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[ Contents 03 - 09 February 2018
Volume 1, No. 97
Gov’t allocates 140M for irrigation system in Agusan del Sur ASEAN NEWS
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ASEAN united on KSCIP initiative First ASEAN Biennale celebrates diversity, plurality of ASEAN perspectives and narratives
REGIONAL NEWS
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2018 regional research fund grant, now open
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AgSur consumer group holds Q4 meeting cum cap dev activity with DTI
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DTI AgSur celebrates DTICaraga’s 3rd place finish in National SSF Summit Regional Video Docu Contest DTI joins Agusan del Sur BPLOs’ year-end assessment NPA rebels kill Lumad leader in Surigao del Norte Efforts to sit an IPMR in SurSur in limbo
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Butuan dad approves ordinance banning plastics in Butuan
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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Help picky teens eat healthy foods
MINDANAO NEWS
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Convergence initiatives for Marawi target food security Barter trading seen to propel economic growth in Bangsamoro areas
NATIONAL NEWS
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Gov’t-to-gov’t deal seen to speed up NFA rice arrival
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Pag-IBIG Fund to report on record-high growth in 2017
All systems go for civil registration month in Tandag City NPA eyed in “Abu Sayyaf-like execution” in SurSur AgNor town limits karaoke operation
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News Briefs Those who are 18 y.o. and above are considered regular voters and may vote in the barangay elections, while only the 15 to 30 y.o. voters may participate in the Sangguniang Kabataan elections, as per Section 4 of the SK Reform Act of 2015.
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, together with the Department of Health (DOH) will join the groundbreaking ceremony for the grant-aid Dangerous Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in the province of Agusan del Sur.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Ameenah Fajardo, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra, and Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.) President and CEO Ma. Luna Cacanando, hold a ‘Bangon Marawi’ press briefing for the Malacañang Press Corps (MPC) at the New Executive Building (NEB) in Malacañang, Manila.
The local government of Del Carmen in Surigao del Norte, Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT) Del Carmen Campus and SMILES Cares Foundation signed a Memorandum of Agreement on Saturday (Feb. 3) forging the partnership in advancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture and Mathematics). It aims to capacitate the Siargaonons with the right skills and abilities, making them part of the human resource that will support sustainable development in the area. Dr. Eduardo Gonzales, OIC-regional vice president of PhilHealth Caraga reveals that as of Dec. 31, 2017, there are 1,302,533 total numbers of PhilHealth members in Caraga region, & 1,728,026 total number of dependents.
Cover Story
Gov’t allocates 140M for irrigation system in Agusan del Sur
BUTUAN CITY – With the assistance of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary (OCS), a funding worth P140 million for calendar year 2018 was allocated for Sta. Josefa Pump Irrigation System (SJPIS) in Agusan del Sur.
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It is intended for the improvement of the facilities from earth to line canal, to minimize the leakage of irrigation water, particularly at the different lateral canals along service area of the irrigation system. A comprehensive inspection, particularly the pump irrigation system in the municipality of Sta. Josefa, was conducted by Atty. Jann Roby Otero, OCS assistant secretary, together with Engr. Madante Ganotisi, National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Caraga acting regional manager, and Engr. Elmer B. Felizarta, officer-incharge of SJPIS. The group visited four sites to see the status of the irrigation facilities and the damaged canal caused by Tropical Depression Vinta. After the inspection, Felizarta presented the system status where there were eight irrigators associations already organized with 307 members. The system, if fully functional, could serve almost 2,500 hectares based on the design. Otero added that he will personally monitor the completion of the project to ensure that it will be completed based on the target. (NIACaraga/PIA-Caraga) 03 - 09 February, 2018
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ASEAN united on KSCIP initiative SINGAPORE All 10 ASEAN countries have agreed with the King Salman Center for International Peace (KSCIP) initiative, said Malaysian Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.
“I will bring it up to Saudi Arabia,” he told Malaysian media on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2018 here today.
The center works closely with the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (GCCEI) launched by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud and United States president “I believe we are on a good Donald Trump in Riyadh last year. platform. Whether it is successful or not depends on how we convince our Hishammuddin arrived here people.” Monday to attend the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Retreat held in conjunction “And if we allow Daesh to with the Singapore Airshow 2018. flourish, I’m afraid it cannot be controlled later,” he said. Singapore currently holds the ASEAN Chairmanship. The King Salman Center for International Peace aims to rectify Hishammuddin described the ties the perception of the international between ASEAN Defense Ministers as community towards Islam very close. commenced operations in Malaysia May last year. “We have the opportunity to 03 - 09 February, 2018
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discuss matters relating to terrorism, “The military approach is not especially on Daesh in Asia,” he said. sufficient,” he added. Hishammuddin also said the same matter was discussed by ASEAN Defence Ministers during a meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
As part of the Retreat program, Hishammuddin together with the ASEAN Defense Ministers had an informal meeting with the Chinese Minister of National Defense General Chang Wanquan, who was in Singapore for his “Malaysia emphasizes on counter- introductory visit until Feb 8. narrative and counter-ideology via the KSCIP initiative. It is for peace. It Hishammuddin leaves for Kuala emphasizes soft power.” Lumpur this evening. (Bernama)
First ASEAN Biennale celebrates diversity, plurality of ASEAN perspectives and narratives By: ASEANnale
QUEZON CITY - The ASEANnale 2018 with the theme “Capturing the Spirit of ASEAN in the Digital Times,” brings together ASEAN academics, experts, filmmakers, multimedia artists, and scholars, who will celebrate the unique ASEAN perspectives and narratives during the 1st Film and Multimedia Competition and Exhibition, the 2nd International Symposium on ASEAN Studies, and the ASEANnale Distinguished Award for Higher Education on 28 February to 02 March 2018 at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.
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“ASEANnale 2018 is a festival of ideas in multi-modal and multitextual spaces,� exclaims Dr. Grace J. Alfonso, ASEANnale 2018 Organizing Committee Chair. ASEANnale 2018 is envisioned to be the space for the sharing of voices, collaboration and networking of ASEAN higher education students and faculty. It will encourage cultural and academic dialogue grounded on the concept of students and faculty as co-creators of knowledge and works.
Deadline for submission of entries for the 1st Film and Multimedia Competition and Exhibition, abstracts to the 2nd International Symposium on ASEAN Studies, and nominations to the ASEANnale Distinguished Award for Higher Education has been extended to 09 February 2018 (Friday) at 5 pm Manila Time. #ASEANnale2018 is a project of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the University of the Philippines Open University, U.P. Diliman Asian Center, the College of Mass Communication U.P. Diliman, TVUP, University of the Philippines System in collaboration with the U.P. Open University Foundation Inc., and the Philippines Communication Society (PCS).
The three-day conference will showcase select creative and research works of Higher Education Students and Faculty from the 10 ASEAN countries to promote the community of scholars on ASEAN through Film and Multimedia, Poster Exhibition, Paper Presentation, and International Symposium on three sub-themes shared and addressed For more info and downloadable by numerous parties in the region: forms, visit aseannale.upou.edu.ph or Diaspora, Disasters, and Democracy. fb.com/aseannale2018/ (ASEANNale) 03 - 09 February, 2018
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Regional News
2018 regional research fund grant, now open By: Ria Micate
BUTUAN CITY – The Caraga Health Research and Development Consortium (CHRDC) is now accepting capsule research proposals from local researchers of state universities and colleges in Caraga region for the 2018 Regional Research Fund (RRF) Grants. The proposed studies should be aligned with the research priority areas of the consortium and/or in National Unified Health Research Agenda.
Applicants are required to submit the following documents to the CHRDC Secretariat through email at caragahealth@gmail.com:
The CHRDC Research priority areas include dengue, respiratory diseases, lifestyle diseases, climate change and its impact on health, environmental health, endemic and epidemic diseases.
Duly accomplished capsule application form; Curriculum Vitae of Key Investigators; and Letter of Intent.
For the National Unified Health Research Agenda, it include the health technology and development, health financing, health service delivery, and social and environmental health concerns.
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Regional Research Fund (RRF) is a grant which provides funding support and capability-building to the researchers to become more actively involved in health research. It aims to promote local scientific studies that can respond to the current health concerns in the region. (DOST-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga) 03 - 09 February, 2018
REGIONAL NEWS
Butuan dad approves ordinance banning plastics in Butuan BUTUAN CITY – Butuan City mayor Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada has approved the ordinance that will regulate the use of plastics and plastic by-products in the city. SP Ordinance 5334-2017, which repealed the previous SP Ordinance 5064-2016, was principally authored by SP Environment Committee Chair and Councilor Cromwell P. Nortega together with Councilors Vincent Rizal C. Rosario and Derrick A. Plaza.
straws for beverages, such as soft drinks Under the ordinance, the following like “palamig,” juice, “gulaman”, etc.; are the prohibited acts: Use of non-biodegradable plastic bags as garbage bags; and Use of plastic Use for plastic as packaging as flaglets and “banderitas” in all material and as container for dry goods; occasions. Use of plastic pouches (commonly used for ice-making) and drinking Penalties, ranging from P500 to P5,000.00, will be prescribed for individuals and business establishments who will violate the ordinance. However, there will be a gradual phase-out on the use of plastics and plastic by-products for a period of three (3) to six (6) months after the effectivity of the ordinance. A one year gradual implementation will also be implemented. The use of eco-bags and other environment-friendly practices is also mandated under said ordinance. (Butuan City PIO/PIA-Caraga) 03 - 09 February, 2018
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Provincial News
Agusan del Sur AgSur consumer group holds Q4 meeting cum cap dev activity with DTI
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur (AdS) conducted a capability building seminar back to back with the 4th quarter meeting of the local provincial consumer group – Pagpakabana sa Katungod sa Konsumador sa Agusan del Sur (PAKKADS) held at SAFRAGEMC in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
At the start of the session, DTI gave products. inputs and facilitated the review of consumer education topics discussed Estela P. Aro mentioned that some from the previous quarterly meetings. agricultural products like fish and rice have been monitored to have higher The review of learnings was done prices. through a workshop. The PAKKADS members were asked to post their Bilaoen encouraged everyone to individual reflections, understanding be observant and vigilant in checking and application of lessons learned. the prices of commodities and in deciding where to buy. Topics included: 1) how to stay safe online, 2) list of products under Reporting on the power situation, mandatory certification, and 3) Roy Rover Castor of Agusan del advantages of organic farming. Sur Electric Cooperative (ASELCO) presented to the group that at present, Rev. Solomon B. Bilaoen, president the province has a total peak demand of PAKKADS, presided the meeting. of 37 MW while it has a contracted capacity of 38.9 MW from suppliers. The group also discussed the recent prices of products under DTI’s This gives the province a reserve jurisdiction, as well as agricultural of 1.9 MW, enough buffer whenever
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PROVINCIAL NEWS a few suppliers fail to supply the contracted capacity due to scheduled shutdown and maintenance or other causes.
Doing so, they will also facilitate requirements needed in doing their civic related activities like the sponsorship of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Hour aired The group agreed that in 2018, every Thursday from 10:00 am to 11:00 since they were already registered am in all KBP member radio stations in with the Securities and Exchange Agusan del Sur. Commission (SEC), they will start completing the rest of the registration The group will have its first meeting processes and securing documents in 2018 in February. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/ such as its official receipt. PIA-Agusan del Sur)
DTI AgSur celebrates DTICaraga’s 3rd place finish in National SSF Summit Regional Video Docu Contest PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur celebrates the victory of its regional office for bagging third place in the National Shared Service Facility (SSF) Summit Regional Video Documentary Contest.
This year, with a little twist, the It has been a straight podium win video contest was centered on the SSF’s for DTI-Caraga’s Shared Service Facility outcomes and impact to end users and (SSF) regional video entries since 2015. beneficiaries. It was a first place finish in 2015 featuring Agusan del Sur’s Kaagap MultiPurpose Development Coop, and a repeat in 2016 with Agusan del Norte’s San Isidro Upland Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative ranking first. 03 - 09 February, 2018
The video highlighted stories of performing SSFs from the other provinces, while focusing on the exemplary experience and the impact to SSF users of Mangagoy Fishermen’s Cooperative. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
DTI joins Agusan del Sur BPLOs’ year-end assessment
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) joined the 2017 AdS business permit and licensing officers (BPLOs) Year-end Assessment held at Big Time Beach Resort, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. DTI’s close working relationship with the province’s BPLO network has allowed the agency to meet its updated information requirements on the “universe” of registered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which it can assist through the Negosyo Center services. The Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, through the Agusan del Sur Economic Research and Business Assistance Center (ASERBAC), conducted the activity to strategize the licensing services in the local government units to be more effective and efficient in 2018 and in the coming years.
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In the meeting, the BPLOs identified activities to enhance their capacities and their systems through; attendance to capability trainings, awarding of outstanding BPLO during the Naliyagan Festival and awarding of Best implementer of 5’s in the workplace. The group also agreed to register their organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with the name Agusan del Sur Business Permit and Licensing Officer, Inc. This shall be pursued through its president, John Samson of Esperanza, ASERBAC and DTI. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) 03 - 09 February, 2018
Surigao del Norte
PROVINCIAL NEWS
NPA rebels kill Lumad leader in Surigao del Norte
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – A Lumad leader was allegedly killed by the New People’s Army (NPA) on February 9, 2018 at Sitio Palo 10, Brgy Camp Edward, Alegria town. The victim was identified as Dakula Guillermo Tiambong, 58 years old, a farmer and currently held the position as the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of the Mamanwa Tribe in Alegria, Surigao del Norte.
“Datu Tiambong was the voice of the Mamanwa tribe during the 3-days IP Summit in Davao on January 30 to February 1, 2018, where President Rodrigo Roa Duterte met them,” Tomas said.
Datu Tiambong was shot to death in front of his family while attending his farm in the mountains of Brgy. Camp Edward, Alegria.
On his part, Philippine Army Brigade Commander BGen. Franco Nemesio M. Gacal condemned the terrorist CPP-NPA for such unlawful act of murder.
According to the victim’s daughter, Girlie, days before the shooting incident, her father received death threats from the NPAs for being an active peace and development advocate. In behalf of the Philippine Army, 30th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Allen Raymund Tomas extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family. 03 - 09 February, 2018
“This is again a clear violation of the human rights. With their crime committed, full force of the law will be utilized to bring justice to the victim,” said Gacal. Data Tiambong was the second Lumad leader killed by the NPA after the IP Summit 2018. (30IB, Philippine Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Surigao del Sur
PROVINCIAL NEWS
Efforts to sit an IPMR in SurSur in limbo By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
To become a duly authorized IP representative of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Guinsod had to make it to the last and final process of taking the oath of office before Gov. Vicente “BB” Pimentel, Jr. But such ritual had yet to take place, according to NCIP Provincial Head Engr. Charlyn Binghoy.
The NCIP chief was also saying that in case Guinsod got the nod from TANDAG CITY, Surigao del the province, it would be one for the Sur – Despite the Certificate of books. She explained that he would be Affirmation (COA) issued to Jimmy the very first SP Member from among Iligan Guinsod by the National the IPs at the provincial level in Caraga region. Besides, the NCIP was noted to Commission on Indigenous have bared in an exclusive interview that Peoples (NCIP) in Caraga having a sitting IPMR would matter in Regional Office XIII under Atty. Jose Dumagan, Jr., the expectant the annual conferment of Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). “Board Member” seems to be
going nowhere for now.
However, DILG Provincial Director (PD) Pedrito Alacaba expressed optimism that in the end the result would come out fine. The DILG top chief explained that with the COA already handed, what should be done was just to “recognize” the bearer.
Meanwhile, Vice-Governor Manuel Alameda, Sr. was found out to have been in a quandary. Describing the situation as “pressing matter” in his letter to DILG Secretary Eduardo Año dated January 25, 2018, the SP presiding officer was seeking for “the proper course of action to be undertaken.” He cited both the position paper of the League of Vice-Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) dated February 17, 2017, which the DILG Secretary had been furnished a copy as well as the communication sent to him by Alacaba on January 23, 2018.
Guinsod, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel town, would also be replaced by Rico Maca down at the municipal level as planned upon vacating his post soon.
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Also, in a related interview, the 03 - 09 February, 2018
PROVINCIAL NEWS chair of the Finance and Appropriation Committee, SP Member Henrich Pimentel, clarified that the august body had already approved the 2018 Executive Budget with “unfunded” IPMR post during the budget deliberation in
2017. Being existing but unfilled during the preceding year, he added that said plantilla position, among others, was decided to be scrapped. (Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag City/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
All systems go for civil registration month in Tandag City By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Office of the City Civil Registrar of this city has lined up activities for its residents to celebrate the Civil Registration Month 2018. Liza Auza, City Civil Registrar, said the activity will kick off with the conduct of free birth registration for children ages 0 – 5 years old on Feb. 5-9.
(mass wedding) is set to take place. In an earlier announcement, Auza stressed that the mass wedding would only be for couples who are “cohabitating” for at least five years.
This will be followed by the free issuance of forms IA (birth record “Hence, some requirements had available); 2A (death records available) to be complied with,” she clarified. and 3A (marriage record available) on Feb. 15. The deadline for submission would be on February 16. Since the first term On Feb. 20, a “Kasalan ng Bayan” of Mayor Alexander Pimentel, this 03 - 09 February, 2018
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PROVINCIAL NEWS free sponsorship of annual mass civil wedding ceremony has been going on for over a decade already during the same month. With the theme “#napapanahong CRVS,” the month-long event would
be sealed with the “Distribution of Birth Certificates” for the so-called “Lumads” (Indigenous Peoples) of Hitaub, Barangay Awasian on February 28. (Radyo Pilipinas Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
NPA eyed in “Abu Sayyaf-like execution” in SurSur
By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Found “hogtied” with bullet hole in the chest, multiple hack wounds, and worst, beheaded, Mar Acevedo Bocales, a Manobo and member of Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA), was last seen alive on January 27, 2018, based on police initial investigation.
Also known as Nersan Acevedo and some other aliases to hide his true identity, the 31-year old family man, that time, was looking for some rare species of butterflies while also on a local hunt as sideline for a living. He was said to have been in the wilds of Mailig, Sitio Hagimitan, Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, according to PCI Florence Murao, chief of police (COP) of San Miguel Police Station.
“after receiving his benefits from the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) from the government, he became a member of the Cafgu Active Auxiliary.” Meanwhile, the police chief cited that Purok President Juan Gonzaga said that members of New People’s Army (NPA) were behind the gruesome killing.
Army officials believed that The Armed Forces of the before his head was cut-off, Bocales Philippines (AFP), through the 4th first underwent torture. Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID) of the Philippine Army (PA) under Major “The abduction happened on General Ronald Villanueva, has already January 27, 2018 when CAA Bocales issued a strong statement condemning was hunting in the hinterlands of Sitio the acts. Hagimitan, Brgy Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur,” an army report stated. With what happened, Villanueva, whose camp was based in Cagayan The army reported that the De Oro (CDO), likewise said that “NPAs victim was a former rebel (FR) who are worthy to be branded as terrorists “surrendered on December 25, 2016 by this government.” (Radyo Pilipinas/ with his firearm.” It was also said that PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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Agusan del Norte
PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgNor town limits karaoke operation By: JV Lumonsod
MAGALLANES, Agusan del Norte – The Sangguniang Bayan of Magallanes, Agusan del Norte has limited the operation of karaoke and videoke bars and other similar establishments in a particular time in the locality through the Municipal Ordinance No. 011-2017, authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Mercelita C. Buenaventura. According to the ordinance, the establishment of videoke and karaoke bars shall be located at least 10 meters radius from the residential houses and 30 meters radius from public institutions like schools, hospitals and churches.
The purpose of the said municipal ordinance will promote peace and order, and to protect the social and moral welfare of the community. Penalties will be imposed for its violation.
The operations of karaoke and videoke shall be allowed only from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. during special holidays. Minors are only allowed 5:00 p.m. every Saturday, Sunday and shall be accompanied by their mother or any adult of legal age.
The municipal ordinance was approved through Sanggunian Resolution No. 329-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte)
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Photo Gallery Philhealth’s 23rd Anniversary Celebration Media Briefing Watergate Hotel, Butuan City 05 February 2018
Recognition of Health Emergency Responders for 2017 Dotties Hotel Butuan City 08 February 2018
Health News
Help picky teens eat healthy foods By: JRADoringo
BUTUAN CITY – Adolescence is probably one of the most confusing and experimental stages of the human life. It is when rapid changes occur inside the body like hormonal surges, which prepares the teens to face the real world and become adults. Proper nutrition is necessary in supporting these changes and in attaining optimal growth and development.
According
03 - 09 February, 2018
to
the
Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-FNRI), adolescents have the highest recommended Philippine energy intake per day, with an average
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HEALTH NEWS of 2,800 calories for males and 2,200 • Don’t force them to eat foods calories for females. that they don’t like. They will only loathe the foods you give them; A balanced diet fuels the growing teen body and boosts intake • Introduce them to different food of nutrients for energy, growth, and items from time to time. This will make proper functioning of bodily processes. their diets more varied; Among teens who are usually • Instead of serving your teens picky eaters, this is easier said than sugary desserts, try stocking fruits in the done. fridge and serve the fruits as desserts. Fruits like mangoes, grapes, and apples Here are some tips in getting your are as delectable as cakes but not as picky teens eat healthy foods: high in calories; • Be very hands-on with what they eat. Cook more meals at home and make each meal more interesting by adding fun and creativity to the foods. Create a food collage or make a fruit smiley on top of their cereals to encourage them to eat the food you prepared;
• Disguise healthy foods by adding them to a classic dish. Add vegetables like carrots and celery with meatballs or add squash with pudding;
• Make eating a bonding moment between you and your teens. Make it fun by injecting themes or motifs every now and then;
• Make a healthy snack ready. Most of the time, teens will always be hungry and will ask for food. Have a stock of granola bars, yogurts, and whole grain sandwiches.
• Include calcium-rich foods in their diet for bone growth. According to the PDRI, adolescents have the highest recommended calcium intake per day • Let them eat breakfast. This is at 1,000 milligrams (mg). Make sure to a good training to instill in their young include milk, dairy products or small minds that breakfast is the most fishes like anchovies and tagunton in important meal of the day; their diet;
• Walk the talk. It is important that your teens see that you practice what Shifting from childhood to you preach by eating nutritious foods adulthood is critical and demands and staying healthy; thorough attention to successfully carry it out. • Make them involved by having them help you in the kitchen. Try to Aside from the biological changes bring them to the grocery with you too; in the body, this is the period when outside influences have great impacts
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HEALTH NEWS to the decisions of the adolescents in V. Capanzana, Director, Food and creating self-concept, sense of identity, Nutrition Research Institute, Department sexual orientation, and self-esteem. of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Consequently, it is the best Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837time for family values and ties to 3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk shine through the whole process of Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; an adolescent so that they become e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at comfortable in accepting social roles mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST and responsibilities in the community. website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. What better way to strengthen You may also like their Facebook this tie than through healthy eating! page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow their Twitter account at twitter. For more information on food com/FNRI_DOST. (FNRI-DOST S & T and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario Media Service/PIA-Caraga)
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Mindanao News
Convergence initiatives for Marawi target food security By: Lady Jean L. Kabagani
MARAWI CITY In line with the government’s continuing effort to rehabilitate Marawi, Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) is closely working with government line agencies and international non-government organizations to provide livelihood assistance for the returning communities of the war-torn city. Recently, the Memorandum of Understanding among partner agencies was signed for convergence initiatives. This includes the creation of Convergence Project Monitoring Team (CPMT), comprised of government line agencies and international non-government organizations. The convergence initiatives primarily target to ensure food security to the city.
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TFBM member agencies, together with international nongovernment organizations, the United Nations-World Food Programme (UN-WFP) and the United NationsFood and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO), have strengthened and institutionalized convergence initiatives for the reconstruction, recovery and rehabilitation of the five pilot barangays of Malimono-Dulay Agrarian 03 - 09 February, 2018
MINDANAO NEWS Community (ARC) in Marawi City to provide assistance through agricultural programs, social services, security, business and livelihood of the conflictaffected communities.
The Marawi siege affected the availability of food for the community and even disrupted the market operation of the people. “So at least with convergence, we will be able to allow the farmers to contribute by producing food that will be readily available for the returned families in Marawi City,” Macaraya said in an interview.
The convergence initiatives aim to address the food security on these areas with the strong collaboration of the TFBM member agencies and its INGO partners, as they continue to offer and provide interventions needed in the successful implementation of the Also, the convergence was able program. to tap not only the agrarian reform communities that have been identified On Food Security for Marawi by Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Department of Agriculture The program aims to provide an (DA), but correspondingly, farming immediate help and assistance to the activities through this convergence maximum recovery of the war-torn invite all other interested communities city. These barangays include Guimba, nearby the war-torn city. The program Dulay Proper, Dulay west, Malimono, converged different line agencies in and Cabasaran. partnership with the INGOs that are providing expertise and assistance To describe the living situation of which contribute to attaining full the Marawi locals before predicament recovery of Marawi city. occurs to the city, there was a beautiful countryside picture of barangays “For the people of Marawi and tumble under agricultural land that all the stakeholders, ‘sama-sama po provides sustainable livelihood to the tayong babangon,’ the humanitarian people where they can generate organizations like the World Food income in a regular basis. Program are actually with you and has been with you and trying our best to Brgy. Guimba is one of the ensure that food security be restored communities that supply agricultural back and even better as we returned products to the city such as vegetables, to the communities that have been fruits, and root crops. affected conflict,” Macaraya said. Baicon Macaraya, national program officer of United NationsWorld Food Program explained that the idea of this convergence platform is to address food security issues in Marawi. 03 - 09 February, 2018
Macaraya expressed the gratitude of UN-WFP as well as the UN-FAO, she added that both organizations are delighted to facilitate the convergence initiative in the five-pilot barangays,
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MINDANAO NEWS “We are starting to the agricultural sector and then we move also in the ‘fisheries’ sector. And we hope to do the same approach in other areas that have been affected by the conflict.”
erupted, the subcommittee on livelihood already delivers assistance through an immediate, medium-term and long-term responses for the IDPs affected by the conflict.
The five pilot barangays were initially identified considering that it is part of the agrarian community of DAR. The adjacent location of these barangays makes it strategic not only because of the needs of the community but also because of the schedule of the returning beneficiaries.
She said that the subcommittee on livelihood program is instigating Malimono-Dulay Agrarian rehabilitation plan which aims to create a resilient agrarian community out of empowered agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and other farmworkers. “Para sa ating mga beneficiaries, just hold on, we could move forward inshaallah, nandirito po kaming lahat, sama-sama para tulungan po kayo na makabangon muli because we want to rebuild your lives, we want to make you empowered despite Marawi siege, there is still life ahead,” Mindalano encourages community.
“We hope to do beyond these areas, actually ground zero can also adopt the same urban planting and farming can also be done in ground zero, even the concept alone of doing this together can readily be adopted by other areas in the returned communities in Marawi City, babangon ang Marawi,” Macaraya’s statement of hope that Marawi will be built again. Meanwhile, the ARMM’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Government Interventions conducted series of distribution of assorted vegetable seeds for the The convergence initiative on returning communities in five-pilot food security is the first livelihood effort barangays. The agency continues to that has been done for the returning assist the farmworkers by providing communities and it is expected to the farmers’ needs and offering them be replicated with other agricultural agricultural and livelihood lectures. barangays in Marawi City. Department of Agriculture and DAR-Autonomous Region in Muslim Fisheries’ Agricultural Officer Abdul M. Mindanao (DAR-ARMM) Agrarian Hadji Ali urges returned individual of Reform Officer Rocaina Mindalano agriculture community to continue ensured immediate assistance to farming. farm-workers who are economically displaced after the siege erupted. “Wag silang ma-discourage, isulong nila yung pagbabago, Since the six-month siege has magtulung-tulong sila, magkaisa sila
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03 - 09 February, 2018
MINDANAO NEWS tungo sa pagbabago ng Marawi na 09 December 2017. She shared that the ito,” Hadji Ali’s message to the conflict- moment they step near on their home afflicted residents of Marawi. was jam-packed of emotions. They were so exultant for the homecoming, For its part, the Department of but their happiness was lingered and Social Welfare and Development ended up being heartbroken at the provides cash-for-work (CWF) program same time because of what hails in support of farming activities of the them in their home seeing that it was beneficiaries. shattered by the fatal combat. CFW of DSWD is a way to leverage other resources that are available, not only in the government but also in other stakeholders as well. CFW is the agency’s early recovery and rehabilitation intervention for the returning populace of the war-torn city.
As tears were welling up, she shared her livelihood before the siege happened.
“Masaya ako kasi parang untiunti nang bumabalik ang dati, mas kompartable na kami dito kaysa nung dati na nasa evacuation kami DSWD offers temporary at lahat ng hirap dinanas namin. Iba employment for the residents of Marawi, talaga pag nasa sarili mong bahay ka wherein a certain beneficiary works in namamalagi,” she shared. exchange for P200-worth of cash that apiece a daily community service. After more than a month of return in their home, the residents of A farmer-beneficiary labor for Brgy. Guimba were able to start over land preparation recompensed CWF onto farming activities and expect to amounting to P1,000 feting a five-day produce vegetable and fruit basket for land preparation and receives another the city. amount of P1,000 during the actual planting. Mauna Macadato expressed his gladness that he and his family are Farmer-beneficiaries on the go home again after six-months of staying in evacuation center. “Masaya kaming As the government continues the nakabalik na kami sa pagtatanim sa rehabilitation, recovery and restoration at nakabalik na kami sa sariling lugar process for Marawi, returning individuals namin,” he said. also revived their lost livelihoods while bringing back themselves to normalcy. This livelihood convergence program will uplift the lives of farmer One of the farmer-beneficiaries beneficiaries and will provide is Mauna Macadato of Brgy. Guimba. immediate help and assistance for the Her family returned to their home maximum recovery of the city. (LJLK/ during the third leg of Kambalingan on PIA ICCC) 03 - 09 February, 2018
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MINDANAO NEWS
Barter trading seen to propel economic growth in Bangsamoro areas
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Forming part of its efforts to establish competitive trade in the island-region, the Mindanao Development Authority is backing the plans to revive barter trading, particularly between Bangsamoro areas and the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippine East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). MinDA is set to include the barter trade as one of its priority initiatives under the Tawi-Tawi Special Economic and Freeport Zone program and the Bangsamoro Development Corridor, with main goal of propelling economic activities, particularly in the Bangsamoro island-provinces.
Mindanao, but will also provide better options for them in their pursuit for better life, enhance agro-industrial productivity, and promote trade and commerce between and among the member countries of EAGA,” said MinDA Chairman Datu Hj. Abul Khayr Alonto, who also sits as the Philippine Signing Minister for BIMP-EAGA.
“The revival of the barter trade will not only help create jobs and business He added that encouraging opportunities for the Bangsamoro in productive and regulated activities in
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03 - 09 February, 2018
MINDANAO NEWS the area will discourage lawlessness associated with border towns, and will strengthen security through the upgrading of Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security facilities.
Mindanao, using non-convention sized ships.
“There is a need to find the best operational model with a pragmatic set of guidelines on how to gradually “The special ecozone where transition from current system to barter trade is one of the economic formal trade in Mindanao,” the study activities, has a deep socio-cultural recommended. objective that is linked with the intent to secure areas in Mindanao against A proposed Executive Order transnational crimes and the threats of creating the Barter Trade Facilitation international terrorism,” Alonto said. Center is currently being subjected to a series of consultations organized by the The Tawi-Tawi Special Economic Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Freeport Zone also supports and supported by MinDA. Mindanao and the Philippines’ bid to become a stronger economic player in The proposed directive, once the EAGA and ASEAN. approved, will lay the framework of implementing the barter trade system A barter trade zone will allow covering Mindanao and Palawan, Mindanao businessmen to trade with with a governance board proposing neighboring islands and sell imported applicable barter trade protocols to items within the region without tariff be recommended for adoption. duties. No less than President Rodrigo Duterte highlighted the establishment of barter trading in Mindanao as one of his priority projects, directing relevant agencies to come up with policies the resumptions of such activities, primarily in the island provinces. MinDA is sought to play a major role in the trade arrangement considering its function as the Philippine Coordinating Office for the BIMP-EAGA. According to a previous study facilitated by MinDA, it has been recognized in the BIMP-EAGA level that a significant portion of intra-EAGA trade is informal trade carried out by native traders primarily from Western 03 - 09 February, 2018
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National News
Gov’t-to-gov’t deal seen to speed up NFA rice arrival By: Catherine Teves
MANILA - The National Food Authority (NFA) could have more affordable rice available for sale to Filipinos beginning April if the agency gets the go-signal to and starts importing the staple grain this February through governmentto-government (G2G) arrangement. This was according to NFA information officer Cynthia Suarez, who noted G2G facilitates importation, since governments concerned transact directly with each other under this arrangement.
involves compliance requirements under RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.
The country may have to wait until around May for inbound rice shipments if the NFA imports the grain this February “Such arrangement takes about under G2P, the agency said. 45 days only,” she said, noting rice importation under government-to- G2G and G2P are government’s private (G2P) scheme takes longer. authorized arrangements for NFA rice importation. NFA has admitted its rice inventory is already running low. Created in 1972 as the National Grains Authority, the NFA is the The agency explained that aside government agency tasked with from the time needed for the bidding providing an adequate local supply of process itself, the G2P arrangement affordable rice and corn while ensuring
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03 - 09 February, 2018
NATIONAL NEWS reasonable return rates for Filipino the agency’s 250,000-metric-ton (MT) farmers. rice importation for this year. The agency said it must maintain 15 days’ and 30 days’ rice buffer stocks at any given time and during the JulySeptember lean season, respectively, to ensure availability of lower-cost rice nationwide.
NFA is awaiting the council’s authorization for this agency to proceed with the importation.
Despite its shrinking inventory, the agency said there was no rice shortage in the country, since commercial rice “Regular well-milled” NFA rice was available in the market. costs PHP27/kilogram, while “wellmilled” NFA rice costs PHP32/kg -- lower The council expects private than commercial rice in the market. importers to complete bringing into the country some 325,000 MT of rice by This week, however, the NFA said end-February. its total inventory of some 1.2 million bags of rice may last for two days only. That importation, the NFA noted, comprises the first tranche of the Such situation has prompted the 690,000 MT of rice private importers are agency to recalibrate its distribution authorized to ship into the country this of the remaining rice, prioritizing as year. recipients government agencies involved in relief operations. Such imports would be sold as commercial rice, the agency said. Earlier, the NFA Council approved (PNA)
03 - 09 February, 2018
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NATIONAL NEWS
Pag-IBIG Fund to report on recordhigh growth in 2017
QUEZON CITY - PagIBIG Fund Board of Trustees Chairperson Eduardo del Rosario is set to give a public report on Pag-IBIG Fund’s record-breaking growth in 2017.
Secretary del Rosario, also the Chairperson of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), will deliver the “2017 Chairman’s Report” before Pag-IBIG Fund’s stakeholders, industry partners, officers, and guests on 08 February 2018 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. He will focus on Pag-IBIG Fund’s highest-ever gross and net income, members’ savings collections, housing and short-term loan disbursements and collections, and sale of acquired properties, among others. “It is with pride that we report Pag-IBIG Fund’s unprecedented feats in 2017. This is also in keeping with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s directives on good governance and transparency. We have a huge responsibility laid on our shoulders. Providing our members with a decent home and guaranteeing their future
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through savings are our twin tasks. We are not allowed to fail,” Secretary del Rosario said. Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Acmad Rizaldy Moti added, “2017 was the best year ever for PagIBIG Fund. And we’ve done it with flying colors! We’ve set so many new records as we continue to bring PagIBIG Fund to far greater heights!” “It is customary for the HUDCC Chairperson to deliver his annual report on the state of the Fund every year. As Chairperson of the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees, Secretary del Rosario is given the privilege to present the report that covers PagIBIG Fund’s programs, targets and accomplishments, and service delivery in 2017,” Mr. Moti said. The 2017 Chairman’s Report will be Secretary del Rosario’s first since he assumed office as HUDCC Chairperson on 17 July 2017. (Pag-IBIG) 03 - 09 February, 2018
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