18 -24 February 2017
REGIONAL NEWS
9
Pag-IBIG Fund promotes saving programs for employees
9
10
43 students sign scholarship with DOST Caraga
12
5th SLP Congress highlights success stories
Volume 1, No. 47
HEALTH NEWS
PROVINCIAL NEWS
17
DOLE releases P2.5M livelihood projects to SurSur town
27
Safe food and water help prevent diarrhea, related illnesses
27
17
18 19 20
COVER
His version of an ideal father
contents
21 22 23
Bislig gets P500K for disaster risk assessment project AgNor SP seeks general income reclassification of all LGUs DFA Butuan implements online appointment system for passport applicants
MINDANAO NEWS
29
20 29
AgNor supports farmers’ group
DTI reminds repair shop owners to apply for shop accreditation, renewal DTI Surigao Norte launches OPMS
NATIONAL NEWS
31
23
24 25
Science Explorer sails to Mindanao
Surigao Norte holds 1st LGBT Summit DENR sec visits Dinagat Islands
33
ADB’s billion dollar loans, assistance, vital to eradicate poverty: Duterte
31 Dismissal awaits government workers violating work hours, says CSC
News Briefs In a bid to attract more investments into the country, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the accelerated development of regional economic zones or ecozones with the assurance of a reliable and reasonably-priced supply of electricity.
As the Philippine Health (PhilHealth) Insurance Corporation is celebrating its 22nd year anniversary, the agency is also promoting its latest products and services for 2017. About 24,000 members and pensioners of the Social Security System (SSS) here may soon avail themselves of three different types of calamity relief assistance after a 6.7-magnitude earthquake hit the city last Feb 10.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office here hinted that “cash card pawning� was quite rampant among beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Surigao del Sur.
Cover Story
His version of an ideal father By: Ryan Malbas Tapayan
T
he pursuit of better living for Panonte family has never been easy yet it has brought inspiration to others who also face various difficulties in life. This is the story of Caraga’s Modelong Ama - Dimaarig A. Panonte. His commendable hardships to provide for his family amidst hindrances and his excellent leadership as catalyst of change in his community regard him as an exemplar in this modern society.
4
Happily married to Jamila, he is blessed with 11 children namely; Jamila, Jalal, Jamina, Jhasmine, Jalani, Junaid, Jamiya, Jamaica, Joharie, Janjan, and Janina. Their family is residing in Bislig City.
A glimpse of his practical roles
Guided by the teachings of Islam, Dima-arig and his family is living harmoniously in a Christian-dominated area at Abarca Street, Saint Paul District, Barangay Mangagoy.
Practically, to raise 11 children with different needs is difficult. Nonetheless, he manages to provide the basic needs of his family. He ensures that all his children go to
Cover Story
school and they are well provided with clothing, food and the like. Despite his busy role being a provider, he is actively involved in various fora and symposia that significantly honed him in fostering empowerment among others.
in Elementary Education in Caraga State University, Butuan City. Jamima, 20, a CHED scholar, is also a third year college student who also helps in paying her own tuition fee through selling viand, snacks and candies in the Arabic school. Jalani, a grade 11 student, is a scholar of the city mayor Dima-arig works as a building who maximizes his time by resorting to guard in Bislig City and earns P5,200 every part-time work during his free time in month. His good wife, Jalila, an active food stores in Mangagoy.  parent leader of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, also works part-time An advocate of Gender and in a Madrasah (Arabic school) during Development (GAD) weekends and earns P2,000 a month. Such wage could still not suffice their As head of the family, he ensures basic needs considering their number. that male and female members should be provided with equal For additional income, they opportunities to improve themselves. have put up a stall selling ready-to- This is in contrast to the tradition of wear (RTW) products such as socks, other Muslim families/communities that handkerchief, clothes, school bags, women are not allowed to be part of sunglasses and etc. with an estimated any community and development income of P300 a day. activities, and in worst cases even deprived of basic formal education. An inspiration of his hardwork He serves as an advocate of gender and development. All the hardwork of Dima-arig has paid off as his children are all doing This manifests his active good in their studies. Fortunately, his involvement in gender-empowering eldest daughter Jamila, 24, who used organizations in the locale. He to be a scholar of LGU-Bislig, was given currently serves as president of Anak a job order position after graduation ng Bislig Group, President of SPMUDAand later on with a regular position as Southern Philippines Muslim Unity for Day Care Worker in November 2016. Development Association, Member of BCPC- Barangay Council for the Jalal, 21, a third year college Protection of Children, Volunteer student, is also one of the ESGP-PA of the Special Anti-Smoking Task grantees, taking up Bachelor of Arts Force, and District President of ERPAT-
5
Cover Story
committee member during 41st Nutrition Month Celebration in Bislig City, participation in the 2-Day SeminarWorkshop on Standard Chart of Accounts and C.O.O.P P.E.S.O.S, Good Cooperative Governance Seminar, and Parenting Enhancement for Parents of Anak ng Bislig. His hopes
Despite
their
Empowerment and Reaffirmation of patriarchal background of practices, Paternal Abilities in Bislig City. traditions and beliefs, Dima-arig serves a model to his family through living He attended and participated in peacefully with others by respecting different trainings/workshops and other other cultures and traditions. This various activities like Farmer’s Congress orientation does not hinder him to and National and Local Policies on become a good community member, Organic Agriculture, Katarungang rather, he becomes a true inspiration Pambarangay Orientation, Community to others in the pursuit of peace Based Disater Risk Reduction and and camaraderie amidst cultural Management Workshop, Seminar sa differences. Pagpalig-on Sa Kristohanong Kaminyoon Ug Responsabling Moreover, his life and his dreams Pagkaginikanan (Seminar on inspire us that perseverance, dedication Strengthening Marriage and and love to everything we do can Responsible Parenthood), Service bring an extraordinary leadership that Training Program on Speech sets a total difference. And this is DimaDevelopment and English as a Second arig’s definition of an ideal father. Language, active involvement in (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Family Development Session (FDS), Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
6
Photo Gallery Philippine National Police Caraga 3-Day Basic Journalism Training
Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City 21-23 February 2017
7
8
REGIONAL NEWS
Pag-IBIG Fund promotes saving programs for employees
By: Regal C. Oribia
BUTUAN CITY – The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), more popularly known as Pag-IBIG Fund intends to promote further its savings programs to help all the government and private employees achieve financial independence during retirement. Under the Pag-IBIG program 1, a member can have a total accumulated value (TAV) of more than P90,000 in just 10 years by increasing the employee’s share on top of the mandatory monthly contribution of P100 as required by law. The program has a superior savings features compared to banks which has no maintaining balance required, no fees collected during inactivity/dormancy, and tax-exempt dividends given that the declared dividends for the last five years have not gone down below the four percent level.
Hence, the bigger the savings, the bigger the loanable amount which is 80 percent of the member’s savings regardless of the number of months contributions. And it can be used for payment of child’s tuition fee, home improvements, purchase of needed appliances, medicines, among others. In addition, Pag-IBIG Fund has an optional investment program called Modified Pag-IBIG 2 (MP2) which has a higher annual tax-exempt dividend rate than Pag-IBIG 1. It has a fixed term of five years and pre-termination shall only be allowed under the following circumstances: total disability or
9
Regional News
insanity, separation from service by reason of health, and death of the member. The minimum savings required is P500 per month.
their finances. And they believe that there is no better way to lessen, if not eliminate the problem, but to save more.
 The management understands that the plight of the retirees more often than not was caused by the absence or the lack of knowledge in managing
Pag-IBIG Fund suggested a formula to ensure savings which is Income minus Savings equals Expenses (I-S=E). (RCO/PIA-Caraga)
43 students sign scholarship with DOST Caraga By: Gabrielle Espinosa
BUTUAN CITY Â - A total of 43 scholars from the different state universities and colleges (SUCs) and private institutions in Caraga recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the granting of their Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) effective this school year 2016-2017.
10
Regional News
The JLSS orientation and MoA signing was conducted consecutively in three separate venues: Caraga State University, Philippine Normal University and Surigao State College of Technology. Policies of the scholarship agreement were discussed with the students along with their parents during the MoA signing and orientation. Ricardo Varela, chief of the technical operations of DOST Caraga, emphasized the responsibility that the
students bring with them not only as DOST scholars but also as future S&T contributors in the country. “The number of scholars who have passionately and seriously pursued their field have been decreasing in this country. As DOST scholars, you have to look more than just being a scholar and the responsibilities this entails even after you graduate. We believe that you are one of those chosen few who will greatly contribute to nation building. We hope that you will not fail your countrymen,” Varela said. Meriam Bouquia, the regional scholarship coordinator, also explained the different privileges that the scholars can get after their graduation. According to Bouquia, the scholars can still acquire scholarships from other institutions providing that it does not conflict with the general policies stipulated under the JLSS Memorandum of Agreement. The Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) is one of the S&T scholarships of DOST Science Education Institution catered to the on-going regular 3rd year students with Bachelor of Science degrees in the field of natural sciences, engineering and mathematics. This year’s pioneering batch of JLSS scholars will be given 2-3 years of scholarship contract, depending on the course they are taking in. (DOST-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
11
Regional News
5th SLP Congress highlights success stories
By: Mary Carmelle C. Jumawan
BUTUAN CITY – The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga recently held its 5th Annual SLP Congress in this city with the theme “Kwentong Makulay, Kwentong Tagumpay” (Colorful Stories, Stories of Success). Wide array of activities were set to rejoice the huge efforts of the program participants toward selfsufficiency and appreciation to the program’s ultimate goal in alleviating poverty. “The employees of DSWD are dynamic and beautiful,” DSWD Sec.
12
Judy M. Judy Taguiwalo praised the crowd. “The implementation of SLP and the way it helps the people to have their source of livelihood taught them to stand on their own feet and confidently rely on one self than on others,” said Taguiwalo.
Regional News
After delivering her message, Sec. Taguiwalo did a booth hopping, along with DSWD Caraga regional director Minda Brigoli, and amiably interacted with the program participants and DSWD staff from each booth. Photo Exhibit and Livelihood Bazaar A two-day photo exhibit in Guingona Park has showcased the genuine stories of success. The stories have shown how change became preeminent when the program started to be part of their lives. Sec. Taguiwalo commended on how the photo exhibit has showcased the five-year journey of SLP in helping the Caraganons attain sustainable livelihood. “I’ve learned a lot from the photo exhibit. I’m amazed with the kind of projects that SLP can impart,” Sec. Taguiwalo expressed. To provide a platform for income generation and to showcase the SLP products to a wider market, a two-day livelihood bazaar was conducted. Sec. Taguiwalo, along with director Brigoli, visited the booths wherein various products from the five provinces of Caraga region were displayed during the bazaar from food products, handicrafts, furniture and local delicacies. Aside from the products displayed,
nail care and massage services were offered by the program participants from Surigao City. The participants had also undergone a skills training and were provided with starter kits. Takbong Makulay Para Sa Kwentong Tagumpay A 5-kilometer Color Me Run served as the kick-off activity of the said weeklong congress. The 200 participants gathered at Guingona Park which was the starting and finishing point of the said activity. They elatedly ran through the 5-kilometer course while getting hit with powdered paint that left them coated in neon colors. After the colorful run, the participants attended a thanksgiving mass followed by a two-hour Zumba. Tagisan ng Kasanayan After the successful morning activity, a cooking contest was held. The aim is to showcase the cooking skills of the program participants. It is a venue for them to nurture their creativity and enhance professionalism in the workplace. They prepared a main course dish using the ingredients inside the mystery box. Program participants from Surigao del Sur were hailed winner during the cooking competition and followed by the teams from Surigao del
13
Regional News
Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands, respectively. Advocacy Festival and Bloodletting Activity An advocacy festival has also colored the second day of the 5th Annual SLP Congress conducted in Guingona Park. During the festival, the advocacy materials of the nine different programs or services of the agency were introduced to acquaint the general public. A band presentation has concluded the festival. The winner of the recently concluded Kalahi-CIDSS song-writing contest Empty Space performed their song entitled ‘One’. Sabay Tayong Mangarap, the official jingle of DSWD-SLP Caraga composed and performed by Haystack band, arranged by Joseph Care Cabaltera and Simel Adam Amplayo was also played during the activity. Social Entrepreneurship Symposium To further enhance the entrepreneurial skills of the program participants, a technical session with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Social Entrepreneurial Technique and Strategies was conducted before the grand gala. It was attended by 100 program participants venturing on
14
different livelihood projects from the five provinces of the region. The Grand Gala A grand gala culminated the 5th Annual SLP Congress attended by partner national government agencies (NGAs), private partners and DSWD staff which aimed to recognize stakeholders who have contributed a lot in the program implementation. The colorful gala was officially opened by director Brigoli. “The stakeholders deserve this celebration, It is necessary to give recognition to their efforts as we continue to strengthen our partnership. Thus, an SLP Congress will be celebrated annually,” Brigoli said. As the event’s keynote speaker, Sec. Taguiwalo expressed her happiness for visiting Caraga and for witnessing the photo exhibit that highligts the incredible turnaround success stories of SLP program participants. The official jingle of DSWD-SLP Caraga was also launched during the grand gala. The music video has showcased some of the remarkable livelihood projects of the program participants of SLP. While the video was playing, loud cheer and grateful smiles filled the
Regional News
room and it gained a standing ovation from the audience, together with Sec. Taguiwalo and director Brigoli. Part of the program was the “product walk” where the Field Project Development officers have modeled SLP Caraga products. The colorful and innovated plastic rattan handicrafts from the Province of Dinagat Islands were showcased during the product walk. Brigoli did the finale walk and was joined by Sec. Taguiwalo who also received one of the handicrafts as a token of appreciation. Further, commendation to stakeholder, NGAs and private partners was carried out. Awards were given to Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department
of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Mindanao R&D Consultants, Inc. (MRDC) and Winrock. Started in 2011, the Department of Social Welfare and Development through the Sustainable Livelihood Program held an annual SLP congress to celebrate the successes of SLP program participants and in achieving the goal of the department which is uplifting the socio-economic status of program participants through engaging in micro-enterprises or employment. (Social Marketing Unit/ DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIACaraga)
15
Photo Gallery 1st Quarter Regional Development CouncilDevelopment Administration Committee Meeting NEDA Caraga Conference Hall, Butuan City 20 February 2017
Regional Development Council Social Development Committee 1st Quarter 2017 Meeting
NEDA Caraga Conference Hall, Butuan City 21 February 2017
SURIGAO DEL SUR
DOLE releases P2.5M livelihood projects to SurSur town By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Caraga Region released a P2.5 Million worth of livelihood financial assistance to the local government unit of Hinatuan this province on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. The said amount was received by Hinatuan Mayor Shem Garay intended for the five projects of the informal sector workers associations of the municipality.
all the beneficiaries to make it sure that the funds will really serve the need of the organization not just the president and officers of the association but all the members,” Garay said.
Mayor Garay thanked the agency for granting his request to facilitate for an orientation to all beneficiaries of the livelihood projects before the release of the financial funds to five associations.
Mayor Garay emphasized to the beneficiaries that the government fund, though it is a dole-out, must be taken care of by the association since all of these funds came from the taxes of the Filipino people. (With a report from Romelyn Bactol, DOLE/PIA-Surigao del “I really requested DOLE to orient Sur)
17
Provincial News
Bislig gets P500K for disaster risk assessment project By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) of Bislig is a recipient of P500,000 worth of project on Disaster Risk Assessment from the Public Services International (PSI). Youreallylove Sango of CDRRMC Bislig said the program is a pilot partnership between the Labor Union Confederation - Public Services International, Bislig City Employees Association (BisCEA), and the City DRRM office of Bislig as the recipient agency. According to Sango, the project will be implemented throughout this year thru the CDRRM office serving as the secretariat of the city DRRM Council.
18
The project aims to help the city government come up with a comprehensive Baseline Information for its Hazard, and Vulnerability Assessment, which is a fundamental component in managing future disasters. Earlier, a memorandum of undertaking was signed on Dec. 10, 2016 between Bislig City mayor Librado Navarro and a PSI representative for the implementation of the said project. (PIA-Surigao del Sur).
AGUSAN DEL NORTE
AgNor SP seeks general income reclassification of all LGUs By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY Â The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Agusan del Norte supported the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan in its quest for the general income reclassification of the province and all local government units (LGUs) in the country. In its Sanggunian Resolution No. 020-2017, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, the SP believed that there is an urgent need for the Department of Finance to consider now the general income reclassification of the province of Aklan into a first class province and all other local government units in the country since the general income reclassification of all LGUs has been held in abeyance for a longer period of time pending congressional amendment of Executive Order No. 249, dated July 25, 1987, Mandating
the Regular Income Reclassification of Provinces, Cities and Municipalities. Â The lawmakers argued that the immediate action of the Department of Finance through the Bureau of Local Government Finance of reclassifying the qualified provinces, cities and municipalities will provide better and expanded opportunities for social, economic and infrastructure development for every local government and its constituents. (LGUAgusan del Norte)
19
Provincial News
DFA Butuan implements online appointment system for passport applicants By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) here will be fully implementing its online appointment system for passport applicants on Monday, February 20, 2017. It can be recalled that DFA has initially started its appointment system since April 2016, and it applicants should have to take online appointment before transacting at their field office at 3rd floor of Robinsons Place, this city. Starting on Monday, the DFA
20
here will no longer accept walk-in applicants except for senior citizens, pregnant women, minor from 0-7 years old, Persons with Disability and returning OFWs on short vacation. For online appointment, visit DFA website at https://www.passport. gov.ph. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Provincial News
AgNor supports farmers’ group By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is full support of the plans and programs of the farmers’ associations in the province. One of the farmers’ groups, the Consorcia Agro-Forestry Farmers’ Association, (CAFA) Inc. of Barangay Consorcia, municipality of Las Nieves, this province, a duly registered peoples organization by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), will receive an unserviceable Suzuki MultiCab with plate no. SHR-641 from the province, which the association can repair, to be used in its official business dealings. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No.
038-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to transfer without cost the said vehicle to CAFA. The legal transfer is necessary in line with Article 440 of the Rules and Regulations Implementing the Local Government Code of 1991 on the responsibility for proper use and care of government property. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)
21
AGUSAN DEL SUR
DTI reminds repair shop owners to apply for shop accreditation, renewal PROPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – To ensure that repair shops operating in the province will have or maintain their accreditation, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Office here has conducted its provincial team monitoring primarily to remind service repair enterprises to apply for accreditation and renewal.
As provided in the Presidential Decree No. 1572, service repair enterprises engage in repairs of motor vehicles, heavy equipment, engines and engineering work, electronics, electrical, air conditioning and refrigeration, office machines and data processing equipment, medical and industrial equipment, appliances and related devices are required to be accredited first with the DTI before starting operation. DTI Agusan del Sur Provincial Director Brenda Corvera said that the accreditation aims to protect the interest of the customer by ensuring that these enterprises comply with the standards in terms of the following: tools and equipment, competency of workers, insurance and others. “Yearly
22
accreditation hopes to discourage unfair practices of service repair enterprises and encourage continual improvement and adherence to set standards,” she added. Accreditation applicants are required to submit the following to DTI office: Duly accomplished application form; Copy of Comprehensive General Liability Insurance Policy and Official Receipt; Warranty; List of tools and equipment and corresponding value; List of shop employees; Photo of the shop; Shop lay-out, organizational chart; Certificate of Competency from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA); and Dealership agreement for 5 Star Category. (JPG/DTI-Agusan del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
SURIGAO DEL NORTE
DTI Surigao Norte launches OPMS By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office has launched recently its Online Price Monitoring System (OPMS) dubbed as “e-Presyo” at the Provincial Negosyo Center, Capitol Compound, this city. Accordng to DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, the event was undertaken to inform the public that they can now access anytime and anywhere the prices of DTI monitored products including the stores with lowest price of basic necessities, prime commodities, construction materials, noche buena products, school supplies and candles including Comparative Prevailing Prices of goods or commodities using the DTI “e-Presyo” application through their desktops, laptops, tablets and mobile phones.
He further said that the “e-Presyo” provides prevailing prices and stores with the lowest prices, Suggested Retail Prices (SRPs) of basic necessities, prime commodities and also comparative prevailing prices of goods or commodities mentioned above.
Negapatan said the “e-Presyo” is an Online Price Monitoring System of DTI where consumers can check for the prevailing prices of goods/ commodities in various stores or establishments that are being monitored by the DTI.
For more information on OPMS “e-Presyo” just visit the DTI office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street, this city of visit their website at www.dti.gov.ph or call at telephone no. 826-2373 or 232-4047. (DTI-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
“The OPMS ‘e-Presyo’ will not only serves as a price guide for consumers in doing their grocery shopping but also protects consumers against unreasonable increases in prices thus ensuring ‘value for money,’” Negapatan added.
23
Provincial News
Surigao Norte holds 1st LGBT Summit SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Around 270 lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBT) gathered recently for the 1st LGBT Summit spearheaded by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte at the Provincial Convention Center, Provincial Compound, this city. The one-day activity was aimed to educate the third sex community on reproductive health, which focuses primarily on STI/HIV and AIDS prevention and control. AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is a disease that recognizes no territorial, social political and economic boundaries for which there is no known cure. The gravity of the AIDS threat demands a strong and immediate action while the nature of HIV and AIDS calls for multi-sectoral partnerships and responses in the local level, which involve not only the local government unit but other sectors of the community as well.
24
Republic Act 8504 also known as the “Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998” promulgates and prescribes measures for the prevention and control of the disease thus, a nationwide HIV and AIDS monitoring system is instituted to strengthen the Philippine National AIDS Council and for other germane purposes when necessary. A creative dance competition capped the one-day event. The Socorro Butterflies Dance Group won the first place, followed by the municipality of Pilar as second place, and the thrid place went to the municipality of Taganaan. (Provincial Women’s Center-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Provincial News
DENR sec visits Dinagat Islands By: Che Piquero
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands – Department of Environment and Natural Resouces (DENR) Secretary Regina Paz Lopez visited recently the province of Dinagat Islands for a consultative meeting held at the Loreto Municipal Gym, Loreto town. In her message, Sec. Lopez was overwhelmed and amazed by the scenery of the mystical province and encouraged all Dinagatnons especially the local chief executives to love the island wholeheartedly because of its uniqueness. Right after her message, an open forum was also conducted wherein several Dinagatnons expressed their sentiments against irresponsible mining operators in the province.
Said open forum was participated
by the barangay officials from 100 barangays of the province as well as the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), municipal mayors of Loreto, Tubajon, Libjo and Cagdianao, and chief executive officers (CEOs) of the different mining companies in the province. Secretary Lopez is scheduled for her second visit to the province on Feb. 15, 2017, wherein she will have an audience with the SP members. (PIODinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)
25
Photo Gallery Interview with PNP-13 Regional Director PCSupt Rolando B. Felix PNP-13 Regional Office, Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Butuan City 24 February 2017
Philippine Health (PhilHealth) Insurance Corporation 22nd Anniversary Celebration
Media Briefing
Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, Butuan City 24 February 2017
Social Security System (SSS) Press Conference
Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, Butuan City 23 February 2017
HEALTH NEWS
Safe food and water help prevent diarrhea, related illnesses By: Czarina Teresita S. Martinez
Did you know that contaminated experts led by the Food and Nutrition food and water are the usual sources Research Institute of the Department of infection that cause diarrhea? of Science and Technology (FNRIDOST). The Department of Health (DOH) reported that a combination The DOH further says diarrhea can of diarrhea and gastroenteritis of be prevented by drinking water from presumed infectious origin is the third safe sources. Health Secretary Enrique leading cause of death among T. Ona says clear water is not necessarily children under five years old. safe to drink. The revised Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF) recommends “consume safe foods and water to prevent diarrhea and other food and water-borne diseases�.
Boiling water potential germs.
kills
almost
all
Food should always be properly prepared and cooked well. For instance, fruits and vegetables should The Nutritional Guidelines for be washed thoroughly in clean water Filipinos was developed by nutrition before eating or cooking.
27
Health News
practiced. Here are three things to remember and practice: 1. washing of hands regularly; 2. drinking safe water; and 3. eating clean foods to prevent diarrhea and other gastrointestinal diseases.
Also, always cover food to keep it safe from contaminants, insects and other pests. That is why the public is encouraged to eat home-cooked foods. Proper hygiene, such as regular washing of hands before eating and after using the toilet, should also be
28
For more information on food and nutrition, contact Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, E-Mail: mvc@fnri. dost.gov.ph or mar_v_c@yahoo.com, Telefax: (02) 8372934, (02) 8273164, or call (02) 8372071 local 2296 or visit our website: http:www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Services/PIACaraga)
MINDANAO NEWS
Science Explorer sails to Mindanao
BUTUAN CITY - For the first time in its six-year existence, the Science Explorer is landing in Mindanao. The Science Explorer, the Philippine’s first and only mobile learning science facility, will be bringing a unique science experience to the elementary and high school students of the newly formed province of Davao Occidental on February 20-24, 2017.
into a classroom, which brings to students from underprivileged municipalities in the country fun and exciting science learning through interactive and hands on activities facilitated by young scientists and researchers from the industry and academe.
Repurposed from the Mobile Spearheaded by the IT Classroom in the early 2000s, the Department of Science and Science Explorer is a bus converted Technology – Science Education
29
Mindanao News
Institute, the Science Explorer has be facilitated by experts from the touched the lives of more than 15,000 University of the Philippines – Diliman. students in eight regions in the country. DOST-SEI Director Josette T. Biyo said that the Science Explorer’s For its Mindanao leg, it will be venture to Davao Occidental is the serving the students of Jose Abad first step of the project to reach out Santos, Don Marcelino, Sta. Maria, further into the south. and Malita, Davao Occidental’s capital. “We were successful in our first attempt last year to go further south Students are bound to as we brought love for science to experience learning about the students of Samar and Leyte. We mangroves; earthquakes, tsunamis, are hoping that we could bring the and storm surge; weather science; same experience to our participants marine micropaleontology; in Mindanao,” she said. (DOST-STIIPR/ astronomy; fun mathematics; and PIA-Caraga) the scientific method, which will
30
NATIONAL NEWS
ADB’s billion dollar loans, assistance, vital to eradicate poverty: Duterte
MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte said he expects the release of billions of dollars in loans and technical assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in the coming years to boost the country’s development initiatives. The President attended on Tuesday, February 21, ADB’s 50th anniversary acknowledging the bank’s contributions to the development of the Philippines.
$16 billion from ADB in form of loans and grants, adding about a billion dollars more have also been released as loans and investments to private Philippine companies. Speaking before the ADB’s “These have made the ADB one officials and guests, he said the of the largest official development Philippines has received more than assistance partners of the Philippines.
31
National News
For all of these, you have the gratitude of the entire Filipino people,” he said. President Duterte said he is looking forward to the next round of release of the 4.22 billion dollars in loans and 9.3 million dollars in technical assistance from ADB in the next three years. “These will be of help in realizing important development initiatives,” he said. The President assured ADB that the Philippine government would redouble its effort to foster economic growth and reduce poverty. With the participation of local governments, President Duterte said his administration is also streamlining business registration and processes, providing support for targeted sectors and intensifying the war against illegal drugs, criminality, and corruption. The President also vowed zero tolerance to corruption. In line with these reforms, he said the government is pushing for a simpler, fairer and more efficient tax collection and lower rates and a broader base, noting that his administration is also working on increasing infrastructure spending to 7.4 of the GDP by 2022.
32
At the same time, he said the government will also solicit the participation of private sector to develop the country’s infrastructure. The government will also be funding free irrigation, free education in state universities and colleges, as well as universal health care, he said. With ADB’s assistance, the President said he is confident that his administration will be able to uplift more people from poverty, expand the economy by about 50 percent in real terms, and make the Philippines an upper-middle-class income economy in 2022. “May the ADB continue to be an important partner for development for the Philippines, the entire East Asia, and the Pacific,” he said. Established to help developing member countries reduce poverty and improve the quality of life, ADB has so far extended $267 billion in financial assistance since 1966. (PND)
National News
Dismissal awaits government workers violating work hours, says CSC
PHOTO: Grabbed from Pexels I Manila Bulletin
QUEZON CITY - The Civil Service Commission (CSC) reminded state workers to strictly observe government working hours. The CSC issued the reminder through Memorandum Circular No. 1, series of 2017 reiterating the policy on government office hours, and penalties for unauthorized absences, tardiness in reporting for duty, and loafing during office hours.
The
statement
came
reports on government officials and employees not observing prescribed offices hours and failing to account for their attendance. “These acts are detrimental to public service thus we are reminding all government workers after of all departments and agencies
33
National News
to render eight hours of work from Monday to Friday, or not less than 40 hours a week,” said CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala. The CSC Chairperson explained that even those assigned in the field have to account for their attendance by accomplishing the proper form which serves as their daily time record. Heads of agencies and other presidential appointees need not punch in the Bundy clock, but attendance and all absences of such officers must be recorded. The CSC warns that falsification or irregularities in the keeping of time records will render the officer or employee administratively liable without prejudice to criminal prosecution as the circumstances warrant. Government workers were also warned that loafing during regular office hours is a grave offense and is punishable by suspension of six months to one year for the first offense, and dismissal from the service for the second offense. “Frequent unauthorized absences from duty during regular office hours constitute loafing, and it results in inefficiency and nonperformance of duty which adversely affects the prompt delivery of service
34
to the public,” the CSC Chairperson added. Meanwhile, Section 22, Rule XIV, Omnibus Rules Implementing Book V of Executive Order No. 292 provides: “An officer or employee in the civil service shall be considered habitually absent if one incurs unauthorized absences exceeding the allowable 2.5 days monthly leave credit under the Leave Law for at least three months in a semester or at least three consecutive months.” “It is the duty of agency heads to ensure that all officers and employees under them will strictly observe the prescribed office hours,” said CSC Chairperson Bala. She urged government offices to review their policies on the observance of government work hours and ensure that measures are in place to deter unauthorized absences, tardiness in reporting for duty, and loafing during office hours. (CSC)
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
ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP
EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor
ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor
FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor
NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor
VENUS LIM GARCIA
Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 341-5285; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: Philippine Information Agency Caraga Twitter: @PIACaraga
Information Centers
Layout Artists
AGUSAN DEL NORTE
Contributors
Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte
GERIE MAE G. COCO RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur
NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur
SUSIL D. RAGAS
Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands
ROMELYN BACTOL GABRIELLE ESPINOSA MARY CARMELLE C. JUMAWAN CZARINA TERESITA S. MARTINEZ AIMEE B. SIENES CHE PIQUERO FNRI-DOST S&T MEDIA SERVICES PROV’L. WOMEN’S CENTER-SDN SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT/DSWD FIELD OFFICE CARAGA LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI-AGUSAN DEL SUR PIO-DINAGAT ISLANDS DOST-STIIPR DOST-CARAGA DTI-SDN, DOLE, CSC, PND Business Manager
ZARINA O. LASTRA Photographer
ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO
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