tractor, and six chainsaws during the operations conducted.

Of the 24 recorded apprehensions, Aspirin said, nine cases have already been filed against those involved in the illegal activities at the City Prosecutor’s Department of Environment and Natural Office, while other seized forest products Resources-Provincial Environment and were noted “for deliberation.” Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) Enforcement Section chief Forester Meanwhile, on the same period of time, Rodulfo Aspirin said the 10,839.20 board the said office also donated 14.60 cubic feet have an estimated market value meter logs and 6,773.76 board feet of Php402, 457.14. of lumbers to the following recipients: Barangay Local Government Units Aspirin also told the members of (BLGUs) of San Fernando; Labisma; and the Provincial Multi-Sectoral Forest Mangagoy all in Bislig City; Philippine Protection Committee (PMFPC) during Coast Guard; PNP SAF; and 75 Infantry the 3rd Quarter Meeting on September Battalion, according to Aspirin. (PIA20, 2018 held in Tandag City that they Surigao del Sur) Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

AGNOR SP URGES ESTABLISHMENTOF PESO IN LGUs level considering the absence of PESOs in the municipalities and permanent focal person in barangays to manage and handle job generation and employment programs.

BUTUAN CITY -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte urged component local government units (LGUs) in the province to establish a Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in their respective localities.

The Committee on Human Resource Development, Labor and Employment also found that there is an absence of skill profiling and list of skilled workers in the province and its component LGUs for the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) job matching reference. The call for the establishment of PESO is in accordance with Republic Act 10691, otherwise known the Public Employment Service Office Act of 1999 which mandates for the establishment of PESO in all provinces, cities and municipalities that will serve as an extension arm of DOLE in all its labor and employment assistance programs and activities.

This was pushed by Provincial Board Member Virgilio R. Escasinas, Jr., chairperson of the Committee on Human Resource Development, Labor and Employment and approved by the body through Sanggunian Resolution PESO ensures prompt and efficient No. 240-2018 during its 96th regular delivery of employment generation session. services to the constituents in the province and municipalities down to It was one of the issues and the barangays. concerns raised during the committee consultation of the said committee for The establishment is a necessity for the Legislative Agenda Formulation. a more efficient and effective provision of employment services to facilitate It was learned that job matching the meeting of demand and supply for activities in the province intend to embark skills and reduce the transaction cost through its PESO are not sustainable as of information on available skills and it is not effectively implemented at the jobs. (Aimee B. Sienes, LGU-Agusan del municipal level down to the barangay Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte) 18

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

AGUSAN NORTE ARB ORGS JOIN SANDUGO TRADE EXPO

BUTUAN CITY -- Seven agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) joined the recent 2018 Sandugo Trade Expo in Bohol.

(CROPMAS) with squash strips and canton, Rural Improvement Club of Tagbuyacan (RIC Tagbuyacan) with squash and ube powder, and Libas Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative They were able to sell all their (LFMPC) with virgin coconut oil products and got to meet potential participated in the Expo.. new buyers. The Agusan del Norte ARBOs were The groups from Culit able to link with institutional buyers Multipurpose Coop (CMPC) with such as the Island City Mall, owned by their organic beverage, Simbalan Alturas Group of Companies, which Rubber Farmers Ass. Inc. (SRFI) with became interested with all their their Buenas Coffee, Duque Agrarian products. Reform Beneficiaries Coop (DARBC) with their 4-in-1 turmeric, Sto. Niño Other interests came from Pilayre MPC (SNMPC) with their naturally General Merchandise of Cebu for grown colored rice, Crops Production SNMPC’s naturally grown colored rice, Services & Marketing Association, Inc. Beey Di Igorot Fitzgerald & Criselda’s Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

PROVINCIAL news

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

Sweet Food Express of Bohol for processed food products carefully DARBC’s 4-in-1 Turmeric powder, and selected from various provinces and SRFI’s robusta ground coffee. neighboring regions. Yadee Native Delicacies of Tacloban City and Dairy Box Ice Cream producer of Bohol became interested with RIC Tagbuyacan’s squash, ube, and corn powder.

The Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Norte (DTI AdN) Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) support services unit has been assisting the ARBOs’ participation to this expo for the past The five-day Sandugo Trade several years. Expo was held at The Block, Island City Mall, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. DTI AdN CARP Trade and Industry Development Specialist Valentina The event has been known to be Orbeta travelled with the ARBO a reliable sourcing destination in the representatives and facilitated their Visayas as it features a wide selection selling and negotiation activities. (DTIof quality and innovative locally-made Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del artisanal products that incorporates Norte) indigenous materials and designs, plus

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

ASEAN

LOPEZ TALKS INVESMENT PROSPECT WITH UK-ASEAN BIZMEN By Kris Crismundo technology in the country. The agency has also rolled out policy to promote social enterprise models, such as the inclusive business (IB) model. DTI’s investment promotion agency, the Board of Investments (BOI), provides incentives to business operations using the IB model.

MANILA – Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said he met with members of the United Kingdom - Association of Southeast Asian Nations (UK-ASEAN) Business Council (UKABC) to discuss investment opportunities in the Philippines, during a roadshow in London this week.

Lopez also assured members of the UKABC government’s commitment to a hassle-free business environment through the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 or the EODB law. The law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations is expected to be released by next month.

The roundtable discussion, where he was joined by Philippine Ambassador to UK Antonio Lagdameo and British Ambassador to the Philippines Daniel Pruce, was the trade chief’s last stop for the roadshow.

Meanwhile, prior to the roadshow to London, Lopez said the Philippines and UK are seeking to forge a bilateral trade agreement in preparation for “Brexit” or UK’s exit from the European Union (EU) by March 2019.

In a text message received by reporters on Friday, Lopez said he discussed investments in new technology solutions, social enterprise models, sustainable projects, financial technology, and financial inclusion to the UKABC.

It is feared that Philippine exporters might lose the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) benefits when exporting to UK once Brexit takes place next year. Under the GSP+, 6,274 goods enter the EU market with zero duty.

Data showed that the Philippines The DTI has been pushing for exported some 6.6 billion euros worth of innovation-driven industries, thus goods to EU countries in 2016. (PNA) needing more investments in new 22

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

MINDANAO news

MAYOR SARA TO CONTINUE SERVING DAVAO CITY DESPITE GOOD SURVEY RATINGS By Lilian Mellejor and confidence. I think our fellow Filipinos are interested in the work that my administration, both now and in 2010, has done in Davao City. If the Dabawenyos will re-elect me, I would like to continue working for Davao City as mayor,” Sara said in a statement on Sunday.

Photo Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

DAVAO CITY -- Mayor Sara Duterte has expressed gratitude to Filipinos for choosing her as one of the top senatorial bets for the 2019 mid-term polls in the latest survey released on Saturday by Pulse Asia.

In past senatorial surveys of Pulse Asia and the Social Weather Stations, Sara also landed in the top 10. In a survey conducted August 31 among 184 members of the Partido ng Demokratikong Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), Sara tied with Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go in second place.

In the survey conducted among 1,800 registered voters, Mayor Sara was Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel in the fifth spot of the 17 senatorial bets III topped the senatorial slate in the said with 39.5 voter preference. survey. She followed incumbent Senators Grace Poe in the top spot, Cynthia Villar, Pia Cayetano, and Nancy Binay. Trailing the mayor were Senators Sonny Angara and Jinggoy Estrada, Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos, Senators Koko Pimentel and Lito Lapid.

Sara, along with Governors Anthony del Rosario of Davao del Norte, Nelson Dayanghirang of Davao Oriental, Claude Bautista of Davao Occidental and Jayvee Tyron Uy of Compostela Valley, are leading the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod, a regional party created to push the Sara, however, said she would like region’s development as one Davao. to continue working for Davao City as mayor. HNP has already forged an alliance with other local parties in “I am overwhelmed by the trust Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. (PNA) Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

MINDANAO news GENSAN SUSTAINS HEIGHTENED SECURITY ALERT STATUS GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Authorities maintained the heightened alert status here in the wake of the continuing security threats following the Sept. 16 bomb blast that left eight people wounded.

The police official said they are set to meet anew with the city’s 26 barangay chairs to set other necessary arrangements in line with its ongoing implementation. Bayona cited concerns of business establishments, including tuna canning plants, operating on a 24-hour basis and employees who are assigned in work shifts within the curfew hours.

Chief Insp. Jovenson Bayona, operations chief of the city police office, said Wednesday the entire area remains under “Alert Level 4” as earlier set by the city’s crisis management committee. “We will discuss and set measures to ensure that the operations of these Bayona said the committee and establishments and the movements of the city’s peace and order council, their workers will not be hampered,” he headed by Mayor Ronnel Rivera, said. decided to continue with the alert status and the enhanced security measures Meanwhile, Bayona said following an assessment on Tuesday. they will also continue with the strict implementation of the “No ID “We’re currently working (identification card), No entry” policy in with our barangays to improve the four main entry points of the city. the implementation of the security measures,” he said in an interview over He said motorists and commuters local television show “Magandang are required to present governmentUmaga South Central Mindanao”. issued IDs at the checkpoints of the city police and the Army-led Joint Task Bayona cited the city-wide Force GenSan. curfew, which was first implemented Wednesday last week. Those who would not be able to present any valid ID will be subjected to The curfew, which covers all questioning and sign the checkpoint’s residents and visitors, was set from 12 logbook, he said. midnight to 4 a.m. in the city’s central business district and 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. in “This is to properly monitor all other areas. individuals who are entering the city,” he added. (PNA) 24

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

NATIONAL news

PALACE EXPECTED SLOWDOWN IN PH ECONOMIC GROWTH FORCAST By Azer Parrocha

MANILA -- The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) lower economic growth forecast for the Philippines is “expected” due to the closure of top tourist destination Boracay Island last April 26 and the implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, Malacañang said on Wednesday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after the Manila-based multilateral institution said it expects the Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) to grow 6.4 percent in 2018, before picking up to 6.7 percent in 2019.

2018,” Roque said in a press statement. These figures are below the Duterte administration’s annual growth target of 7 to 8 percent. ADB’s earlier growth forecast is 6.8 percent this year and 6.9 percent next year. “We expected this slowdown visà-vis our growth target for the year, given that certain policy decisions, such as the closure of Boracay and the full implementation of our comprehensive tax reform package which would benefit the country in the long-run, contributed to the deceleration,” Roque said.

“We take note of the Asian He, however, assured the public that Development Bank (ADB)’s 6.4 percent government has put in place nine Philippine economic growth outlook for measures seen to address inflation and Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

NATIONAL news other supply issues.

These measures include the release of some 4.6 million bags of rice from the warehouses of the National Food Authority (NFA) to retailers and the establishment of an inter-agency surveillance and monitoring team that will ensure that rice from the ports are directly delivered to the NFA warehouses and retailers. Other measures are the reduction of gap between farm gate prices and retail prices of chicken; the opening by the Sugar Regulatory Administration of sugar importation to direct users to moderate costs for consumers; and for the Bureau of Customs to prioritize the release of essential food items at the ports.

The

implementation

these

measures is expected to bring down inflation rate by about 2.4 percent. “We assure the public that our macroeconomic fundamentals are resilient, strong and stable. Per ADB’s updated outlook, the Philippines’ growth remains the second highest in Southeast Asia,” Roque said. “Our economic managers are committed to the country’s longterm vision and are swiftly addressing issues affecting our growth prospects to sustain high growth and make it inclusive,” he added. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III earlier said despite challenges such as inflation and account deficit, the Philippine economy remains strong. (PNA)

ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY TO SURVIVE TAX REFORMS By Kris Crismundo MANILA -- The local electronics industry can survive the scrapping of certain tax perks such as the 5-percent gross income earned (GIE), but radically revamping the Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s (PEZA) processes may prove even more worrisome.

operations.

“The current government wants to improve infrastructure and they have the Build Build Build Program. Then if it becomes successful, then the Philippines becomes a better place to locate, and the offset maybe some lost Maxim Integrated Vice President of incentives” said Cohen. for Asia Factory Operations Richard Cohen said Tuesday that the company “I think it’s part of the total package, will work on whatever will be the final so you have to look at the big picture version of the second package of the and it is certainly part of it. But there are Comprehensive Tax Reform Program other things -- infrastructure, availability (CTRP-2), noting that the policy of labor -- they make your decision would not result in any slowdown in its where you locate as a company,” he 26

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

NATIONAL news added. He noted that the biggest benefit derived from locating inside PEZA zones is the ease of doing business as the investment promotion agency provides a one-stop-shop service for its locators. The executive mentioned that with this PEZA service, companies need not undergo the hassle of dealing with different local government units to secure permits.

applied for PEZA locators,” added Cohen. Under the current tax regime, PEZA locators enjoy 5-percent special tax on gross income in lieu of all national and local taxes, except for value-added tax and real property tax.

Locators pay the 5 percent tax to PEZA, which in turn, remits the collections to the national coffers and local government units (LGUs) -- 3 percent Rules in PEZA are also consistent. is remitted to the national government while 2 percent is set aside for LGUs. “That would be something undesirable (PNA) for us to remove that service that is Photo Courtesy of SPI Lasers

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

For more info. contact: Tel. No.: (085) 225-9219 / 300-0722 Cell Nos. 0908-875-9185 / 0917-580-2609 / 0925-556-2417 Email: inkboxinnovation@gmail.com

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 815 - 1991; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: Philippine Information Agency Caraga Twitter: @PIACaraga

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists

JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE RONNIE E. MADANGUIT Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

MIKE ARIEL P. PLAZA AIMEE B. SIENES KRIS CRISMUNDO LILIAN MELLEJOR AZER PAROCHA SSS DSWD CARAGA DTI-SURIGAO DEL NORTE LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI-AGUSAN DEL NORTE PNA Business Managers

ZARINA O. LASTRA REGAL C. ORIBIA Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur Cellphone no. 0917-723-3455 E-mail: pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Agusan del Sur Twitter: @AgSurPIA

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City Telephone no. (086) 826-9450 E-mail: piasurigao@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands Twitter: @PIASurigaoNorte

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City Telephone no. (086) 211-3353 E-mail: piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Surigao del Sur Twitter: @piasurigaosur

Caraga Infocus • September 22 - 28, 2018 • Volume II, No. 77