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[ Contents 20 - 26 January 2018
Volume 1, No. 95
DOE campaigns for alternative fuels, energy technologies in Bislig City ASEAN NEWS
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PRRD appoints Medialdea as OIC during India trip Duterte, Modi agree to expand trade, security cooperation
REGIONAL NEWS
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PSA Caraga to celebrate 2018 civil registration month
Army launches mobile computer literacy in SurSur town
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Nasipit regulates dispensing of pharmaceutical products
AgSur weavers review group business model, learn financial literacy DTI addresses media queries on effects of new tax reform law Armed NPA militia surrenders in Surigao Norte
Simple tips for happy holiday eating
MINDANAO NEWS
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MinDA Chief welcomes ADB’s P19-B Mindanao road infra program Japan gov’t turns over 225 MT rice to Marawi IDPs
NATIONAL NEWS
30 AgSur ALS learners join candle-making training AgSur town former rebels participate in vegetables, organic fertilizer production training
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Caraga cops captured 6 most wanted persons
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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PRRD assures Indian investors of hassle-free biz environment DILG, Comelec gear for massive Barangay, SK election information drive
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News Briefs The Community Water Conservation Festival is conducted by BCWD every January as part of the celebration of the Water District Week. It aims to inculcate in the minds of the consumers the value of water conservation since water is a finite resource that should be used judiciously. State-run Social Security System (SSS) said that its revenues reached nearly P175 billion in the first 11 months of 2017 on the back of aggressive collection efforts for members’ contribution, and investment and other income. Pipol Konek or the “Free Wifi Internet Access in Public Places ” is a project of DICT that aims to provide free broadband Internet access to all municipalities, and cities nationwide. Its goal is to make Internet access available for all Filipinos to accelerate economic, social and educational opportunities.
Tandag City government has started its implementation of City Ordinance # 11 series of 2017 (Tandag City Ecological Solid Waste Management Code of 2017) to central barangays of Tandag City. No segregation at source-no collection policy is strictly implemented to Brgys. Dagocdoc, San Agustin Nortes, Bongtud, Bag-ong Lungsod, Telaje, & Mabua.
Cover Story
DOE campaigns for alte technologies in Bislig By: Venus L. Garcia
BISLIG CITY – The Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), conducts a Forum on Alternative Fuels and Energy Technology (AFET) to create greater awareness and appreciation of the importance of cleaner alternative energy fuels and technologies and efficient utilization of energy. The key initiatives under this program are the implementation of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign/ consultations and promotion of Energy Sector Innovation. This aims to reduce the country’s dependence on imported oil by providing energy consumers with alternative and advance energy
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technologies and more environmentfriendly fuel options aside from conventional fuels, such as, gasoline and diesel. In his message, Bislig City Mayor Librado Navarro said that the advocacy campaign of DOE is very timely as the city is fast tracking its goal to be 20 - 26 January, 2018
ernative fuels, energy City the center of o r g a n i c agriculture in 2020, hence, the use also of alternative fuels as best resource for a cleaner environment. “In fact, we are also preparing for the hosting of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM), International Organic Forum, First Declaration of Asian Organic Day, and the Asian Local Government for Organic Agriculture (ALGOA) Summit in September 2018. And this AFET Forum is very relevant in particular to our advocacies,� said Navarro.
of the Department of Energy (DOE) Mindanao Field Office reiterated that the department is mandated by Republic Act (RA) no. 7638, otherwise known as Department of Energy Act of 1992, to prepare, integrate, coordinate, supervise and control all plans, programs, projects and activities of the government relative to energy exploration, development, utilization, Navarro also underscored how distribution and conservation. its local government helped in the mitigation of climate change/global Sharing the DOE functions, warming through its programs and Arzadon stressed that in partnership projects that are focused on the with the different stakeholders, the utilization organic resources. department shall improve the quality of life of the Filipino by formulating and Meanwhile, Virgilio Arzadon, implementing policies and programs senior science research specialist to ensure sustainable, stable, secure, 20 - 26 January, 2018
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sufficient, and accessible energy. He added that in pursuit of this mission, they commit to render efficient service with utmost integrity and professionalism. “We seek to promote judicious conservation, renewal, and efficient utilization of energy, and also to ensure a continuous, adequate and economic supply of energy,” said Arzadon. In advancing the Alternative Fuels Program, DOE Senior Science research Specialist Roselle Ibuna also enumerated the AutoLPG for Transport program, locally sourced natural gas as fuel, and electric vehicles program. “One of our objectives is to create a long term benefit to the people and the environment through the use of alternative fuels. That’s why we are mainstreaming and encouraging the public to apply AFET,” emphasized Moreover, the AFET roadmap Ibuna. envisions the successful adoption and commercialization of alternative fuels On the part of PIA, Dr. Emelyn and energy technologies through Libunao, Program and Management strong and collaborative partnership Division staff director, briefed the with the private sector and full participants on the role of the agency government support in providing in the DOE’s campaign on AFET enabling mechanism and buildingbeing the communication arm of the up local capacity for research and government. She emphasized the development in emerging energy importance of advocating alternative technologies. fuels, which is contributory to national development. The forum was participated by students, representatives from transport/ “When people are aware, drivers/operators sector, barangay informed and have access on the officials, government information opportunities, programs and services officers and local government staff, of the government, they become and personnel from academe. (VLG/ empowered,” underlined Libunao. JPG/PIA-Caraga)
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PRRD appoints Medialdea as OIC during India trip By: Jerome Carlo Paunan
PASAY CITY - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has designated Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea as officer-in-charge of the Executive branch of government during his visit to India on 24-27 January 2018. “The Executive Secretary shall act as OIC to take care of the dayto-day operations in the Office of the President and to oversee the general administration of the Executive Department, and he shall, if necessary, act for and on behalf of the President, except on matters that the President is required by the Constitution to act in person, during the time that the President is outside the Republic of the Philippines from 24 January 2018 to 27
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January 2018,” his Special Order No. 64 reads. President Duterte is set to visit India, his first foreign trip of the year, to attend India’s Republic Day and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations - India Commemorative Summit with other regional leaders. The President is also set to join Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi 20 - 26 January, 2018
in a bilateral meeting and will witness the ceremonial exchange of the Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) on various areas of cooperation between the Philippines and India. Dialogue relations between the ASEAN and India started in 1992 until the latter became its full dialogue partner in 1995. India also takes part in different ASEAN-led activities and mechanisms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the East Asia Summit (EAS), the Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum, and the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Plus. In his speech delivered before departing from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 in Pasay City to New Delhi, India via a Philippine Airlines chartered flight PR001
on Wednesday, Mr. Duterte said he will raise maritime security issues, terrorism during his meeting with ASEAN leaders in New Delhi. He also appealed to the government and peoples of Kuwait and other Middle East countries hiring overseas Filipino workers to treat them with respect. “Can I ask you to treat my countrymen with dignity…I will never again tolerate one more inciden of rape to the point of committing suicide, that is something the Filipino people cannot stomach,” he said. “We may need your help but we will not do it at the expense of the dignity of Filipinos,” Duterte emphasized. (EPC/ JCP/PIA-NCR)
Duterte, Modi agree to expand trade, security cooperation
By: Jelly Musico
MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to expand bilateral ties particularly on trade and security cooperation. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the two leaders met for more than one hour right after President Duterte arrived in New Delhi Wednesday night to attend the IndiaASEAN Commemorative Summit and India’s Republic Day celebration.
be further bilateral negotiations on issues involving trade and even military cooperation in the next two months,” Roque said in a press conference at the International Media Center in New Delhi.
Roque said President Duterte “The two heads of states agreed has emphasized that India and the that relations, while already very good, Association of Southeast Asia Nations will even be better and that there will (ASEAN) must cooperate militarily in 20 - 26 January, 2018
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serious. He said that he has in fact raised the issue of the drug menace in the G13 Summit emphasizing that drug traffickers used proceeds from their illicit trade to fund terrorist activities,” Roque told the media. Roque said Duterte also raised with Modi the idea of coming out with combating modern-day terrorism and a platform to combat terrorism and piracy. threat of piracy. He said Duterte has manifested his interest to purchase Indian weapons after Modi told him that India have expertise in ships and other military hardware.
“He says that ASEAN should not just be an economic body, that ASEAN should consider being active militarily to combat the threat of modern-day terrorism. He was referring, of course, to both ISIS- type of terrorism which is a problem to the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and even southern Thailand and he was talking about international terrorism at sea which is piracy in the Indo-Pacific navigation route,” he said.
“There was a commitment, in fact, for the Philippines to purchase Indian military hardware,” Roque said. Roque added that the Filipino leader took some time explaining his war on drugs to the Indian Prime Minister who Meanwhile, Department of “responded very positively.” Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary “When the Prime Minister Ramon Lopez said the Philippines has expressed his support for the ongoing submitted seven Letters of Intent and concern of Philippine President Duterte two Memoranda of Understanding to against drugs. He in fact said that India. there might be a need for international “We had basically about nine cooperation to deal with the menace agreements with them on how we can of drugs,” Roque said. expand and strengthen our trade and He said the Philippine President investment relationship,” Lopez said in highlighted that the threat to terrorism the same press briefing. in the Philippines and in the region is also Lopez said the nine agreements financed partly through the trafficking will cover affordable medicines, in drugs. renewable energy, infrastructure, and “In particularly, the Prime Minister IT-Business Process Management which said that he realizes that the threat of is expected to generate at least 100,000 drugs to young people is very, very jobs per year in the next six years. (PNA)
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Regional News
Caraga cops captured 6 most wanted persons BUTUAN CITY – Police units in Caraga region arrested six most wanted persons on January 15, 2018, during the intensified manhunt operations regionwide.
Jason Pullos, charged with murder and listed as top one most wanted person in Agusan del Sur, was arrested in Claver town, Surigao del Norte while Arnel Danapa, Abel Butat and Edgar Dayong who were top three, four, and five most wanted persons, respectively, in Mainit, Surigao del Norte were nabbed in this town for murder. Meanwhile, Fane Montañez, top three most wanted in Trento, Agusan del Sur was apprehended in Brgy. Salvacion of said municipality for murder. 20 - 26 January, 2018
In Agusan del Sur, Neljun Mobida voluntarily surrendered to La Paz Municipal Police Station. He’s the number three most wanted person in La Paz town for 2 counts of acts of lasciviousness. “These accomplishments are attributed to the cooperation and support of the community to their police force. Finally, these criminals are placed behind bars and justice had been served to the victims,” Police Regional Office 13 director CSupt. Noli Romana said. (PNP-PRO13/PIA-Caraga)
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REGIONAL NEWS
PSA Caraga to celebrate 2018 civil registration month BUTUAN CITY – The month of February is set annually for the celebration of the Civil Registration Month as per Proclamation No.682 s. 1991. This year 2018’s theme is “#napapanahong CRVS,” which promotes the government’s efforts to ensure the global inclusion of every Filipino in the Civil Registry System. To advocate the celebration, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Caraga aligned various activities for the 2018 Civil Registration Month. The Regional Office headed by Regional Director Rosalinda C. Apura and the Provincial Heads of the five provinces of Caraga will simultaneously hang the streamer for the event. A thanksgiving mass will be held at the regional office on the first day of the month. Other activities to be carried out by the regional office will be the display of panel exhibits at the
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Regional Office, CRVS Decade Forum to be participated by representatives of different high schools, poster making contest and slogan contest to be participated by high school students and Civil Registration Quiz for PSA employees and Local Civil Registry Office staff. Cash prizes await the winners for said contests. PSA Caraga will also participate in the activities of the Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO) of the region during this month-long celebration such as the conduct of mass wedding and mobile registration. (PSA-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga) 20 - 26 January, 2018
Provincial News
Surigao del Sur
Army launches mobile computer literacy in SurSur town
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army in collaboration with the different stakeholders officially launched on Jan. 23, 2018 the 1st Mobile Computer Literacy (MCL) Training dubbed as Project: Gabay Aral sa Kabataang Lumad in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. “The said project aims to provide basic computer literacy for the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) or Lumads in the rural areas, especially those coming from the far-flung barangays under the operational control of the 402nd Brigade,” said Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer Captain Al Anthony Pueblas. Several local officials led by San Miguel Mayor Alvaro Elizalde and representatives from the different stakeholders, being their partner in the program implementation, have joined 20 - 26 January, 2018
in the said occasion. During the launching, a 40-foot fully-air-conditioned container van was officially opened to the public for viewing, equipped with 21 hightechnology computers and gadgets, intended for basic computer literacy learning. A total of 42 out-of-school youth beneficiaries will be part of the first batch of the project implementation and will undergo the said training for 30 days. (NGPBarcena/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Agusan del Norte
Nasipit regulates dispensing of pharmaceutical products
By: Jessica O. Mellejor
NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte – The municipality of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte is now regulating the dispensing of pharmaceutical products to avoid misuse and to promote responsible use of medicines in the said municipality, based on the approved Municipal Ordinance No. 010, series of 2017, authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Benjamin S. Selim.
Under Section 2 of the said ordinance, it shall be unlawful for any person, partnership, or corporation, to display and sell any drugs, medicines and other health products, unless such display and sale is a duly licensed drug store or pharmaceutical company and with the prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.
test, promote, advertise, and/or sponsor health products.
The municipality is imposing the following penalties for any act of violation to the said ordinance: 1st Offense – reprimand; 2nd Offense – a fine of P2,000 and confiscation of pharmaceutical products; and 3rd Offense – a fine of P2,500, confiscation of pharmaceutical This is in line with the Republic Act products and cancellation of Business (R.A.) no. 9711, otherwise known as the Permit. ‘Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009,’ which provides that the Food The Sangguniang Panlalawigan and Drug Administration (FDA) is the approved said ordinance through authorized agency to give license to all Sanggunian Resolution No. 277-2017 and establishments to manufacture, import, with the efforts of Vice Governor Ramon A export, sell, offer for sale, distribute, G. Bungabong. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/ transfer, and where applicable, to use, PIA-Agusan del Norte)
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Photo Gallery Year Opener Media Night Watergate Hotel, Butuan City 22 January 2018
Interview with BGEN FRANCO NEMESIO M GACAL AFP Brigade Commander, 402nd Inf Bde 4ID PA Bancasi, Butuan City 21 January 2018
PROVINCIAL NEWS
Agusan del Sur
30 AgSur ALS learners join candle-making training
TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur - Thirty (30) alternative learning system (ALS) learners or enrollees in this municipality participated in a candle-making training organized by Negosyo Center (NC)Talacogon Counselor Louida Legaspi, together with the ALS coordinators, Marvin Ostos of the West District, Renato Ade of West/ Zillovia and Bernardino Jagonos of the East District. The ALS is an active stakeholder of NC-Talacogon. Antonio Baldiconza, a candle manufacter from San Francisco, served as the trainer.
The ALS coordinators agreed that the learners should be encouraged to put up a collective or an association and consider the possibility of starting a candle-making business in Talacogon.
Ade noted that “the training will be a lifetime learning to the ALS learners.” The Department of Education (DepEd) defines ALS as “a parallel learning Manilyn Goloran an ALS learner system in the Philippines that provides from Barangay San Agustin echoed a practical option to the existing formal the sentiment of the other participants instruction. When one does not have saying: “Nagpasalamat gyod ko ani na or cannot access formal education in training kay nakabalo nako sa proseso schools, ALS is an alternate or substitute. sapagbuhat ug kandila, dali ra man diay ALS includes both the non-formal and (I’m thankful for this training because I informal sources of knowledge and skills.” learned the process of making candles, (DTI-Agusan delSur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) and it was easy).”
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgSur town former rebels participate in vegetables, organic fertilizer production training
LA PAZ, Agusan del Sur – Some 30 former rebels (FRs) participated in a two-day Vegetable and Organic Fertilizer Production Training held at the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) Building, Poblacion, La Paz, this province. Said event was spearheaded by the 401st Infantry Brigade and the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), in collaboration with the local government unit (LGU) of La Paz, Agusan del Sur and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).
ceremony of the two-day livelihood seminar, together with 2Lt Bryan Villena (SC) PA, Company Commander, Bravo Company of 26IB.
The said activity aimed to capacitate the FRs for their personal improvement, provide them with Terso Gomez, Municipal knowledge and skills for livelihood and Administrator of La Paz, led the opening prepare them for a smooth transition as 20 - 26 January, 2018
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PROVINCIAL NEWS peaceful and productive members of his gratitude to the LGU of La Paz, the community. Agusan del Sur and to all stakeholders for making the 26th Infantry Battalion as “I am very thankful to all the one of the LGU partners. stakeholders who helped facilitate this kind of activity because I am aiming to “The 26IB is always ready to operate livelihood programs like this and work with the local government units help all human form in my community of Agusan and other agencies in to become productive,” said Mayor all activities aimed towards peace, Ambrosio Lim in his message. security and development,” he added. (401st Brigade, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan Meanwhile, LTC Rommel Pagayon, del Sur) Commanding Officer of 26IB, expressed
AgSur weavers review group business model, learn financial literacy SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – Seventeen (17) women weavers of Barangay Caimpugan of ths municipality participated in a seminar-workshop on Business Model Canvass and Financial Literacy at the San Francisco Women Center. The activity was conducted to allow the weavers to review their business set-up and equip them on how to manage their finances, aside from honing their entrepreneurial skills. Spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry-Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS), through the Negosyo CenterSan Francisco and in partnership with the municipal government through the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO), the activity was under the 2016 Bottom Up Budgeting (BuB) Yaman Pinoy Project of the municipality.
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The project, once completed is expected to improve the beneficiaries’ handicraft production and develop more weavers in the area. Representing Mayor Jenny De Asis, Jocelyn Juen, Municipal Administrator, recognized the presence and eagerness of the participants to know more especially the basics of financial management. She told participants “Padayon aron mahaw-as sa kalisod (continue to improve quality of life).” (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) 20 - 26 January, 2018
PROVINCIAL NEWS
DTI addresses media queries on effects of new tax reform law PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – With the signing into law and the effectivity of Republic Act (RA) no. 10963 or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN), several queries have been made regarding its effect on prices of basic and prime commodities.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur Officerin-Charge (OIC) Brenda Corvera, in two separate interviews with Brigada News and Jay Solis of dxDA, together with DTI-Agusan del Sur Consumer Protection Unit Head Cerila Cheri Inson relayed the official pronouncements of DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez that “the TRAIN law’s impact to inflation would be minimal.”
taxes (sugar sweetened beverages and petroleum products) increases are not expected until January 16 or the 3rd week of this month as stores and stations are still selling their old inventories.
Accordingly, Lopez added during his PTV News interview, that “this is validated by the fact that the increase brought about by excise tax is about 7 to 8 percent and the fuel and transport cost as a percentage of production cost is less than 5 percent.
Corvera and Inson reported that the January 4 monitoring yielded no price increases except for a few product groups, such as milk, noodles and canned meat, which prices where observed to be beyond SRP.
Corvera quoting Lopez and Secretary Alfonso Cusi of the Department of Energy said that even for goods slapped with new or additional excise
The public was enjoined to report any observations on unreasonable pricing and profiteering. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Meantime, DTI offices, including DTI Agusan del Sur will be monitoring closely price changes and ensuring that they are within suggested retail price (SRP) levels.
The establishments, however, Thus, the effect would be around were able to provide SRPs from their 0.4 percent. Manufacturers and retailers distributors/suppliers, which DTI will be should not increase prices.” referencing with its own records.
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Surigao del Norte
Armed NPA militia surrenders in Surigao Norte SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – A member of the Militia ng Bayan of the New Peoples Army (MB-NPA) in the town of Alegria, province of Surigao del Norte voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) on January 21, 2018.
The rebel turned with him his issued AK47 rifle, magazine and several ammunitions. The returned militiaman was a certain aka “Jun”, a resident of Barangay Budlingin, Alegria town. “He is an active NPA supporter before, and because of his enthusiasm, the NPAs issued him an AK47 rifle and was tasked to spy on our government forces to conduct of sniping, harassment and other tactical offensives in the said barangay,” 2Lt. “It is also through our efforts in Jonel Castillo, 30IB spokesperson said. establishing peace with the community Castillo also said that the Militia ng that supporters find their way back Bayan (MB) are armed NPA supporters to our government. This is a clear living in the community utilized by the manifestation of how the Surigaonons NPA guerilla as informants who assist in wanted nothing but peace,” he said. the conduct of their terroristic activities “We call on our NPA brothers to against government forces. On his part, 30IB Commanding give up your armed struggle. Come Officer Lt. Col. Allen Tomas said that down and embrace a peaceful for the past years, Brgy. Budlingin has life with your families and with the been a stronghold of the NPA rebels government,” Lt. Col. Tomas said. and eventually, people realized how (30IB-Philippine Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte) the NPAs destroyed their lives.
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Health News
Simple tips for happy holiday eating By: MIGGlorioso
BUTUAN CITY – Partying during the holiday season is so common and is so difficult to avoid. Frequent partying, like a couple of days or nights in a week, can lead you to becoming overweight or obese. 20 - 26 January, 2018
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HEALTH NEWS
Here are some simple tips you can walk. Walking burns calories and helps follow to maintain your weight during deal with holiday stress. the holidays. For happy holiday eating, • Plan ahead! Eat meals with remember to include variety of foods in lower fat and calories during the day to your plate. save up for “splurges” at social events; For more information on food • Balance party eating with and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario other meals like salads and fruits; V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department • Be selective. Choose specials of Science and Technology, General foods. Keep and eat small portions; Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837 • Focus on socializing. Greet 3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk people you know – conversation is Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; calorie-free; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST • Do not drink alcohol with an website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. empty stomach because it may lead to hypoglycemia or low blood sugar You may also like their Facebook level since it may inhibit the release of page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or glucose from glycogen in the liver; follow their Twitter account at twitter. com/FNRI_DOST. (MIGGlorioso, FNRI • After a holiday meal, take a DOST S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)
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Mindanao News
MinDA Chief welcomes ADB’s P19-B Mindanao road infra program
Mindanao Development Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto lauds the Asian Development Bank’s infrastructure assistance to spur connectivity projects in Mindanao, citing its significant contribution to developing the Mindanao economic corridors. In a statement issued last week, ADB announced that it has approved 19 billion pesos worth of Mindanaospecific loan dedicated to improving national roads and bridges.
economic growth in Mindanao,” said Alonto.
According to Alonto this assistance will create ripple effects in Mindanao regions, as enhanced connectivity will “This reaffirms ADB’s commitment also drive more investors, economic to help strengthen the Mindanao activities, and jobs. This is also in line Development Corridors and promote with the Duterte Administration’s Build, 20 - 26 January, 2018
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MINDANAO NEWS Build, Build program inasmuch as the island economy of Mindanao into investments in infrastructure, specifically four development corridors namely connectivity projects. the Northern Mindanao Development Corridor, Southern Mindanao “This is really all about bringing Development Corridor, and Western progress closer to the people, through Mindanao Development Corridor, connectivity infrastructure and we and the Bangsamoro Development could not be more grateful to have Corridor. ADB’s usual support,” he said. ADB is also actively supporting the He added that the transport and new sub-regional framework of BIMPlogistics studies of ADB served as critical EAGA Vision 2025 (BEV 2025), which inputs in firming up the strategic priorities has put together US$23 billion worth of for the Mindanao Development Priority Infrastructure Projects (PIPs). Corridors. As the Regional Development Mindanao Development Advisor of BIMP-EAGA, ADB provides Corridors is a key spatial strategy technical assistance and support to aimed to improve infrastructure, projects particularly on transport, power, establish connectivity, and spur the environment, economic corridors, and development of growth clusters within green cities. One of the recent initiatives the island-region, allowing it to achieve undertaken in the sub-region is the study balanced and inclusive growth among on the possibility of establishing power its regions. interconnections between Sabah – North Kalimantan, Sabah – Palawan, The corridors approach divides and Borneo – Mindanao.
Japan gov’t turns over 225 MT rice to Marawi IDPs By: Lou Ellen L. Antonio
BALO-I, Lanao del Norte - The Japanese government turned over 225 metric tons of rice for the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of Marawi City through the Tier 3 Program under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR).
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MINDANAO NEWS A total of 7,500 sacks of rice at 30 kilos each will be distributed to the IDPs staying in evacuation centers in Northern Mindanao through the supervision of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The donation was handed over by Minister for Economic Affairs Makoto Iyori from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines and General Manager Chanpithya Shimphalee of APTERR to National Food Authority (NFA) Administrator Lt. Col Jason Aquino and DSWD Undersecretary Luzviminda Ilagan, during the turnover ceremonies at Mahad Markazie Evacuation Center, Balo-i, Lanao del Norte.
The local government of Balo-i, hosting about 9,000 displaced families from Marawi, also presented a token of appreciation and recognition for the support of Japan and APTERR.
Salima Salic, one of the beneficiaries, also expressed her In partnership with NFA, Ilagan gratitude for the continuous assistance assured that DSWD will make sure that given to them. the donation will reach the IDPs. “Gusto namin mag-pasalamat “Sa mga IDPs, medyo habaan dahil hindi kami pinabayaan. Kahit na natin ang ating pasensya. Siyempre medyo may mga kababayan kami na medyo mahirap ang ating sitwasyon… masusungit at pasaway pero iniintindi pero we are doing our best to make life pa rin nila kami,” said Salic. a little easier,” she added. [We want to give thanks because (To the IDPs, please be patient. we are not neglected. Even if some of While the situation is very difficult, we us are rude and troublesome, they still are doing our best to make life a little understand us.] easier.) The donation fulfilled Japanese Representing Marawi City Mayor Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s commitment Majul Gandamra, Sultan Camid during the ASEAN Plus Three Summit Gandamra gave the message of held on 14 November 2017. This initiative thanks. is also part of the efforts of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his intensive “Rest assured that this occasion will efforts to create a solid and strategic forever be in the hearts and memories partnership with Japan. (PIA TFBM of our people,” he said. ICCC) 20 - 26 January, 2018
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National News
PRRD assures Indian investors of hassle-free biz environment By: Jelly Musico
MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte has assured Indian investors of a hassle-free business environment as he witnessed the presentation of USD1.25 billion worth of business agreements between the Philippines and India in New Delhi on Friday. In front of Indian and Filipino businessmen, Duterte reiterated his commitment to fight corruption and to address the problem of law and order especially on terrorism.
One is the non-compliance of contract because that is the result of corruption and second, is that law and order is not good,� Duterte said in his speech. Duterte told his audience that his anti-corruption campaign has resulted “In the past there are so many in the firing even of his own appointees issues in doing business in the Philippines. in the government.
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NATIONAL NEWS “But that’s how overzealous I am for the Philippines has always been known to be a corrupt country and every administration that passed our away, had always had a component of corruption in running the government,” he said. Duterte assured “it will not happen during my time for nobody is allowed to make money.” “So if you go there, whatever business, IT or anything, I can assure that there is no corruption and everything runs smoothly. That is the only contribution that I can give you in my lifetime, during our generation in my country, then I will be happy,” the chief executive said.
even spend PHP100 for you think that is legal and you go there upon our invitation. We invite, we protect,” he assured to the delight of his audience. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said the business engagements have produced two memorandum of understanding (MOUs) and 10 Letter of Intents (LOIs) that will provide 10,000 jobs for the Filipinos in infrastructure, renewable energy, information technology and business services.
“The numbers can increase as companies finalize plans, specific calls to action in pursuing opportunities in investment and affordable quality medicines which is really at the top of your agenda,” Lopez reported to He also urged both Indian and President Duterte. Filipino businessmen not to go into the business processes that they believe Lopez said Adani Energy Limited, is wrong. “Do not go in this kind of the biggest in India, is committed to thing either by you or official of the invest renewable energy up to 1,000 government because you will find your megawatts. papers in the waste basket if I come to know it,” Duterte said. Duterte went to India to attend the India-ASEAN Commemorative “At the first whip, let me know. Summit that held last Thursday and I would like to assure that no business India’s Republic Day celebration on papers or contract reaches my table,” Friday. he added. Duterte said corruption is “just the way of life in the Philippines” Last Wednesday, Duterte and and if he cannot totally eliminate Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi corruption, he would try to reduce it to held bilateral meeting where the two the barest minimum. leaders agreed to expand bilateral ties particularly on trade and security. “But I can assure you that it will be a hassle-free. I will protect you, I can Duterte is expected to arrive at make the guarantee just do not give the Davao City International Airport into corruption. You are not oblige to early Saturday morning. (PNA) 20 - 26 January, 2018
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NATIONAL NEWS
DILG, Comelec gear for massive Barangay, SK election information drive MANILA - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has committed to a massive information drive to encourage voters to choose the best barangay officials, especially those who have cleared their communities of the drug problem. This, after the recent release of the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) calendar of activities for the 2018 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections. DILG Chief Eduardo Año said the DILG will be coming up with a list of qualities of a good barangay official which will serve as a citizen’s guide in the forthcoming Barangay and SK elections. He said that they will encourage the people to vote for officials who are “Matino, Mahusay, and Maasahan.”
Government needs barangay officials that are committed to reform in the barangay level,” the DILG chief explained.
“The DILG is committed to be an instrument for a well-informed public as they exercise their right to vote this 2018 Barangay and SK Elections, making certain “The barangays are at the forefront that voters will head to their precincts of government service; therefore, we armed with the proper know-how,” Año will encourage the people to vote for said. a new set of barangay officials that are DILG Spokesperson Asec. Jonathan committed to the Duterte administration’s anti-corruption, anti-drug, and anti- Malaya said that as part of their criminality campaign. The National information drive, the DILG will encourage
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20 - 26 January, 2018
NATIONAL NEWS the people to vote for barangay officials who have cleared their communities of the menace of illegal drugs or are actively supporting the government’s anti-illegal drug campaign.
of a strategic communication plan to carry out the information drive. Also present in the said joint meeting was Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez who is pushing further to educate the voters and candidates on the proper elections protocol, which oftentimes, according to him, are disregarded and disrespected.
“The PDEA has informed us that 58.1 percent of our 42,036 barangays are affected in varying degrees by the scourge of illegal drugs. Therefore, we need barangay officials who will help the government clear these areas of drug Jimenez said that the DILGpushers,” Malaya said. COMELEC information drive will also include the proper filing of certificate Drug-affected areas are grouped of candidacy, rules on overspending of into three: “slightly affected,” where drug candidates, the duties and responsibilities users are present; “moderately affected” of elected officials, among others. or areas with drug pushers and “seriously affected” or places with shabu tiangge or The communication plan involves store, clandestine laboratory or marijuana various television and radio guestings, plantation or chemical warehouse. joint press conferences of the DILG and Comelec, Election Caravan, “This is not simply a matter of law dissemination of “Matino, Mahusay at enforcement. We need to bring the fight Maaasahan” information and education against drugs down to the barangay campaign collaterals, among others. level. And we will never succeed if the barangay officials are doing nothing,” he Año also assured the public said. that the DILG will work double-time in advocating for an honest, orderly and “The forthcoming barangay peaceful Barangay and SK Elections. election is a good opportunity for the people to elect barangay officials who “Elections can be a venue for will bring much-needed change to their political maneuvering and we at the communities,” he said. DILG will do our best to address such concerns. But we cannot do it alone, we A joint meeting was held last week need the support of the Filipino voters between the DILG and COMELEC to plot to be vigilant in protecting their votes,” out the information drive for the 2018 adds Año. Barangay and SK Elections. The DILG’s Public Affairs and Communication Service The 2018 Barangay and SK Elections and the National Barangay Operations is slated on 14 May 2018. (EPC/JCP/PIAOffice will spearhead the implementation NCR) 20 - 26 January, 2018
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