Caraga Infocus - September 1 - 7, 2018 by Caraga InFocus

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

Contents

An Electronic News Magazine of Philippine Information Agency Caraga

Volume II, No. 74

1 - 7 August, 2018

PIA, NCCA share Kalinaw Kultura project to Caraganons

SSS News: SSS allocates P10-B DOE News: DOE to Launch New Petroleum Contracting as initial fund for pensioners’ Program loan

ASEAN News: Planned ASEAN meeting eyes featuring Boracay rehabilitation

Regional News 8

PCW joins RGADC Caraga in 7th General Assembly

PCW signs partnership agreement with RDC-RGADC Caraga

Provincial News

SB Corp approves women coop application in AgSur townassessment

AgSur media commit to advocate SSS programs, services

SSS Butuan City intensiﬁes advocacy campaign

DAR turns over farm tools to agrarian orgs in Agusan Norte

AgNor SP approves creation of dangerous drugs admin board

PIA chief calls for responsible use of social media

Surigao City to commemorate 48th Charter Day anniv

DICT launches Tech4ED center in San Jose town

House to deliberate PCOO P1.474-B budget for 2019 on Sept. 18

Mindanao News

15 ‘disgruntled’ NPA members yield in Sultan Kudarat

Zamboanga hospital inaugurates P90-M emergency care center

National News

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

News Briefs

• Based on the status of project implementation of CHED Caraga, the Virtual Learning Facility of the Caraga State University Main Campus in Butuan City was already launched. The facility provides a physical space surrounded with visual presentation of learning onjects stored in the cloud; it mimics the physical orientation of a bookshelves but the learning materials are stored digitally; it has software application for learning materials management and rendering; smart room with smart devices (gadgets) & display using augmented reality interfaces; & bring the shelves into the learners.

• During the Regional Science and Technology Week (#RSTW) celebration in Caraga region, various projects in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur will be visited. Projects to be visited include the Eel Farm in Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte; Hillsview and VPO Enterprises in the municipalities of Trento and Rosario in the province of Agusan del Sur.

• The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Negosyo Center (NC)-Bunawan, conducted a consumer advocacy seminar (CAS) to 42 beneﬁciaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) held recently in barangay San Andres, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. The activity was conducted in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Jardynne Narvasa, Trade and Industry Development Specialist of the DTI Consumer Protection Unit (CPU) discussed the consumers’ rights and responsibilities.

• In line with the 409th Anniversary & 396th Patronal Fiesta of Tandag City, the City Police Station here successfully conducted the “Bomb Awareness Seminar” at Barangay Dagocdoc Covered Court, Tandag City participated by representatives from the different stakeholders.

• The Provincial Population Ofﬁce of Dinagat Islands in partnership with Department of Health, POPCOM-Caraga, and Municipality of Libjo conducted the POPCOM Caravan held at the Lamberto A. Llamera Sr. (LALS) Sports and Cultural Center, Libjo, Dinagat Islands. The said POPCOM Caravan is a one-top-shop free information and services for Filipino Families towards “Matatag, Maginhawa at Planadong Pamilyang Pilipino.” The activity was highlighted with the signing of AHD (Adolescent Health Dev’t) Partnership Agreement and Launching of the PPMP (Phil. Population Management Program Directional Plan) Program.

• The NFA Surigao del Norte and GRECON conducted a joint activity dubbed “Tagpuan Day” held recently at Brgy. Quezon, Surigao City. The purpose of the said tagpuan is to make available NFA rice at P27/kg to the public especially the marginalized sector. (NFA-SDN)

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

Cover Story

PIA, NCCA s

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – strengthening culture Information Agency (PI

Undersecretary Harold C Caraga will showcase an about the island.

“So we are here to gi but in wherever we are sinc awareness advocacy not o generation to get involve an

Anne Cabrera, informa of Filipino people and continu traditions we have right now w

Also, as revealed by PIA C communicators network was alre

“They played a crucial role Benjie Felipe, director for Strate a mindset among all cultural g for others to appreciate more

Meanwhile, Evangeline Peñ strongly supports the welfare not only to address their n communities. (JPG/VLG/PI

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

share Kalinaw Kultura project to Caraganons

To provide Caraganons a better understanding on the government’s project on and arts, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and Philippine IA), launched recently the Kalinaw Kultura project at the Robinsons Place here.

Clavite, PIA director-general, underscored that the launching of Kalinaw Kultura in nd strengthen Mindanao’s culture especially that many are keeping a misconception

ive testament of its beautiful cultural heritage. Our campaign will not just end here ce the activities are done in ﬁve key cities in Mindanao. This is just a beginning of our only for Mindanaoans but for all our fellow Filipinos. We likewise encourage the young nd so today we will be highlight their great talents,” Clavite said.

ation ofﬁcer from the NCCA, reiterated that the Commission gives value to the culture ues to strengthen and mold it especially to the young ones that these rich culture and would remain until the next generations to come.

Caraga regional director Abner Caga, the ﬁrst lumad/indigenounous peoples (IP) eady organized in the region.

e in the access of information down to the grassroots level,” he said. egic Communications of PIA, also bared that the Kalinaw Kultura has the goal to keep groups to take pride and embrace their own traditions, heritage and customs in order e their cultural practices and give respect as well.

ña-Dominise, city tourism ofﬁcer of Butuan City, emphasized that the city government e of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and continuously reaching out to them in the grassroots, needs and other concerns, but also to strengthen their culture in their respective IP IA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

sss News

SSS allocates P10-B as initial fund for pensioners’ loan By Joann Villanueva

maipadama namin na ang SSS ay talagang kaagapay ng mga pensionado sa panahon ng kanilang pangagailangan (We accepted the request and the Commission approved it to let the SSS pensioners feel that we are here for them especially in times of needs,” he said. Payable in three, six, or 12 months, Dooc said the loans have an interest rate of 10 percent, which, he said, is already low compared to others being offered in the market. Citing results of their survey, the SSS chief said interest rates charged by other creditors may be as much as 48 percent due to hidden charges.

While monthly the interest rate of MANILA -- The Social Security System (SSS) has allocated PHP10 billion as initial budget loans being offered in the market is around for its Pension Loan Program (PLP), which 2.5 percent while theirs is only around 0.83 can be availed of by about 1.5 million percent, he said. retirees, initially at 20 branches nationwide Dooc also said PLP loans have starting September 3, 2018. insurance coverage, which, he said, is The minimum loan amount is twice what is needed by the pensioners. the pensioner’s basic monthly pension The insurance will be given to the plus the additional PHP1,000 benefit, while maximum amount is six times the monthly family if the pensioner dies while the loan is pension plus the additional PHP1,000 still in effect, he said, explaining the amount to be paid will be the same as the loan’s benefit but not exceeding PHP32,000. amount even if only partial payment has SSS President and Chief Executive been made. Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc, in an interview He hopes that pensioners will use the at the sidelines of the PLP launch, which is part of the agency’s 61st founding loans’ proceeds prudently and not rely on anniversary, said they are willing to usurious loans to fund their needs. increase the loan’s budget to as much as “What we are offering is a better PHP30 billion depending on the take-up. deal for our pensioners -- lower interest, He disclosed that the loan pro gram was in response to the “clamor” of more secured, affordable repayments, insurance cover -- all the advantages senior citizens who are SSS pensioners. that they cannot find outside SSS,” he “Ito ay aming tinanggap, added. (PNA) inaprubahan ng Commission upang

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

Regional News

PCW joins RGADC Caraga in 7th General Assembly By Jennifer P. Gaitano

you in your regional activities on GAD. We look forward for a more productive GAD focal persons in Caraga and intensify our campaign towards gender mainstreaming,” said Gutierrez.

Gutierrez further bared that under the work plan with the RDC-RGADC Caraga, the following activities will be conducted namely Regional GAD Budget Fora, Strategic Planning, Training of Technical Advisers on GAD/ Deepening session on GAD analysis tools for TAG members, 2nd BUTUAN CITY, (PIA) – The Philippine Caraga GAD focal point system assembly, Commission on Women (PCW) has and conferring of GADtimpala Awards. joined the members of the Regional Also, lawyer Jerefe TubigonDevelopment Council – Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) Bacang, regional director of the Caraga in their 7th General Assembly held Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and chairperson of RGADC-Caraga, cited the on Thursday at the Oazis Hotel, this city. accomplishments of the committee in Cecile Gutierrez, deputy executive partnership with PCW for the previous year, director for management services of which include the conduct of leveling PCW and Nharleen Santos-Millar, chief session on basic GAD concepts; GAD GAD specialist of PCW participated in the planning and budgeting, and conduct general assembly and shared their updates of training for technical advisers on GAD (TAGs), wherein eight members/GAD focal on GAD-related activities nationwide. persons from the region were identiﬁed and In her message, Gutierrez highlighted certiﬁed during the 7th general assembly. the active and continued participation “We are very happy and blessed that of RGADC members on GAD-related the PCW has always been there to assist advocacy and activities in the region. us in our regional activities and we expect She also emphasized that the that with our strengthened partnership, RGADC in Caraga has great potentials we will have more activities together and in promoting gender mainstreaming of be able to equip more GAD focal persons programs, linkages, and partnership as it in our region,” said Bacang. has great number of GAD advocates from In line with the National Action Plan various sectors. on Women, Peace and Security (NAPWPS) “The PCW will continue to assist localization process in Caraga region by

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the Ofﬁce of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), lawyer Bacang also announced that some members of the committee will be joining with OPAPP in the conduct of provincial consultations in the following schedules: Aug. 23-24, 2018

Regional News

- Surigao del Sur (alternate date: Aug. 2829); Aug. 30-31 - Agusan del Sur; Sept. 3-4 - Province of Dinagat Islands; Sept. 6-7 Surigao del Norte; and Sept. 26-27 Agusan del Norte and Butuan City (alternate date: Sept. 24-25, 2018). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PCW signs partnership agreement with RDC-RGADC Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, (PIA) – The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) signed a partnership agreement with the Regional Gender and Development Committee on Thursday at the Oazis Hotel, this city in time with the 7th General Assembly of the Regional Development Council –RGADC Caraga. “This agreement signing is a renewal of our partnership with RGADC Caraga and we will continue to share resources and expertise in sustaining gender mainstreaming in Caraga region,” said Cecile Gutierrez, PCW deputy executive director for management services.

together with RGADC Caraga chairperson and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) regional director lawyer Jerefe TubigonBacang and vice-chair Concepcion Asis signed the Partnership Agreement witnessed by the GAD focal persons from government agencies and private sector.

Gutierrez reiterated that the PCW as The PCW thru Gutierrez and Nharleen Santos-Millar, chief GAD specialist, the national machinery for gender equality

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Regional News

and women’s empowerment is mandated to capacitate all national government agencies and local government units to effectively implement Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) and further their efforts towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.

success of the different activities that we will be conducting together with PCW,” she said.

Along with the partnership agreement signing was the ceremonial certification of the eight identified Technical Advisers on GAD (TAGs) in Caraga from government Based on the agreement, among agencies. the roles and functions of RGADC include the following: orchestrate mainstreaming The PCW also hurled the challenge to of GAD in various development initiatives the eight identified TAGs to continue their of the region; sustain its capacity advocacy efforts and be able to equip development programs to strengthen others by the knowledge they would share its capability towards providing GAD- with the different sectors. related technical assistance (TA) to local government units, state universities and Meanwhile, Nharleen Santos-Millar, colleges and regional line agencies in chief GAD specialist of the Philippine the region with guidance and support Commission on Women (PCW) cited that from PCW and the PCW certified National the 2nd RGADC Summit (nationwide) is GAD Resource Pool; and utilize/mobilize scheduled on Sept. 25-26, 2018 in Manila. available expertise, facilities and other She also encouraged GAD focal persons resources that can support GAD programs in Caraga to attend said activity. (JPG/ and projects, as well as the implementation PIA-Caraga) of the MCW and other GAD-related policies. For PCW, they shall assist RGADC Caraga in organizing and providing GADrelated technical assistance in the region and in developing GAD training designs and modules to be used during provision of GAD-related TAs within the region and support the RGADC Caraga by linking it to the appropriate institutons/organizations to access additional resources/programs or projects on GAD in the region, among others. Also, Bacang expressed her thanks for the unending support of the PCW and their efforts in capacitating the RGADC members. “We will always look forward on the

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

DOE News

DOE to Launch New Petroleum Contracting Program The Department of Energy (DOE) is set to launch the Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program (PCECP) towards the beginning of November, as part of its efforts to aggressively pursue initiatives that will ensure the provision of affordable, reliable, modern, and sustainable energy and meet the growing energy demand of the country. “For an energy-secure future, thet DOE is committed to pursue energy independence and sustainability through effective and reasonable development of all indigenous energy resources in the Philippines,” Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said. Sec. Cusi added that the increase in global exploration and development activities is a measure to cushion the transport and power sectors against the

volatility of world market oil prices. The PCECP is a new and transparent petroleum service contract awarding mechanism that allows the government to develop and utilize indigenous petroleum resources under a service contract with qualiﬁed local and international exploration companies. Under the PCECP, awarding of service contracts are conducted either through the competitive selection process or via nomination. The PCECP local road shows are scheduled to be held in Palawan on 20 September, Davao on 27 September and Zamboanga in October 2018. Compared to its predecessor, the Philippine Energy Contracting Round, the PCECP would allow prospective contractors to nominate areas other than the 14 pre-determined areas (PDAs). The

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

DOE News

According to ASec. Lascano, there is PDAs include one area in the Cagayan Basin, three in Eastern Palawan, three considerably good investor interest in the in Sulu, two in Agusan-Davao, one in Philippines as indicated by the meeting turnout and the expression of interest Cotabato, and four in Western Luzon. from the companies to nominate their Interested parties must comply prospective areas of interest. with the legal, ﬁnancial and technical The Delegation was also given the requirements, which include the proposed work program and economic opportunity to present an overview of the development of the contract area. All PCECP during the SEAPEX Conference accepted applications shall be evaluated which was attended by major oil and gas by the DOE Centralized Review and professionals and investors operating in Evaluation Committee based on the the region. criteria, pursuant to Department Circular There are currently 22 active No. DC2017-12-0017. petroleum service contracts in the To promote the PCECP, the DOE Philippines. Some of the DOE’s operatorinclude Shell Philippines successfully kicked off an international partners road show on 31 August in Singapore, Exploration, Total E&P, PNOC-EC, Nido which coincided with the Asia-Paciﬁc Petroleum, Philodrill, PXP Energy and Scout Check Meeting and the South East Galoc Production Company. Asia Petroleum Exploration Conference The Philippines is also home to the (SEAPEX). The DOE Delegation, led by Assistant Secretary Caron Aicitel E. Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Lascano, held one-on-one meetings with Project, the largest and most successful natural gas industrial project in the 18 petroleum exploration companies. country’s history.

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

Photo Gallery

2018 Regional Science and Technology Week Opening Ceremony Robinsons Place Butuan, Butuan City 5 September 2018

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

provincial News

Agusan del sur

SB Corp approves women coop application in AgSur town

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur The Zillovia Women’s Multi Purpose Cooperative (ZWMPC) in Zillovia, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur is now a conduit of Small Business (SB) Corporation for Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) program under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The cooperative received the ﬁrst tranche last August 13, which will be released to its target borrowers. Sonia Chua, Chairman of ZWMPC, received the amount of Php2 million through Rene Villagantol of SB

Corporation. The said coopperative welcomes loan applicants who are based in San Luis and Zillovia and will include those from Talacogon proper. P3 is a ﬁnancing program that aims to counter the 5-6 money lending scheme. Under the program,the interest that the borrowers would have to pay is just 2.5 percent every month far from the 20 percent interest daily or weekly in the 5-6 money lending scheme. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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provincial News

Agusan del sur

AgSur media commit to advocate SSS programs, services By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Natin in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur and the president of Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Agusan del Sur-Surigao del Sur Chapter also welcomed the SSS personnel in the area and said they would be giving a timeslot for the group to discuss the same.

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) – Several media partners in this province have recently expressed their commitment to support and advocate the programs and services of the Social Security System (SSS).

“Many of our locals here still do not know much about SSS and its programs and services, while others have still misconceptions about said ofﬁce, that’s why we better give them enlightenment with the right information about SSS and the beneﬁts it offers to the members,” she said.

Also, Jhong Boston, manager of Sky Radio FM in San Francisco, underlined that there is a need to increase awareness of the people’s knowledge on SSS and how it will help them through their monthly contribution. “It is our responsibility to give them better understanding and keep “The SSS personnel in San Francisco them updated on relevant information,” branch and even from other branches in he said. the region could join us in the discussion Meanwhile, Wilfred Pitogo, manager on the SSS programs and services so more people will know especially with the of City FM in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur different benefits that they could get from elaborated that the SSS personnel should have a regular radio program, so people SSS,” he said. will be updated on the programs and Plaza added that since the services of SSS and be able to understand provincial government has a radio station, better how it would help them especially the SSS might as well take the opportunity in times of eventualities/emergencies. to partner with dxDA Radyo Agusan and The Social Security System is a use it as their medium in disseminating updates and other relevant information of state-run social insurance program in the Philippines to workers in the private, SSS to their member-beneficiaries. professional, and informal sectors. (JPG/ Jemaima Tepan, manager of Radyo PIA-Agusan del Sur) Alfredo Plaza, Jr., Provincial Public Information Officer (PPIO) and manager of dxDA Radyo Agusan in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur said he is willing to give a timeslot for the SSS to intensify awareness of the programs and benefits for its members.

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provincial News

Agusan del norte

SSS Butuan City intensiﬁes advocacy campaign

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY – The Social Security System (SSS) in Butuan City is intensifying its advocacy campaign by reaching members and possible clients from the different municipalities of Agusan del Norte. During their recent visits to the different Kiss FM stations located in the towns of Nasipit and Kitcharao, and Cabadbaran City in the province of Agusan del Norte, branch head Antonio Fabia reminded SSS members with multiple Social Security (SS) numbers to visit their ofﬁce to avoid future problems especially during retirement, claiming of beneﬁts and inquiries.

for cancellation of multiple SS numbers in any SSS branch. Once confirmed, SSS will consolidate all the records, including contribution in one SS number. In order to avoid discrepancy in SSS records, Fabia encouraged members to make sure that all records submitted to the agency are correct and are based on the Philippine Statistics Authority or Local Civil Registrar’s copies of birth certificate, baptismal certificate, passport and driver’s license.

Also, SSS Butuan Account Management Section team heads Fabia said, in case of multiple SS Jessejev Tenecio and Carlos ‘Paul’ numbers, the member will submit a request Flaviano discussed what should an

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provincial News

Agusan del norte

Flaviano further said that 428 employee do if their SSS employer failed to remit their loan payments. members who availed the program have already paid their overdue loans in full. During the discussion, they advised “Around 466 members availed the one members to report immediately to the SSS branch and issue an affidavit or year installment program; 390 availed the “Sinumpaang Salaysay” for the formal two-year installment plan; 168 for the three filing of complaint against their employer. year plan; 38 for four years; and 44 availed Based on Republic Act 8282, employers the five-year installment plan,” he said. will pay PhP5,000 to PhP20,000 with six and Flaviano said they are targeting a ½ to 12 years of jail imprisonment if they fail to remit their employees’ contributions. total of PhP20,634,000 that will be collected from the member-borrowers who availed Meanwhile, Flaviano said that as of the program within the five-year period. July 20, 2018, a total of 1,534 members/ The intensified campaign of SSS borrowers have availed of the Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) of the agency. is in partnership with the Philippine Agency (PIA) Caraga. Flaviano said that a total of PhP17,338,000 Information del Norte) has been condoned because of the LRP. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan

DAR turns over farm tools to agrarian orgs in Agusan Norte By: Gil E. Miranda

TUBAY, Agusan del Norte -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte recently turned over farm implements worth Php225,000 to two Agrarian Reform Beneﬁciaries Organizations (ARBOs) to boost their productivity.

Development (DSWD).

DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Ofﬁcer II Andre B. Atega said the tools, composed of a farm cultivator and Power Sprayer, are substantial support for ARBO’s AgriEnterprise Development (AED) activities The Partnership Against Hunger and improves their productivity and and Poverty (PAHP) program, which increase income. was launched on June 6, 2018, adopts “The implements will be eventually a convergence approach among DAR, Local Government Unit (LGU) of turned over to the ARBOs as stipulated Tubay, and ARBOs to mitigate hunger in the Memorandum of Agreement and food self-sufﬁciency through (MOA) between DAR and the ARBOs. It Sustainable Livelihood Program (LSP) of is expected that these implements will the Department of Social Welfare and always be in tip-top condition to sustain 18

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provincial News

Agusan del norte

(DRCHVPA) as the lead proponent, ARBO chaired by Hector R. dela Atega further said that one of Cruz and Cabayawa Sala Farmers DAR’s responsibilities is to monitor the Association (CASAFA). usage to ensure other neighboring Dela Cruz promised to take farmers, ARB or non-ARB, can avail and responsibility by urging the ARBO make use of the tools. members to cooperate and innovate The equipment will benefit to at to propel their organization’s operations least 143 ARBs and non-ARB members resulting to increase farm yield. (DARof Dona Rosario Certificate of Land Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Ownership Certificate(CLOA) Holders Norte) and Vegetable Producers Association farmers livelihood,” Atega added.

AgNor SP approves creation of dangerous drugs admin board By: Justine Lumonsod

RTR, Agusan del Norte - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently approved the Municipal Ordinance No. 316-2018 creating the Dangerous Drugs Administrative Board (DDAB) in the Municipality of RTR, this province.

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provincial News

Agusan del norte The DDAB is tasked to receive complaints for the abatement of drug-related nuisances and has the power to declare and abate a place or premises a drug nuisance. The ordinance seeks to prevent drug addiction, maintenance of drug dens, drug pushing and such other activities which are inimical to the welfare and morals of the inhabitants of the municipality.

The municipal ordinance authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Carlos E. Martinez, is in accordance with Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as The Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002. The ordinance was approved by the SP throughSanggunian Resolution No. 210-2018 pushed by Board Member Dick Victor B. Carmona. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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provincial News

Surigao del norte

Surigao City to commemorate 48th Charter Day anniv

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, (PIA) -- The city government here will commemorate its 48th Charter Day Anniversary on Friday, August 31, in front of the city hall. This year’s celebration, with the theme, “An Surigaonon kuman: Madasigon, Malamboon, Mapasigarbohon,” (Surigaonon today: lively, thriving, proud), will kick-off with a “Diana” at 4:00 a.m, followed by a Thanksgiving Mass at 6:00 a.m. to be held at the City Cathedral. The formal opening program will commence at 8:00 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem to be led by the city chorale ensemble, followed by the raising of the Philippine Flag to be led by Surigao City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, Governor

Sol F. Matugas, Vice Mayor Alfonso S. Casurra, Vice Gov. Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, all City Councilors and Provincial Board Members. Department of the Interior and Local Government Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin B. Diño will be the guest of honor during the formal opening program. One of the highlights in the celebration will be the grand ﬂoat parade to be participated in by national line agencies, non-government organizations, and the private sector. Surigao was converted to a chartered city on August 31, 1970, through Republic Act No. 6134, with Pedro Espina as its ﬁrst city mayor. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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provincial News

Surigao del norte

DICT launches Tech4ED center in San Jose town

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands (PIA) -The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the Dinagat Islands Computer and Technology Ofﬁce (DICTO) and Don Jose Ecleo Memorial Foundation College of Science and Technology (DJEMFCST), recently launched the Tech4ED- Rural Impact Sourcing (RIS) Center and RIS Technical Training (RISTT) and RISTT Virtual Assistance Course held at the Provincial Guest Center, Brgy. Cuarinta, San Jose town.

The newly launched facilities and training courses were aimed to promote grassroots development and opportunities for inclusive growth and poverty reduction and to provide access points for individual communities to bridge the digital and education advantage. DICT Assistant Secretary Alan A. Silor, in his message, said the Tech4ED will give communities access to information, communication, technology, government

services, non-formal education, skills training, telehealth, job markets and business portals. “DICT Rural Impact Sourcing Program is intended to create meaningful ICT- enabled jobs in socio-economically disadvantaged areas in the country. It specifically focuses on areas where there is high population but low employment due to lack of investors,” said Asec. Silor. The launching was attended by Board Member Joslyn I. Ecleo, Board Member Nilo P. Demerey, DICT Acting Asst. Regional Director for Caraga and Region 10 Engr. Flordelis P. Cabaluna, DICT Surigao del Norte Officer-in-Charge Engr. Ricardo T. Bacolod, Jr., DICT Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur acting field team leader Engr. Lawrence P. Salang, RISTT trainer Mr. Ruben Licera, Jr, DJEMFCST Dean Dr. Pacita Orbeta, provincial employees and representatives from national line agencies. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIADinagat Islands)

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asian News

Planned ASEAN meeting eyes featuring Boracay rehabilitation By Catherine Teves

MANILA -The government’s rehabilitation of Boracay Island is being eyed as one of the cases to be presented in the planned ASEAN meeting on mainstreaming biodiversity in the tourism sector.

said.

“From that presentation, ASEAN member-nations may be able to identify and even replicate best practices applicable to respective tourist areas,” she said on Wednesday (Sept. 5) at The presentation will help the sidelines of the ASEAN Biodiversity ASEAN member-nations learn how Heroes Regional Forum’s second leg in the Philippines carried out Boracay’s Metro Manila. rehabilitation to prevent further environmental degradation of the She said environmental world-famous resort island, Dr. Theresa conservation across Southeast Asia Mundita Lim, Executive Director of should be done, noting that the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) biodiversity-rich region is increasingly 24

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asian News

facing danger from climate change, habitat destruction and other threats, which may eventually drive species extinction in Southeast Asia, where even tourism will suffer if this happens. “Biodiversity is among tourism’s attractions,” she noted, explaining need to mainstream or integrate conservation in tourism. Southeast Asia’s natural assets include the Coral Triangle which experts identiﬁed as center of the center of Earth’s marine biodiversity.

Even if such work is still in progress, however, the DENR has reported improved water quality and return of some species to Boracay.

At the forum, ACB highlighted the role of biodiversity -- the variety of all life on Earth -- as resource that “underpins good environmental health, food security, climate resilience and sustainable development and wellbeing of mankind.”

“What we want is to be able to share experiences on mainstreaming biodiversity in tourism,” she said, as she cited the case of neighboring Thailand which also closed and rehabilitated one of its beaches.

Lim said the target venue of the ASEAN meeting on mainstreaming biodiversity in the tourism sector is either Metro Manila or Cebu province. The Philippines will host the meeting in coordination with DENR, she noted.

Conservation advocates featured during the two-day ASEAN Biodiversity Heroes Regional Forum’s second leg ending Wednesday were Cambodia’s Sophea Chhin, Indonesia’s Alex Waisimon and the Philippines’ Dr. Angel Alcala.

Among conservation measures that experts identiﬁed, and which the tourism sector can implement, are the use of renewable energy to help lessen climate change-driving greenhouse gas emissions, restoration of habitats, patronization of environment-friendly products and educating the public They were among 10 conservation about biodiversity’s importance. advocates who received the ASEAN Biodiversity Heroes Award last year. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said In March 2018, Vietnam hosted water pollution, accumulation of waste the forum’s ﬁrst leg. The forum’s third and encroachment in forestland and leg has no venue yet but is scheduled easements are among environmental in the fourth quarter of 2018. Aside problems hounding Boracay Island. from promoting ASEAN Biodiversity Heroes’ conservation activities, the Boracay Island has been closed ACB said the forum aims to inspire for six months to rehabilitate it beginning public action for saving and protecting April 26 and will reopen on October 26. biodiversity. (PNA) Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

mindanao News

15 ‘disgruntled’ NPA members yield in Sultan Kudarat By Noel Punzalan

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – A total pistols, one .38 caliber pistol, and two of 15 members of the New People’s Army improvised explosive devices. (NPA) surrendered to authorities in Senator “The surrenderers are currently Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat on Friday. undergoing debrieﬁng at the battalion Capt. Arvin John Encinas, headquarters of 33IB at Barangay Tual in spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry President Quirino,” Encinas said Saturday. Division, said the rebels yielded to the He said the rebels decided to return Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB), 1st Mechanized IB; Marine Battalion Landing to the fold of the law because of the Team-2, and local police force in Sitio hardship they have experienced in hiding Kisaday, Barangay Kuden, Senator Ninoy at the mountainous area of Sultan Kudarat while evading government troops. Aquino at about 3 p.m. The surrenderers consisted of members of the Yunit Militia, Kilusang Rebolusyunaryong Barangay, and My Phone Platoon, all belonging to the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73 operating in the peripheries of Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and South Cotabato provinces.

“They also came to realize the false promises of their communist leaders,” Encinas added.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, welcomed the return of the new batch of rebels to mainstream society, saying The rebel returnees brought with they are eligible for the beneﬁts package the government’s Enhance them one M1 Garand, two Uzi machine under

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

mindanao News

Comprehensive Local Integration Program livelihood assistance. (E-CLIP) for surrendering insurgents. “We expect more NPAs to surrender Under the E-CLIP, the surrenderers due to the ongoing Army and police will receive an immediate assistance pursuit operations against them in the amounting to PHP15,000, ﬁrearm mountains of South Central Mindanao,” remuneration based on the type of Sobejana said. (PNA) surrendered ﬁrearms, and a PHP50,000

Zamboanga hospital inaugurates P90-M emergency care center By Teoﬁlo Garcia, Jr

ZAMBOANGA CITY -The governmentowned Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) on Saturday has inaugurated its PHP90 million Emergency and Critical Care Center (ECCC) to cater to trauma patients. Dr. Ahmed Khaayser Igasan, Emergency Room head, said the ECCC has a 36-bed capacity and has its own emergency, operating and observation rooms, computed tomography (CT) scan, ultrasound, laboratory, and X-ray.

The ECCC will also serve patients from the entire Zamboanga Peninsula, including those from Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi provinces, which are part of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), he added.

Igasan said the ECCC will also composed of four departments: Pediatrics, “Hopefully, all trauma cases can be Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Obstetric addressed with the new facility,” he said. and Gynecology. The ZCMC is a 500-bed capacity He said the establishment of the hospital that also serves as a training ECCC is part of the efforts of ZCMC to facility authorized by the Department of modernize its facilities and improve public Health (DOH). (PNA) services.

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

national News

PIA chief calls for responsible use of social media By Pamela Mariz Geminiano

BAGUIO CITY — With the emerging social He said providing the right information media literacy in the country, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director General will combat fake news circulating in any Harold Clavite is urging the public to ﬁrst social media platform. verify information before “sharing” it on “We can spot fake news by social media to avoid spreading false considering the source, checking the date, information. reading beyond content, making a quick “Responsible sharing of information search on the author, checking personal is not just an advocacy that starts with biases, verifying supporting sources, such the government, nor with whoever runs as the link, and consulting an expert,” he social media platforms. It starts with you,” said. Clavite said in a lecture at the National For Clavite, what people share on Literacy Conference and Awards here on their social media accounts reﬂects their Wednesday. personality. He described a responsible social He said verifying information media user as someone who “provides and shares only the right information to before sharing it is an exercise of responsibility. (PNA) empower people and communities.”

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

national News

House to deliberate PCOO P1.474-B budget for 2019 on Sept. 18

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

MANILA -- The House of Representatives’ appropriations committee on Thursday terminated the hearing on the proposed budget of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) for 2019. Rep. Eric L. Olivarez, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations, said the PCOO’s proposed 2019 budget will then be real score and present accurate numbers of deliberated at the House plenary session on the anti-drug drive; September 18. *Provincial Communication Officers Network The PCOO and its attached agencies are (PCO Net), a platform linking the national seeking a PHP1.474-billion budget for next government to the local government units; year, which reflects a 2.75 percent increase of PHP39.434 million, compared to this year’s *Dismiss Disinformation, a campaign thwarting budget of PHP1.435 billion. the spread of fake news and disinformation; During the budget hearing, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said PCOO, as the lead communications arm of the government, serves as a tool to inform, educate, and enlighten the citizenry about matters of national importance to “inspire the citizenry to deepen their civic engagement.” “PCOO’s mission is to serve as the primary vehicle for conscious-raising, constituencybuilding, and social mobilization to support the policies, programs, and projects of the Presidency,” Andanar said. He highlighted that the PCOO-proper has launched various communications programs including:

*and other programs such as Du30 on Duty and Cabinet Report sa Teleradyo, among others. Based on the proposed 2019 budget, the PCOO-proper will receive an allotment of PHP360.988 million; Bureau of Broadcast Services will receive PHP396.967 million; Bureau of Communications Services will receive PHP37.186 million; National Printing Ofﬁce will receive PHP11.499 million; News and Information Bureau will receive PHP124.677 million; Philippine Information Agency will receive PHP337.486 million; and Radio Television Malacanang will get PHP205.180 million.

Some four lawmakers interpellated PCOO’s *Dutertenomics, the economic and proposed budget, including Bayan Muna development blueprint of President Rodrigo Rep. Carlos Zarate, Catanduanes Rep. Duterte for the Philippines; Cesar Sarmiento, Senior Citizen Party-list Rep. Francisco Datol Jr., and 1-Ang Edukasyon *Real Numbers, a campaign providing the Party-list Rep. Salvador Belaro. (PNA)

Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

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Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

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Caraga Infocus • September 1-7, 2018 • Volume II, No. 74