Volume VI, No. 08 February 19-25, 2022
8 9 10 12 13 15 16
REGIONAL NEWS 42 OMICRON CASES RECORDED IN CARAGA
9
MINING SECTOR A GREAT CONTRIBUTOR TO ECONOMIC RECOVERY AMID PANDEMIC: MGB CHED-13 TAPS HEIS, PARTNERS FOR TYPHOON RESPONSE SEC APPROVES BANK OF COMMERCE IPO, SMC BOND OFFERING SEC ADVANCES CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL ONLINE LENDING OWWA CARAGA AWARDS EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE TO PAP BENEFICIARIES
15
OPLAN ‘TESDAMAYAN’ LAUNCH CIVIL WORKS EFFORTS IN CARAGA
PROVINCIAL NEWS 20 21 AGSUR TOWN HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE OF UNITY AMONG LOCALS
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
SK IN AGSUR TOWN INTENSIFY CLEAN-UP DRIVE, PROMOTE COMMUNAL GARDEN IN THE COMMUNITIES
16
DA-CARAGA, PARTNERS TURNOVER 100 HEADS OF ITIK PINAS TO AGSUR TOWN PAST ROTARY GUVS EXTEND AID TO TYPHOON-HIT SURIGAO PORT WORKERS MORE ODETTE-AFFECTED MSMES IN PDI RECEIVE LIVELIHOOD KITS FROM DTI CARAGA SB CORP ROLLS OUT REHAB PROGRAM FOR MSMES IN SIARGAO AFFECTED BY TYPHOON ODETTE
29
BAG-ONG TRAFFIC REGULATION SA CABADBARAN IPATUMAN
SIARGAO SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAM RECEIVE AID FROM PRIVATE ORG
30
GRAIN DRYERS NGA GIPADANGAT SA AGNOR DAKUNG TABANG SA MGA MAG-UUMA
FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES GISUGDAN NA SA USA KA ESKWELAHAN SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE, LAING TULO GI-VALIDATE PA PHILIPPINE RED CROSS MO SUPLAY SA DUGO NGADTO SA PROVINCIAL HOSPITAL
31 32
TANDAG CITY LAUNCHES PEDIATRIC VACCINATION
5 REDS SURRENDER TO SURSUR POLICE
28
NATIONAL NEWS
34 35 38 39 40
THE CABINET REPORT: UP CLOSE WITH PRESIDENT DUTERTE PCOO’S VISAYAS MEDIA HUB BREAKS GROUND IN MANDAUE CITY
COVID-19 NEWS PALACE URGES PUBLIC TO GET BOOSTER SHOTS 8.2M UNDER 12-17 AGE GROUP ALREADY FULLY VAXXED DUTERTE LAUDS EFFORTS TO MAKE 5-11 VACCINATION ‘NON-TRAUMATIC’
CONTENTS
21
INFOCUS
COVER
Caraga
35
First batch of SBDP proj SurSur inaugurated By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
Two projects totaling PhP20 million under the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP) were successfully turned over to the remote barangay of Diatagon in Liangia, Surigao del Sur on February 22, 2022. The completion of the two projects was part of the six projects completed in the province, and the first in the nation’s infrastructure project supported by both the National and Regional Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict institutionalized by President Rodrigo Duterte through the Executive Order No. 70. The project completion is funded by the national government, through the Local Government Support Fund-Support to the Barangay Development Fund
4
| February 19-25, 2022
Program (LGSF-SBDP). On February 22, the projects turned over consisted of one-storey, two-classroom school building worth PhP2 million and a 1.2km farm-to-market (FMR) road worth PhP18 million, both established in Sitio Simuwao in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga town. The Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, under the administration of Governor Alexander Pimentel, is the project implementer. Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary for New Media and External Affairs and NTFELCAC spokesperson USec. Lorraine Badoy graced the event together with DILG Dir. Rene Valera. Caraga INFOCUS
Despite the unfavorable weather, USec Badoy, assisted by Governor Alexander Pimentel with Lianga Mayor Novelita Sarmen, successfully led the ribbon-cutting of the two projects on Tuesday morning in Kilometer 9, Sitio Simuwao, Diatagon. Barangay Diatagon chairperson Remejio Pareja accepted the key of responsibility.
jects in
“Magpasalamat ako og dako sa among kalsada para dili na kami magkalisod sa among mga produkto pagpapalugsong ngadto sa among lungsod (I am very thankful for our road because we will no longer have trouble getting our products to the town’s center),” said Gilma Tejero, president of Km 9 Simuwao Kabudagan
Assocation (KSKA). Tejero is also thankful for the new school building, which she says will be a great help to the children in their community. “Bisan tood wala koy anak nga nag-eskwela diri, naningkamot gihapon ako og dako nga aron makatabang sa eskwelahan para ang ako mga kabanayanan dinhi sa Sitio Simuwao (Even though I don’t have a child who goes to school here, I still try to help the school for the people here in Sitio Simuwao),” Tejero added. Also present during the event are DILG-Caraga regional director Lilibeth Farmacion, 401st Infantry Brigade comander Col. Rommel Almaria, Surigao del Sur-Provincial Police Office (SDS-PPO) director PCol. Joseph Boquerin, heads and representatives of different government agencies, partner stakeholders, Indigenous People Mandatory Representatives (IPMR) and IP leaders in the province, members of the KSKA, and community members of the recipient barangay.
Meanwhile, four other projects were turned over on February 23 in San Agustin and Hinatuan towns, all in this province. (NGPB/PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS
February 19-25, 2022 |
5
News Briefs The Philippines is 3rd in the vaccination administration among 10 ASEAN countries, 11th out of 47 countries in Asia, and 17th out of 205 countries globally, with a total of 134,927,975 vaccine doses administered as of February 24, 2022. The Philippines ranks 3rd among ASEAN countries in terms of seven-day average daily rate of 300,029 doses administered. xx
Immediately after Super Typhoon Odette, skills trainers and even graduates who volunteered were deployed to typhoon-stricken areas in Caraga to help affected residents and even TESDA employees and training centers, TESDA-Caraga regional director Tarhata Mapandi said during the Kapihan with PIA on February 24. Oplan TESDAmayan was then launched, wherein the Agency provided free skills training needed in making homes as well as relief items for affected residents. Caraga celebrates its 27th Charter Anniversary pursuant to Republic Act No. 7901 or “An Act Creating Region XIII to be Known as the Caraga Administrative Region, and for Other Purposes”, which was enacted on February 23, 1995. Caraga Region is represented here by the FAME logo as it positions itself to be the Fishery, Agro-Forestry, Mineral and EcoTourism (FAME) Center of the Philippines.
We celebrate the 36th anniversary of the restoration of Philippine Democracy, one of the most impactful political events in the country that led to the creation of a new constitution of the Filipino people.
REGIONAL NEWS
42 Omicron cases recorded in Caraga Cassion said that the presence of the new variant is possibly due to the easement of community quarantine and border restrictions in the past months. “But we are constantly monitoring our health facilities as to bed capacity, manpower augmentation, and logistics supply,” he said.
Forty-two cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 have been recorded in Caraga Region, the Department of Health (DOH)Caraga confirmed on Tuesday, February 16. In a press release, DOH-Caraga said that all cases are local, wherein 15 are close contacts of confirmed cases while 23 have travel histories outside the region. Age profile of cases ranged from 1- to 78 years old, with 31 as the median age. The province of Agusan del Sur recorded the highest number of cases, in which 30 cases were recorded in nine of its municipalities. Nine cases were recorded in the province of Surigao del Sur while three cases were recorded in Agusan del Norte.
Through its Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), the Department is closely coordinating with the local government units and local health officials to monitor the variants present in their areas. The DOH has also ensured that bed capacity, medication and medical supplies, and oxygen supply are sufficient to cater the surge of cases and reorganized manpower to cater more patients. Home care management remains operational to guide families in homes of early telltale signs of COVID-19. “Also, our continuous efforts in the COVID-19 vaccination campaign have proven to protect the populace against the debilitating effects of this highly transmissible variant,” said Dr. Cassion. The health official called on individuals who are yet to finish their primary vaccine series to get their shot and urged those fully vaccinated to immediately get their booster dose once eligible.
As of February 16, 2022, a total of 415 cases of COVID-19 variants have been recorded The majority of the cases are fully vaccinated. All cases have only manifested in the region, of which 48 are Alpha cases; mild to moderate symptoms during infection 93 are Beta cases; 202 are Delta cases, 30 are P.3 cases; and 42 are Omicron cases. and, at present, have fully recovered, the Three hundred eighty-three (383) of these press release added. cases have recovered while 32 died. DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Cesar (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)
8
| February 19-25, 2022
Caraga INFOCUS
Mining sector a great contributor to economic recovery amid pandemic: MGB By Jennifer P. Gaitano
The Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau (MGB) Manila led by its director, Atty. Wilfredo Moncano, highlighted the advantages/benefits that the mining companies imparted to locals especially those who are greatly affected by the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Moncano emphasized that the mining industry contributed greatly to the upliftment of the economy as it continues to expand and provide employment to locals. “Our mining sector has been tapped to help us in the recovery of our economy,” he said. During the media forum on
Caraga INFOCUS
mining concerns in Caraga region, various mining firms also laid out their priority projects which are expected to uplift the economy and provide more jobs and livelihood to the people of Caraga. Engr. Larry Heradez, MGBCaraga regional director, highlighted that the MGB and DENR has identified pipeline projects that are soon to start their operation. “With this, many will have the opportunity to be employed in the mining firms,” he said. Caraga Chamber of Mines president Engr. Corsino Odtujan also encouraged the small scale mining firms
to register and undertake the necessary processes, so they could also avail of the technical assistance and learn new ways in mining. Meanwhile, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) called on miners to be more responsible and always ensure safety of workers, as well as a safe environment and community for all. “When we are in balance in relation to the environment and to the economy, all the Filipino people will benefit from the mining industry,” said William Coñado, regional director of EMBCaraga. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
February 19-25, 2022 |
9
CHED-13 taps HEIs, partners for typhoon response The Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-Caraga is gearing towards a needs-based, demanddriven approach to assist typhoon-affected constituents in the higher education sector in the region. CHED-Caraga regional director Dr. George Colorado on Monday, February 14, in an interview with PIACaraga, said that they will be working closely with higher education institutes (HEIs) and CHED scholars in the region to solicit their inputs and come up with a comprehensive strategy to address the specific needs of typhoon-battered schools and students, especially those in the provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands. “I think that it would be better that [solutions]
10
| February 19-25, 2022
Colorado
would come from them because it will strengthen their determination to implement them later on,” said Colorado. After the onslaught of the typhoon, Director Colorado and his personnel immediately visited affected areas, particularly in Siargao Islands and the Bucas Grande Islands in Surigao del Norte, to assess the schools. As of press time, CHED-Caraga has estimated a total of PhP344,555,704.07 in
damages sustained by HEIs across the region and PhP91,288,000 in the municipality of Socorro and the rest of Siargao Islands, and recorded an estimate of PhP383,274,063.03 in rehabilitation needs. As part of their initial interventions, scholars and grantees continue to receive funds from their respective programs to help support their needs during the disaster. The regional director has instructed HEIs to utilize the funds downloaded to them for mobilizing Caraga INFOCUS
faculty members to personally reach out to their students and personally assess their situation.
and colleges that offer social work/health programs rendered psychosocial support for their students. Others offered their facilities to help faculties in need of temporary shelter.
As for learning continuity, submission of school requirements has relaxed in all affected CHED-Caraga HEIs. convened those involved in the higher “Our response to this is education sector to the same as when we map out its interventions experienced the first for schools affected wave of the COVID-19 by the disaster in a pandemic. We relaxed press conference on on the requirements, Friday, February 18. allowing the students They are yet to make a to tackle the courses statement on this. beyond the term, if necessary,” said Colorado said they will Colorado. look into their linkages and networks to “They may not be expand their response able to submit their and ensure that help requirements within the will be given to all semester, it’s alright to those affected in the extend the semester. sector, and expressed They can still enroll that they are open in their subjects and to collaborating with continue submitting the former scholars who requirements for the wish to extend help. previous semester,” he added. “The network is there, our government Schools have also system is existing, our initiated their own connections abroad, interventions for both our alumni students their students and looking after their faculties. Universities schools, they will Caraga INFOCUS
respond,” said the CHED-Caraga chief. They are also eyeing approaches “outside the box’’ and will look into areas where they may conduct advanced research to tackle various issues. As for students and their parents, Colorado commended the resilience they have shown despite their situation. While solutions are still in the works, he appealed for their patience. “This is not a onetime approach to the problem. We will take the root of the problem. We have realized that one big shot help is not sufficient for these students to graduate,” he said. “It is going to be a long battle. They need themselves to sacrifice and be patient, and prepare themselves for a long haul,” he added. “We are assuring them that we will do what we can.” (DMNR/PIACaraga) February 19-25, 2022 |
11
SEC approves Bank of Commerce IPO, SMC bond offering The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has considered favorably the initial public offering (IPO) by Bank of Commerce and fixed-rate bond offering by San Miguel Corporation (SMC).
be used for the acquisition of investment securities to meet regulatory liquidity requirements.
A subsidiary of SMC, Bank of Commerce provides banking products and services in deposit, In its February 15 meeting, commercial loans, credit the Commission En Banc card services, consumer resolved to render effective banking, corporate the registration statements banking, treasury, asset of Bank of Commerce and management, transaction SMC covering 1,403,013,920 banking, and trusts and common shares and up to investments. It has a network P60 billion in fixed-rate bonds of 140 branches and 257 under shelf registration, ATMs, as of September 30, respectively, subject to their 2021. compliance with certain remaining requirements. The IPO will run from March 7 to 15, with listing on the Bank of Commerce will PSE scheduled for March offer to the public up to 23, according to the latest 280,602,800 common shares timetable submitted by the priced at up to P12.50 per bank to the SEC. share. The shares will be listed on the Main Board Bank of Commerce of the Philippine Stock engaged BDO Capital & Exchange (PSE). Investment Corporation, China Bank Capital The bank expects to Corporation, Philippine net about P3.34 billion Commercial Capital, Inc. from the offer. Proceeds (PCCI), and PNB Capital will be used to fund the Investment Corporation as bank’s lending activities the joint issue managers, and finance capital joint lead underwriters, and expenditure requirements, in joint bookrunners for the connection with upgrading transaction. its automated teller machine (ATM) fleet and SMC may issue the P60core banking system. Any billion fixed-rate bonds in remaining proceeds will one or more tranches within
12
| February 19-25, 2022
three years. For the first tranche, the listed conglomerate will offer to the public up to P25 billion of five-year Series J bonds due 2027, with an overallotment option of up to P5 billion of seven-year Series K bonds due 2029. Assuming the overallotment option is fully exercised, SMC could net up to P29,632,386,875 from the offer. Proceeds will be used for the refinancing of shortterm loan facilities of the company and for other general corporate purposes. The bonds comprising the first tranche will be offered at face value and will be listed on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. on March 1, based on the latest timetable sent to the SEC. SMC tapped BDO Capital and China Bank Capital as joint issue managers for the offering. They will work alongside BPI Capital Corporation, PCCI, PNB Capital, RCBC Capital Corporation, and SB Capital Investment Corporation as joint lead underwriters and bookrunners. (SEC/PIACaraga)
Caraga INFOCUS
SEC advances crackdown on illegal online lending The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is moving forward its crackdown on unauthorized and abusive online lending activities, starting this year’s campaign with several individuals operating unregistered online lending applications. In a joint operation on February 12, the combined forces of the SEC Enforcement and Investor Protection Department (EIPD) and the Philippine National Police AntiCybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) successfully implemented a warrant to search, seize and examine computer data in Cashtrees Lending Corporation’s office in Pasig City. The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 46 issued the search warrant against Cashtrees Lending for misuse of device penalized under Section 4(a)(5)(i)(ii) of Caraga INFOCUS
Republic Act No. 10275, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, in operating unregistered online lending applications in violation of Republic Act No. 9474, or the Lending Company Regulation Act (LCRA). The onsite digital forensic examination on the seized devices showed that the employees of Cashtrees Lending operated online lending applications such as Happylend, Rush Loan, Easy Money, Good Pocket, Dummy Loan, Lucky Star, Swipe Cash, 365 Cash, Home Peso,
Mega Loan, Treecash and Goldpeso. Cashtrees Lending is registered as a corporation and holds a certificate of authority to operate as a lending company. It operates registered online lending platforms such as Happylend, Creditcash and Cashmore. However, the majority of the online lending applications operated by Cashtrees Lending were unregistered. These include Goodpocket, Easymoney, 365 Cash and Rushloan, which February 19-25, 2022 |
13
have been the subject of cease and desist orders issued by the Commission. Following the digital forensic examination, the PNP-ACG arrested 46 employees, including the manager of Cashtrees Lending for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the LCRA. On February 13, the SECEIPD and PNP-ACG filed with the Department of Justice an inquest complaint against the arrested employees of Cashtrees Lending for violating Section 4(a)(5) (i)(ii) of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the LCRA in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The SEC has been receiving numerous complaints against online lending applications (OLAs) for various violations of the LCRA and for abusive debt collection practices in violation of SEC Memorandum Circular No. 18, Series of 2019, which provides
14
| February 19-25, 2022
for the Prohibition on Unfair Debt Collection Practices of Financing Companies and Lending Companies. In response, the Commission created a task force to handle complaints involving online lending operators and to take the appropriate measures to stop lending companies and their operators from engaging in abusive practices and activities. The task force closely coordinates with other law enforcement agencies such as the PNP-ACG and the National Bureau of Investigation to crack down on illegal online lending applications. The SEC regularly monitors lending and financing companies for their compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as it seeks to protect borrowers from abusive, unethical, and illegal lenders. To date, the Commission has canceled the licenses of 36 financing/
lending companies due to various violations of applicable rules and regulations. It has also revoked the certificate of registration of a total of 2,081 lending companies for their failure to secure the requisite certificate of authority, pursuant to the LCRA. In total, 72 online lending applications have been ordered to cease operations for lack of authority to operate as a lending or financing company. In addition, the SEC has secured the convictions of 74 individuals for violation of the LCRA. To see the list of licensed lending and financing companies and their registration status, please visit the Lending and Financing Companies corner on the SEC website at https:// www.sec.gov.ph/ lending-companies-andfinancing-companies-2/ lending-companies-andfinancing-companies/. (SEC/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS
OWWA Caraga awards educational assistance to PAP beneficiaries provision for my family’s household expenses in this time of pandemic,” she said. Busano is a daughter of a seafarer residing in Bancasi, Butuan City and was awarded last January 28 2021.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) remains committed to providing assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the eligible beneficiaries of the ‘Project Alalay sa Pag-aaral para sa mga anak-OFWs sa Panahon ng Pandemya’ (PAP), the Regional Welfare Office (RWO) – Caraga recently awarded a onetime educational assistance in a form of cheque worth PhP20,000 to the five qualified dependents of active member-OFWs who are enrolled in tertiary level. The qualified beneficiaries of the special educational assistance were identified from those who applied for the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) and took
Caraga INFOCUS
the 2019 OWWA and Department of Science and Technology – Science and Education Institute (DOST-SEI) Pre-Qualifying Examination. The first 1,500 EDSP examinees following the rank of top 400 EDSP qualifiers can avail the onetime education assistance amounting to Php20,000.00 provided that the dependent must be currently enrolled or has the intent to enroll in a baccalaureate degree to any college, university, or learning institution. Kay Angelie Busano, a 2nd year psychology student at Xavier University and one of the new PAP beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude during an interview. “I am beyond grateful for the chance to be one of the recipients of this educational assistance, for it was able to help me not only in my studies, but also the financial
Other beneficiaries who were awarded with the same amount of educational assistance under PAP include the following students: Kaye Pariñas from Agusan del Sur; Joshua Mantilla from Surigao del Sur; Princess Airah Macapanton from Butuan City; and Rheya Mae Laurea from Butuan City. The Regional Welfare Offices assure its clients of the continuous provision of social and welfare services in accordance with the Republic Act 10801 despite the ongoing global pandemic. To know more about Educational Assistance of OWWA, you may dial these hotlines 09399259895 (Smart)/ 09173150590 (Globe)/ 09383163838 (Smart) or visit OWWA Caraga at Nimfa Tiu Bldg. II, J.P. Rosales Ave., Butuan City during office hours between 8:00AM 5:00PM, from Monday to Friday. (OWWA-Caraga/PIACaraga)
February 19-25, 2022 |
15
Oplan ‘TESDAmayan’ launch civil works efforts in Caraga
In line with the directive of TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña, Oplan TESDAmayan in Caraga presses on together with the TESDA Regional buddies from National Capital Region (NCR), Region III, XI, and XII as civil works efforts continue to help calamity-affected TESDA Offices and communities in Caraga. The respective Teams are composed of their respective regional directors and other TESDA Officials, TESDA experts in the construction sector, and TESDA trainers-volunteers deployed in Odette-
16
| February 19-25, 2022
stricken areas in Caraga providing livelihood and skills training related to construction. The respective teams were deployed starting January 4, 2022. This is to help the affected families devastated by Typhoon Odette that caused significant damage to infrastructure and agricultural areas in Caraga Region, mainly in Mainland Surigao City, Siargao Islands, and Dinagat Islands. TESDA Caraga, under the leadership of Regional Director Tarhata Mapandi,
sent skilled workers effective December 27, 2021, in the spirit of TESDAmayan as they conducted repairs and reconstruction to houses and structures. The TESDA Caraga Team accomplished the following as of February 2022: In Agusan del Norte: 15 buildings/houses/ rooms repaired and/or built; 1,100 beneficiaries provided with food packs and or hot meals; 75 corrugated GI sheets and lumber released to beneficiaries; 200 corrugated 8' GI sheets and 30 kilos umbrella nails released to Caraga INFOCUS
beneficiaries; 3 families assisted in their house repair; and skills training (Prepare Desserts, Table Set-up, Napkin Folding, Table Skirting) conducted In Agusan del Sur: 100 provided with food packs and or hot meals. In Surigao City/Surigao del Norte Mainland: 49 buildings/houses/ rooms repaired and/or built; 1,295 beneficiaries provided with food packs and or hot meals; 21 Solar Lighting System/ Solar Panel installed; 200 corrugated GI sheets and lumber provided to beneficiaries in Punta Bilar, Surigao City; coordination meeting with the LGUSurigao City conducted; coordination meeting with LGU Mainit, Tubod and Alegria conducted; Training in Carpentry NC II conducted with 25 Trainees; GREEN TVET utilizing recyclable materials from wall and ceiling transforming it into a quality and elegant filing cabinet, as well as the repair of the damaged unit provided; Onsite Assessment and Profiling of the affected Caraga INFOCUS
area conducted; Donation of the following lumber from uprooted trees (14 pcs - 2x3, 2 pcs. - 2x6, 2 pcs - 2x6x12); On-site coordination and profiling of prospective trainees for the CommunityBased Training in Basic Carpentry and House Wiring; Coordination Meeting with IOM, UNICEF, and LGU-Surigao City conducted; and Provision of training-cum production in Carpentry for the relocation program.
the continuous repair of PTC-Siargao and other affected areas; Installation of Wall for the damaged window, repair of damaged ceiling and painting of wall of PTC Siargao; Prepared the land and planted vegetables and spices in PTC-Siargao Mini-Organic Farm; and Ground Breaking Ceremony for the 20 Houses to be used for the relocation of affected families caused by supertyphoon Odette.
In Surigao del Sur: 1 In Siargao Islands: 2 building/house/room buildings/houses/rooms repaired and/or built; repaired and/or built; 100 and 370 beneficiaries beneficiaries provided provided with food with food packs and packs and or hot meals. or hot meals; and 15 Solar Lighting System / In Dinagat Islands: 8 Solar Panel installed; 50 buildings/houses/rooms individuals participated repaired and/or built; in the conduct of 1,890 beneficiaries demonstration on provided with food Chainsaw and Table Saw packs and or hot meals; Operation; 20 individuals 1 Solar Lighting System/ identified for training on Solar Panel installed; 150 Chainsaw and Circular corrugated GI sheets Mini-Sawmill Operation; and lumber provided 150 identified recipients to beneficiaries; of the Philippine National 20 galvanized iron Red Cross participated sheets provided to in the orientation beneficiaries; Assessment in basic carpentry conducted on the health training; Establishment care infrastructure; of "mini sawmill" for Profiling of Trainees for February 19-25, 2022 |
17
Carpentry NC II Training Cum Production and damage assessment done; Coordination Meeting with MDRRMO Cagdianao conducted; Coordination Meeting with TESDAMAYAN Dinagat Committee with the Augmentation Team from TESDA Region 11 conducted; Courtesy Call Meeting with Chairman Gumamera conducted; Cookies and Face Masks, Notebooks, Ballpens, and Alcohol distributed to beneficiaries; Assisted in the distribution of 1,400 Corrugated Galvanized Iron, Solar Lights, 5 kilograms of rice, and Porridge; and 100 Face Masks distributed to beneficiaries. The accomplishments of the Regional Buddies as of February 2022 are as follows: The Regional Buddy from TESDA NCR headed by Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. and Regional Buddy from TESDA Region III led by Balmyrson M. Valdez assigned in Siargao Islands accomplished the following: 75 buildings / houses / rooms repaired and/or
18
| February 19-25, 2022
built; 537 beneficiaries provided with food packs and or hot meals; 26 Solar Lighting System / Solar Panel installed; 2 Charging Station provided; 10 families provided with construction materials; 18 families conducted with Community-Based Training on Basic Solar Concept and Installation; and Electrical Wirings for Ground Floor at PTC-Siargao building installed.
materials; 2 solarpowered outlets installed; 3 solarpowered charging stations installed; 40 individuals provided with used clothing; and 1 Sawmill installed.
The Regional Buddy from TESDA Region XII headed by Regional Director Rafael Y. Abrogar II assigned in Surigao City accomplished the following: 22 buildings/ houses/rooms repaired and/or built; 11 families The Regional Buddy from TESDA Region XI, headed provided with assistance for the repair of by Regional Director electrical appliances; 4 Lorenzo G. Macapili families provided with assigned in Dinagat assistance in electrical Islands, accomplished wiring installation; 4 the following: 43 families provided with buildings/houses/ rooms repaired and/or assistance in electrical built; 681 beneficiaries wiring installation and provided with food check-up of meter base, packs and or hot circuit breaker, and meals; 26 Solar Lighting lighting preparation; System/Solar Panel 11 families assisted installed; 107 persons - No. of appliances provided with medical repaired: 16 (washing supplies; 53 houses for machine-5, electric fanElectrical Repairs and 7, Refrigerator-1, LED Maintenance provided bulb-2); and Checkup with assistance; 20 and repair of electrical houses for plumbing appliances provided. services provided (Chiselo Joiada R. with assistance; 196 Bernaldez, TESDAhouseholds provided Caraga/PIA-Caraga) with construction Caraga INFOCUS
PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgSur town highlights culture of unity among locals
assistance to help them cope with the damages brought about by the typhoon Odette recently.
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
The local government unit of Veruela in the province of Agusan del Sur highlighted how its locals are united in one despite belonging to different ethnic groups. During the Network Briefing News on Friday, Veruela vice mayor Edgar Brigole bared that the municipality can be found at the southern part of Agusan del Sur and can be reached by bus or public and private vehicles. From Davao City, it may be reached by passing through Trento crossing Cuevas going to Santa Josefa and then Veruela. “We are made up of 50% Manobos, 30% Cebuanos, 10% Ilocanos, and 10% Ilonggos,” he added. Brigole revealed that
20
| February 19-25, 2022
the locals have been very supportive of the government’s efforts and initiatives for the benefit of the majority. During this time of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, many have heeded to the government’s call to get the jab and be protected against the spread of the virus. “As of February 16, Veruela has fully vaccinated 20,187 individuals out of its 46,583 population and we continue to strengthen our vaccination team and frontliners,” he said. When asked about the development in agriculture in the municipality, Brigole said that local farmers were given the needed support including financial
“Last January 17, we experienced flooding and almost 6,524 hectares were affected in Veruela. Almost 75% of the population of Veruela are planting rice. The LGU and provincial government has extended support to farmers whose fields were affected by the flood; we gave them cash assistance and seeds,” said Brigole. The official further said that they also promote “lamayo”, a semi-dry tilapia of which the processing was taught to the local farmers by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). Brigole also underscored that their municipality has a lot to offer when it comes to tourist spots. “We have the Sinobong Falls in Barangay Sinobong. There’s also the ongoing construction of a zip line in an Eco Park, and we also have the Balete Cave in Barangay Sisimon. For those who love fruits, our place is known to have durian and mangosteen,” he said. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Caraga INFOCUS
SK in AgSur town intensify cleanup drive, promote communal garden in the communities By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) along with the youth in Barangay Hawilian in the municipality of Esperanza are taking steps to promote cleanliness and create communal gardens down to the puroks.
cleaning of their multipurpose building.
SK chairperson Honie Rose Nacorda bared that this month, they have been visiting different puroks in their barangay and conducting cleanup activity dubbed “Alay Pulot”, including the
Along with the cleanup drive, they also intensify promotion of the government’s vaccination program. “Before, the people were resistant to the vaccination program but
Caraga INFOCUS
“We are focusing on “Alay Pulot” and our communal garden because we’re only allowed to do a few activities and only up to 50% of the participants are allowed to do such activity,” Nacorda said.
the local government unit has found ways to convince them and explain to them the importance of vaccination. We now have fully vaccinated about 70% of those aged 12 years old and above and more are getting vaccinated,” she added. Nacorda further said that the youth now are able to adjust and adapt to what has been happening, hence, they were able to shift and conduct more virtual activities through social media. (JPG/PIAAgusan del Sur) February 19-25, 2022 |
21
DA-Caraga, partners turnover 100 heads of Itik Pinas to AgSur town
by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOSTPCAARRD).
Integrated rice-duck farming is a good ecological agricultural practice that the local government unit (LGU) of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur wanted to demonstrate to the farming community in their town.
Agriculture Program focal person Cindy Burdeos together with DMLRRS Center chief Catherine Juyno handed the intervention to Sibagat Livestock Program focal person Ceriaco Corsiga Jr. Itik Pinas strain is a With this, the Department genetically superior of Agriculture (DA)breeder duck that is a Caraga Organic product of continuous Agriculture Program selection and organized and Del Monte Lowland breeding of the Rainfed Research Station traditional Pateros (DMLRRS) in partnership duck. A strain that with the DA-Bureau of is smaller in size with Animal Industry turned minimum amount of over 100 heads of Itik food consumption Pinas to LGU-Sibagat on but with predictable February 16. higher egg production performance. The Regional Organic strain was developed
22
| February 19-25, 2022
According to Chief Juyno, rice-duck technology eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides/herbicides as ducks perform the functions of pest management, weed management, and fertilization. “It is a farming system that can be adapted by the organic farmer practitioners,” she said. Aside from establishing a rice-duck technology demonstration area, MAO-Sibagat is also committed to be a multiplier farm to increase the inventory of ducks within the municipality. (DA-RFO XIII, RAFIS/PIA-Agusan del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS
Past rotary guvs extend aid to typhoon-hit Surigao port workers
Port workers in the typhoon-ravaged Port of Surigao got a much needed aid as past district governors of the Rotary Year 2006-2007 in the Philippines pooled resources and stepped up to provide some of the basic needs of typhoon Odette victims in the Surigao waterfront. Facilitated by Rotary District 3860, former district governor Fernando ‘Jun’ Almeda, Caraga INFOCUS
who is based in Surigao City, along with the Rotary Club of Metro Surigao and the Surigao ROTARACT Clubs, around 250 relief packs containing essential items such as bottled water, canned goods, clothing items, rice and a box of vitamin C capsules were distributed among porters, dockworkers, utility workers, and security guards in the Port of Surigao.
A former port manager of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)’s Port Management Office of Surigao, Almeda said that when his fellow past district governors informed him that they are sending help for Surigao, he immediately thought of allocating something for the Surigao port workers. (PPA-PMO/PIA- Surigao del Norte) February 19-25, 2022 |
23
More Odette-affected MSMEs in PDI receive livelihood kits from DTI Caraga
to deal with issues on their businesses,” Tidalgo said during the distribution. A total of PhP2,944,000 has already been disbursed for this immediate assistance catering to 368 Odetteaffected MSMEs in the provinces of Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte.
Completing the first batch of store owners assisted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office in the Province of Dinagat Islands, 24 micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) affected by Typhoon Odette received livelihood kits worth PhP8,000 each on February 8, 2022. Since the onslaught of typhoon Odette on December 16, 2021, a total of 64 MSMEs in the province have already received their livelihood kits under the department’s Livelihood Seeding Program – Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSPNSB). “Since Dinagat Islands have been heavily battered by Odette last December, our profiling of MSMEs here have begun immediately. These
24
| February 19-25, 2022
64 MSMEs were the first to be identified and we hope to be assisting more store owners after our ongoing extensive profiling,” said Regional Director Gay Tidalgo. Tidalgo added that the seeding program primarily aims to help MSMEs gain back their livelihood through immediate provision of livelihood starter kits. “The negosyo or livelihood kit ranges from groceries, kitchen wares, tools and equipment that serves as fresh capital to aid the typhoon-hit MSMEs in the recovery of their businesses. This may only be minimal but the Department is always willing to assist through different means such as through training and mentoring them on how
“Dako kog pasalamat sa DTI kay wala jud ta pasagdi, busa dapat jud nato tarungon pag roll out sa atong negosyo para mulambo pa ta (I am very much grateful to DTI for ensuring we are assisted, that is why we should carefully use this for our capital roll-out and recovering back from what we have lost),” said salon owner Jerry Parnada. LSP-NSB is a program of DTI that allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnerships between relevant local government units and DTI officials. Also present during the distribution were San Jose Vice-Mayor Felix Portullano and DTI-PDI Provincial Director Elmer M. Natad. (Mike Plaza, DTI-Caraga/PIACaraga)
Caraga INFOCUS
SB Corp rolls out rehab program for MSMEs in Siargao affected by Typhoon Odette
Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.), the financing arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), will be providing an Enterprise Rehabilitation Financing (ERF) support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that were adversely affected by Typhoon Odette in a form of low interest and collateral-free loans. The forum about the ERF was conducted on Monday, February 8, in the municipality of Dapa spearheaded by Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer (COO) Santiago Lim, SB Corp ERF Team, Caraga INFOCUS
and DTI Surigao del Norte provincial office, with the president and officers of Siargao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chamber of Commerce and Industry and General Luna municipal mayor Cecilia Rusillon in attendance. During his message, Lim emphasized that the said program will be available to existing and new borrowers as well as MSMEs under the tourism industry. Caroline Macabenta, OIC Mindanao Group Head of SB Corp, on the program overview said that MSMEs may borrow up to Php800,000
for existing borrowers and Php300,000 for new borrowers. For tourism MSMEs, total loan shall not exceed Php5 million per borrower, inclusive of existing loan. Loan term will be payable in 3-5 years. The interest rate shall be at 6% per annum for existing and new borrowers while for tourism MSMEs, it will be at 4-8% based on existing Bayanihan CARES (Covid-19 Assistance to Restart Enterprises) service fee structure depending on the loan term. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte) February 19-25, 2022 |
25
Siargao school feeding program receive aid from private org
Foundation extended it for another month, provided that our implementation will go well),” Jabines said.
Basic education schools in General Luna town, province of Surigao del Norte have begun distributing their feeding supplies from the Skokiaan Foundation from Germany. The Dao Primary School and Magsaysay Elementary School I, has initially distributed Saturday, February 5, the feeding supplies to their 110 learners and 10 teaching staff courtesy of the said foreign foundation. The implementation of their feeding program
26
| February 19-25, 2022
will also now be made three months instead of two, schools’ cluster head Meriam Jabines shared with DepEdSiargao schools division superintendent Dr. Nelia S. Lomocso, who facilitated the distribution with select personnel.
“We are thankful to have been granted this assistance. We will make all our transactions transparent and set our implementation properly because this is the only way we can make them satisfied,” she added. The Skokiaan Foundation has allocated PHP222,300 budget for the month of February, and the next fund transfer will be in the following months.
On the other hand, Lomocso said she will write a letter addressed “Duha ka buyan ra to Skokiaan Foundation man actually an amo to convey her gratitude tagbutang sa proposal, but luckily tagdugangan for having such a nan isa pa ka buyan nan generous initiative, which is instrumental Skokiaan Foundation for the department’s provided na madajaw an amo implementation rebuilding efforts. (Edgar R. Gorgonio, Jr./DepEd(We only indicated two Siargao/PIA-Surigao del months in our proposal Norte) but luckily, the Skokiaan Caraga INFOCUS
Face-to-face classes gisugdan na sa usa ka eskwelahan sa Agusan del Norte, laing tulo gi-validate pa Nagsugod na ang face-to-face classes sa usa ka eskwelahan sa Agusan del Norte ug nagprepara na usab karon ang probinysal nga buhatan sa Department of Education (DepEd) Agusan del Norte alang sa dugang pang mga eskwelahan nga maghimo niini. Kini base sa Regional Memorandum No. 0023 Series of 2022, Enero 11, 2022 o ang “Validation of the Schools Applying for the Expanded face-to-face classes”. Sa pagkakaron adunay upat lamang ka skwelahan sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ang gikonsidera nga makasugod sa face-to-face nga klase. Girekomenda kini sa public schools district supervisors ug gikonsidera sa validation base sa school’s readiness. Sa upat usa ang gitugotan nga maghimo sa face-to-face classes nga gisugdan niadtong bulan sa Enero. Kini mao ang Simbalan Elementary School sa Buenavista. Ang laing tulo nga gi-konsidera mao ang Bokbokon ES, Durian ES sa Las Nieves ug Tabon ES sa Carmen nga kinahanglan pa iskedyul sa pag-validate sa Regional office kung andam naba kini sa pag implementar sa face-to-face nga klase.
Caraga INFOCUS
Ang nasangpit nga mga eskwelahan gi-recommend tungod kay anaa kini sa mga hilit nga lugar ug usa ni sa mga lugar nga nahibaw-an nga COVID-free. Ang pwede lang maka operate alang lang sa kindergarten, Grade 1 hangtud sa Grade 3. Sa usa ka classroom, gilimitahan lamang kini sa 15 ka studyante ug sulod sa tunga lamang sa adlaw o tulo hangtud upat ka oras nga klase. Sumala ni Rebecca Montante, information officer sa DepEd, adunay mga tool nga atong gigamit niini para sa school readiness, ug adunay upat ka basic nga qualifying indicators para ma check base sa readiness. Sa buhatan sa DepEd-ADN gimugna ang composite team
nga adunay 16 ka personahe nga mo tutok ug mo act nga technical field assistance. Ang pag validate base sa gisunod nga School Safety Assessment Tool (SSAT) 2021 mao ang mga indicators sa pag manage sa school operation sama sa shared responsibility; alternate work arrangement; classroom layout and structure; school traffic management, protective measures, hygiene practices, and safety procedures; ug communication strategy. Dugang ni Montante nga usa sa mga requirement nga mo qualify ang skwelahan nga i-validate ug ma-qualify mao nga ang mga magtutudlo fully vaccinated na. (Agusan Up, LGU-Agusan del Norte/DepEdAgusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
February 19-25, 2022 |
27
Philippine Red Cross mo suplay sa dugo ngadto sa Provincial Hospital
Aron padayon ang serbisyo sa suplay sa dugo sa mga nanginahanglan nga pasyente gihatagan og otoridad si Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera nga mo pirma sa Memorandum of Agreement tali sa Philippine Red Cross ug sa Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital alang sa pagpatuman sa RA 7719 o nailhan nga National Blood Services Act of 1994.
28
| February 19-25, 2022
Basi sa RA7719 usa sa mga tumong sa maong balaod mao ang pagpasiugda ug pagdasig sa boluntaryong donasyon sa dugo sa mga lungsoranon ug sa publiko sa prinsipyo nga ang donasyon sa dugo usa ka humanitarian act. Ubos sa maong kasabutan sa duha ka partido sa ilang mga responsibilidad mao: ang Philippine Red Cross
mao ang mo apodapod ngadto sa Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital labing menos kausa sa usa ka semana sa suplay sa dugo ug mga proyekto sa dugo sumala sa quarterly order matag semana base sa ilang blood inventory; ug nag Provincial hospital usab mao ang mo promote, pagrecruit ug pagdasig sa boluntaryong donasyon sa dugo ngadto sa Philippine Red Cross gikan sa mga hospital personnel, pasyente ug kabanay ug kumonidad niini. Ang kontrata taman Disyembre 2024 ug pwede mo extend kung mag sabot ang mga partido. Kini gi-aprobahan niadtong ika-23rd nga sesyon regular sa SP sa pagpanginahan ni Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo. (JO Mellejor, LGUAgusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS
Bag-ong traffic regulation sa Cabadbaran ipatuman Aduna nay gipagawas nga bag-ong traffic regulation ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa syudad sa Cabadbaran human naaprobahan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ang duha ka ordinansa nga nagpatuman niini. Ubos sa City ordinance No. 2021-029 sa syudad sa Cabadbaran ipatuman ang one-way traffic routes sa mga kadalanan nga naglibot sa Rizal Park sa maong syudad. Ang mga dalan nga ipatuman ang one-way routes mao ang mosunod: a. Garame street (gikan sa corner Garame street ngadto sa E. Curato Street), b. E. Curato Street (gikan sa corner E. Curato Street ngadto sa funcion Street), c. Funcion Street (gikan sa corner Funcion Street ngadto sa Cabiltes Street), d. Cabiltes Street ( gikan sa corner Cabiltes ngadto sa Garame Street). Sa laing bahin, ubos sa City Ordinance No. 2021028 gi-regulate usab sa syudad sa Cabadbaran ang exit ug entry sa tanan sakyanan sa Manlapaz Caraga INFOCUS
Street sa maong syudad. Matod pa sa maong balaod nga supak sa bisan unsang sakyanan ang paglatas sa exit ug entry sa tanan sakyanan nga molabay sa PanPhillippine Highway nga mosulod sa Manlapaz Street, mga sakyanan nga moagi sa Manlapaz Street aron moliko sa wala paingon sa F.C. Dagani Street, ug sa tanang sakyanan nga motabok sa Manlapaz Street paingon sa Pan-Phillipine Highway (Cabadbaran-Surigao Route). Dugang pa, nga ang exit ug entry regulation aplikable lamang sa Lunes hangtod Dominggo gikan 7AM paingon 8PM. Ang makasupak sa maong mga balaod adunay
ipahamtang nga silot mao ang mosunod: First Offense- PhP300, Second Offense- PhP500, ug Third and Succeeding OffensesPhP1,000. Tuyo niini nga masiguro ang kahapsay sa dagan sa trapiko ug malikayan ang paghuot sa mga sakyanan ug sa mga posibleng aksidente sa maong kadalanan. Base sa rekomendasyon sa duha ka komitiba sa Committee on Law, Ethics and Good Government ug Committee on Energy and Transportation diin chairperson sila bokal James T. Reserva ug Erwin L. Dano, ang maong mga city ordinance naaprobahan atol sa sesyon regular sa SP niadtong Pebrero 7. (LGUAgusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte) February 19-25, 2022 |
29
Grain dryers nga gipadangat sa AgNor dakung tabang sa mga mag-uuma
nakita nga dako ang kahimoan sa maong mga himan, sunod nilang lakang ang ‘buy and sell’ aron mas mo angat pa ilang ginansya ug pundo. Gipaabot usab ni Bajao iyang pagpasalamat sa probinsya nga napilian sila sa paghatag sa mga ekwipo.
Duha ka grain dryers nga gi turn-over sa probinsya sa Agusan del Note ngadto sa Maningalao-Lingayao Agriculture Cooperative (MALICO) sa Las Nieves nakita nga nagpataas sa ginansya og kita sa mga mag uuma. Ang kooperatiba nagdagan sa hapit tulo na ka tuig nga adunay kapin 160 ka miyembro. Sumala ni Nicamel G. Bajao, ang chairman sa kooperatiba, ning panahon diin nag sige og ulan, daku kaayo og tabang ang duha ka grain drain dryers tungod mas napasayon kanila ang pagpauga sa mga mais ug humay. Dugang ni Bajao niadtong wala pa ang mga dryers nakasinati og kalisod nga
30
| February 19-25, 2022
“Dako kaayo ko og pasalamat sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte labina kay Gov. Dale B. Corvera, nga kahimtang ang mga mag iyang gitugot ang paghatag uuma sa pag mano-mano sa diri sa amoa kining duha ka pag bulad sa mga mais ug grains dryer nga sa pagka humay. karon grabe ka gamit kaayo sa amoa, grabe ka useful “Sa ako nga experience, labina sa panahon nga ting sauna nga wala mi dryer, ulan.” halos ang mga farmer manggihilak tungod daghay Mahinumdoman nga gi reject ug di na dawaton, turn over sa probinsya ang manglagom,” sumala ni maong mga ekwipo miaging Bajao. sa nobyembre. Sumpay ni Bajao nga sa dugay nga panahon nga gipangandoy sa kooperatiba niabot ra gyod ang mga ekwipo ug ila kining ampingan para molahutay ug mo dugay pa kini. Dako pod og kalipay ni Bajao tungod kay sa mga ekwipo nakita niya nga mas nahimong aktibo ang mga miyembro. Gi planohan sa maong kooperatiba, human nilang
Ang pagpadangat og mga ekwipo ngadto sa mga mag uuma sa probinsya isip suporta kalabot sa programang Food Security Enhancement sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa admnistrasyon ni Gob. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kongresista Angel Amante-Matba. (Shena Mae Pabia/Miguelito Velasco, LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte)
Caraga INFOCUS
Tandag City launches pediatric vaccination
The city government of Tandag on Tuesday successfullylaunched the pediatric vaccination for children aged 5-11 years old. Dubbed ‘Resbakuna Kids: Pediatric Vaccination’, the pediatric vaccination site at Telaje Covered Court, this city, was transformed into a kiddie fair. Kids waiting to get vaccinated were entertained with mascots and their favorite TV shows. Cotton candy, ice cream, and meals were provided at the food station. A photobooth was also set Caraga INFOCUS
up in the area, where children were able to take pictures that served as their souvenir from the jab. Kids were then given balloons after receiving their jab. Mayor Roxanne Pimentel, together with Vice Mayor Eleanor Momo and City Health Officer Dr. Ruth Arraz led the launch, witnessed by Department of Health (DOH)-Caraga assistant regional director Dr. Saidaila Raki-in; DOH representative Dr. Redentor Dela Cruz; Provincial DOH Office representative Faith Opada; Provincial
Health Officer Dr. Eric Montesclaros; CLGOO Olivia Bagasbas; Sangguniang Panlungsod Members Tata Perez, Denden Tan, and Vicky Avila; and punong barangays Kharin Momo of Barangay Telaje, Rocky Roger Pimentel of Barangay Mabua, and Sheila May Perez of Barangay Maticdum. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Eric Montesclaros said a total of 127 children received their first dose during the launching. (LGU-Tandag/PIASurigao del Sur) February 19-25, 2022 |
31
5 reds surrender to SurSur police Trento, Agusan del Sur presently residing at P-1, Pamaypayan, Bislig City. He is Jelo’s squad leader and is actively operating in Trento, Agusan del Sur who personally appeared and voluntarily surrendered to Bislig City Police Station.
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
Some five members of the communist-terrorist group (CTG) surrendered to local authorities during the conduct of Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO) on February 18, as reported by Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDS-PPO) provincial director PCol. Joseph Boquiren. The five NPA surrenderees were identified as follows: - Alias “Art”, 30 years old, a resident of Brgy. Pagbahanan, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur and an element member of New People’s Army (NPA) of Squad 1, Guerilla Front19, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC); - Rebel couple who are residents of Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, identified as alias “Razol”, an active member of Militia ng Bayan/Courier and former Vice CO, Sandatahang
32
| February 19-25, 2022
Yunit Propaganda (SYP)-L Platoon, Weakened Guerrilla Front (WGF) 19B, Sub Regional Committee (SRC) SOUTHLAND NEMRC, and former Front 21 Regional Sentro De Grabidad -Squad leader, and “Razel”, an active member of Militia ng Bayan/Courier and a former Political Guide and Medic of SYP-L Platoon and Platoon 8, WGF19B, SRC SOUTHLAND NEMRC; - Alias “Jelo”, 24 years old, male, native of Sitio Boringon, Brgy. Mahaba, Marihatag presently residing at Purok Caimito, Brgy. San Isidro, Marihatag, and a team leader of Alfa team under the Sub Regional Sentro De Gravidad (SRSDG) led by Alias Sodi, Squad leader of Platoon 1 of GF 19; - Alias “Philip”, is a Squad Bomber of GF25 under alias “Eboy”, commanding officer, aka “Letran”, 35 years old, male, native of P-3, Pangyan,
“Razol” handed over one Cal. 45 Colt MK IV (series 80) with serial number 456601 and one magazine inserted with three pieces of live ammunition upon their surrender. During the implementation of SACLEO, the SDS-PPO collected eight small firearms and one 40mm grenade, all voluntarily turned in by individuals who appeared on the different police stations and maneuvering companies in the province. PCol. Boquiren appealed to the NPA to stop doing illegal activities that would affect the progress for the development in the province. “We reiterate our call for the NPA to stop all their illegal activities, return to the folds of the law, and be part of the real change. Also, the non-stop operations of retrieving loose firearms will continue as long as it needs to be done,” PCol. Boquiren said. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Caraga INFOCUS
NATIONAL NEWS
The Cabinet Report: Up close with President Duterte
The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) will be airing a taped one-on-one interview of PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte through a Cabinet Report program tonight. President Duterte will be answering questions
34
| February 19-25, 2022
regarding his leadership over the past five years, his transition plans for the incoming administration, and his insights on this year’s national elections. Watch the special episode of the Cabinet Report this Friday, February 25, 2022 at 7:00 PM on PTV. It will be livestreamed on the Presidential
Communications Operations Office Facebook page, as well as other PCOO-affiliated social media pages. The Cabinet Report is a weekly discussion on relevant issues and initiatives that are being undertaken by the Cabinet Secretaries in line with the directives of the President. Caraga INFOCUS
PCOO’s Visayas Media Hub breaks ground in Mandaue City
Visayas will soon have its own government media hub that will cater to tailor fitted news and information for its regions, as Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar led the groundbreaking ceremony this morning.
Media Hub will serve as the main government broadcast for Central, Eastern, and Western Visayas.
The facility will rise within the 3,000-square meter property of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in Barangay Subangdaku.
“The world-class media hub is part of our vision in the wider PCOO family to ensure that we provide tailored news and information, establish direct connectivity with the public, and bring the government closer to the Bisaya people, especially in preparation for, during times of calamities and disasters, and their aftermath,” he said.
According to Secretary Andanar, the Visayas
The PCOO chief recalled the efforts that they
Caraga INFOCUS
have done in order to improve the operations not only in the PCOO proper but also that of its attached agencies. He also acknowledged the leadership of the directors and managers who rallied for the improvement of their respective offices. “We have so much catching up to do but we were able to catch up because of good leaders behind it,” he said. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in a video message extended his congratulations to the February 19-25, 2022 |
35
PCOO for its initiative to Philippine Broadcasting modernize the operations Service (PBS), Philippine of government media. Information Agency (PIA), Philippine News Agency “I welcome the creation (PNA), and Radio of this new facility Television Malacañang and state-of -the-art (RTVM). equipment that will push the government’s The construction project communications service has an allotment of P300 across the country. I million, while another am certain that this P300 million was secured hub will be a beacon to procure state-of-theof excellence as we art broadcast equipment modernize government and facilities. The project media for the improved was included in the welfare of our people in PCOO’s 2022 budget the Visayas and the rest with the support of of the nation,” he said. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go. The PCOO proper will take the lead In his message of support, in managing and Sen. Go considered the maintaining the historic infrastructure facility. Much like the project as a milestone Mindanao Media Hub, in the government’s VMH will also house communication other PCOO attached operations and services agencies such as the nationwide.
36
| February 19-25, 2022
“This is a vital step to increase civic awareness and public participation among Filipinos, especially in the Visayas regions,” he said. Officials who joined the event included Office of the Presidential Adviser to the Visayas (OPAV) Undersecretary Jonjie Gonzales, PCOO Undersecretary Kris Ablan, PIA Director General Ramon Cualoping III, PBS Director General Giovanni Aportadera, PTV General Manager Kat de Castro, News and Information Bureau Director Virginia Agtay, RTVM Executive Director Assistant Secretary Dennis Wilfred Pabalan and local government officials headed by Mayor Jonas Cortez. Caraga INFOCUS
Palace urges public to get booster shots ay garantisadong dekalidad, ligtas at epektibo. Ito ay ating panlaban, hindi kalaban. Pang-sagip ng buhay, pambangon ng kabuhayan. Magpabakuna at magpabooster shots na po tayo,” Nograles underscored. In the same press briefing, Health Undersecretary Maria Nograles Rosario Vergeire mentioned that serious Malacanang on pa rin natin ng dagdag Adverse Events Following Tuesday, February 22, na proteksyon; ika nga, it Immunization (AEFIs) are 2022, urged the public is better to be safe than very rare and it’s current to get booster shots as sorry.” rate is less than 0.00003, added protection in as of February 19, 2022. light of the low uptake of The Palace official, citing Moreover, as reported booster doses. Department of Health by Undersecretary figures, said around Vergeire not all AEFIs are “Iniisip siguro ng 33.5 million individuals due to vaccines. karamihan: Bakit are already qualified kailangan nito? to receive their booster A total of 134,332,014 Bumababa naman shots, as of February 20, total doses has been na ang kaso ng 2022, and of this number, administered, as of COVID-19 sa bansa,” 9.7 million or 28.95% have February 21, 2022, with Cabinet Secretary and gotten their boosters. 61.8-M receiving the Acting Presidential Sec. Nograles reiterated first dose and 62.6-M Spokesperson Karlo the safety and having the complete Nograles said in a press efficacy of COVID-19 dose, according to briefing adding that such vaccines. “Ang mga the National COVID-19 notion is a misguided bakunang ibinibigay Vaccination Dashboard. point of view. “Kailangan ng pamahalaan ### OPS
38
| February 19-25, 2022
Caraga INFOCUS
8.2M under 12-17 age group already fully vaxxed
(PNA file photo)
The National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 said at least 65 percent or 8,295,474 of the 12- to 17-year-old population have completed two doses of the coronavirus vaccine. In contrast, about 3 million under the age group have yet to be inoculated, according to NTF chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said. “Kailangan na rin po nating hanapin at hikayatin pa ang 3 milyon na hindi pa po nababakunahan (We still need to look for and encourage the other three million who are Caraga INFOCUS
unvaccinated),” Galvez said in his report to President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night.
years old,” Galvez said. Currently, the government uses the original formulation of Pfizer Covid-19 for the said age bracket.
In terms of the provision of booster shots for the 12-17 age group, Galvez said the government is waiting As of February 16, an for reports on administering official total of 224,823,360 additional doses to Covid-19 vaccine doses children. have been delivered to the country, both procured “Naghihintay muna po and donated. tayo sa advice ng ating mga eksperto at tingnan po muna natin kung marami na pong bansa ang nagboo-booster (We are still waiting from the advice of experts and we should check it first if many countries are allowing boosters for) for 12 to 17
The total excludes the 293,670 Pfizer doses, donated by the Australian government through the United Nations Children’s Fund, that arrived Monday night. (PNA/ Lade Jean Kabagani) February 19-25, 2022 |
39
Duterte lauds efforts to make 5-11 vaccination ‘nontraumatic’ President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday lauded the joint efforts of the government agencies, local government units, and the private sector to make the vaccination for children aged 5 to 11 years old “nontraumatic.” In his prerecorded Talk to the People, Duterte also thanked the medical professionals and other healthcare workers who volunteered in ramping up the country’s vaccination program, even in the farflung communities. “I send my gratitude for making it possible. Each and every one of you, maraming salamat sa inyo at minsan natuturuan ninyo ang gobyerno ninyo (thank you because sometimes you are teaching the government),” he said. Duterte said all Covid-19 vaccines used in the Philippines underwent a thorough study to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy. He also urged the eligible fully vaccinated Filipinos to get additional protection against the dreaded
40
| February 19-25, 2022
(PNA File photo)
Covid-19 and its variants, by availing of the booster shots.
Duque said except for Davao Region, the healthcare utilization rates To date, a total of 62,505,204 of the regions are also at low Filipinos are now fully risk. vaccinated, representing 69 On Monday, the percent of the government’s Department of Health (DOH) targeted 90 million Filipinos reported 1,427 new Covid-19 until June this year. cases, the lowest single-day infections this year. PH remains low-risk The latest Covid-19 bulletin In his report to the President, indicated 58,657 active Health Secretary Francisco cases while total recoveries Duque III said the Philippines rose to 3,539,106 after 3,269 has already overcome the new recovered cases were “hump” of the Omicron recorded. variant of the Covid-19. Duque also encouraged all He said the country is now at eligible individuals to have low-risk case classification, their booster shots “to get except for Cordillera additional protection to Administrative Region which prevent severe disease and remains to be on “moderate hospitalization.” (PNA/Lade risk case” status. Jean Kabagani)
Caraga INFOCUS
Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (085) 341-5285; (085) 815-1991 Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga
Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City (085) 815-1991 pia.northagusan@gmail.com PIA Agusan del Norte
AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur 0917-723-3455 pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph PIA Agusan del Sur
SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City (086) 826-9450 piasurigao@gmail.com PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands
SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City (086) 211-3353 piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph PIA Surigao del Sur
