Caraga InFocus – February 27-March 5, 2021 by Caraga InFocus

Volume V, No. 10 February 27-March 5, 2021

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REGIONAL NEWS CARAGA RTF INTENSIFIES INFO DRIVE FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION BRIDGING KNOWLEDGE, CLOSING THE GAP: IPS IN AGRICUTURE

FARMING UNITES FORMER FOES DA, LGU: PARTNERS IN INFO DISSEMINATION HIGH-IMPACT ROAD PROJECTS TO IMPROVE INTER-PROVINCIAL TRAVEL, DOMESTIC TRADE IN CARAGA REGION

PROVINCIAL NEWS GUV UPBEAT ON PROVINCE-WIDE 19 SURSUR RECOVERY FROM TS AURING ENJOINS LGUS, STAKEHOLDERS TO AID 21 NDRRMC SURSUR’S RECOVERY FROM TS AURING ORDERS SWIFT RESPONSE TO DISASTER 23 PRRD AFTERMATH IN SURSUR PROVINCE OFWS UNDERGO ENTREPRENEURIAL SEMINAR IN 25 47BISLIG CITY CITY PROVIDES AID TO 34 FAMILIES HIT BY 36 DAR PROJECT CONVERGE PROVIDES ABACA 26 TANDAG PRODUCTION, ENTERPRISE SKILLS TRAININGS TS AURING GOVERNMENT ENLIGHTENS AGNOR RESIDENTS ON BISLIG CITY JOINS RABIES AWARENESS MONTH 37 NPA’S DECEPTION 27 CELEBRATION PAGPLANO ALANG SA ‘CASH-FOR-WORK’ DIHA DTI INITIATES FACEBOOK MARKETING, 38 SA MGA ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION PROJECTS 28 MANAGEMENT ENHANCEMENT SEMINAR TO GIHIMO SURIGAO NORTE COOP ABOT SA MGA MAG-UUMA SA ABACA GILANTAW COPS NET 30 INDIVIDUALS ON ANTI39 29 DINAGAT NGA MOSAKA TUNGOD SA MGA BAG-ONG ILLEGAL FISHING OPS MAKINARYAS DINAGAT COPS PLANT 300 SEEDLINGS AS PART OF SA GI-KONKRETONG KALSADA SA 30 ‘PLANT-A-TREE’ 40 BLESSING PROGRAM ENTRANCE SA PPO GIHIMO CONDUCTS PRICE MONITORING IN SURIGAO GIGAHIN ALANG GYMNASIUM UG 31 DTI 41 P14.9M NORTE TOWN EVACUATION CENTER SA LAS NIEVES NORTE STAKEHOLDERS UNITE VS NPA 32 SURIGAO TERRORISTS’ EXTORTION MINDANAO NEWS CTG CLASH ANEW IN SURIGAO DEL URGES LGUS TO LEAD CATTLE PRODUCTION 34 SOLDIERS, NORTE 43 MINDA PROGRAM STRENGTHENS AGRI EXTENSION SERVICES WELCOMES NEW GROUP IN MINDANAO 35 DA THROUGH PAFES 44 MINDA COCONUT INDUSTRY

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NATIONAL NEWS REGION 10 RECEIVES 17.4K CORONAVAC VAX FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS ANDANAR SEES END OF PANDEMIC ADVERSE IMPACTS AS COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAM COMMENCES INOCULATION OF KEY GOV’T OFFICIALS TO ASSURE PUBLIC VAX ARE SAFE SECRETARY GALVEZ: GOV’T CAN OPEN UP ECONOMY ONCE THERE’S STABLE COVID-19 VACCINE STOCKPILE GET VACCINATED, PRESIDENT DUTERTE TELLS FILIPINOS AFTER WELCOMING ASTRAZENECA JAB GOV’T PERSONNEL WARNED ANEW ON CORRUPTION PRESIDENT DUTERTE SIGNS LAW CREATING TRUST FUND FOR COCONUT INDUSTRY, FARMERS PRESIDENT DUTERTE FIRES ENVOY CAUGHT IN VIDEO MALTREATING HELPER

COVID-19 NEWS GOV’T TO PROCURE 1M DOSES OF SINOVAC CORONAVAC VACCINES TO BE TRANSPORTED TO CEBU, DAVAO GO TO GET VACCINATED AT SAME TIME AS DUTERTE

CONTENTS

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

Statement of Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar The Human Rights Council, Secretary of Justice Menardo Guevara affirmed in the clearest terms the steady work of the government to address concerns on legitimate anti-drug operations where deaths occurred, even as we maintain our firm resolve to protect the Filipinos from the scourge of illegal drugs. We acknowledge the steady work of the Department of Justice over the past months to review case files – despite the pandemic and typhoons. The Review Panel has endorsed its findings for further action by police authorities and will continue its work in coordination with all concerned government agencies. The work of the panel attests to the vitality of the national accountability processes in the country, which uphold peace, justice and human rights as inter-related pursuits. The Filipino public recognizes the men and women of law enforcement agencies who have honorably dedicated their service and risked their lives to conduct the campaign against illegal drugs across the country, for the protection of the Filipino people and the next generation. We owe the gains of the success of the campaign now being felt tangibly across communities the country to their duty and sacrifice.

- SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR

9,000 vials of COVID-19 vaccines arrive in Caraga By Jennifer P. Gaitano

After months of waiting for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, some 9,000 vials have already arrived at the Bancasi Airport of this city from the Department of Health (DOH) Manila, which are intended to be given to the medical health workers in different hospitals of the region as they formed part of

| February 27-March 5, 2021

the priority sectors to be inoculated. These 9,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Caraga region will cover the 4,500 healthcare workers in the identified priority public and private hospitals in the region. According to DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., the health

care workers who will be inoculated as among the priority sectors have expressed their willingness and consent to take the vaccines for their protection. Together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Dr. Llacuna led the team in Caraga INFOCUS

country; we are entitled to certain rights.” Yet, the health official said there is a need to provide education to the public concerning COVID-19 vaccines and the vaccination program to encourage people to get vaccinated and counter misinformation which is partly the root of the fear and speculations people are having on the vaccines. The health official also reminded the healthcare

workers who were trained to administer the COVID-19 vaccines to be very careful when administering a shot to patients with allergies and those who have asthma/history of asthma. “We encourage every Caraganon to support this cause and be willing to take the vaccine for us to achieve herd immunity and be safe from further threat brought about by the deadly virus,” cited Llacuna. (JPG/DMR/PIACaraga)

a region receiving the 9,000 doses of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines and made sure that these are properly handled and managed at the storage facility of the department. Llacuna said he welcomed those who opted not to get vaccinated for the COVID-19 vaccines since “this is a democratic Caraga INFOCUS

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

News Briefs During the episode of the Network News Briefing with PCOO Sec. Martin Andanar, Libjo town Mayor Lamberto Llamera encourages his constituents to support and continue complying with all the national and local health advisories and travel protocols. “We strictly comply with all the executive orders being issued by the national and provincial IATFs, that is why Libjo has zero cases of COVID-19 virus,” Mayor Llamera said. xx

“Gagawin po namin, Mr. President, iyong inyong ano inyong utos na magkaroon po tayo ng at least mayroon tayong nakastandby na reserve or stockpile na 2 million to 5 million para at least makapag-open up na po tayo ng ano ng ating economy,” Sec. Carlito Galvez told President Duterte during a meeting on government intervention on COVID-19. “Pagka po nagawa po namin na ‘yong aming ano stable na po ‘yong aming supply, we will inform you, sir, we will recommend na puwede na tayong mag-open just in case na nakuha na po natin more or less iyong talagang mga vulnerable people,” he said.

Executive Order No. 84, series of 1999 declares the month of March of every year as Rabies Awareness Month. The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Bureau of Animal Industry, as the chair of the National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee, will spearhead the celebration of this event. The 15 boxes with the 9,000 vaccines inside are now safely secured at the storage facility of DOH-Caraga in Brgy. Doongan, Butuan City. DOH-Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., sees to it that these are properly handled and managed.

REGIONAL NEWS

CARAGA RTF INTENSIFIES INFO DRIVE FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

With the vaccine rollout for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) expected to commence in the incoming months in Caraga, the Regional Task Force against COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTFCOCS) vows to intensify its efforts to educate the public on the COVID-19 vaccines and the government’s actions to have every Filipino be vaccinated against the deadly disease. “Ang pinaka importante actually right now, ang pinaka challenge is pagincrease ng confidence level [of the public]. Information dissemination is very important, that’s the real key,” said Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles during the Caraga Regional Task Force against Local

| February 27-March 5, 2021

governments and the city government of Butuan has only reached 50% of the total target in terms of demand generation, social mobilization, and communication for the COVID-19 vaccine deployment. This prompted the provincial government of Agusan del Norte to take further steps to intensify its information drive.

Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) 1st Quarter Full Council Meeting for CY 2021 on Wednesday, February 24, who also acts as the Cabinet Office for Regional Development (CORDS) of Caraga region. Per the data on the Regional Readiness Assessment, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga reports that as of February 17, all five provincial

“Usa sa among concern is kining mga agamagam sa mga tao, mga kahadlok, that’s why in the province, we are creating a team na muconduct ug massive information drive, of course, with the guidance from DOH para masabtan sa atong mga tao na importante kini na kalihukan [One of our concerns is the speculation and fear of the people (on the vaccines) that’s why in the province, we are creating a team that Caraga INFOCUS

will conduct massive information drive, of course, with the guidance from the DOH so that people will understand the importance of this initiative],” said Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale Corvera. In addition, the provincial government will provide P1 million to each local government unit in the province to support their efforts for the COVID-19 vaccination. The DOH Caraga also continues to spearhead the production of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials for the vaccination program. “On-going na po ang ano natin [production ng] mga IEC materials, mga tarpaulins for this coming vaccination,” said Ma. Jasmine Sarce, the National Coordinator for the COVID-19 vaccines. In addition to the IEC materials provided by the national office, DOH Caraga is also producing localized information materials for residents in Caraga. As of writing, a Bisaya version of the “COVID-19 Vaccination 10 Must Know” is under production. Caraga INFOCUS

Meanwhile, Gov. Corvera also stressed the importance of public figures getting involved personally in the COVID-19 vaccination program. “Ako gani, as local chief executive, kung dawaton ko sa DOH, pwede ko magpauna ug bakuna kay para kita na mga influencer dapat makita sa mga tao na wa ta mahadlok arun sila, musunod napud (sa pagpabakuna). [As a local chief executive, I am willing to receive the first jab of the vaccines, if the DOH will permit, so that the public will see that there is nothing to fear (about the vaccines) and that they

will follow],” he added. CabSec Nograles is also optimistic that public confidence on the vaccines will increase, especially now that the vaccine rollout in some regions have already begun. “Ito yung magiging premise, yung makikita sa mga tao [yung pagbabakuna]. ‘To see is to believe,’ ika nga. Nevertheless, ipagpatuloy pa rin natin yung mga planong inihanda ng mga LGUs, ng DOH para sa information dissemination,” said CabSec Nograles. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

BRIDGING KNOWLEDGE, CLOSING THE GAP: IPS IN AGRICUTURE By Kent Warren H. Fugoso

Leaning towards development for the ancestral domains of the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) / Indigenous Peoples (IPs), the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga through the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K), mobilizes its efforts in creating a livelihood and agricultural productivity program that will touch into four components such as Social Preparation, Production and Livelihood, Marketing Assistance and Enterprise Development, and Project Management. The project will also provide capacity building that will link the IP community to credit facilities and crop insurance. All of these will be catered through the targeted Community Needs-Assessments (CNA). ‘No One Left Behind’ The 4Ks, which commenced last 2020, is intended for the IPs to throw light on norms that they are the “left behind” sectors in the society.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

The year 2020 has an allocated budget of P13.7 million while 2021 has P14.9 million. “Our IPs have massive spaces and lands for agricultural products but it is not productive. This is the reason why this initiative is lodge under the DA, of course in coordination with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to safeguard the customs, traditions, values, beliefs, and interest of the communities,” said Edelmira Luminarias, DA – Caraga 4K Program Focal Person.

Land Title (CALT), and Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claims (CADC). In addition, they should also be registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).

“The reason, why we need to look thoroughly at the recognized members of the IPS, is because there are some who are claiming to be a member of an IP community and recognized by the NCIP so that they can avail of the benefits. They must be registered in the RSBSA so that they will be insured under the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation Before the implementation (PCIC),” Luminarias said. of the project, a joint special order with the DA ‘Benefits from the and NCIP was established component’ to work hand-in-hand. The 4Ks anchor its ‘Checking the validity’ benefits from four different components The project will cater to allotting different scope IP farmers and fisherfolk of interventions. For the of recognized Indigenous Social Preparation, the Political Structure (IPS) scope of interventions by the NCIP, who has a includes validation of Certificate of Ancestral the Ancestral Domain Domain Title (CADT), Sustainable Development Certificate of Ancestral and Protection Plan Caraga INFOCUS

(ADSDPP), Community Needs Assessment, Registration of IP Farmers to RSBSA, Registration of farmers to the PCIC, and identifying the specific interventions for capability building and conduct of training. After determining the social preparations, component two focuses on the provision of support services and livelihood assistance. Production of support services includes quality seeds, organic and inorganic fertilizers, pre-and-post harvest equipment, tools and machinery, breeder animals to name a few. Component two also targets to improve access of technology through the conduct of technology demonstration projects as a show window of technology through approaches like ‘learning by doing’ and ‘to-seeis to-believe’ for easy adoption of technology. Component three will focus on the marketing assistance and enterprise development which is in coordination with DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division as key players. Technical assistance and literacy training take Caraga INFOCUS

place to access finance, markets, services, and partnerships outside the ancestral domains. This component also aims to match the market and create linkages and a farm consolidation approach as well as value-adding of their products.

recipients from Agusan del Sur. These are IPOs from Rosario, Bunawan, and Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

“For the list of recipients, we already incorporated the farm clustering approach so that these selected recipients will feel better access to resources, technologies, and markets The last component will be basing on their specific the Project Management sectors,” Luminarias said. implementation, ‘Closing the gap, Opening coordination and provision better opportunities’ of logistics are ensured and appropriately The never-ending story conducted. “Consultation of the IP communities in every Ancestral revolves around being Domain is necessary so deficit in terms of capital that we can keep up and financial capacity, with the effects of the technical knowledge implementation. We have to produce quality to hold onto our aim to agricultural products, lack provide initiative but in of marketing skills, and accord with their customs lack of confidence. All of and tradition,” Luminarias these dilemmas create said. gaps that hinder these communities to function ‘Target communities’ well in the agriculture sector. For the year 2020, DA-4Ks identified 10 recipients But as the saying goes of the 4K Program ‘alone we can do so little, Intervention. Three IPOs together we can do so from Agusan del Norte, much,’ there’s always a three from Surigao del better chance to change Sur, one from Surigao del the usual. With their Norte, two from Surigao expertise and historical del Norte, and one from legacies, bonded with Butuan City. government support and interventions, they will no For 2021, as of the latest longer be the ‘left behind.’ data, DA-4Ks listed three (DA RAFIS-13/PIA Caraga) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

A quest for change and the pursuit of a better and peaceful life brought together two former opposing forces. This is how the Taguibo Coconut and Cacao Growers Association, Inc. (TCCGA) based in Butuan City came to be. With the common ground of being engaged in coconut and cacao growing, the association, aside from farmers, is composed of retired soldiers and rebel returnees who have turned to farming to alleviate their way of living. The association was originally organized in the year 1987 as Taguibo Small Coconut Farmers Organization through

| February 27-March 5, 2021

the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) with coconut growers as members. However, the unstable market price of coconut which even went as low as P2.50 per kilogram of whole nut discouraged the farmers. It was further aggravated because of their experiences of difficulty as small farmers in accessing loans because of stringent requirements. Feeling that there was not enough intervention, the members soon lost interest and the association became inactive. It was in 2014 when the Kaanib Enterprise Development Project (KEDP) of the PCA was implemented that the organization was

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

FARMING UNITES FORMER FOES

reactivated. The project promotes coconut-based enterprise and has four components including the Coconut-Cacao Enterprise Development Project. Cacao was then gaining much interest because of its high demand in the market. This renewed the hope of the farmers and they availed of the said project. It was at this time that the group was renamed Taguibo Coconut and Cacao Growers Association (TCCGA) and had the election of their new set of officers. Since the intervention under the KEDP was only planting materials and fertilizers, the TCCGA with the leadership of Caraga INFOCUS

their elected President Restituto P. Asube, sought assistance from various government agencies. The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Caraga through the High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) was among the first to respond to help the association increase their production and improve their product quality. The association was provided with farm tools and equipment such as knapsack sprayers, plastic drums, HDE pipes, as well as two fermentation facilities, and a multi-commodity solar tunnel dryer for postharvest activities. They were also given additional planting materials for their farm expansion. They also underwent training to enhance their knowledge and skills in cacao production and processing. At present, the TCCGA now has 120 members and 72 of these are active cacao growers. They have a total of 131.7-hectare land area clustered in the barangays of Taguibo, Cabcabon, Sumilihon, Antongalon, Camayahan, Anticala, and Pianing, all of Butuan City. These are planted with 70,747 cacao trees of which 70% are already productive. Caraga INFOCUS

Currently, they have an average monthly production of 2,500 kilograms of beans during peak season which falls on the months of AugustNovember. During the lean months, from January to June, they have an average production of 600 kilograms.

project under the Shared Service Facilities Project under the DTI. He added that when the project is implemented, they will be consolidating their produce and about 75% of their cacao beans will already be processed by the association.

Initially, the members only sold dried beans. Later on, however, some of the members started to venture into processing. “We realized that if we do value-adding into our products, we could earn more. For example, a kilo of dried beans would sell for P120.00 per kilo only while if you process it into tablea, it would sell for P600.00 per kilo, so there is a big difference,” Asube shared.

Asube said that they are overwhelmed by the support given by the government to help small farmers like them to boost their farming endeavors. “Farmer leaders are even given a chance now to participate in drafting plans and activities for the year which shows that our views are given importance. This encourages us to strive harder and work hand in hand with the government,” he said.

For now, there are 11 members who are into tablea making. They are currently doing the processing individually and selling their products to local cafes, members’ stores, malls, and also at the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Negosyo Centers. The rest are still selling dried beans. To boost their processing activities, Asube said that the association applied for a cacao processing

For now, the group has several plans to further improve their cacao farming and processing such as establishing a cacao clonal garden, creating a new processed product, and establishing a “pasalubong” center, among others. This way, they aspire to establish a niche in the market and be among the drivers of the agriculture industry in the region. (DA13-RAFIS/PIA Agusan del Norte) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

DA, LGU: PARTNERS IN INFO DISSEMINATION By Aurelius P. Arais

Farmcaster of PVET-Surigao del Sur Higinio Ganate. “Farmcasters are our partners in sharing the right information for the agriculture in the provinces, thus we are grateful for their support,” Presilda said.

“Pen is mightier than a sword.” This is how Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo of the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga described the importance of an information officer in influencing the public. He said that in the digital world, the flow of information is almost instantly accessible through the electronic media. Despite the fast flow of communication nowadays, Monteagudo reiterated the vital role of the one who packages the information whether in print or broadcast. “The responsibility now lies in the information officer who encodes the information in the communication world. They need discipline and

| February 27-March 5, 2021

credibility,” he said. Monteagudo was the guest of honor during the awarding of the certificate of recognition to the local government unit-based farmcasters who relentlessly fulfill their commitments in bringing information to the farmers. Initiated by the DA-Caraga Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Section (RAFIS) headed by Regional Information Officer Emmylou T. Presilda, the following farmcasters were recognized: OIC-City Agriculturist Lolita P. Sayman of Bislig City, Stella Asuncion R. Sabaldan of the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO)-Surigao del Norte, Zenaida D. Piramide of the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO)-Surigao del Norte, Joel B. Corvera and Julius C. Quijada of PAO-Agusan del Sur, Fritzieh Y. Trujillo of PAOSurigao del Sur, and retired

LGU farmcasters and members of the DA-Caraga Information Network composed of the information officers from DA-attached agencies and bureaus converged last February 23-24, 2021 for the 4th Radio Broadcast Messaging Harmonization Workshop wherein the participants capsulized their respective info dissemination messages through radio plugs. The radio plugs will be aired on DA-sponsored radio programs and radio spots across the region, and the advocacy campaign of the respective offices. The term farmcaster refers to the radio personality hosting radio programs airing agricultural updates and information, coined from the mainstream media, the broadcasters. Information dissemination is one of the 12 strategies and initiatives to grow agriculture in 2021 and beyond through strategic communication support. (DA-Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

HIGH-IMPACT ROAD PROJECTS TO IMPROVE INTER-PROVINCIAL TRAVEL, DOMESTIC TRADE IN CARAGA REGION By Ian G. Maculob

Commuters will soon enjoy a shorter travel time from Agusan del Norte to Surigao del Sur and vice-versa upon completion of multi-billion road projects by 2022. Construction works have started since 2016 for the Butuan City – Pianing – Tandag (BPT) Road and Cabadbaran – Puting Bato – Lanuza (CPL) Road, which includes road opening and upgrading to paved roads. The two road projects have a total budget allocation of PhP14.871 billion, which includes PhP8.152 billion and PhP6.719 billion for the BPT Road and the CPL Road, respectively. With a total length of 55.82km, the BPT Road will provide interconnectivity between the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur which will not

Caraga INFOCUS

only provide a direct interprovincial connectivity among the three provinces but also promote development in the agriculture industry and domestic trade. On the other hand, the CPL Road, which is part of the Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network, stretching from Junction Daang Maharlika (Surigao – Agusan Road) to Junction Surigao - Davao Coastal Road, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur for about 73.048km, is expected to promote development in eco-tourism, agriculture industry and domestic trade. When completed, travel time will be reduced by a maximum of one hour and 30 minutes. Priscila R. Sonido, regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga and

chairperson of the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC), has pushed anew the commitment of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ramp up completion of the said projects. “Let us inform the public that these projects can be used soon,” she said during the 1st Quarter RPMC Meeting, which was held through a teleconference on March 2, 2021. Dir. Sonido further instructed the RPMC to include the said projects in its monitoring activities to ensure that delays and other issues will be addressed quickly. In the same meeting, the DPWH Caraga reported that physical completion for the BPT Road and CPL Road is at 17.67% and 35.25%, respectively. (NEDA-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

PROVINCIAL NEWS

SURSUR GUV UPBEAT ON PROVINCE-WIDE RECOVERY FROM TS AURING By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

Following the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte and his Cabinet Secretaries to Tandag City on Tuesday, February 23, Surigao del Sur provincial governor Alexander Pimentel is optimistic about the province’s recovery from the devastation caused by the Tropical Storm Auring (TS Auring). The president and most members of his Cabinet were in the city for the situation briefing on the effects of TS Auring in Caraga region,

Caraga INFOCUS

particularly in Surigao del Sur, which suffered most of the storm’s impact. “Maganda ang kinararatnan [ng meeting]. Lahat ng Cabinet secretaries, inutusan ng presidente na bumalik dito, wag na kaming papuntahin sa Manila, sila na ang babalik dito para [asikasuhin] ang kailangan namin,” said Gov. Pimentel. During the briefing, national government agencies pledged various forms of assistance for the recovery of

the province. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has handed over on Tuesday P217.9-million worth of assistance to agricultural damage and improvement in the province while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Caraga field office, has provided P10.5-million worth of food and non-food items to affected families across the region. A total of 3,658 families in Tandag City were

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

they plan on utilizing an idle lot purchased by Tandag City during his term as the city mayor as its relocation site. The DSWD will also provide P30,000 for families whose houses were completely damaged by the storm and P15,000 for those with partial damage. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is also coordinating with the National Housing Authority (NHA) on the matter.

Gov. Pimentel

given P3,000 each as cash assistance. The governor also said that the Department of Public Work and Highways (DPWH) will lend equipment for the rehabilitation of roads and bridges damaged due to the tropical storm while the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will provide fiberglass boats to all shoreline municipalities in the province. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) chief Sec. Wendel Avisado said funding will be provided for the recovery of the province. Select government agencies have allocated funds to be used for the said initiative. The Department of Interior and Local Government-Bureau of Fire Protection (DILGBFP) has P50 million; DILGPhilippine National Police (DILG-PNP), P50 million; DA,

| February 27-March 5, 2021

P1 billion; Department of National Defense-Office of Civil Defense (DND-OCD), P500 million. The DPWH has P1 billion intended for road rehabilitation. The DSWD also has P22.9 million for its standby funds and P459.8 million Quick Response Fund (QRF) ready to be used in case of shortage. Livelihood and assistance programs from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Department of Energy (DOE) will also be accessible for affected residents. Meanwhile, relocation for residents in coastal communities is also one of the province’s priorities. While relocation is yet to be finalized, Gov. Pimentel said

Governor Pimentel was overwhelmed by the national government’s support. “Ako nga nagulat mismo at hindi ko akalain na ang presidente mismo ang pupunta rito. This is the first in the history of Surigao del Sur that immediately after the typhoon, dumating ang presidente kasama ang kanyang cabinet secretaries. Kaya malaki talaga ang pasasalamat ko kay President Duterte,” he said. On the onslaught of TS Auring, around 7,755 families from 125 barangays in 12 towns and two component cities in Surigao del Sur were forced to evacuate from their homes, seeking shelter in 159 evacuation centers. Four were reported missing while two were injured. The towns of Cagwait, Carmen, San Agustin, and Tago as well as the city of Tandag declared a State of Calamity following the disaster. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

NDRRMC ENJOINS LGUS, STAKEHOLDERS TO AID SURSUR’S RECOVERY FROM TS AURING By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

While figures on the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Auring (TS Auring) in Caraga are yet to be determined, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) is intensifying its efforts to respond to the disaster, enjoining local government units (LGUs) and concerned stakeholder to hasten the recovery of the region from the onslaught of the recent disaster, particularly in the province of Surigao del Sur, which sustained the greatest damage among affected areas. The directive came from President Rodrigo Duterte himself during the situation briefing for TS Auring in

Caraga INFOCUS

Tandag City on Tuesday, February 23, with his Cabinet Secretaries. NDRRMC Executive Director and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Usec. Ricardo Jalad said that coordination with LGUs as well as disaster response agencies is ongoing to determine the total damage caused by the storm and the needed interventions for the province. “May mga interventions na na-identify na no, for example, repair of barangay roads, may problema sa capacity ng engineering office at kailangan nila ng heavy equipment so DPWH [Department of Public Work and Highways] will lend them some heavy equipment. Sa

pagkain, I and Sec. Bautista assured the president that we have enough supply of food and standby funds,” the OCD chief said during a pocket engagement with the media following the briefing. Spearheading the coordination is the Regional DRRMC of Caraga, led by OCD, which is expected to submit the situation report concerning the effects of the recent disaster to the NDRRMC within next week, according to Usec. Jalad. Meanwhile, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) chief Sec. Wendel Avisado said funding can be generated for the said disaster response.

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

The budget chief said the Department of Interior and Local Government-Bureau of Fire Protection (DILG-BFP) has P50 million; DILG-Philippine National Police (DILG-PNP), P50 million; Department of National Defense-Office of Civil Defense (DND-OCD), P500 million. The DPWH has P1 billion intended for road rehabilitation.

ay dapat gamitin nila yung kanilang resources. Yung LGU na ubos-ubos ang pondo, tutulungan yon ng national government agencies,” the NDRRMC chief said.

Meantime, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has pledged to assist 1,000 small businesses affected by the recent disaster through loan programs or outright The Department of Agriculture livelihood support funds. (DA) has already provided the province P217.9-million for Other agencies such as the agricultural assistance while Department of Transportation the Department of Social (DOTr), Department of Labor Welfare and Development and Employment (DOLE), and (DSWD) has already provided the Department of Energy P10.5-million worth of (DOE) will provide assistance food and non-food items through their existing to affected individuals in livelihood programs. Surigao del Sur and in other parts of the region through Usec. Jalad also said its Caraga field office. Some interventions will be provided 3,658 families in Tandag for residents whose houses City also received a cash were damaged during the aid amounting to P3,000 on disaster, in coordination Tuesday. with the National Housing Authority (NHA). The DSWD “May protocol naman din eh. will also be providing P30,000 Kung ang capacity ng LGU for families whose houses ay hindi naman ooverwhelm were completely damaged

| February 27-March 5, 2021

while P15,000 for those whose houses were damaged partially. TS Auring, which caused flooding and landslides in different parts of Caraga region due to heavy rains, affected 73,549 families or 274,137 individuals, forcing thousands of families to flee to various evacuation centers for temporary shelter from February 19 to 21. One death was recorded in the province of Surigao del Norte. In Surigao del Sur, at least 7,755 families or 29,911 individuals from 125 barangays in 12 towns and two component cities were housed in 159 evacuation centers. Four are reported missing while two are injured. The towns of Cagwait, Carmen, San Agustin, and Tago and the city of Tandag have declared a State of Calamity due to the devastation brought by the storm. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

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PRRD ORDERS SWIFT RESPONSE TO DISASTER AFTERMATH IN SURSUR PROVINCE By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

Following the onslaught of Tropical Storm ‘Auring’ in Caraga region, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered his Cabinet members to provide swift disaster response to the victims of the recent disaster, particularly in the province of Surigao del Sur, which suffered the most damage. President Duterte called for a situation briefing on Tuesday, February 23, held in Tandag City, to assess the effects of TS Auring in the region. Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado assured the President that funding for the recovery of the province can be

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produced and will be sourced from the Quick Response Fund (QRF). The budget chief said the Department of Interior and Local Government-Bureau of Fire Protection (DILGBFP) has P50 million; DILGPhilippine National Police (DILG-PNP), P50 million; Department of National Defense-Office of Civil Defense (DND-OCD), P500 million. The head of the state also emphasized the need to rehabilitate the province’s barangay roads which is also crucial in combating insurgency in the area.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is reported to allocate P1 billion for this. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has already handed over P217.9-million worth of agricultural interventions to the province but another P1 billion was reported to be on standby. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided needed augmentation during the onset of the disaster. Per the report of DSWD chief Rolando Bautista, 15,000 family food packs have already been

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

prepositioned in Surigao del Sur and some 8,000 packs are prepositioned in the Caraga field office for distribution. Another 7,000 food packs were reported to have arrived on Wednesday. A cash assistance worth P3,000 was also given to 3,658 families on Tuesday. DSWD will also provide augmentation for property damage. Families whose houses were completely damaged will receive P30,000 while P15,000 will be given to those whose houses were partially damaged. Sec. Bautista also reports that DSWD has prepared P22.09 million for its standby fund and stockpiles that include food and non-food items and another P459.8 million from their QRF in case of fund shortage.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

Further, Sec. Avisado also reported that other departments such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the Department of Energy (DOE) will assist affected residents through their programs. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has pledged to support 1,000 small businesses through loans and outright livelihood support funds, depending on what the enterprise needs. The head of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) emphasized employing a whole-of-government approach to respond to these situations efficiently. Around 73,549 families or 274,137 individuals in Caraga were affected by TS Auring, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction

and Management Council (RDRRMC) reported on Saturday. Heavy rains brought by the storm caused flashfloods and landslides, which resulted in P23.7-million worth of damage in roads and bridges and P117.9 million in agriculture. In Surigao del Sur, 7,755 families or 29,911 individuals from 125 barangays in at least 12 municipalities and two component cities were forced to seek shelter in 159 evacuation centers scattered across the province. Four individuals were reported missing while two others were injured. Five local government units in Surigao del Sur declared a State of Calamity, namely Tandag City and the towns of Cagwait, Carmen, San Agustin, and Tago. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

47 OFWS UNDERGO ENTREPRENEURIAL SEMINAR IN BISLIG CITY

The Bislig City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Go Negosyo Center, and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) spearheaded the entrepreneurial seminar to 47 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) on Friday, Feb. 26, at Sheilas Restaurants, Espiritu St, Mangagoy, this city. BCCCI Executive Director Yourreallylove Sango said the seminar was aimed to provide a livelihood intervention program for returning OFWs who have been affected by the current global crisis, the Caraga INFOCUS

coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Sango said every returning OFW is encouraged to group themselves at a minimum requirement of 15, and a maximum of 30 members to avail of the OWWA’s Livelihood Program. The role of the BCCI is to assist them in preparing their business plan proposal as well as to guide them go through their business projects with business analysis and forecasting, Sango explained. (NGB/ PIA-Bislig City) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

TANDAG CITY PROVIDES AID TO 34 FAMILIES HIT BY TS AURING By Nida Grace P. Barcena

Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel led on Thursday the distribution of assistance to 34 families at the City Hall Motorpool, which houses were reportedly damaged due to heavy rains and gusty winds brought by Tropical Storm Auring last week. Based on the report, each family received P10,000.00 as cash assistance from the city government. Aside from the financial assistance, the beneficiaries also received kitchenwares/ utensils, vitamins,

| February 27-March 5, 2021

t-shirts, facemasks, and food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga.

Sen. Bong Go. Meanwhile, 290 familyresidents of Purok Cabugan, and 121 family-residents of Purok Moonglow, all in Barangay Bag-ong Lungsod also received the food packs from the city government.

In his online post, Vicente Minguillan of Barangay Bungtod, one of the beneficiaries, extended his appreciation to Mayor Pimentel for the immediate During the relief assistance given to them. distribution, the City Health Office also conducted On Feb. 24, around 1,060 an information education families from Barangay campaign on leptospirosis San Agustin Sur also prophylaxis postreceived food packs in exposure and COVID-19 collaboration with the city vaccination, following the government, Vonric Event minimum health standard. Services, and the Office of (PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

BISLIG CITY JOINS RABIES AWARENESS MONTH CELEBRATION

The city government of Bislig joined the celebration of Rabies Awareness Month in the country with this year’s theme, “Maging Responsableng Amo, Huwag Hayaang Gumala ang mga Lagang Pusa’t Aso.” The city government through its City Veterinary Services Office (CVSO) has scheduled a free antirabies vaccination to 24 Caraga INFOCUS

barangays of the city. The CVSO enjoined the residents of the said barangays to bring their pets during their visit. Pregnant and sick animals are not allowed. In a report, rabies remains to be a public health problem in the country, accounting for 200 to 300 deaths each year.

Most reported domestic pets such as cats, dogs, and monkeys cause cases of rabies. The virus usually comes from their saliva but also can be transmitted to humans through biting and scratching. While there is a small number of people who have survived rabies, it remains a fatal disease. (With a report from CIOBislig/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

DTI INITIATES FACEBOOK MARKETING, MANAGEMENT ENHANCEMENT SEMINAR TO SURIGAO NORTE COOP

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Surigao del Norte has recently initiated the Facebook Marketing and Management Enhancement seminar to the selected young members of the Kababayenan sa Panatao Producers Cooperative (KAPAPROCO) in Claver town.

The said seminar was conducted as part of the department’s interventions to upgrade and get them fully on board the new norm of selling through digital means. A total of eight teens including KAPAPROCO chairperson Ludina D. Velez, incoming chairperson Elisa D. Ycong and Coop Treasurer Avelina Delegencia were the beneficiaries of the wholeday seminar which included a workshop and one-on-one coaching session. The resource speaker of the said activity is composed of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) Trade and Industry Development Specialist Ma. Malen Catamora, OTOP Next Gen focal person for Trade and Promotion function and Trade and Industry Development Analyst Tryztan Ian Felias.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

It can be recalled that KAPAPROCO previously received an internet package consisted of Globe WiFi and an internet load card a few months back when they were equipped in preparation for doing an online selling. This time through the said activity, young members were chosen as the page editors for their official Facebook page named “Long Life VCO.” Banking on the easy accessibility of the widely used Facebook, this will increase the social media presence of the group and at the same time give their line of products an ample

boost to aid in marketing. KAPAPROCO is a manufacturer of virgin coconut oil oral drink, liniment oils and various handicrafts, and composed primarily of women from Barangay Panatao, Claver town but later grew to accept male members, as well. As of present, they are geared towards utilizing their young ones to help sustain the cooperatives by using digital selling while continuing to provide the public with quality cocobased products. (Negosyo Center Claver, DTI-SDN/PIASurigao del Norte)

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DINAGAT COPS NET 30 INDIVIDUALS ON ANTI-ILLEGAL FISHING OPS The simultaneous AntiCriminality Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO) on Anti-Illegal Fishing conducted by the seven municipalities of this province from February 7 to 14, 2021 resulted in the arrest of 30 individuals. Dinagat Islands Police Provincial Office OfficerIn-Charge Police Colonel Germano P. Mallari said that the 30 individuals were caught in the act engaging in illegal fishing activities. According to Col. Mallari, the anti-illegal fishing operation is part of their mandate to protect and preserve

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the marine and aquatic resources of the province. Police operatives from Basilisa Municipal Police (MPS) Station arrested five persons for violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 8550 as amended by RA No. 10654 otherwise known as The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. While, police personnel of Cagdianao MPS also arrested three persons for violation of Municipal Ordinance prohibiting the socalled “boso,” Dinagat MPS

arrested eight individuals and Libjo MPS arrested 12 illegal fishers. Loreto MPS arrested one individual who was caught in the act spearfishing within the restricted fishing ground and in a Marine Fish Sanctuary of the municipality of Loreto and Tubajon MPS arrested one person for violation of same. Confiscated from their possession were different fishing paraphernalia and different species of marine products. (Dinagat Islands Police Provincial Office/PIADinagat Islands)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

DINAGAT COPS PLANT 300 SEEDLINGS AS PART OF ‘PLANT-A-TREE’ PROGRAM The personnel of the Police Provincial Office (PPO) in Dinagat Islands recently conducted a tree-planting program at Sitio Iring-iring, Barangay Wilson, San Jose, this province. A total of 300 fruit-bearing seedlings were planted as part of their advocacy in environmental protection and preservation and exemplifying one of their core values of “Makakalikasan” and adopt a program dubbed as “PLANT-ATREE PROGRAM: THE PNP’s New Normal of Disaster Preparedness and

| February 27-March 5, 2021

Response.” The activity served as the contribution of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in promoting environmental protection and preservation and the new normal of disaster management and to showcase the importance of promoting environmental conservation in Dinagat Islands. This also acknowledges the importance of cooperation in order to achieve the goals of PNP

Chief PGen. Debold M. Sinas in the protection and preservation of the environment and natural resources. Dinagat Islands Police Provincial Director PCol. Germano P. Mallari emphasized that through the conduct of the tree planting activities, the provincial office will be able to promote the preservation of the environment as it is equivalent to the protection of human life. (PPO-Dinagat Islands/PIADinagat Islands) Caraga INFOCUS

DTI CONDUCTS PRICE MONITORING IN SURIGAO NORTE TOWN True to its advocacy to protect the consumers, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte Consumer Protection Unit recently conducted the Price Monitoring in the Poblacion area of Claver town. The Price Monitoring Team of DTI headed by Provincial Director Elmer M. Natad together with Trade and Industry Development Specialist Rennel Dalagan, Price Monitor Staff Roxan Ocho, Anamae Apao and Negosyo Center Claver Staff Melanie Caraga INFOCUS

Ogalde conducted price monitoring on five retailers and five hardware/ construction suppliers. Natad said the basic necessities and prime commodities under the jurisdiction of DTI were closely monitored from time to time to prevent unnecessary and uncalled for increase in suggested retail price. He said these items under DTI’s BNPC list are composed of processed and manufactured foods such as: noodles, coffee,

soap, salt, sardines, other select canned goods, among others and specific list of these items can be viewed at DTI’s website at www.dti.gov.ph. Manatad added that letters of inquiry were issued to establishments who deviate using the SRP or price trends and they will be made to explain in writing how their price came to be above what was set within five days of notification. (Negosyo Center Claver, DTI-SDN/ PIA-Surigao del Norte) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

SURIGAO NORTE STAKEHOLDERS UNITE VS NPA TERRORISTS’ EXTORTION Eighteen project engineers and in-charge of the constructions companies and several personnel of the local government units (LGUs) within the area of responsibility of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion (30IB), Philippine Army attended the first Contractors and Business Establishments Security Forum held at the 30IB headquarters in Brgy. Mahanub, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on Feb.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

19. The forum, organized by the Army’s 30IB under the supervision of the 901st Infantry Brigade, in partnership with several local government units (LGUs) in the province of Surigao del Norte, was aimed at enhancing the coordinative mechanism among economic stakeholders, LGUs, and the security sectors by emphasizing “shared

security responsibility” concept. This is to ensure that implementation of all government projects and economic activities are unhampered and uninterrupted as an offshoot to the communist terrorists’ threats and intimidation usually resulting to sabotage and destruction of company properties particularly those in the remote areas. Caraga INFOCUS

Salient points of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) was presented to the participants in order to raise awareness on their rights and protection as non-combatants against all attacks and human rights abuses where most of them already suffered the cruelty and abuses from these communist terrorists. The CARHRIHL was an agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army CPP-NPA-NDF) to ensure the protection of civilians against all forms of human rights abuse. An information briefing on the concept of shared security responsibility was also presented by Lt. Col. Ryan Charles G. Callanta, commanding officer of the 30IB, to the concerned stakeholders (construction companies, communities, LGUs, Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS), and security sectors in which each component has separate but equally important roles Caraga INFOCUS

and responsibilities to ensure that peace and security are maintained and implementation of government projects within the area will be attained. In his message, BGen. George L. Banzon, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, assured the attendees that securing and protecting the entire province’s economic activities are among the topmost priorities of the entire 901st Infantry Brigade together with its two infantry battalions and the PNP. “Extortion is a lifeblood of the Communist Terrorist

Group (CTG). If we work together and stop the extortion scheme of the communist terrorists in Surigao del Norte, it will be a significant blow to its weakening posture. I, therefore, encouraged all of us to work together and do our respective part in this specific endeavor. If we can do this, then we can expect that peace, progress, and development will take its full throttle in this part of the country. Lastly, I thanked everyone for giving us your time,” underscored BGen. Banzon. (30IB, Phil. Army/ PIA-Surigao del Norte) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

SOLDIERS, CTG CLASH ANEW IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE By Cpt. Joash Pramis

The army troops and communist terrorist group (CTG) clash anew in Sitio Barubangkaw, Barangay Taganito, Claver, Surigao del Norte, Thursday morning, February 25.

Charles Ryan G. Callanta, commanding officer of the 30IB, they immediately launched the operation when they received the information regarding the whereabouts of the CTG.

Based on the report, the encounter ensued between operating troops of 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) and members of SYPC2, GF16 under a certain “Jelong” when the soldiers responded to the reports about the presence of the said armed group in the area.

“We are determined to go after the CTG because we want to ensure the safety and security of the locals specifically the indigenous peoples. The initial information revealed that the CTG was monitored for their foraging activity targeting the IP communities within the area,” Lt. Col. Callanta said.

The said firefight lasted for about 10 minutes and resulted in the seizure of one M14 rifle, assorted magazines, ammunitions, personal belongings, hammocks, and assorted medicines. There was no casualty recorded on both sides while the pursuit operation is still ongoing. According to Lt. Col.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

Meanwhile, BGen. George L. Banzon, commander of the 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, expressed his gratitude to the residents who gave their full trust and untiring support to the soldiers by giving timely information that led to the successful operation. “As we always say, the information coming from

the localities are very vital. The outcome in the recent incident clearly manifests that we can promptly act on the arising situation if the community willingly cooperates. Our main objective is to prevent this armed group from entering the community and disrupting their lives,” he said. BGen. Banzon denounced the CTG for pestering the IP communities. He said that such was a clear violation and great disrespect on the rights and culture of the indigenous people. He, however, gave the assurance that the operating troops will continue to be relentless in conducting security operations so that the communities will be safeguarded from the threat of the CTG who capitalizes violence to pursue their agenda. (901st Infantry Brigade/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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DA STRENGTHENS AGRI EXTENSION SERVICES THROUGH PAFES By Aurelius P. Arais

The Provincial Agriculture Office of Agusan del Norte nodded in support to the implementation of the Provincial-led Agriculture and Fishery Extension System (PAFES) of the Department of Agriculture (DA). “This is a welcome move for us since we are dealing directly with the farmers and it would hasten the delivery of services to them,” Alvin Aclan, Agusan del Norte Provincial Agriculturist said. PAFES is one of the key strategies and initiatives to grow in agriculture in 2021 and beyond under the ONE-DA framework of Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar. This is in pursuant with DA’s agricultural modernization and agroindustrialization thrusts through mainstreaming the implementation of programs in the provinces. Through PAFES, the local government unit (LGU) will be at the forefront in delivering extension services to the farmers such as the conduct of technology training, provision of farm

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machinery, production, and infrastructure support, downstream researches, and marketing. Rebecca Reyes Atega, Regional Technical Director for Operations, disclosed that as of now the preparation for the implementation of PAFES is on its way prior to its full implementation set in 2022. “As jumpstart of the implementation, Agusan del Norte has been chosen as the pilot province,” she said. In setting the direction, the agricultural program from the national, regional to local levels will be harmonized through the Collaborative Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Program (CAFEP) integrated into the Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP). “This is to ensure dynamic linkages among provincial, municipal or city LGU, DABureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, DA regional offices, and other bureaus including State Universities and Colleges, and the private sector,” Atega said.

As preparation, Aclan revealed that they are in the process of strengthening the capacity of the Provincial Agriculture Office. “I already proposed to our provincial leaders to fill in the vacant positions and make way for the establishment of our engineering section for us to be able to respond to the need of our farming constituents,” he said. PAFES is an initiative of the DA in anticipation of the full implementation of the Mandanas Ruling which significantly boosts the financial capabilities of LGUs to implement agricultural programs and projects. The 2018 Supreme Court ruling, on the petitions of Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas and former Bataan Gov. Enrique Garcia Jr., stated that the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) must come from twofifths of the collections of all national taxes including collections from import duties and other levies, on top of the BIR tax revenue. (DA-Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

DAR PROJECT CONVERGE PROVIDES ABACA PRODUCTION, ENTERPRISE SKILLS TRAININGS By Gil E. Miranda

In an effort to help abaca farmers increase their income, a total of 868 abaca-farmers were beef up with series of capacity building that reached up to 35 series of sessions implemented under the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte’s Project Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment (ConVERGE). The participants were composed of some 352 agrarian reform beneficiaries, 516 smallholder farmers, 78 Indigenous People (IPs) consisting of 47 women and 31 males. Of the total count of 868 participants, 488 or 56% are women involved. PARPO II Andre B. Atega, CESO V, lauded the performance of the

| February 27-March 5, 2021

project ConVERGE team citing the last year 2020 accomplishment that aimed to support the value chain implementation of the abaca farmergroups to raise their living standards. Under the project, the series of trainings comprised of Abaca Production Technology, Fiber Craft Trainings and Equipment, Value Addition and DiversificationAbaca Pulp and Paper, Market and Investment Facilitation, Rural Finance Facilitation and Ginger production, among others, he said. Project Coordinator Annelyn R. Chan of DAR Planning and Monitoring Evaluation Unit (PMEU) said, that out of 18 trainings targeted last year, the project reached up to thirty-five trainings or 194% in its

performance in advancing the endeavors of abaca farmer-organizations that could bring positive longterm results to improve productivity and income. She noted that the project ConVERGE was able to deliver last year’s target trainings despite the government act their restrictions due to coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The project did not cease to provide support to the abaca farmers. “The provision of abaca production technology trainings provided focused on good agricultural practices in partnership with the PhilFIDA, which coached the ARB Organizations on how to improve fiber quality attributed to a higher price and income,” Chan said. (DAR Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

GOVERNMENT ENLIGHTENS AGNOR RESIDENTS ON NPA’S DECEPTION To enlighten the residents about the tactics of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs), the 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29IB) in collaboration with the Kitcharao Municipal Police Station, Municipal Local Government Unit of Kitcharao, and its Barangay Local Government Units recently led the conduct of an Information Education Campaign (IEC) in Brgy. Mahayahay, Sangay and San Roque of Kitcharao, this province. Under the IEC, CMO Officer of 29IB, 1st Lieut. Edmar C. Colagong discussed the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, the Republic Act (RA) No. 11479, a law whose intent is to prevent, prohibit, and penalize terrorism in the country. He also tackled the Executive Order No. 70 Series of 2018 (EO 70) which seeks to institutionalize the Wholeof-Nation Approach. This approach makes possible the participation of many

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government agencies and units by harmonizing government development efforts and services to support, facilitate and pursue the country’s peace agenda. PLt. Allan Rey Daag, Chief of Kitcharao Municipal Police Station discussed RA 10168 otherwise known as the “Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012”. The said law was created to “reinforce the country’s fight against terrorism by criminalizing the financing of terrorism and related offenses, and preventing and suppressing the commission of offenses through freezing and forfeiture of properties or funds while protecting human rights.” During the IEC, the CNTs’ recruitment process was highlighted. The lecture enlightened the public regarding how these terrorists persuade and deceive their

‘to-be members’ to join the armed struggle. According to Lt. Col Aristotle F. Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, they will do their best they can, using all the means they have to save their constituents who have been blinded and fooled by these CNTs. “We will never get tired, no matter how many IEC assemblies we have to organize so long as we do not miss the opportunity to reach out to those who have lost their way because of the duplicitous ways and dangerous lies of the devils disguised as the CNTs,” he said. “My dear fellows, especially the youth, wake up and hearken to the voice which leads you to that which is right and not the voice that will drag you to a life of misery. Listen to us and don’t trust the NPA’s lies,” Antonio added. (29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

PAGPLANO PAGPLANO ALANG ALANG SA SA ‘CASH-FOR-WORK’ ‘CASH-FOR-WORK’ DIHA DIHA SA SA MGA MGA ENVIRONMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION MITIGATION PROJECTS PROJECTS GIHIMO GIHIMO By Shena Mae Pabia

Gipasiugdahan sa rehiyonal nga buhatan sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ang Forum ug Consultation cum Planning Workshop sa Agusan del Norte ug Agusan del Sur Cluster kalabot sa Risk Resiliency Program - Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (RRP-CCAM) Program. Gipunting sa maong programa dili lang aron makatabang pagpamugna og trabaho ubos sa cashfor-work scheme alang sa mga apektado sa coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), kanhi mga rebelde, apil sa 4Ps, ug mga ug vulnerable nga households kon dili aron ma-protektahan usab ang

| February 27-March 5, 2021

kinaiyahan ug makunhuran ang mga katalagman ilawom sa climate change adaptation and mitigation, lakip niini ang disaster prevention and preparedness. Apil sa nakitang mga proyekto panahon sa workshops diin mahimong makatrabaho ang mga tawo tree growing, reforestation, tree guard making, construction/ improving of river canals ug recycling of plastic bottles. Sumala ni Maryfel Jerios nga ang gi-propose nga proyekto inaug sa LGU for approval, padayon ni Jerios. Ang maong kalihukan gipangunahan Ramel

F. Jamen, OIC regional director ug mga personahe sa maong opisina, kaabag ang mga representante sa Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices, Local Chief Executives sa nagkalain-laing local government units sa mga probisya sa Agusan del Norte ug Agusan del Sur. Kaabag ang DSWD sa pagpatuman sa Lunhawng Agusan Flagship Program sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gov. Dale B. Corvera ug sa buhatan ni Cong. Angel Amante-Matba. (Agusan Up, LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

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ABOT SA MGA MAG-UUMA SA ABACA GILANTAW NGA MOSAKA TUNGOD SA MGA BAG-ONG MAKINARYAS By Angel Lyn F. Gaviola

Gilantaw nga mas modaku pa ang kita sa mga maguuma sa abaca alang sa ilang mga ani tunogd sa bag-ong mga makinaryas nga gipadangat sa local government unit sa Cabadbaran ug City Agriculture Office (CAO). Pormal nang giturn-over ngadto sa upat ka mga asosasyon sa abaca farmers sa maong siyudad niadtong Pebrero 18, ang upat ka unit sa abaca stripping machines, aron mas mopaspas pa ang pagproseso sa ilang mga ani ngadto na sa lanot. Sumala pa kang Mayor Judy Amante nga gipaningkamotan gyod sa panggamhanan nga mahatag sa mga mag-uuma ang mga panginahanglanon nga dako og tabang alang sa ilang panginabuhian sa

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mga mag-uuma sa abaca. Dugang sa mayor nga panahon pa ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera, nga nahimong mayor sa Cabadbaran sulod sa tulo ka termino, ang paghatag og ayuda sa mga mag-uuma, ilabi na sa abaca nga maoy nanguna karon nga gitanum sa siyudad, ug iya lamang gipadayon sa kasamtangan. Nagkantidad og P150 mil ang matag makinarya nga gipadangant sa Ansili Tribal Association, Inc., Lusong Manobo Mamanwa Farmers, Inc., Mamanwa Manobo Indigenous Peoples Org., ug Puting Bato Farmers Association, sumala pa kang Ma. Arcelle Soria, ang city agriculturist. Dugang ni Soria nga giplanuhan na usab sa LGU ang pagtukod sa

Consolidation Center alang sa mga abaca farmers didto sa Brgy Mahaba, nga gigahinan na og P1.5 milyon sa local nga panggamhanan. Sa pinakaulahing datos nga natala sa CAO, mokabat na sa kapin kon kulang 500,000 hills sa abaca ang natanom gikan sa kapin kon kulang 190 ektaryas nga plantasyon sa abaca sa syudad. Katambayayong ang Cabadbaran sa pagpatuman sa Plant! Plant! Plant! and Process! Process! Process! Projects sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gob. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Angel Amante-Matba. (Agusan Up, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

BLESSING SA GI-KONKRETONG KALSADA SA ENTRANCE SA PPO GIHIMO By Karen Kei Decamotan

Gihimo ang blessing ceremony bag-ohay pa lamang sa hapit P1 milyon nga Road Rehabilitation Project sa main entrance sa Agusan del Norte Provincial Police Office (PPO) sa Camp Rafael Rodriguez ning dakbayan. Niini, mapasalamaton kaayo ang mga kadagkuan sa kapolisan sa rehiyon ug sa probinsya kang Gobernador Dale B. Corvera ug Kongresista Angel Amante-Matba tungod sa pundo nga gigahin sa probinsya alang sa maong proyekto. “Thank you to our two great leaders Gov. Dale and Congw. Angel for the support and pagtubag to our request in funding

| February 27-March 5, 2021

this road,” sumala pa kang PBGen. Romeo M. Caramat. Dugang ni PBGen. Caramat nga walay puas ang suporta sa duha ka lider sa Agusan del Norte ug dali nilang giaksyonan ang ilang hangyo nga ma-semento ang maong kalsada. Mapasalamaton usab si PNP Provincial Director PCol. Martin Gamba sa probinsya tungod sa mga suporta niini panahon nga naay aktibidad nga ilang himoon. Sa iyang mensahe, gipasabot ni Gob. Corvera ang maong proyekto nga kalsada bunga sa pagtampohay sa

gobyerno ug pribadong sector. “Dili sayon mangita og kwarta para sa usa ka proyekto,” sumala pa ni Gob. Corvera. “Mao nga I’m very happy that this project is completed out of the convergence of support not only from government but also from the private sector,” dugang Gob. Corvera. “Ang usa ka dakung problema mahimong gamay kung kita magkahiusa. That’s what we need in governance,” panapos sa gobernador. (Agusan Up, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

P14.9M GIGAHIN ALANG GYMNASIUM UG EVACUATION CENTER SA LAS NIEVES By Jessica O. Mellejor

Masugdan na ang pagtukod og gymnasium ug evacuation center (Phase ll) sa Barangay Poblacion, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte human gi-aprubahan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ang pondo alang niini nga mokabat sa P14,989,449.73 nga gigahin sa lokal nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte.

niini pinaagi sa sulat pinitsahan Enero 13, 2021 nga hatagaan og otoridad alang sa pagpirma sa Contract Agreement sa ngalan sa probinsya ug ang QUADCON Builders Design aron madali ang pagtrabaho sa Gymnasium ug Evacuation Center (Phase II) sa barangay Poblacion, Las Nieves, ning lalawigan.

Alang sa hapsay nga implementasyon gihatagan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 062-2021, og otoridad si Agusan del Norte Gobernador Dale B. Corvera tubag sa hangyo

Giaprobahan sa 18th Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte, sa pagpanguna ni Bise Gobernador Ramon AG. Bungabong, ang maong proyekto tungod kay ang gymnasium ug evacuation center

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mahinungdanon kayo panahon sa emergency aron maprotektaran ang kinabuhi ug kabtangan sa tawo sa wala pa ang kalamidad, panahon sa kalamidad ug human sa epekto sa kalamidad. Ang Sanggunian Resolution No. 062-2021 nga naghatag og otoridad sa pagpirma sa MOA giduso ug gipangunahan sa duha ka authors nga si Provincial Board Member James T. Reserva ug Provincial Board Member Dick Victor B. Carmona ug naaprubahan atol sa ika 75th regular sesyon. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

MINDANAO NEWS

MINDA URGES LGUS TO LEAD CATTLE PRODUCTION PROGRAM By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is urging local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao, especially populous provinces, to lead the region’s cattle production program to ensure sufficient meat supply for their constituents. In a statement Sunday, MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the cattle production program, which is supported by the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) through low-interest loans, aims to establish cattle breeding and fattening projects in each of the 29 provinces of Mindanao. “The cattle fattening project involves the establishment of feedlots where steers and culled cows to be sourced from Australia or other cattleproducing countries would be fed for 100 days before these are slaughtered for meat. A component of the cattle fattening project is a modern abattoir which would process the fattened cattle into Caraga INFOCUS

market-ready products,” he said. The cattle breeding project, Piñol said, would involve the upgrading of the local stocks of cattle through artificial insemination using semen from outstanding breeds. “It would also include the procurement of heifers or cows for local breeding to increase the cattle population in Mindanao,” he said. Piñol said MinDA will integrate the cattle production program with its sorghum development program which will provide the needed silage. “Initially, the program which is expected to start

production in two years, would aim to fill the local beef requirements then gradually increase the number of cattle in the program to supply the big cities in the Visayas and Luzon,” he added. Piñol said Lanao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, and North Cotabato have signified intention to join the program. “On Tuesday (March 2), I will personally present the program to Misamis Occidental Governor Philip Tan to complete the number of pilot provinces needed for the program. Each of the provinces will start with an initial 1,000 steers or culled cows to be fattened,” he added. (PNA) February 27-March 5, 2021 |

MINDA WELCOMES NEW GROUP IN MINDANAO COCONUT INDUSTRY The company, a subsidiary of the US-based Peter Paul Inc. of Naugatuck, Connecticut, is opening up a facility in Plaridel, Misamis Occidental which would process coconut into high value products such as Virgin Coconut Oil, Coconut Milk, Dessicated Coconut, Coconut Water and others. Established in Candelaria, Quezon in 1946 shortly after World War II and days before the July 4 Philippine Independence from the US, Peter Paul Philippines is one of the pioneering American companies in the country. The company is moving to Mindanao as it expands its operations due to increased demand for coconut products worldwide and the scarcity of supply in Quezon and the Bicol Region.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

Cong. Ty said the company is seeking the support of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) in ensuring sufficient and sustainable supply of coconuts for its operations. Shortly after Cong. Ty and I talked by phone last week, I immediately instructed the regional officers of MinDA to coordinate with the different coconut farmers groups in the Western Mindanao Area, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to link them up with the new player in the region’s coconut industry. The entry of Peter Paul Philippines would provide an added market for coconut products from

Mindanao which accounts for 68% of the total production of the whole country. The area chosen by Peter Paul Philippines to set up a processing plant is also very strategic because of its proximity to the major coconut producing provinces of Mindanao. Today, I will meet with the officers of the company to ensure that the needed support is provided to the company. There is only one assurance that I would like to get from Peter Paul Philppines officials and that is a fair price for the produce of Mindanao’s coconut farmers.

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NATIONAL NEWS

REGION 10 RECEIVES 17.4K CORONAVAC VAX FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS On board Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight PR 2519, 17,400 doses of Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccine arrived here this morning, signaling the start of the COVID-19 Vaccination Program in the region. The vaccines, which were part of the 600,000 doses donated by China to the Philippines and arrived on February 28, were immediately transported to the storage facility of the Department of Health Region 10. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar welcomed the arrival of the vaccine. He was in the city in time for the regular meeting of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC 10). “I am delighted to receive the good news that we are

| February 27-March 5, 2021

moving closer to achieving our goal of providing equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine, and further protecting the lives of the Filipino people from the pressing concerns brought by the COVID-19,” the PCOO chief said. Secretary Andanar, the designated Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Northern Mindanao (CORDS X), is tasked to oversee the implementation of the development priority programs in the region. “I am hoping that the successful commencement of the rollout of the vaccine in Metro Manila will encourage others to get vaccinated, because the life-threatening effects of the virus will remain if we choose otherwise. Above all, if not for ourselves, we should think about the welfare of those

vulnerable members of our families,” he added. According to DOH 10 Assistant Regional Director David Mendoza, these initial supplies will be allocated for the frontline healthcare workers in the region only, giving priority to third level hospitals. The inoculation is set to begin tomorrow Friday, March 5, 2021 at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC). Some 8,700 frontliners are expected to benefit from this. “We will abide strictly by the guidelines given and we will administer it first in third level hospitals. Lower level hospitals and infirmaries that are willing to accept the vaccine will follow,” he said. DOH 10 has also prepared its Quick Substitution List (QSL) to prevent wastage of the vaccines.

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ANDANAR SEES END OF PANDEMIC ADVERSE IMPACTS AS COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAM COMMENCES ng pagpapahirap po nito sa ating mga Pilipino (With the arrival of the vaccines, the end of the pandemic and its impacts to us Filipinos is now in sight),” he said.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday expressed optimism that with the start of the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines, the country can gradually return to its progressive track. The PCOO chief joined President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and other members of the cabinet at the Villamor Air Base (VAB) in Pasay City yesterday to witness the arrival and turnover ceremony of 600,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine by Sinovac Biotech Ltd., which was donated by the People’s Republic of China. This event paved the way for the Philippines to start its COVID-19 vaccination program in key hospitals in Metro Manila, including the University of the Philippines- Philippine General Hospital, Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium, Lung Center of the Philippines, Veterans Memorial Center, East Avenue Medical Center, and the PNP General Hospital. In his weekday show Network Briefing News, Secretary Andanar urged the public to join the government in undertaking a new step towards recovery, especially in the rollout of the vaccination program and maintaining to adhere to the health protocols. “Sa pagdating ng mga bakuna, natatanaw na po natin ang katapusan ng pandemya at

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“Lalong mas mahalaga na magkaisa tayo sa pagpapatupad ng mga health protocols at sana pati sa pagpapabakuna. Hindi po uubra ang pagbabakuna kung kaunti lang ang magpapaturok (It is even more important that we unite for the implementation of health protocols, and hopefully for the vaccination. This will not work if only a few of us will get vaccinated),” he added. He stressed that herd immunity can only be attained if the majority of the Filipino public are willing to be inoculated. He assured that the government, through the PCOO and its attached agencies, is reay to answer queries and clarify the doubts of the people. “Hinihikayat ko po ang mga may agam-agam o hesitation na magsaliksik at magtanong sa nakakaalam upang maliwanagan [I am encouraging those who are still having hesitations to consult and ask those who have the right knowledge to be enlightened],” he said. “Ang pagpapabakuna po ay ‘di usaping politikal. Ito po ay isang isyung pangkalusugan kaya makialam po tayo, magtanong. Ang inyong pamahalaan naman ay handang makinig at magpaliwanag [The vaccination is not a political issue. This is a health issue. That is why we should participate, and ask questions. Your government is ready to listen and to explain],” he added.

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

INOCULATION OF KEY GOV’T OFFICIALS TO ASSURE PUBLIC VAX ARE SAFE Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles (File photo)

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles on Monday joined members of the President’s official family in vaccination activities to increase public confidence in Covid-19 vaccines, which was rolled out initially to the country’s health care workers, frontline essential workers, and uniformed personnel. Nograles, co-chair of the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), joined Department of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City. Later on, the same group converged with Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana at the Victoriano Luna Medical Center, also known as V. Luna, also in Quezon City. The VMMC and V. Luna were among the six government hospitals where the first doses of China-donated Sinovac Covid-19 vaccines were administered.The other four

| February 27-March 5, 2021

were the Philippine General Hospital, the Lung Center of the Philippines, the Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center and Sanitarium, and the Philippine National Police General Hospital. Nograles said the vaccination of government officials “aims to demonstrate that Covid-19 vaccines that have secured an EUA (Emergency Use Authorization) from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) are safe and proven means to prevent COVID-19”. “We are here today to assure that we only mean the best for our kababayans as we roll out the government’s vaccination program,” he said. Apart from medical and healthcare front-liners in various hospitals, Vaccine Czar Secretary Carlito Galvez, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chair Benjamin Abalos Jr., and Bases Conversion and Development Authority President and CEO Vivencio Dizon were among those who received the first doses of the Sinovac’s CoronaVac, which was granted an EUA by the FDA on Feb. 22.

Nograles reiterated his assurances “that all vaccines to be acquired by the government will undergo the stringent evaluation and selection process of the FDA to ensure their safety and efficacy”. “Only FDA-approved vaccines, whether for an EUA or for clinical trials, will be used in inoculating the Filipino people. Regardless of brands or country of origin, all vaccine candidates will undergo the same rigorous regulatory review procedures,” he said. Nograles also took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of health workers. “The President would like to thank, and hindi po mauubos ang aming pagpapasalamat sa sakripisyo at serbisyo ng ating mga health care workers sa pandemya na halos isang taong na natin ni nirerespondehan (We will not stop expressing our appreciation for the sacrifices and services of our health care workers during pandemic which has yet to be resolved for nearly a year now),” he said. (PR)

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SECRETARY GALVEZ: GOV’T CAN OPEN UP ECONOMY ONCE THERE’S STABLE COVID-19 VACCINE STOCKPILE Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said they would recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte the opening up of the economy once the government secures a standby reserve of two to five million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. “Gagawin po namin, Mr. Caraga INFOCUS

President, iyong inyong ano inyong utos na magkaroon po tayo ng at least mayroon tayong naka-standby na reserve or stockpile na 2 million to 5 million para at least makapag-open up na po tayo ng ano ng ating economy,” Galvez told President Duterte during a meeting on

government intervention on COVID-19. “Pagka po nagawa po namin na ‘yong aming ano stable na po ‘yong aming supply, we will inform you, sir, we will recommend na puwede na tayong mag-open just in case na nakuha na po natin more or less February 27-March 5, 2021 |

iyong talagang mga vulnerable people.” Galvez also told the President that after China’s donation of 600,000 doses of Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccine last Sunday, the government has already launched a simultaneous mini rollout of its vaccination program. The government has conducted inoculations Monday at the UPPhilippine General Hospital, Lung Center of the Philippines, Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital, Veteran’s Memorial Medical Center, Philippine National Police General Hospital and V. Luna Medical Center. Similar rollout will be done Tuesday at the Pasig City General Hospital, Amang Rodriguez Hospital, Philippine Air Force General Hospital, Manila Naval Hospital, Philippine Army General Hospital, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo Hospital, as well as hospitals in Pasay City, Taguig City, and Sta. Ana in Manila.

| February 27-March 5, 2021

St. Luke’s Medical Center also wants to participate and has asked the government for 5,000 doses of Sinovac vaccine for its medical frontliners, according to Galvez. The President expressed elation over the private sector participation in the government’s vaccine rollout. “We appreciate every --- any and every cooperation offered to us at this time. Kung sasali iyong St. Luke’s then nagpapasalamat tayo,” he said. “So they can also help spread really the vaccine as soon as --- as fast as it can be accommodated by the time and motion of a human being.” The government has allocated 146,000 doses for the National Capital Region (NCR), Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Baguio City, the vaccine czar reported. For Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Mimaropa, and Bicol Regions, there’s an

allocation of 70,000 doses while for the Visayas and Mindanao, 26,000 and 24,000 doses, respectively. Galvez said the government’s objective is to immunize all the country’s health workers in the first quarter of this year. In the second quarter, the government expects to receive some 20 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, which will comprise of Novavax and AstraZeneca jabs. All vaccines procured by the government will start to arrive in the third quarter, he said. “So more or less mayroon po tayong sa third quarter, mayroon po tayong 68 million at doon po sa fourth quarter, mayroon po tayong 69 (million).” In total, the government expects to secure 161 million doses including the 44 million doses from the World Health Organization-led COVAX facility. PND Caraga INFOCUS

GET VACCINATED, PRESIDENT DUTERTE TELLS FILIPINOS AFTER WELCOMING ASTRAZENECA JAB

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has welcomed the arrival Thursday of the first shipment of COVID-19 vaccine developed by British-Swede drugmaker AstraZeneca, and made an appeal to Filipinos to get COVID-19 shot to contain the coronavirus.

The plane carrying 487,200 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Thursday night with President Duterte, foreign dignitaries and other top government officials welcoming the delivery. Caraga INFOCUS

The vaccine delivery was arranged through the World Health Organizationled COVAX facility.

“I thank the [COVAX] Facility, co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi and [the] World Health Organization (WHO) alongside its partner the UNICEF, for this delivery,” President Duterte said in his address during the arrival of the vaccine at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. Following the recent vaccine delivery, the

President assured the Filipino people that the government would continue working to ensure the immediate distribution of the available shots to the communities. “On this note, I would like to appeal to all our kababayans: Please get vaccinated against COVID-19 and be the government’s partner in preventing further spread of the disease,” he said. “I encourage you to get vaccinated at the soonest possible time. These vaccines are safe, February 27-March 5, 2021 |

and they are the key to reopening our society,” he added, calling on the public to continue observing and practicing health and safety protocols while waiting for more COVID-19 vaccines. Although the country may not be out of the woods yet, it is making progress and the end is in sight, the President said, stressing that with the cooperation of the public, the country will eventually overcome the pandemic and ensure people’s safety. At the same time, the chief executive directed all government agencies to actively institutionalize and sustain the whole-ofgovernment approach in addressing the country’s COVID-19 situation.

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), and the Department of Health (DOH) for making the recent vaccine delivery possible. “Let me thank you to our key partners in the international community, represented by their Ambassadors tonight. Their cooperation in public health is very much needed. Positive engagement is very much welcome,” he noted.

President Duterte said in his previous pronouncements that the vaccines should be treated as a global public good, underscoring international solidarity and cooperation are The President also thanked paramount at this time the country’s vaccine czar, “because no one is safe

| February 27-March 5, 2021

globally until everybody is safe.” He also said that the arrival of the vaccine manufactured by the United Kingdom in partnership with Oxford University, will further boost the government’s ongoing national vaccination program. The AstraZeneca jab was delivered a few days after the arrival of the 600,000 doses of Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccine donated by the Chinese government. During the Department of Education event in Valenzuela City on Thursday, the President announced that China will send an additional 400,000 doses of vaccines, making its total donation one million doses. PND Caraga INFOCUS

GOV’T PERSONNEL WARNED ANEW ON CORRUPTION

With more than a year before leaving office, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte made renewed warning to public officials asking them to obey the law and to stay away from corruption if they want to remain in their posts.

ninyo,” he warned.

Also, during his address, President Duterte disclosed the names of government personnel who were either removed from service or were suspended.

Department of Public “Ngayon, kayong mga Works and Highways ano, you know, madali (DPWH) personnel na lang ako. But ‘pag implicated for nagkamali kayo maski committing prohibited kaunti ngayon, iwasan acts were Ramiro M. ninyo magkamali,” said Cruz, District Engineer, President Duterte during Bulacan 2nd District his weekly public address Engineering Office; on government response Armando R. Juan, on COVID-19. Project Engineer; and Alfredo Hernandez, “If you value your work, Chief Construction if you want to stay in Section, Bulacan District government, iwasan Engineer’s Office. Caraga INFOCUS

They were charged with serious dishonesty, grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, poor performance of functions, and other offenses. Noel Reyes, Administrative Officer III from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is also facing serious dishonesty, grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, falsification of public documents, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the government for falsifying official receipt resulting in unreported amount of P1.69 million intended for the DTI. PND February 27-March 5, 2021 |

PRESIDENT DUTERTE SIGNS LAW CREATING TRUST FUND FOR COCONUT INDUSTRY, FARMERS President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law Friday a legislation creating a trust fund for the country’s coconut industry and its workers. President Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act crafted to develop the coconut industry using recovered coco levy assets, which were declared state-owned by the Supreme Court (SC) less than 10 years ago. The new law mandates the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to craft the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan that will set the directions and policies for the development and rehabilitation of the industry within 50 years. The plan aims to increase farm productivity and farmers’ income, alleviate poverty, create social equity, rehabilitate and at the same

| February 27-March 5, 2021

time modernize the coconut industry. The plan also incorporates a national program intended for community-based enterprises, coconut farmers’ organization, innovative research projects, as well as integrated processing of coconut and downstream products. Republic Act 11524 also mandates the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) to infuse P10 billion to the trust fund in the first year of its implementation. Another P10 billion will be transferred in the second year; P15 billion in the third year; P15 billion in the fourth year; and P25 billion during the fifth year. The utilization of the trust fund shall be in accordance with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan, according to the law. It allows an initial allocation of P5 billion to government agencies implementing development projects for the coconut industry.

The Trust Fund Management Committee, tasked to set the fund’s investment strategy, will be composed of representatives from the Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Budget and Management (DBM, and Department of Justice (DOJ). The government started collecting the coco levy funds from coconut farmers in 1971 through levies, taxes, charges and other fees imposed with the sale of copra rececada. Aside from coconut farmers, the funds were collected from millers, refiners, processors, exporters and copra end-users. Several groups filed various lawsuits to wrest control of the funds after the EDSA People Power Revolution. The Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that the coco levy funds were publicly-owned, prompting the government to craft ways on how to develop the coconut industry using the multi-billion assets. PND

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PRESIDENT DUTERTE FIRES ENVOY CAUGHT IN VIDEO MALTREATING HELPER President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has approved the dismissal from service of the Philippine ambassador to Brazil who was caught in video last year physically abusing her household helper. During his weekly public address on COVID-19 response, President Duterte said he recently signed the order relieving Philippine Ambassador to Brazil Marichu Mauro from service. “Iyong ambassador doon sa Brazil who maltreated a household helper, ito repeatedly inflicted physical harm doon sa tao. I signed the document affirming the

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decision. The decision metes out the penalty of dismissal from the service,” the President said. Aside from removal from service, the penalty comes with cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification from holding public office and being barred from taking Civil Service examination. “Iyan ang parusa niya. So... That’s how it is. I said there are rules to be followed. Kung ayaw mong sundin, you take the risk. If something goes wrong, it’s gonna hit you,” President added.

Mauro was recalled to the Philippines last year after video footages surfaced in Brazil showing the Filipino envoy physically assaulting her 51-year-old household helper. President Duterte asked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to investigate Mauro’s conduct with the department eventually filing formal charge against the ambassador last November. Prior to Mauro’s appointment to Brazil in 2018, she served as consul general at the Philippine Consulate General in Milan, Italy, and was also posted in Belgium. PND

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

VACCINE ROLLOUT. National Task Force Against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. gets his first shot of CoronaVac at the Philippine General Hospital on Monday. He thanked the Chinese government for the “swift shipment” of the vaccines. (PNA photo)

GOV’T TO PROCURE 1M DOSES OF SINOVAC The government will procure 1 million doses of CoronaVac, produced by China’s Sinovac Biotech pharmaceutical company, this March, National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said Monday.

General Hospital where he got his first dose. The country is also set to receive some 3.5 million doses of CoronaVac from the COVAX Facility.

Galvez, who is also the country’s vaccine czar, said there is an “acute shortage” in the global supplies of CoronaVac.

Based on the vaccine deployment schedule, Galvez said 5.1 million doses of CoronaVac may arrive within the first quarter of this year. Another 26 million doses may be delivered by the second quarter.

“That’s why in all the Asean nations and even Muslim nations, we see that only Sinovac and Sputnik V vaccines are available,” he said in an interview with reporters at the Philippine

“The main bulk of our vaccines will be coming within the third quarter and fourth quarter so more or less we could have 50 to 60 million [doses] each quarter,” he said.

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Following the arrival of the 600,000 doses of Sinovac jabs on Sunday, the Philippines began simultaneous vaccination drives on Monday morning at various hospitals in Metro Manila, including the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), Veterans Memorial Medical Center, Lung Center of the Philippines and V. Luna General Hospital. Galvez also received his first shot as he reiterated that the government will employ a stringent regulatory process to ensure the efficacy and safety of the vaccines. (By Lade Jean Kabagani/PNA)

February 27-March 5, 2021 |

SINOVAC VAX. The first shipment of CoronaVac vaccines donated by China arrives in the Philippines on Sunday (Feb. 28, 2021). Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. on Monday (March 1) said part of the 600,000 doses of Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine will be transported to Cebu and Davao this week. (Photo courtesy of Chinese embassy)

CORONAVAC VACCINES TO BE TRANSPORTED TO CEBU, DAVAO THIS WEEK

Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. assured on Monday that frontline healthcare workers across the country will have equitable access to the Chinadonated Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccines with the expected transport of vaccine doses to Cebu and Davao this week.

“Pagkakaalam ko (What I know is) this coming March 3 and 4 ita-transport na nila doon sa (it will be transported to) Cebu. And then also this coming March 5 and 6, ita-transport naman nila doon sa (it will be transported to) Davao,” Galvez said in a press conference in Manila. Galvez said the vaccination rollout will take place at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City and Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. “Uunahin po doon ang Vicente Sotto, mahigit na mga isang libo po ang tauhan niya at saka po yung ating Southern Philippines Medical Center (We will start

| February 27-March 5, 2021

at Vicente Sotto, they have around 1,000 employees and then the Southern Philippines Medical Center),” he said. He said the remaining vaccine doses will be given to other regions across the country.

“At kung meron pa pong sobra, bibigyan na rin po natin yung ibang regions dito sa (And if there are remaining doses, we will give other regions such as) Region 3, Region 4-A, and also Baguio City and also other areas na tinamaan ng (hit by) Covid-19,” he said. Galvez said all frontline medical workers will be prioritized in the government’s vaccination program. “Nakikita po namin equitable po yung magiging distribution po nito. Hindi lang po tayo Metro Manila, pati po Visayas and Mindanao po (We can see that the distribution of vaccines will be equitable. It won’t only be in Metro Manila, but also in Visayas and Mindanao),” he added.

The Philippines kicked off its vaccination drive on Monday with shots administered to some frontline healthcare workers at the University of the PhilippinesPhilippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) and top government officials. UP-PGH Director Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi was the first person to receive CoronaVac vaccine. He was vaccinated by nurse Chareluck Santos. Legaspi said around 100 frontline healthcare workers and employees from the UPPGH are expected to receive CoronaVac shots. Food and Drug Administration Director General Eric Domingo and Galvez were also administered with the vaccine. Government officials who have lined up to get vaccinated with CoronaVac are Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chair Benhur Abalos, and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque. (PNA/Azer Parrocha )

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GO TO GET VACCINATED AT SAME TIME AS DUTERTE By Azer Parrocha

President Rodrigo Duterte (right) and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go (File photo)

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Sunday said he will get vaccinated at the same as President Rodrigo Duterte. While Duterte will have to listen to the advice of his physician as to which vaccine brand to get, Go said all he has to do is wait for the decision of the President and his doctor. “Sabay po kami magpapabakuna. Caraga INFOCUS

Inaantay ko lang po yung desisyon ng kaniyang doctor na sa darating na mga bakuna ano po yung suitable sa kaniyang kalusugan, sa kaniyang edad. Magse-76 na siya ngayong March 28 (We will get vaccinated at the same time. I’m only waiting for the decision of his doctor on what’s the most suitable vaccine for his health, for his age. He’s turning 76 on March 28),” he said in a radio interview.

Go said Duterte will receive whatever vaccine brand his physician will recommend. “Kung ano po yung sinabi ng doktor sa kanya, yun po ang ituturok sa kanya. Pero hindi na po kuwestyon kung magpapabakuna siya o hindi. Sure na po na magpapabakuna kasi kailangan po ipakita ng Pangulo na dapat pong magpabakuna ang ating kababayan (Whatever his February 27-March 5, 2021 |

doctor says, that’s what will be injected on him. But it’s no question whether he’ll receive the vaccine or not. He’ll surely get vaccinated because he wants to show the public that it’s necessary to get vaccinated),” he added.

license,” he said.

He also reiterated that Duterte will only decide on whether to relax the quarantine status nationwide to the least restrictive modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) after the vaccine rollout has kicked off.

Duque, Galvez to get Sinovac

On Feb. 22, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the President prefers to get inoculated with a vaccine developed by state-run pharmaceutical company Sinopharm. He said Duterte is qualified to receive vaccine shots from Sinopharm under the compassionate use license since he is the commander-in-chief of the military. “It’s still being studied by the Malacañang legal office. If you ask me as a lawyer, he is the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and he should be allowed to use the Sinopharm under the compassionate use

| February 27-March 5, 2021

Currently, Sinopharm has yet to secure an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Go said at least two Cabinet members --Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and Vaccine Czar Carlito Galvez Jr.- will get vaccinated on Monday morning with the vaccine brand develop by China’s Sinovac Biotech to boost public confidence in the government’s immunization program. He said Galvez will get vaccinated at the University of the PhilippinesPhilippine General Hospital (PGH) while Duque will get vaccinated at the Lung Center of the Philippines. “Nakausap ko po si Secretary Galvez kahapon simultaneous po magpapabakuna si Seretary Galvez dito sa isang hospital, si Secretary Duque naman yata sa Lung Center po siya magpapabakuna (I spoke to Secretary Galvez yesterday and he

said vaccination will be simultaneous. Secretary Galvez will get vaccinated in one hospital, Secretary Duque might get vaccinated at the Lung Center),” he said. The first batch of 600,000 doses of Sinovac vaccines donated by the Chinese government to the Philippines is expected to arrive in the country on Sunday afternoon. Sinovac is the third vaccine brand to receive emergency use authorization (EUA) after Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines, respectively. “Yun po ang gagamitin nila bukas kasi wala pa naman pong ibang bakuna bukas ng umaga. So mauuna na po sila magpapabakuna para ipakita po sa publiko na magtiwala po tayo sa ating gobyerno at sa ginagawa po ng ating gobyerno. Tanging bakuna lang ang pag-asa (That’s why they will use because there’s no other vaccine available tomorrow morning. So they’ll be first in line to show the public that we need to trust the government and what the government is doing),” he added. (PNA) Caraga INFOCUS

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Caraga InFocus – February 27-March 5, 2021

Articles inside

CORONAVAC VACCINES TO BE TRANSPORTED TO CEBU, DAVAO

COVID-19 NEWS

GO TO GET VACCINATED AT SAME TIME AS DUTERTE