21 - 27 January 2017
Volume 1, No. 43
REGIONAL NEWS
9
DOH-Caraga opens search for 100% tobacco-free environment
10 11 12
CSC urges government agencies to support full implementation of graphic health warning in cigarette packs
14
15 16 17
Corporate rice farming to address needed rice supply
COVER
Butuanons honor significant hoisting of PH flag in Mindanao
HEALTH NEWS
PROVINCIAL NEWS
9
DOTr Caraga chief assures release of pending drivers’ license plastic cards
contents
18 19 20 21
Army 402nd Brigade chief, subordinates pay New Year’s call on SurSur guv
14
23
23
DepEd all set for NSDM activity in SurSur DTI, DAR provide labels, packaging materials to Surigao Norte coops MGB-13, CREDO Caraga hold cross-sectoral forum
17
Heavy rain prompts Surigao Norte, Dinagat Islands to suspend classes DTI promotes 5 Negosyo Centers in AgSur Cabadbaran City to hold jobs fair
‘Obesity gene’ probed in the Filipino population
MINDANAO NEWS
26
P60-B connectivity project to spur economic revolution in Mindanao
26 NATIONAL NEWS
27
Inclusive growth agenda on track with 6.8% GDP growth
Agusan del Norte barangays receive rescue vehicles
21
30
27 MOA between PEZA, Ehime to strengthen efforts to boost investment activities of Japanese companies in PH
News Briefs Ang Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) o Ketong ay isang impeksyon dala ng bacteria. Naipapasa ito sa ibang tao kung mahawaan ka ng bacteria galing sa taong may sakit nito kung bumahing siya o umubo.
The DOLE-Caraga through director Atty. Evelyn Ramos has released a total of P2.5 Million worth of livelihood financial assistance to LGU Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur on Wednesday.
Agusan del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, passed a resolution declaring the whole province of Agusan del Sur under state of calamity. 8 municipalities of the province were already declared under state of calamity, namely; San Luis, Esperanza, Loreto, Veruela, Bunawan, Talacogon, La Paz and Trento. (With a report from Alexis Cabardo, PPIO-Agusan del Sur)
Cover Story
Butuanons honor significant hoisting of PH flag in Mindanao By: Venus L. Garcia
B
UTUAN CITY – With pride and admiration to the noble contributions of the Filipino revolutionaries who raised the Philippine flag for the first time in Mindanao, the Butuanons paid tribute by celebrating the 118th Anniversary of the Formal and Official Hoisting of Philippine Flag in Mindanao held early morning on Tuesday at the Guingona Park in this city.
4
Cover Story
The Butuan City government through mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada spearheaded the event and was gladly joined by government employees, Philippine National Police and Philippine Army personnel, students, local media practitioners, private individuals and Butuanons in
honor of the sacrifices of the heroes for the hard-earned freedom and in showing allegiance to the Philippine flag that symbolizes patriotism and love of country of the Filipino people. In his welcome remarks, Butuan City vice mayor Jose Aquino II underlined the Filipinos’ gains of living in freedom. “We should be proud of our forefathers for their valor of emancipating Filipinos from foreign rule, by guarding our institutional rights from perils, and that we should feel proud of being a Butuanon and a Filipino.” He encouraged all Butuanons to be more responsible in all their endeavors, and continue to be patriotic everyday of their lives. As enunciated also by historian and Butuan City Heritage Society president Greg Hontiveros, it exemplified the beginning of accession of the first Philippine Republic. “It is appropriate to commend ourselves to that virtue of Filipinos of fighting for freedom with sweat and remarkable effort,” he added. Hontiveros recalled how Filipinos in the past struggled in quest for independence and in claiming what the people in the country deserve. He also stressed that people of today should be able to embrace the good qualities of the Filipinos and be a good example to others.
5
Cover Story
Relentlessly marching doves and community singing led by in cadence and aligned in their government officials culminated the platoon formation, the uniformed men program. (VLG/PIA-Caraga) positioned and gave a snappy salute upon hoisting of the giant flag as the nation’s emblem for freedom and victory against the Spaniards. Meanwhile, Mayor Lagnada expressed that it is unsound for Filipinos to stand suffering. “This is the time for us to act as one nation to realize the collective aspirations for our motherland. That all may continue to give value to the Philippine Flag as a symbol solidarity and sovereignty,” he said. Lagnada further emphasized by urging everyone to show the same sentiments with those who stood up for asserting our rights and who spilled blood in the name of freedom. “Let’s not wait for decades to achieve what we are supposed to enjoy as an independent nation. Work with a heart and focus on the primary needs of our ‘kababayans’. Hinangon ta duon (Let’s do it today),” he underlined. Despite the rain during that day, the Special Program of the Arts of Agusan National High School performed the reenactment play of the historic account of the first hoisting of the Philippine flag in Mindanao. Deserved to be treated with solemnity and dignity, the releasing of
6
Photo Gallery Department of Social Welfare and Development -RIACAT VAWC 1st Quarter Meeting DSWD Conference Hall, Butuan City 27 January 2017
7
8
REGIONAL NEWS
DOH-Caraga opens search for 100% tobacco-free environment By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde
BUTUAN CITY – To recognize the efforts of the different institutions and agencies in Caraga region, the Department of Health (DOH) is now accepting nominations for this year’s Red Orchid Award, an annual Search for 100 percent Tobacco-free Environment. According to regional director Dr. Jose R. Llacuna, Jr., the search which is now on its 7th year will highlight the achievements in tobacco control in the different categories, to include the local government units (province, chartered cities, and municipalities), government hospitals, government offices, and DOH Center for Health Development and DOH hospitals.
Entries will be judged based on the strength of comprehensive efforts to implement a 100 percent tobacco-free environment using the World Health Organization MPOWER initiative, Llacuna said. MPOWER is an acronym that denotes the six proven tobacco control policies, namely: Monitor tobacco control policies; Protect people from tobacco smoke; Offer help to quit tobacco use; Warn against the dangers of tobacco; Enforce bans on tobacco advertising; and Raise taxes on tobacco. The deadline for the submission of self-assessment and nomination forms will be on February 15, 2017 and the screening and validation together with partners is scheduled starting February 20 to March 24, Llacuna said. The finalization of entries for submission to central office Awards Committee will be on April 7, he added. The Red Orchid Awards is the Search for 100 percent Tobaccofree provinces, municipalities, cities,
9
Regional News
government offices, government hospitals and DOH regional offices nationwide. It was used by the World Health Organization in its 2001 World No Tobacco Day advocacy as a symbol of a tobacco-free world and to remind people that campaign to end the tobacco epidemic is far from over. From 2012-2015, 45 cities and municipalities were already declared
as Hall of Fame Awardees for winning the Red Orchid Awards for three consecutive years. For more information and confirmation, you may contact Ms. Sunshine A. Alipayo or Ms. Romelyn Torralba at telephone numbers (085) 342-5208 local 104 or 0918 916861/0930 9396035. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)
DOTr Caraga chief assures release of pending drivers’ license plastic cards By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – “We assure the general public that starting next week, our office will be starting the lamination and release of the pending drivers’ license plastic cards in the region.”
This was the statement of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga regional director Datu Alexander Mama-o during a press conference held recently at their regional office here.
10
Along with his senior personnel, Dir. Mama-o also bared significant accomplishments of their agency, as well as their new directives and plan of action for this year on law enforcement and other franchising-related matters.
Regional News
It was learned that the pending plastic card drivers’ license from August 2015 to January 13, 2017 has reached to a total of 81,901 for the Caraga region. Breakdown are as follows: Butuan City (36,642); Surigao City (26,087); Bislig City (6,200); Cabadbaran City (1,040); Tandag City (11,932). On the issue of backlogs on the release of plastic drivers license, Dir. Mama-o stressed that they are working on the provision of the number of IDs as they were also assured by their central office on the supply of the plastic IDs. “We were assured by our central office that they will help us in the supply
of plastic cards and other needed logistics to complete the release of the pending drivers’ license. Hopefully, we can finish the release of said pending licenses within this year,” Dir. Mama-o underlined. It was also learned that some 3,000 plates (private for hire, motor vehicles, utility vehicles) are also pending for release, while there is yet a supply of stickers for this year 2017. “For the pending vehicle plates, we can assure the public that we will release it within the first quarter of this year,” reiterated Mama-o. (JPG/PIACaraga)
CSC urges government agencies to support full implementation of graphic health warning in cigarette packs By: Regal C. Oribia
BUTUAN CITY – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) released recently a memorandum circular (MC) urging its regional offices and field offices and national line agencies to support the full implementation of the Graphic Health Warnings (GHW) Law.
11
Regional News
Under the law, all cigarette packs in the country must bear graphical warnings about the dangers of tabacco smoke, as prescribed. The CSC’s MC No. 27, s. 2016 urges the entire civil service to be one in celebrating the event by posting the GHW tarpaulin (“Full Blast Na! Bawal na ang text lang. Dapat Graphic Health Warnings!”) in their respective office premises, including regional and field offices. The template for this 3.5ft x 5ft tarpaulin can be found in the following Internet links: http://csc.gov.ph(Official website of the CSC),http://doh.gov. ph (Official website of DOH), https:// www.facebook.com/smokefree.
civilservice (facebook page of the CSC-Project Management Unit). “In coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), the Civil Service Commission (CSC) enjoins all government agencies in supporting the full implementation of Republic Act No. 10643 or The Graphic Warning Law,” said CSC Caraga regional director Resurreccion P. Pueyo. The implementation of the law started on March 6, 2016, and all tabacco smoke products shall carry graphic health warnings by November 4, 2016. Non-compliant packages found in the market for sale or distribution shall be subject to removal and/or confiscation. (PIA-Caraga)
Corporate rice farming to address needed rice supply By: Rhea C. Abao
BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Agriculture’s (DA’s) commitment to ensuring available and affordable food for all, and help the farmers attain a decent income is intensified through various interventions and programs implemented on the ground. The creation of the Corporate Rice Farming Program (CRFP) aims to provide a mechanism to support the implementation of special programs such as the rice subsidy scheme of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) particularly the
12
Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps.) In Caraga Region, DA has forged a partnership with the Farm Service Providers (FSP) in the region such as the Sto. Niño Multi-Purpose Cooperative
Regional News
(SNMPC) from Butuan City and Agusanon Para sa Bag-ong Pilipino Inc. (AGUS PINOY) Cooperative from San Francisco, Agusan del Sur to address the needed requirement of the program. “In the region, SNMPC and AGUS PINOY committed to providing rice supply to selected 4Ps program areas in the second semester of 2017 for Butuan City and the Province of Agusan del Sur as pilot areas for CRFP,” said Rebecca R. Atega, Chief of the DA Caraga - Field Operations Division. SNMPC will serve 2,095 4Ps household beneficiaries in Butuan City while AGUS PINOY committed to served 15,219 beneficiaries for the Province of Agusan del Sur. Each household will receive 18 kgs of rice good for six months. With that, a total of 17,314 beneficiaries will be catered by CRFP. “We did not hesitate to help the government’s initiative to provide available and affordable food for all because this is also our time to pay back from the assistance we have also received from the government. It is our honor to be a partner for this good endeavor,” explained Marilyn Aranas, Chairperson of SNMPC. With this partnership, DA will provide each FSP the appropriate farm inputs, technologies, and services to increase their farm productivity and ensure an adequate supply of rice for the targeted number of beneficiaries.
The Land Bank of the Philippines will also establish a lending window for the FSP as they participate in the program. “CRFP could provide additional income to local farm service providers and farmers. This promotes local food autonomy. In the light of the lifting of quantitative restrictions on rice by June 30, 2017, this program is a timely intervention to provide marketing assistance to the rice farmers,” said Director Leo P. Cañeda, a member of the Secretary’s Technical Advisory Group (STAG). With President Duterte’s directive to the DSWD to provide rice subsidy to the 4Ps beneficiaries, the DA aims to contribute to its successful implementation by ensuring continuous rice supply through CRFP. (DA-Caraga Information Section)
13
SURIGAO DEL SUR
Army 402nd Brigade chief, subordinates pay New Year’s call on SurSur guv By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
Standing by the main door, after having an initial chat with Gacal, Gov. Pimentel welcomed one-byone the army officers who came in for the occasion. Then, after taking their respective seats, the cordial ceremony began.
TANDAG CITY – Col. Franco Nemesio “Jojo” Gacal, 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander of the Philippine Army (PA), with head camp in Surigao del Sur has led the New Year’s call on Governor Vicente “BB” Pimentel, Jr. at the Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) here at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
Col. Gacal, apart from having along with him his deputy commanders and some subordinate officers, had also in tow his two battalion commanders and 14 other company commanders.
During the course of the “meet and greet,” Gov. Pimentel told the officers of the brigade headed by Col. Gacal about the six-hectare lot that would house the brigade headquarters. It was learned that the area was located somewhere in Barangay San Jose, this city. In return, the brigade chief The brigade commander was the expressed his thanks. first to enter the Office of the Governor, Since April 2015, the brigade had a brief exchange of pleasantries for over a minute or two and then, with headquarters of the army here has the permission from Gov. Pimentel, been occupying the same area with himself, Gacal called in his party of sub- the Police Provincial Office (PPO). commanders from deputies, battalions Aside from serious and casual talks and companies down the line. over insurgency and other matters,
14
Provincial News
Gov. Pimentel also assured the army of that signage of its presence had to be his administration’s support. taken down. In addition, the governor was told about the alleged conduct of Meanwhile, towards the end of the MNLF’s continued recruitment. New Year’s Call, the presence of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Camp The 402nd Infantry Brigade has in Barangay San Jose, here, was likewise the two Surigao provinces as well as the mentioned. Apparently, it did not sit Province of Dinagat Islands as area of well with the Governor due to absence responsibility (AOR). (Radyo ng Bayanof permission. In response, he advised Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
DepEd all set for NSDM activity in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division is all set for this year’s National Schools Deworming Month (NSDM) in the province, which is scheduled before the month ends. According to DepEd Surigao del Sur Division Nurse Madelyn Lozada, a coordination meeting has already been conducted together with other concerned agencies and the Department of Health’s (DOH’s) Provincial Health Team for the implementation of deworming activities provincewide.
or guardian.
The DOH has issued memorandum number 2016-0212 as its guidelines for the harmonized schedule and combined mass drug administration for the prevention and control of Soil Transmitted Helminthiasis, Lumphatic Filiariasis and Schistosomiasis for the month of January and July of every Lozada said the division office year. has targeted to deworm pupils/student ages 5-18 in all public schools from The National Schools Deworming Kinder to Senior High School. Month is now on its third year of implementation spearheaded by the However, Lozada clarified that it DOH together with the DepEd and the will not be implemented without the Department of the Interior and Local consent filled up by the child’s parent Government. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
15
SURIGAO DEL NORTE
DTI, DAR provide labels, packaging materials to Surigao Norte coops By: Susil D. Ragas
BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) provided recently labels and packaging materials as starter kits to two cooperatives in Sta. Monica and Del Carmen in Siargao Island
According to DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, the provision of starter kits to Garcia Fisherfolks and Farmers Credit Cooperative (GAFFARCRECO) in Barangay Garcia, Sta. Monica and Esperanza Farmers Credit and Consumers Organization (ESFARCRECO) in Barangay Esperanza, Del Carmen was in line with the conduct of productivity training on product Powder’ and ESFARCRECO in Del packaging and labeling on Oct. 27, Carmen produces delicious molido 2017 held in Dapa, Siargao Island. candy,” Negapatan said. He said the activity was initiated by the DAR in partnership with DTI to capacitate the members of the two Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) on the importance of proper packaging and labels as they play important roles in protecting the product from damage, attracting customer, portraying information about the product, facilitating purchase decision and the like. “GAFFARCRECO in Sta. Monica produces ‘Siargao Bliss Turmeric Herbal
16
Negapatan, further said that the two ARBOs are both beneficiaries of the Up-Valuing ARB Products Project of the DAR, which aims to enhance existing products of the ARBs and its support includes design, packaging, and labeling innovations of ARB products. For orders of the said product, they may contact Tessie Virtudazo, GAFFARCRECO chairperson at cel. number 0946-5710953 and Elgelin Gonzales, ESFARCRECO treasurer at cel. number 0919-2163190. (DTI-SDN, DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Provincial News
MGB-13, CREDO Caraga hold crosssectoral forum By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 13 in coordination with the Community Relations Education and Development Officer, Inc. (CREDO) Caraga conducted recently a Cross-Sectoral Forum on Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) held at Gateway Hotel, this city. MGB-13 regional director Engr. Roger A. de Dios said the forum was aimed to streamline the SDMP to its highest level to effect change in the whole mining community in the region and to advocate re-alignment and refocus of SDMP funds for sustainable livelihood project and support infrastructure program.
Discussed during the said forum were the SDMP’s economic contribution, national wealth share form mining, utilization of barangay development fund and national wealth share, and the result of the social impact assessment (SIA) in the municipality of Claver, among others.
De Dios also encouraged all stakeholders to cooperate and work hand in hand with the government for the betterment of the people of Caraga.
The activity carried the theme, “SDMP for Integrated Sustainable Development.” (MGB-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
17
Provincial News
Heavy rain prompts Surigao Norte, Dinagat Islands to suspend classes By: Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Heavy rain on Wednesday prompted the provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands to suspend classes in all levels until Thursday, Jan. 19. The suspension of classes was declared by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Surigao City after an alert level 2 was raised by PAGASA Surigao for continuous rainfall and some low lying areas downtown are already flooded. Several domestic flights were also cancelled, it was learned. As per information from Gilbert Gonzales of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Surigao del Norte, there are no casualties and major damages have been reported so far in the province.
Alon, the province only experienced intermittent heavy rainfall. “The suspension of classes is just a preemptive measure considering the terrain of the province which is prone to landslide,” said Alon.
Alon said the suspension of classes In Dinagat Islands, heavy rainfall is already lifted today. also forced the suspension of classes on Thursday, Jan. 19 in the municipalities of Meanwhile, the Surigao del Loreto, Basilisa, San Jose, Dinagat and Norte PDRRMO, Dinagat Islands Cagdianao. PDRRMO and Surigao City DRRMO are now conducting post-assessment/ According to Dinagat Islands evaluation to the affected areas. (PIAPDRRMO officer Rosario “Inday” Roxas- Surigao del Norte)
18
AGUSAN DEL SUR
DTI promotes 5 Negosyo Centers in AgSur By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Agusan del Sur urged the public to avail the services of the five Negosyo Centers (NCs) currently operating in the province.
According to DTI-Agusan del Sur provincial director Brenda Corvera, the Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can register their business name, get help for other business requirements, receive business counseling and information on their marketing, financing, production/ technology, product development and business management needs, include their product in the center pasalubong/ trade display corner, and enroll and join in the center’s trainings for free. “Joining the two pioneer centers – Negosyo Center in San Frncisco and Talacogon, established in 2015 are the three more NCs in the city of Bayugan and the municipalities of Prosperidad and Sibagat,” underlined Corvera. Corvera also revealed that the NC in Prosperidad also serves as the
NC provincial hub and is currently catering to the needs of MSMEs from municipalities with no NC yet mostly from the province’s second district. Another current sub-province is NC Talacogon, which is also serving the interior towns of San Luis, La Paz, and Trento. “Targeted for set-up and launch this year is the Negosyo Centers in Trento, Bunawan and Sta. Josefa,” Corvera added. The good provincial director further emphasized that all NCs in the province are working closely with the host local government units, local chambers (Agusan del Sur and Bayugan City), the local offices of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Provincial MSME Development Council. (JPG with a report from DTIAgSur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
19
AGUSAN DEL NORTE
Cabadbaran City to hold jobs fair By: Nora C. Lanuza
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte – As part of this year’s Dagkot Festival celebration, the city government here in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is now ready for the conduct of the Jobs Fair. The activity, which is scheduled on January 29 from 8:00 A.M. up to 5:00 P.M., will be held at the Social Hall, People’s Government Center, this city. According to city mayor Katrina Marie O. Mortola, one of the focuses of her administration is to provide employment to Cabadbaranons because she feels how hard and difficult it is for a member of a family without any earnings or job. Mayor Mortola further said that the Jobs Fair is not only open for Cabadbaranons but also to other Agusanons, and even interested individuals from the different provinces of Caraga region. Available jobs during the fair include those from local employers and abroad.
20
“This is a rare activity (Jobs Fair) that is intended to all of you,” Mortola said. For interested individuals, bring with you your Resumé, ID Picture (2x2, 1x1), and credentials (TOR, etc.). For additional information, visit the City Planning and Development Office, City Hall building, Cabadbaran City or call 0998 5796805. The Dagkot Festival is scheduled from January 27 to February 2. It is a religious festival in honor of Nuestra Señora Candelaria (Patron of Cabadbaran). The festival is held in the city every 2nd of February. Dagkot is derived from the local word that means “lighting a candle.” (NCLM with a report from LGU-Cabadbaran City/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)
Provincial News
Agusan del Norte barangays receive rescue vehicles
By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council turned over six rescue vehicles to six barangays of the province during the convocation on Jan. 16 at the Capitol grounds.
Provincial Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, together with Provincial Board Members Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, Dick Victor B. Carmona and Virgilio R. Escasinas, Jr. turned over the rescue vehicles to Barangay Captain Lucita G. Estrada of Barangay E. Morgado, Barangay Captain Carlito M. Balinos, Jr. of Barangay Tagbuyacan, Barangay Captain Benjamin D. Lim of Barangay La Paz, all of the municipality of Santiago, Barangay Captain Alberto R. Japitana of Barangay Poblacion and barangay officials of Barangay LawanLawan, municipality of Las Nieves, and barangay officials of Barangay La Fraternidad, municipality of Tubay. Â M.
by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No. 013-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, to sign for and in behalf of the province the Memoranda of Agreements by and among the province and the said barangay governments for the acquisition, receipt and utilization of the rescue vehicles. Â The provincial government is committed to assist its component local government units in the delivery of basic services to its constituents. It ensured that incidents within the locality are properly addressed especially during times of calamities and emergencies. (LGU Agusan del Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Norte) Amante-Matba was authorized
21
Photo Gallery Mines Geosciences Bureau -13 Capacity Enhancement Seminar Gateway Hotel, Surigao City 26-27 January 2017
PSUPT EXCELSO L LAZAGA Interview
J.C. Aquino Ave., Butuan City 24 January 2017
HEALTH NEWS
‘Obesity gene’ probed in the Filipino population By: Jacus S. Nacis In order to understand weight obese. FTO gene comes in two versions: gain and weight loss, we need to look the high and the low-risk form. into the triad of environment, lifestyle, and genetics. The BBC News website in 2013 reported that individuals with high risk The pairing of environment and copies of the FTO gene are thought to lifestyle as a factor in understanding be 70% more likely to become obese. body weight is an established norm. This BBC report was investigated Adding genetics in the picture further by a pioneering study on bring forth quite interesting tales to tell. nutritional genomics by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of Previous researches about the the Department of Science and fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) Technology (FNRI-DOST). gene suggested that individuals who have the high risk version of the FTO Researchers from FNRI-DOST gene have the tendency to become examined more than a hundred Filipino
23
Health News
adults from Ilocos, Bicol and Metro Filipino adults is present even among Manila. those who are considered normal and healthy. The FNRI study focused on the possible contribution of the FTO gene The high risk version posed 24 in the increasing trend of obesity in the percent chance of gaining more country. The study combined the utility weight compared to those who have of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) the low risk version of the FTO gene. and gene sequencing technology to determine the versions of the FTO gene. Interestingly, the probability increased twice when the carrier of the Majority of these adult participants high risk version of the gene falls short carry the low-risk version. However, of the recommended energy nutrient regardless of the body mass index intake (RENI) for energy, protein, (BMI), more than 30 percent harbor the carbohydrates, and fat. high risk version of the gene. Relevant findings of the study The genetic tendency towards underscore the importance of meeting becoming obese in this portion of the recommended dietary intake
24
Health News
especially when an individual is prone Without dismissing what genetic to gain more weight due to genetic factors can contribute to our total variation. well-being, the need to live a healthy lifestyle through proper diet and regular In this segment of the Filipino adult exercise is still the best way to combat population, the effect of the high risk unhealthy weight gain. version of the FTO gene is not the sole contributor of the propensity to gain As the 9th message of the 2012 weight. Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos highlighted: “Attain normal body weight Genes might regulate the capture, through proper diet and moderate storage, and release of energy from physical activity to maintain good the foods that we eat but it is equally health and help prevent obesity�. important to note that obesity also thrives in an environment abundant For more information on food with calorie-rich foods and with fewer and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. opportunities for physical activity. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department With the Philippines going more of Science and Technology, General urbanized, the environment previously Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/ described can perhaps be a relevant Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; email: factor of the population shifting towards mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@ unhealthy weight gain. This premise, yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http:// however, needs to be confirmed www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (FNRI-DOST S & T further. Media Service/PIA-Caraga)
25
MINDANAO NEWS
P60-B connectivity project to spur economic revolution in Mindanao DAVAO CITY- Mindanao needs some PHP60 billion to complete the connectivity project around the island. Secretary Datu Hj. Abul Khayr D. Alonto, chairman of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) already has PHP17 billion for infrastructure projects in priority areas of Mindanao this year. “About PHP43 billion is needed to complete the connection of some 1,500 kilometers in the island,” he said at Wednesday’s Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall here.
He said they are initially looking at the China Railway Company that built the railway system from Shanghai to Beijing. But the project is open to other investors as it will undergo bidding hopefully within the year. It could be a government-togovernment partnership and the prefeasibility study could be done in one month while the feasibility study can be completed in two months.
He added the completion of the He said the China proposal can connectivity project is envisioned to spur employ 100,000 jobs wherein 20 percent rapid development in Mindanao. will be handled by the Chinese and the The secretary said the government remaining 80 percent by Filipinos.
is targeting a four-year period to fully link He said the Mindanao railway all places in Mindanao before President system “is part of the economic revolution Rodrigo Duterte ends his term. that we envision in Mindanao.” Secretary Alonto also emphasized that one of the major projects that will be built is the Mindanao High- Speed Railway System (MRS) as part of the connectivity program in Mindanao.
26
“When everything will be linked we are optimistic that in the ASEAN, Mindanao is the future,” Alonto said. (PNA) LAM/ADL/DIGNA D. BANZON/LDP
NATIONAL NEWS
Inclusive growth agenda on track with 6.8% GDP growth MANILA - Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expansion of 6.8 percent in 2016 points to a domestic economy in “pretty good shape” and well on its way to sustaining its growth momentum over the medium term, on the back of the Duterte administration’s bold initiatives to keep it on its upward trajectory despite global market volatility. Dominguez said this gives all the more reason for the Department of Finance (DOF) to aggressively engage in its proposed Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP)—and the Congress to swiftly act on it—so the Duterte government could raise enough funds for its unparalleled public spending program on infrastructure, human capital and social protection that would keep the Philippines among Asia’s fastest-growing economies in the years ahead. “This is clear proof that no amount of counterproductive political chatter
from certain quarters could undermine the upward trajectory of a domestic economy that is in pretty good shape under a Duterte presidency that is fully committed to sustaining its growth momentum,” Dominguez said. He said the economy is well positioned to grow between 6.5 percent to 7 percent this year—as projected by most international and local financial institutions and experts— given “the government’s resolve to further strengthen its macroeconomic fundamentals and maintain solid buffers to cushion the effects of
27
National News
global unknowns like the coming US Federal Reserve hikes and inwardlooking or protectionist policies by certain countries that could undermine international trade.” Dominguez said the Philippine economy is founded on, among others, record dollar reserves, strong revenues from the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector and remittances from migrant Filipinos, high domestic consumption, declining debt, low inflation and solid credit ratings. He said the continued strong performance of the local economy in the first six months of the Duterte presidency—7.0 percent over the July-September period and 6.6 percent in the fourth quarter— underlines “the strong confidence of the business community in the Duterte presidency’s commitment to sound fiscal management and further reforms to sharpen the economy’s global competitiveness, attack poverty and achieve economic inclusion.” “The fast GDP expansion has buoyed government expectations of meeting its growth targets in 2017 and, with the hoped-for timely congressional approval of the first package of the CTRP, of sustaining its ambitious inclusive-growth agenda to attract more investments, create enough jobs, reduce the poverty incidence by almost half, and transform the
28
Philippines into an upper middleincome country by 2022,” Dominguez said. Dominguez issued this statement after the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Thursday morning that the GDP grew 6.8 percent in 2016 from 2015’s 5.9 percent and 6.6 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter from 2015’s 6.5 percent. In a report, the PSA said that the manufacturing, trade, and real estate, renting and business activities were the main drivers of growth in 2016’s fourth quarter. Dominguez said the strong GDP growth in 2016’s second semester is a strong incentive for the Duterte administration to go ahead on further reforms, such as improving the ease of doing business and lifting constitutional and regulatory barriers to foreign direct investments (FDIs), that would attract more private capital and spur even faster economic expansion. He said the CTRP, the first phase of which is now under study by the House committee on ways and means, is integral to the new government’s high—and inclusive—growth strategy because “it needs to raise an extra P1.07 trillion till 2022 to close the infrastructure gap that has for long dulled the country’s competitiveness as an investment destination; spend more
National News
on education, health and skills training to improve living standards and widen access to high-paying quality jobs; and on social protection to cushion the initial impact of reforms on the poor and other vulnerable sectors.” According to Undersecretary Gil Beltran, while the outlook for the Philippines remains robust, more investments in both physical and social capital have to be mobilized to support and sustain the growth, make growth more inclusive, and eradicate poverty. Poverty rate was brought down from 25.2 percent in 2012 to 21.3 percent in 2015. Beltran, the DOF’s chief economist, said reforms to support growth include, among others, fiscal reforms in general and tax policy and administrative reforms in particular. “The proposed tax reform seeks to flatten and make simpler the structure (thereby making tax administration simpler) and broaden the tax base (increasing revenue
intake), he said in the DOF’s latest economic bulletin. “The increased efficiency in domestic resource mobilization will help bankroll inclusive development programs, an avenue for greater economic enfranchisement especially for the underprivileged. Furthermore, strong macroeconomic fundamentals have to be maintained to foster stability and enhance investor confidence in the country.” The CTRP’s Package One— as contained in House Bill No. 4774 authored by House ways and means committee chairperson Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua—provides for personal income tax (PIT) cuts plus revenue measures to make up for the foregone earnings from the would-be lower PIT rates. HB 4774 aims to haul in an annual incremental increase of P366 billion in annual revenues from this initial CTRP package to help fund the massive investment strategy. (DOF)
29
National News
MOA between PEZA, Ehime to strengthen efforts to boost investment activities of Japanese companies in PH MANILA - PEZA Director General Charito B. Plaza signed on January 17, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Governor Tokihiro Nakamura of the Ehime Prefectural Government (EPG) of Japan at the PEZA Head Office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The main objective of the MOU is to strengthen the two parties’ mutual efforts in boosting investment activities of Japanese companies in the Philippines, particularly in PEZA-administered economic zones. Aiming to encourage and support the Ehime Small and Medium Enterprises (Ehime SMEs) in investing in PEZAadministered economic zones, the two parties would implement the Ehime/ Philippines Business Support Program or E/PH BSP. Under this program, the two parties, together with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center Osaka (PTIC Osaka), would conduct investment seminars, company visits, and other activities to promote Ehime SMEs expansion to PEZA-administered economic zones. As its individual undertaking, EPG shall recommend PEZA-administered economic zones as suitable locations to Ehime SMEs contemplating overseas expansion. While PEZA shall designate a dedicated official or staff to facilitate
30
application and registration procedures of Ehime SMEs locating in PEZAadministered economic zones and to provide any other necessary assistance. Together with Governor Nakamura were other officials of EPG, Chairman of the Ehime Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Kaname Saeki, Vice-Chairman of the Matsuyama Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Yuji Takahashi, and a business delegation representing a number of SMEs in Ehime. Japanese companies are the top foreign investors in PEZA-administered economic zones. Currently, PEZA has 902 registered Japanese companies, which comprises 23.11% of the total locators in PEZA-administered economic zones. (PEZA)
For more info. contact: Tel. No.: (085) 225-9219 / 300-0722 Cell Nos. 0908-875-9185 / 0917-580-2609 / 0925-556-2417 Email: inkboxinnovation@gmail.com
ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP
EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor
ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor
FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor
NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor
VENUS LIM GARCIA
Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 341-5285; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates Twitter: @PIACaraga
Information Centers
Layout Artists
AGUSAN DEL NORTE
Contributors
Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte
GERIE MAE G. COCO RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur
NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur
SUSIL D. RAGAS
Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands
RHEA C. ABAO DIGNA D. BANZON JACUS S. NACIS AIMEE B. SIENES GREG TATARO, JR. PNA/LAM/ADL/LDP FNRI-DOST S & T MEDIA SERVICE LGU-CABADBARAN CITY LGU AGUSAN DEL NORTE RADYO NG BAYAN-TANDAG DTI-SDN, DAR-SDN DA-CARAGA DTI-AGSUR MGB-13 DOF PEZA Business Manager
ZARINA O. LASTRA Photographer
ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO
AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur Cellphone no. 0917-723-3455 E-mail: pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Agusan del Sur Twitter: @AgSurPIA
SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City Telephone no. (086) 826-9450 E-mail: piasurigao@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands Twitter: @PIASurigaoNorte
SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City Telephone no. (086) 211-3353 E-mail: piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Surigao del Sur Twitter: @piasurigaosur